Honouring the Legacy of Jean Engholm: A Dedicated Supporter of Indigenous Education

It is with sadness that we share the passing of Jean Engholm in September 2025, at the age of 93.

The Faculty of Education extends its sincere gratitude for Jean’s enduring commitment to the Faculty and its mission. Jean’s generous support and belief in the transformative power of education have left a lasting legacy at Lakehead – particularly in her support of Keewatinase Indigenous Education and advancing Indigenous education.

Through her contributions, Jean helped strengthen Keewatinase’s capacity to carry forward its commitments to revitalizing Indigenous programming and responding meaningfully to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. Her support reflected a deep respect for inclusive, community-based learning and a commitment to reconciliation. The Faculty is deeply grateful for her vision and generosity.

As noted in her obituary, Jean’s connection to Lakehead University extended beyond philanthropy. A lifelong learner, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Lakehead in 1984, pursuing higher education later in life as part of her enduring intellectual curiosity.

Jean was born near Manchester, England, in 1932. She trained as a nurse at age 17 and later served as Nursing Sister in charge of Student Health Services at Makerere University College in Uganda. Though she did not practise nursing in Ontario, her career spanned a remarkable range of roles – from bookkeeper and research assistant to conference coordinator and volunteer.

Her volunteerism was inspiring. From assisting with evacuated children during WWII as a Red Cross Cadet, to supporting Save the Children in Uganda and Canada, and advocating for individuals with developmental challenges through Community Living Thunder Bay, Jean dedicated her life to helping others. In her later years, as she faced the challenge of vision loss and became deeply involved with the CNIB, continuing her lifelong example of community engagement.

The Faculty of Education remembers Jean Engholm with deep appreciation for her generosity, her spirit of service, and her lasting impact on education and reconciliation.