News release

New Executive Director Appointed

Status of Women

A woman with a career in victim services and crime prevention will take the helm at the Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women.

Stephanie MacInnis-Langley, a longtime employee of the Department of Justice, will take over the position on Feb. 15.

"Ms. MacInnis-Langley's background in victim services, crime prevention, and also running a transition house, will benefit initiatives to address violence against women," said Denise Peterson-Rafuse, minister responsible for the advisory council. "She has a track record in developing government and community partnerships.

"That will be important as we work to advance the equality, fairness, and dignity of women at a time when the province faces many competing challenges."

Ms. MacInnis-Langley has worked for government for a decade in progressively senior positions, most recently as director of crime prevention in the public safety and security division, Department of Justice. She has also worked with victims in the court services, victim services, and policing and victim services divisions.

Before joining government, Ms. MacInnis-Langley was executive director of the Leeside Transition House in Port Hawkesbury. She is a registered social worker.

Ms. Peterson-Rafuse thanked council staff for its support and singled out Maureen O'Connell, who has served as acting executive director since Brigitte Neumann retired in September.

Council advises the province and works with federal and municipal governments, community and business organizations, and universities to:

  • increase participation of women in decisions that affect their lives, families, and communities
  • build women's economic equality
  • reduce violence against women
  • improve the health and well-being of women and their families

A panel of deputy ministers recommended Ms. MacInnis-Langley as the winning candidate in the competition.