The University means many things for the Jean-Leduc family — including life itself.
Sylvain Leduc (BA ’77, MA ’81 [psychology]), associate director of the Centre for Continuing Education, has worked at the University of Ottawa for more than 30 years.
He studied here. Made friends here. Met his wife here. Marie-Claude Jean began her own career here teaching psychology. Their three children also studied at the University. Their son chose medicine and their daughters, public and international affairs, and biology, respectively.
“It’s in large part thanks to the University of Ottawa that our children will be able to find interesting, fulfilling work,” says Mrs. Jean.
The couple already felt they had ample reasons to be grateful to the University. But then, one more topped the list.
Three years ago, Leduc had to undergo emergency open heart surgery at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute. Impressed by the quality of care that he received, the couple was keen to show their gratitude in a tangible manner.
“When you put all that together, we couldn’t imagine not giving back. First and foremost, to the University, but also, through it, to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute,” says Mr. Leduc.
The bequest that they carefully planned will have a dual impact: supporting research, patient care and equipment purchases at the Heart Institute, and establishing bursaries for Francophone students enrolled in medicine at the University of Ottawa. It’s a way to support what’s important for them and their children: health care, the French language, education and helping each other out.
“There’s nothing exceptional about us as donors,” says Leduc. “There are many people who can do this. By planning a little, you can give back a lot and really have a major impact.”
By telling their story, Leduc and Jean hope to inspire others to support the university that will always have a very special place in their hearts.
Sylvain Leduc and Marie-Claude Jean chose to leave a bequest to express their gratitude towards the University that has always formed the backdrop to their life as a family.
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