The Mount Allison Federated Alumni Board is proud to announce the recipients of the Grace Annie Lockhart Sesquicentennial Pin, honouring both living and posthumous alumnae who reflect the spirit, leadership, and legacy of Grace Annie Lockhart (Class of 1875), the first woman in the British Empire to earn a university degree. The initiative is part of the sesquicentennial commemoration of Lockhart’s historic achievement and celebrates Mount Allison’s long-standing leadership in advancing women’s education. 
 
Created to mark the 150th anniversary, the Grace Annie Lockhart Sesquicentennial Pin recognizes women whose lives and work demonstrate impact, service, innovation, and leadership — as trailblazers in their fields, community builders, advocates, mentors, and changemakers. 

“The Grace Annie Lockhart Pin is about recognizing the quiet force and the bold courage of Mount Allison women,” says Jon Graves (’15), President of the Mount Allison Alumni Board.  “These recipients represent generations of leadership — in science, business, public service, the arts, health, and community life. They carry forward the same determination that allowed Grace Annie Lockhart to step forward in 1875 and change history. As alumni, it is an honour to celebrate them.” 

Ian Sutherland, President and Vice-Chancellor of Mount Allison University, reflects on the significance of Lockhart’s achievement and its enduring impact: 

“Grace Annie Lockhart’s historic achievement did not happen in Oxford, London, Toronto, or Ottawa — it happened in Sackville, New Brunswick. In the 150 years since, women from Mount Allison have continued to shape history and change the world. We are proud to honour those who reflect that same spirit of leadership, service, and commitment to others. Congratulations to all the honourees — individuals whose lives and work have made a meaningful difference at Mount Allison, in their communities, and far beyond. This recognition is not only a tribute to Grace Annie’s legacy; it is a celebration of that legacy carried forward by generations of Allisonians, and of the global impact that began right here in New Brunswick.” 

The Alumni Board is immensely grateful for the support of presenting sponsor Stewart McKelvey, whose commitment has made this initiative possible. 

“At Stewart McKelvey, we are committed to supporting initiatives that advance leadership, equity, and community impact,” says Lydia Budgen, CEO and Managing Partner, Stewart McKelvey. “We value diversity, collaboration, and the meaningful contributions women make to their professions and communities across Canada. It is a privilege to support the Grace Annie Lockhart Sesquicentennial Pin and to celebrate the accomplishments of these remarkable alumnae whose achievements reflect the firm’s long-standing belief in inclusive leadership and community engagement.” 

Over the past year, Mount Allison has marked the sesquicentennial of Lockhart’s achievement through events, publications, and community celebrations. The commemorations will culminate in a ceremony in Sackville, New Brunswick, on May 10, 2026, where recipients and their families will gather.  

Read about all the recipients of the Grace Annie Lockhart Sesquicentennial Pin.