CIFFA Honours Shannon Blanchard with 2026 Donna Letterio Leadership Award
CIFFA is proud to announce that Shannon Blanchard has been named the recipient of the 2026 Donna Letterio Leadership Award, recognizing her outstanding leadership, professionalism and contributions to Canada’s transportation and logistics sector. Presented annually in memory of CIFFA Past President Donna Letterio, the award celebrates a woman in the global freight logistics industry who exemplifies the qualities that defined Donna’s career and life: leadership, commitment, professionalism and a passion for excellence.
Blanchard, who has spent more than two decades with Port Saint John, has played a pivotal role in the growth and development of one of Canada’s key maritime gateways. Throughout her 21-year career, she has worked to strengthen Saint John’s competitive position, foster industry collaboration and build lasting relationships across the transportation and logistics community.
Known for her tenacity, professionalism and collaborative leadership style, Blanchard has made significant contributions across trucking, stevedoring, container shipping and freight forwarding. She has also been a strong advocate for education and professional development, serving in leadership roles with CITT and helping to support the next generation of logistics professionals.
“Shannon embodies the spirit of the Donna Letterio Leadership Award,” said Julia Kuzeljevich, CIFFA Director of Policy and Regulatory Affairs, during the award presentation. “Her ability to bring people together, build consensus and support the growth of our industry has earned her the respect of colleagues across the supply chain. She is a leader, mentor and role model whose contributions continue to have a lasting impact.”
In addition to her professional achievements, Blanchard is recognized for her dedication to family and community, balancing industry leadership with commitments to her children, grandchildren and aging parent.
As part of the Donna Letterio Leadership Award, CIFFA makes an annual donation to Bladder Cancer Canada in honour of the award recipient. This year, a cheque for $1,000 was presented to Shasa Boshoff, National Development Manager, Bladder Cancer Canada, continuing the legacy of service and support associated with the award.
“CIFFA is pleased to continue this important tradition and support the work of Bladder Cancer Canada in Donna Letterio’s memory,” said Kuzeljevich. “We are grateful to Shasa Boshoff and the organization for joining us to mark this special occasion.”
The award presentation and charitable donation were celebrated during CIFFA’s annual gathering, where industry leaders came together to recognize excellence, leadership and community service within Canada’s freight forwarding and logistics sector.
About the Donna Letterio Leadership Award
Established in memory of CIFFA Past President Donna Letterio, the Donna Letterio Leadership Award recognizes women in the global freight logistics industry who demonstrate exceptional leadership, professionalism and commitment to excellence. The award also supports Bladder Cancer Canada through an annual donation made in the recipient’s name.
