Dorothy Hanson was born and raised in Calgary, Alberta. After graduating from American Academy of Dramatic Arts in California, she acquired a BA in psychology from the University of Calgary. Dorothy then moved to Vancouver, BC, where she obtained an executive secretarial diploma, then worked in theatre administration and as a talent agent. Eventually, she and her husband, Sheldon, owned a Belgian chocolate shop in West Point Grey, Vancouver. In 1998, they moved back to Calgary to start a family.
Before taking on the role of CHW Calgary Centre President in April 2021, Dorothy had been involved with CHW for many years. Dorothy’s following in the footsteps of her mother, Lucille Hansonz”l. Lucille served as Treasurer and President of a CHW Calgary Chapter over many years and was an integral part of the annual Hadassah Bazaar.
Dorothy is very active in the Calgary Jewish community. She serves as Secretary on the Executive board of the Jewish Historical Society of Southern Alberta and she’s a member of the Minyan League at Beth Tzedec synagogue.
Dorothy believes that everything we do as an organization should be with reverence to the past; that is what will guide us into CHW’s enduring future. Dorothy hopes her daughter, Davita will one day follow in her footsteps as well. She is excited to step into the role of CHW National Secretary.
