Dame Susan Devoy is one of New Zealand’s most celebrated sportswomen, as well as being a recognised volunteer and advocate. Awarded a CBE and MBE she was made a Dame in 1998 for her services to sport in New Zealand. These honours recognise her achievements as a world champion for four years, her work as chair of the Halberg Foundation for 12 years, and the leadership she showed as a patron of the Muscular Dystrophy Association when she walked the length of New Zealand in 1988 raising over $500,000 for research and support networks.
Dame Susan was the Race Relations Commissioner for five years and throughout her tenure she was known for her empathy with people and her ability to relate to all people, respecting and learning their rituals, beliefs, challenges, and issues. This human-centred focus adds value to scientific and environmental strategies. Known for her practical and common-sense approach, Dame Susan brings an outside view, in a manner that is direct and questioning; informed by her experiences as a CEO and chairperson alongside her many other achievements.