Leading with Purpose, Inspiring with Passion.

Ann Marie Vanneste is an energetic Canadian teacher, speaker, and advocate with over 25 years of experience. Starting as a scholarship track athlete at Louisiana State University, she majored in Speech Communication and Sociology, carrying her drive for success from the track to the classroom. Committed to equity and inclusion, Ann Marie has worked extensively with the Black Student Association to create supportive spaces for students and educators alike.

She discovered her passion for teaching in 1997 while working for the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association and returned to Canada to become a standout educator. Her achievements include the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence National Recipient (2023), the Ottawa Catholic School Board's Director of Education Award (2023), and the Lowell Milken Fellowship (2024), a U.S.-based honour.

Beyond the classroom, Ann Marie raises awareness about Emmett Till’s legacy, organizing events like Walk Till Justice and screening the film Till for over 900 students and staff. She also spent over 11 years as a performance dance teacher and continues to coach track and speed athletes in Ottawa. Her background as a competitive athlete fuels her belief in self-control, perseverance, and teamwork.

Whether she’s in the classroom, on the field, or at the front of a crowd, Ann Marie brings her infectious energy and joy to everything she does. She lives in Ottawa with her husband and two sons, continually striving to make a difference in the lives of those around her.

Dive into her story and discover what drives her unstoppable energy!