Calgary, AB – At the recent “Night of a Million Stars” gala, Suzanne Matthews of Sutton Group – Canwest Realty was awarded the TWH Saunders Memorial Award by the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB). Created in 1978, this industry award honours individuals whose work is of such high calibre that it deserves recognition or whose contributions bring positive attention to the real estate industry as a whole.

In her acceptance speech, Suzanne was visibly moved.   “It is such an honour to receive this prestigious award.   It’s overwhelming,” a teary-eyed Mathews said.     A third generation Calgarian, Mathews began her real estate career in 1982 with A.E. LePage and is now an associate with Sutton Group – Canwest Realty’s Bonavista office.   In addition to volunteering on 20 CREB committees over the years, and creating the REALTOR and Family Assistance Program, Suzanne became a CREB Director in 1990 and served as President of the Board’s Charitable Foundation in 1991.   She was integral in helping the Foundation reach its goal of a $1 million shelter-related fund in 1995.

In addition to her real estate activities, Suzanne has recently been involved in several volunteer missions to developing countries.   The first was to Sierra Leone, Africa, where volunteers were able to help war widows to become skilled at a trade, support their families, and gain self-confidence by learning basic sewing techniques.   Later that year, she went to Guatemala to assist a group building homes for local families.   As part of that trip, Suzanne took on the extra task of setting up another sewing school.   On her own, she arranged for equipment and materials, and planned classes.

Sutton associates like Suzanne are making a dramatic difference in communities across Canada through their caring and generous Sutton Spirit.   They donate their time and skills by coaching, organizing fundraisers, volunteering and teaching.   Their dedication and commitment is helping to improve the quality of life for countless Canadians.   Sutton is a 100% Canadian-owned and operated company with more than 8,300 associates in 191 offices nationwide. www.suttonspirit.com

Sutton Group Realty Services Media Contacts:

Suzanne Matthews (403) 278-9208           smatthews@sutton.com