Remembered for her passion and tenacity, a beloved community advocate who died last month, is the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce’s citizen of the year.
Lynn McGeachy-Schultz will be honored posthumously during the 135th annual business excellence awards ceremony at the Everest Convention Center April 13.
McGeachy-Schultz, who was Involved in dozens of projects and initiatives over the years, was instrumental in building the Healthplex, a student residence, the Mary Uniac Nursing Centre, the new animal shelter and reopening the Chatham Capitol Theatre.
The University of Guelph kinesiology grad started her career at the Children’s Treatment Center of Chatham-Kent working with special needs kids in a therapeutic pool.
She helped spearhead the centre’s ongoing adapted recreation program for kids. She was also involved in setting up sailing, Challenger baseball, bocce ball and sledge hockey programs.
A life-long learner, she earned a bachelor of education degree from the University of Windsor and returned to Guelph to complete a master’s degree in leadership.
During her time as St. Clair College principal, she helped transform the Thames Campus.
In recent years, McGeachy-Schultz managed construction of the Pet and Wildlife Rescue building to replace the aging, smaller former animal shelter.
She is the first posthumous citizen of the year honoree, the chamber confirmed Friday.
“We are pleased to recognize such a worthy individual who left a positive mark in Chatham-Kent,” the chamber’s Sarah Smith said.
With files from Ellwood Shreve