The Trent University community is saddened to learn of the passing of retired Chemistry demonstrator and special lecturer, Mary L. Amyotte.

Ms. Amyotte began her career at Trent in as a Chemistry demonstrator and technician in 1964. In 1968, she was promoted to senior demonstrator, and could often be found spending extra hours at Trent assisting Chemistry faculty members with their research. Her dedication resulted in a new role as sessional special lecturer in 1974. Ms. Amyotte continued her work at Trent on a part-time basis between 1977 and 1985, and officially retired in 1990.

Below is an excerpt from Ms. Amyotte’s obituary notice:

Mary's special interests were her family, the rights of young people, Catholic education, and multiculturalism. She was the first woman elected to the Peterborough, Victoria Northumberland, and Newcastle Separate School Board…She was the first woman elected as President of the School Trustees of Canada and she served on many provincial education and multicultural committees and commissions. Mary was named Woman of The Year for Ontario and was nominated for the Order of Canada. In 1984 Pope Jean Paul II awarded her a title and a Papal Medal for her outstanding work in Catholic education. Mary's legacy is her work for young people and for fellow Canadians. 

The University extends heartfelt sympathies to the friends and family of Mary Amyotte and to all who knew her at Trent.