Diana Huson (BA ’11, MA ’13, MBA ’17) knows there is no single path to success.

Her own Brock journey took 17 years to complete while she worked full time and raised a young family. She would eventually earn three degrees from the University, build a career at Brock, enter municipal politics and move into senior leadership roles, all while becoming a passionate advocate for other women.

Through it all, her belief in the value of education remained constant.

“You can lose a job, but no one can ever take away your education,” Huson says. “That is your superpower.”

Huson has been recognized with the 2026 Brock University Alumni Association Distinguished Alumni Award, which celebrates graduates who have made significant contributions through their careers and service to their communities.

She says the recognition is especially meaningful because Brock has been part of so many chapters in her life.

Huson first came to the University as an undergraduate student, completing a bachelor’s degree with double majors in Political Science and Business before going on to earn a master’s in Political Science specializing in public policy and an MBA with a concentration in marketing.

She also spent 15 years working at Brock, including as Manager of Curriculum Management, Policy and Outreach.

“Those experiences have taught me adaptability, helped me develop skills to navigate change, build relationships, take risks, and have the ability to be curious and learn constantly.”

That willingness to work hard, commit to a goal and continue learning led Huson to public office.

In 2018, she was elected Regional Councillor for Pelham, becoming the first woman to represent the municipality at Niagara Region. She went on to chair the Region’s Planning and Economic Development Committee for six years and served four terms on the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Board of Directors.

Huson’s experience in politics also showed her how much work is still needed to empower women as leaders and decision-makers. In response, she helped establish Niagara Region’s first Women’s Advisory Committee, expanded the Seat at the Table initiative and later founded Equal Voice Niagara, helping women and diverse candidates learn more about public office and see themselves in those roles.

Today, Huson is Head of Corporate Affairs at Conservation Halton, continuing a career that has moved between education, government, community service and organizational leadership.

Looking back, she has come to see detours in her path as opportunities for growth. Her willingness to keep learning started at Brock and has never really stopped. That message of flexibility and resilience is one she hopes future Badgers and fellow Brock graduates will take to heart.

“Some of life’s most important opportunities arrive disguised as uncertainty. The moments that shaped me most began when I chose to raise my hand, put my name forward or say yes to something outside of my comfort zone,” she says. “You don’t have to have everything figured out. Growth often begins the moment we step beyond our comfort zone and give ourselves permission to try something new. That’s when we often discover that we’re capable of far more than we ever imagined.”

Nominations for the 2027 Brock University Alumni Association Awards can be submitted through the Brock University Alumni Awards website.