Keeler maintains dismissal was "wrongful" (CHAT NEWS file image)

By Brian Konrad

Former Stampede Board President “deeply hurt” by her dismissal

Sep 14, 2023 | 7:08 AM

MEDICINE HAT — Darlene Keeler says her dismissal as President of the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede board has left her disillusioned and deeply hurt.

While she says she respects the decision taken by the board, Keeler maintains her dismissal was wrongful and is exploring all available avenues to address the circumstances surrounding her departure.

The long time volunteer is grateful to the many individuals who’ve supported her as president but remains dedicated to the continued success of the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede.

The full statement from Darlene Keeler is below, followed by a statement from the Stampede board sent to CHAT News late on Thursday afternoon.

Medicine Hat, September 13, 2023 – I want to address the recent rumors and provide clarity regarding my departure from the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede. It is with great sadness and disappointment that I confirm these rumors are true.

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I have dedicated a significant portion of my life to the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede, serving on many committees, and most recently as the President of the Board. My passion for this organization, its mission, and its community impact has been unwavering. It has been an honor to work alongside a dedicated team of volunteers who share the same commitment to the Stampede’s success.

Recent events have left me disillusioned and deeply hurt. I believe in transparency and fairness, and it is with regret that I find myself in a situation where I must address the circumstances surrounding my departure.

While I respect the decision taken by the Board, I firmly maintain that my dismissal was wrongful. It is essential for the sake of the organization’s reputation and the trust of its stakeholders that the facts surrounding this matter be fully understood.

Despite the challenges faced, I remain dedicated to the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede’s continued success. I hope that, in due course, the organization can overcome these obstacles and continue its important work within the community.

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the many individuals who have supported me throughout my tenure and during this difficult time. Your encouragement means the world to me, and I will forever cherish the relationships I have built within the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede family.

I am committed to ensuring a fair resolution to this situation, and I am exploring all available avenues to address the circumstances surrounding my departure. In the meantime, I ask for your patience and support.

The Stampede board’s statement:

The Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede Board of Directors had to make a difficult decision to relieve Darlene Keeler of her role and duties as president of the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede. As per policy, a replacement will be named in the near future.