LIZ HANSON

After a lifetime of work in the public service, Liz Hanson decided to not retire but to give something back to her community -- in a new career as an elected representative.

She sought and won the leadership of the Yukon New Democratic Party in September 2009. On December 13, 2010, she was elected MLA for Whitehorse Centre in a by-election brought on by the passing of long-time NDP MLA and former party leader Todd Hardy.

In her career with the federal government, Liz rose through the ranks, gaining valuable experience and making things happen. As a volunteer, she's always played a role in the life our community.

When Liz was eight, the eldest of six children, her father died; she learned at an early age lessons she's never forgotten about the struggles faced by families trying hard to make ends meet. With husband Doug Mowat, Liz has raised two daughters, Sarah and Paula.