As a gifted storyteller, Paula Simons has told Edmonton’s stories in print, on the radio, on television, and on stage for over 30 years.
A political columnist with the Edmonton Journal, in her various journalistic capacities throughout the years, she has been a member of the Alberta Press Gallery, a member of the Journal editorial board, and has written on a collection of topics that include public transit, finances, Supreme Court rulings, international trade, the arts, and mental health.
Ms. Simons also has experience as a producer with CBC Radio, both in Edmonton and Toronto, and as a freelance magazine writer, documentary maker, and political analyst. She is the co-author of the best-selling popular history book, Alberta: 100 Years a Home, and the children’s play, Onions and Garlic.
She realizes the importance of giving back to the community. She is currently a volunteer mentor with the Peter Lougheed Leadership College at the University of Alberta and has been a long-time volunteer with the Alberta Debate and Speech Association.
Ms. Paula Simons’ long career in journalism has been highlighted by her many awards, including multiple National Newspaper Awards, the Alberta Civil Liberties Research Centre’s Civil Liberties Award for her writing on LGBTQ rights, and two Michener Award citations for merit for public service journalism for her role in Journal investigations of Alberta’s Indigenous child welfare system.