Suzanne Paulins

2025 Inductee – Builder, Swimming

With a distinguished career spanning over 50 years in the sport of swimming, Suzanne Paulins has made invaluable contributions as a swimmer, coach, official, and leader. She has held key roles including Vice-President of Swim Ontario and President of the Brantford Aquatic Club, exemplifying her unwavering commitment to the sport and its community. Since joining Swimming Canada in 2017, she ascended through various positions, culminating in her appointment as Chief Executive Officer in June 2023, after an extensive tenure as Acting CEO. 

A passionate advocate for athletes, coaches, and officials, Suzanne draws inspiration from her own children, which informs her leadership principles and decisions. Her officiating career began in 2001, where she progressed from local events to the FINA List #19 as a referee, officiating prestigious competitions worldwide, including the Junior Pan Pac Championships and the Pan Am Games. 

Suzanne has served on the Brantford Aquatic Club Board and Swim Ontario Board, where she led the creation of a pivotal strategic plan. As CEO, she recently represented Swimming Canada at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, where Canadian swimmers achieved remarkable success, further solidifying her legacy in the aquatic sports community.