Did you know? Long-serving Member of Parliament Alexandra Mendès actually graduated from Champlain Saint-Lambert in Social Science in 1983.

During her Cegep years, Mendès was involved in the student association (CSA) and the student newspaper, The Bugle.

Prior to her entry into the political sphere, she worked for 15 years at the Maison Internationale de la Rive-Sud, a non-profit community organization that provides support and assistance to new immigrants and refugees.

Mendès began her political career as a riding assistant to then-MP and cabinet minister the Hon. Jacques Saada. In 2008, she was elected as the representative for the riding of Brossard – La Prairie for the first time.

Following the 2011 election where she lost her seat during the orange wave, Mendès stayed involved by serving as president of the Quebec branch of the Liberal Party of Canada.

In October 2015, Mendès was re-elected as Member of Parliament for the constituency of Brossard – Saint-Lambert. In December 2019, Alexandra was appointed Assistant Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons.

On February 20, Mendès announced that she had been diagnosed with cancer and was undergoing treatment. She thanked her supporters and announced she would run for re-election.

Over the years, she has stayed connected to the Champlain community, attending various formal events including Remembrance Day ceremonies held on campus.

Mendès’ advice for current students and recent grads: “Always speak the truth and do not hide behind others.  Take pride in your beliefs and don’t let others define you. You will chart your own path.”