Lois Mitchell appointed as Alberta's new lieutenant-governor

Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced Lois Mitchell, a businesswoman and Calgary resident, will serve as Alberta's next lieutenant-governor.

"LoisMitchellis an exceptional Canadian who is well known for her leadership, dedication and community spirit. She is an excellent choice for Alberta's next lieutenant-governor and I am confident she will make an important contribution to Alberta's future," saidHarper in a release.

Mitchell is currently a senior partner and founder of Rainmaker Global Business Development, a consulting and marketing firm.

She also sits on numerous boards, including UBS Bank (Canada), and is the governor of the Canadian Women's Hockey Association.

She was appointed in 2012 as amember of the Order of Canada and received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.

The Governor General appoints lieutenant-governors on the advice of the prime minister to serve five-year terms where they act as provincial representatives of the Queen.

"It was a pleasure to congratulate Lois Mitchell on her appointment as the next LG of Alberta," tweeted Gov.Gen. David Johnston.

Alberta's outgoing lieutenant-governor, Honourable Donald S. Ethell, has been in the position since May 11, 2010.