A dedicated CAO and community volunteer from the Town of Souris has won the 2025 Bruce H. Yeo Memorial Award.
Shelley LaVie received the honour at the recent Federation of PEI Municipalities (FPEIM) Annual Meeting in the City of Summerside. The FPEIM award recognizes an individual for outstanding contributions to municipal government in Prince Edward Island.
LaVie has worked for the Town of Souris for 34 years – starting as events coordinator and accounting clerk in 1991, then becoming CAO in 2008.
The award nomination spoke to LaVie’s knowledge, skill, and commitment. “Her strategic vision and effective decision-making have played a crucial role in steering our town towards prosperity and growth,” said Mayor JoAnne Dunphy. “Shelley’s ability to navigate complex challenges and find innovative solutions has been instrumental in ensuring the efficient delivery of services to Souris’s residents.”
In addition to her service with the town, LaVie is known for her volunteering, professional development, and willingness to help others. “Shelley is an outstanding CAO, community member, and mentor to other staff in municipal governments in PEI,” said FPEIM President Bruce MacDougall. “We’re so pleased to recognize all she does to build her community and support others in municipal roles.”
LaVie said she was deeply honoured to receive the award. “I’ve had the opportunity to work with so many amazing, passionate, and hard-working individuals who have shared in the commitment to making our town a better place. Together, we’ve built a supportive environment where collaboration and innovation thrive. This award is not only a reflection of my personal efforts but a testament to the collective spirit of everyone I’ve had the pleasure to work with in Souris.”