Leslie Bruce - In Memoriam
Everyone who knew Leslie Bruce admired her compassionate and adventurous spirit. Her friendships ran deep and spanned the world – many founded on her dedication to the environmental movement.
Born December 26, 1979 in Saint John, she graduated from St. Malachy’s High School in 1997 with high honors and received her Bachelor of Science degree from Mount Allison University in 2001, with a major in Biology and a minor in Women’s Studies. During her studies, Leslie received the “Flying M” award, which represents leadership in both the community and the university. Leslie was working toward a Bachelor of Education degree at UNB Fredericton in early education – part of her plan to become a teacher who could show the next generation the importance of protecting the planet.
Leslie was a leader in so many of her endeavors whether it was student council, Camp Glenburn as “Fee”, or pursuing her passion for the care of the environment. Working at Lake O’Hara, British Columbia held a special place in her heart where she hiked many mountain trails. Leslie loved the outdoors and, in particular, her travels across Canada by bicycle with the Climate Change Caravan, which she was instrumental in organizing. Her travels also took her to Australia, China, Britain, the Carribean, Boston and Florida.
While at Mount Allison University, Leslie was Chairperson of the Blue Green Society, a member of the press for a group of World Trade Organization protesters in Seattle, Washington, and a participant in an exchange program in Britain, learning to build straw bale homes. In addition to pursuing her academic endeavors, Leslie was often busy sailing, canoeing and camping along the Saint John River, predominantly at her family cottage in Glenwood. She loved Birkenstocks, music, dancing and playing the guitar.
Leslie Bruce’s commitment to making the world a greener place continues long past her tragic accidental death, which occurred on December 7, 2006. As a tribute to Leslie’s passion and dedication, friends and family have established the Leslie Bruce Environmental Scholarship for UNB students who show promise of becoming the leaders of tomorrow in the environmental field and are pursuing studies abroad.
You may support the Leslie Bruce Environmental Scholarship by donating online now or by mailing a contribution to UNB’s Development & Donor Relations Offices in Saint John or Fredericton. Thank you for your support.
