In memoriam: Lucille MacKay

Lucille MacKay passed away from pneumonia on Jan. 16. Lucille had been the manager of Child Care Services from 1976 through to her retirement in 2002. During that time she was the driving force that saw Child Care Services grow from a single house located on McCoy Rd. to renovated huts, to the construction of the current centres on Finnerty Road and the Harry Lou-Poy Infant centre in the family housing complex.

Lucille was a tireless campaigner for affordable, accessible and quality child care and served on many committees dedicated to advancing child care quality. She pioneered the advocacy for integration of children with special needs into child care programs and was a vital force in persuading governments and the university to recognize child care as a key component of success for both students and employees.

Lucille’s work in the community with the Esquimalt Community Association, the Boys and Girls Club, Victoria Parks and Recreation, the Regional Child Care Council, the Association of Family Serving Agencies, as well as her work with the Independent Order of Foresters, always had a focus on improving the strength of families.

Lucille was a mentor to countless fellow employees and practicum students who began their careers under her supervision. She inspired many to continue their education and advance to roles of greater responsibility. She constantly sought new ways to expand the professionalism of early childhood educators.

Lucille is survived by her children: Terry, Heather, Glen and Steven, her stepson Chris and seven grand-children.

Contributed by David Clode, executive director of Student and Ancillary Services