Jennifer Bennett

Rear-Admiral Jennifer Jane Bennett, is a retired Canadian Forces Naval Reserve officer. In 2011, she served as Chief of Reserves and Cadets. As such, she was the highest ranking reservist in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and the most senior woman in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). She was named as one of Canada's 100 Most Powerful Women in 2011.

Early life and education Jennifer Jane Bennett was born on 11 August 1958 in Hamilton, Ontario. She received a Bachelor of Physical Education from McMaster University in 1981, followed by a Bachelor of Education from Queen's University at Kingston in 1982 and a Master of Arts in leadership and training from Royal Roads University in 2005.

In June 2015, Bennett was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) degree by the University of Alberta. Three years later, she received an honorary Doctor of Science from McMaster University. She reached the rank of commodore in 2007.

In 2011, Bennett was promoted to rear-admiral, becoming the first woman to reach the rank in the RCN. That year, she also became the first woman to serve as Chief of Reserves and Cadets, Also in 2011, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation named Bennett one of Canada's 100 Most Powerful Women. The following year, she was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, During the mid- to late-2010s, Bennett helped the RCN respond to and prevent sexual misconduct, as well as support former LGBT CAF members impacted by homophobic policies. Canadian version

Appointed Officer (OMM) on 29 September 2004 Appointed Commander (CMM) on 17 October 2012 Canadian version

with three Clasp for 42 years of service

Personal life Bennett's father, sister, and brother served in the Naval Reserve, with her father retiring as a commodore.