From her time as a student to her service on the Board of Regents, and all the moments in between, it is difficult to overstate the impact the late Suzanne Crawford (’79) had on the Mount Allison community.

“She was a dear friend and our University is forever grateful for her leadership and generous heart,” says Lynn Loewen (’82), Mount Allison’s Chancellor. “Suzanne was a volunteer, donor, counsellor, and one of the University’s greatest advocates. Those lucky enough to have known Suzanne understand that her legacy is characterized both by her professional contributions and work ethic, and by the warmth, optimism, and good humour she brought to all her interactions.”
 
Suzanne’s connections to Mount Allison were multi-generational. Her father, Purdy Crawford (’52), was a former University Chancellor, and he and his surviving wife, Bea, made many tremendous contributions to Mount Allison life. Suzanne’s sister Sarah is a member of the Class of 1995 and serves on Mount Allison’s Board of Regents. And the most recent Crawford family member to cross the stage at Convocation Hall was Suzanne’s daughter, Evelyne, in 2022.
 
When Suzanne passed away in April 2023, her family established the Suzanne Crawford Harper Hall Fund, to continue her legacy with Mount Allison and philanthropy. A new lounge space in the residence will be named in her honour.
 
“Suzanne lived in Harper Hall as a student and the experience was one of the most important of her life with Mount Allison,” says Sarah Crawford. “Like many Allisonians, she was happy to share memories of her time at Harper and reflect on all the friendships she made. I know it would mean a lot to her that we are helping future students get a similar kind of residence experience.” 
 
Harper Hall first opened its doors in 1965 and since then more than 8,000 students have called it home. The building is undergoing improvements to both interior and exterior infrastructure, including upgraded student rooms, inviting social spaces, and a new roof and windows. 
 
“Providing students space for community building, self-discovery, and the forging of life-long friends — this has always been part of Mount Allison’s identity and in particular our residence experience,” says Loewen. “The Mount Allison community is honoured that Suzanne’s great legacy will live on in Harper Hall, helping transform the lives of future generations of young people.” 
 
Harper Hall is scheduled to re-open in September 2024 and the Suzanne Crawford Harper Hall Fund is a significant support to the extensive renovations underway. 
 
Renewing physical spaces is a priority at Mount Allison, as witnessed through our current upgrades to residences and athletic facilities and the upcoming library renovation project.
 
Read other stories of philanthropy at mta.ca/giving