CEO and co-founder of the Newcastle-based Arts Health Institute, Dr Maggie Haertsch, has been announced in The Australian Financial Review and Westpac 100 Women of Influence Awards for 2015. Dr Haertsch has been recognised in the Social Enterprise and not-for-profit category for her contribution to delivering innovative, evidence-based approaches to health and aged care, through the arts.

She is one of the 100 women chosen from more than 500 entrants this year. The most influential in each category – as well as the most influential overall – will be announced at The Australian Financial Review and Westpac 100 Women of Influence Awards gala dinner on Thursday, 15 October 2015 at the Sydney Town Hall.

“The Arts Health Institute brings arts and health professionals together to change worlds,” Maggie said. “Our trailblazing programs take artists and performers into different areas of health care. For example, we’re making ageing a positive experience and thinking outside the square to help solve stubborn issues in a number of areas.”

Now in its fourth year, the 100 Women of Influence Awards celebrate outstanding women from a wide variety of sectors across Australia. There are 10 categories: Board/Management, Public Policy, Diversity, Business Enterprise, Young Leader, Global, Local/Regional, Innovation, Culture and Social Enterprise. Entrants were assessed by a panel of judges and have been recognised based on their outstanding ability to demonstrate vision, leadership, innovation and action in and beyond their fields.

Ainslie van Onselen, Director of Women’s Markets, Diversity and Inclusion at Westpac, said that the breadth and calibre of the 100 Women of Influence for 2015 is truly incredible.

“It is a privilege to recognise and celebrate the remarkable contribution these women are making to our society,” Ainslie said. “Women have countless opportunities to be a driving force for change in Australia and shape our nation’s future through their respective fields. Dr Maggie Haertsch is a shining example for how women can be truly influential in their career and have a profound impact on long term outcomes. She joins an illustrious group of Australian women as part of the Women of Influence alumni, which continues to grow each year with diverse and exceptional talent.”

Image | Dr Maggie Haertsch with Arts Health Institute Valet Jola Jones