BERNICE ADAMS LEGACY

Bernice Adams

Bernice Adams

1934-1980

Following the untimely death of former City Councillor Bernice Adams in 1980, the “Bernice Adams Legacy” (formerly “Bernice Adams Memorial Fund”) was initiated to recognize her contributions to the community. Her legacy continues as people from Cambridge have been presented the Bernice Adams Legacy Award based on their passion, education, and mentorship within their art form.

The outspoken Cambridge City Councillor Bernice Adams was an incredible woman who was very involved in politics in our community. Bernice Adams worked tirelessly to improve her community with a fondness for the arts and cultural life for which she had a strong passion.

Accomplishments

Public Speaking Awards

Bernice Marjorie (Brine) Adams was born in Galt on December 2, 1934. She was a clever child and won many awards for public speaking as a teenager. After completing her formal schooling in Grade 8 she attended Galt Business school.

Bernice was an active participant in Beta Sigma Phi an international women’s friendship network, winning many awards as a member.

Galt Little Theatre Performer

Bernice was active in the Galt Little Theatre performing in several plays throughout her teenage and adult years.

CFTJ Radio Announcer

Bernice began working at CFTJ radio as the front receptionist in the 1970’s. Her talents were quickly recognized and she was brought on as the Woman’s announcer doing many commercials and broadcasts as well as shows specifically for women including “Woman of the Year” in 1976 – International Year of Woman.

Galt Evening Reporter Writer

Bernice also started writing for the Galt Evening Reporter – later the Cambridge Daily Reporter first as a featured writer and then in 1978 began writing her weekly column Adams About Anything.

Finding success as a professional writer Bernice had a keen interest in the literary arts and would try her hand at writing a Harlequin romance novel.

Elected Cambridge Alderman

Bernice began her political career in 1972 when she ran for her first local election to be an alderman in 1972 in the City of GALT.  She won this election and went on to be acclaimed for the next 4 elections. When Galt became Cambridge, she became Ward 2 alderman and held that position until her death in 1980.

Elected Waterloo Regional Council

After Cambridge was formed, Bernice was elected to Waterloo Regional Council, a position she also held to her death.  In the late 1970’s Bernice was elected by regional council to Chair the Waterloo Regional Police Commission, a position she held till her death. Bernice was the first woman lead of a Police Commission in Ontario.

Named in her memory the Bernice Adams Legacy help support, acknowledge and improve the arts and cultural life in the City of Cambridge.