Announcing the 2026 Distinguished Old Girl Award Winner

A proud alumna, past parent and active volunteer, Melodie has had a groundbreaking career, showcased a deep commitment to BSS, and embodies the attributes of the Signature of a BSS Girl, while inspiring the girls and women she interacts with. 

 

Melodie’s career reflects extraordinary versatility and resilience. After BSS, she earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in Chemical Engineering and a Master of Applied Science in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Toronto. As a female biomedical engineer in an emerging field, she helped pioneer research that contributed to the development of the Opti-Flow dialysis catheter, a lifesaving innovation that remains a gold standard in kidney care. After taking a career break to raise her family, Melodie returned to sailing, discovering off-shore ocean racing. After several years of hands-on learning, she conquered the maritime world, becoming the first Canadian woman to skipper a race boat around the globe in the Globe40, earning Sail Canada’s 2023 Rolex Sailor of the Year and the Women of Inspiration Award in Sport in 2024.

 

Melodie embodies the attributes of the Signature of a BSS Girl through a consistent pattern of curiosity, humility and leadership. She is known for her quiet resilience and preparedness. She has broken through male-dominated fields by sheer skill, determination and character, and shown remarkable grit and unwavering drive as a groundbreaking researcher and elite sailor. Yet for Melodie, personal achievement is only part of her story. Known for her genuine openness and respect, she actively advocates for women and girls in STEM and sports through public speaking, mentorship and welcoming young students aboard her racing boat Whiskey Jack. 

 

Melodie is a trailblazer and an inspiring leader. Her accomplishments, humility and courage exemplify what it means to be a Distinguished Old Girl.