The Story of Mary Dohey's Cross of Valour
Date: Mar 26
2:30 pm
- 3:30 pm
Where: Theatre
Coffee & Culture
Born in Saint Bride's, Newfoundland in 1933, and raised in Red Head Cove, Mary Dohey was the first living person, and first woman to receive the Cross of Valour Award. This is Canada?s highest award for civilian bravery, and was presented to Mary on December 1st, 1975. She was honoured with this award after she put her own life in danger in order to save the lives of fellow staff, and passengers on a DC-8 aircraft flying from Calgary, Alberta. Mary Dohey trained as a psychiatric nurse before becoming a flight attendant with Trans-Canada Air Lines (today Air Canada). On November 12, 1971 Mary put that training to use as she talked down an armed hijacker. During an eight hour ordeal Mary discouraged the man from taking any other violent measures. Mary?s act of bravery in the face of such danger saved the lives of over 200 people. Mary returned to her work as a flight attendant, retiring in 1991, and passing away in 2017 at the age of 83. Join Curator of History Maureen Power to learn more about Mary's story, and see the Cross of Valour Award on display at The Rooms. ASL/English Interpreting Services are available through NLAD by request only to ASLservices@therooms.ca or 709-757-8090. We will do our best to accommodate requests made within two weeks of the scheduled event.
Today's Events & Programs
Your Friday’s Just Got Creative
Whether you’re a confident sketcher looking for community and inspiration, or someone who’s always wanted to try drawing but never felt brave enough—this is your chance!
Join us in a welcoming, relaxed environment where creativity flows and everyone belongs. Each week, we explore a new theme while building our skills and own drawing style. From investigating the intricate details of our natural history collection to learning and drawing from our gallery exhibitions.
What to Expect:
• A supportive space to learn, share, and enjoy art together
• Guided exercises with an experienced instructor
• Tips and techniques for all skill levels
• Quality drawing supplies provided (or bring your favorite sketchbook!)
No pressure, just possibilities. Come for the art, stay for the conversation.
Cost: $25 per session plus HST. 10% discount for members. Reserve your spot today online or by calling (709) 757-8090
Let’s draw together at The Rooms!
Your Friday’s Just Got Creative
Whether you’re a confident sketcher looking for community and inspiration, or someone who’s always wanted to try drawing but never felt brave enough—this is your chance!
Join us in a welcoming, relaxed environment where creativity flows and everyone belongs. Each week, we explore a new theme while building our skills and own drawing style. From investigating the intricate details of our natural history collection to learning and drawing from our gallery exhibitions.
What to Expect:
• A supportive space to learn, share, and enjoy art together
• Guided exercises with an experienced instructor
• Tips and techniques for all skill levels
• Quality drawing supplies provided (or bring your favorite sketchbook!)
No pressure, just possibilities. Come for the art, stay for the conversation.
Cost: $25 per session plus HST. 10% discount for members. Reserve your spot today online or by calling (709) 757-8090
Let’s draw together at The Rooms!
In celebration of African History and Liberation join author Shania Sanderson for a look into her new book Always Expect the Unexpected.
About the book:
Nekia had everything she ever dreamed of, the typical falling in love and marrying the man of her dreams, a beautiful baby girl and closely knit loving family. Nothing could go wrong, or so she thought. Twisted fate and bitter luck was about to turn her world upside down and take her through a series of unfortunate events. Will she be able to overcome the unexpected incidents that are waiting for her just over the horizon? Take a journey through this elaborately written book of short stories to get a taste of love, suspense, mystery, drama, and a minimum amount of horror in Always Expect the Unexpected.
About the Author:
Shania Shenekia Sanderson was born in the parish of St. Elizabeth Jamaica and raised in the Parish of Manchester. Though her career path led her to Nursing, Shania has been writing short stories and poems since the age of 13. Her unique style of composing creative pieces will leave every reader searching for more.
This is a free program but a ticket is required. Please reserve your free ticket online or by calling 709-757-8090.
In partnership with Memorial University (Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Anti-Racism)