Sept. 30, 2019

Wilfrid Laurier University students are invited to pay their respects to Leanne Holland Brown, former dean of students on the Waterloo campus, at a tribute event on Wednesday, Oct. 23.

The tribute will take place at the Turret in the Fred Nichols Campus Centre from 3 p.m. – 5 p.m., including a short, formal program commencing at 3:30 p.m. David McMurray, vice-president of Student Affairs, will lead the event, with remarks from Laurier President and Vice-Chancellor Deborah MacLatchy and the presidents of both the Wilfrid Laurier University Students’ Union and the Graduate Students’ Association.

The event will feature a tribute video, a guest musical performance, and light refreshments. Students will also have an opportunity to share their memories of Dean Leanne and will be invited to sign a poster featuring her famous Orientation speech. This poster will later be displayed outside of the Student Wellness Centre, above the Friendship Bench.

In the coming months, a tree will be planted in Holland Brown’s memory in the walkway between the Dr. Alvin Woods Building and the Arts building, with a ring of benches around it. The Eastern Red Bud, Holland Brown’s favourite tree, is known for its pink blossoms and heart-shaped leaves.

Dean Leanne was known for the empathy and kindness she brought to her role, and for her passion for student wellness and academic success. In her nine years as dean of students, she strove to ensure students had the best possible experience at Laurier, working directly with students and their families, as well as serving as a resource for faculty and staff members.

Holland Brown passed away in late April as a result of a traffic accident. She is survived by her husband, Ken, and two sons, Holden and Andrew. A celebration of life took place on May 2 at Creekside Church in Waterloo.

A memorial fund has raised more than $25,000. The funds will be used to create a new scholarship in Holland Brown’s name. The existing Student Emergency Bursary Fund will also be renamed in her honour.

“Leanne was a loving and compassionate individual who embodied the Laurier spirit and sense of community,” said MacLatchy. “She enriched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her and she is deeply missed.”