A Story of Resilience and a Passion for Giving: The Legacy of Dr. Beverley A. Lee
A Story of Resilience and a Passion for Giving: The Legacy of Dr. Beverley A. Lee
Dr. Beverley A. Lee’s life and work stand as a powerful testament to resilience, opportunity, and the transformative power of education. From overcoming limited educational opportunities to becoming a respected academic and advocate, Dr. Lee’s journey reflects a steadfast belief in the potential of every child and a deep understanding of what it means to turn barriers into bridges.
As the first in her family to attend university, Dr. Lee graduated from the College of Family and Consumer Studies, now known as the College of Social and Applied Human Sciences (CSAHS), at the University of Guelph in 1972. Growing up in modest circumstances, she faced financial constraints, an undiagnosed learning disability, and even discouragement from an educator who told her she was “not university material.”
But through determination and an unwavering commitment to learning, Dr. Lee not only succeeded academically but went on to become a school principal and was recognized by the Learning Disabilities Association of York Simcoe for her work with students, helping them overcome learning challenges.
Throughout her career, Dr. Lee was guided by the principle that students come first, reflecting her lifelong dedication to the well-being and growth of children and youth. Her professional experience, coupled with a profound empathy for those facing systemic barriers, shaped her advocacy for children who, like her younger self, needed someone to believe in their potential.
The Dr. Beverley A. Lee Bursary
Inspired by the vision of empowering young people to reach their full potential, Dr. Lee established the Dr. Beverley A. Lee Bursary to support undergraduate students pursuing programs in the College of Social and Applied Human Sciences. Each year, the bursary provides $7,500 in total, awarding three undergraduate students $2,500 each based on financial need.
Dr. Lee’s commitment, however, reaches far beyond providing immediate support. She has included a gift in her Will to endow the award in perpetuity, ensuring that its impact continues to uplift future generations. This thoughtful act of estate planning reflects her belief that lasting change comes from sustained commitment, and when young people are supported and empowered, they have the power to transform not only their own lives but their communities as well.
Beverley outside Watson Hall, where she fondly
recalls her time as a Resident Assistant
“The Dr. Beverley A. Lee Bursary represents everything I’ve believed in throughout my career,” she reflects. “It’s about giving young people the chance to succeed, especially those who’ve been told they can’t. I hope that this bursary reminds students of their immense potential and inspires them to keep moving forward.”
Through her philanthropic efforts and passion for giving, Dr. Lee is removing financial barriers and opening doors for those striving to build a better future through education. She offers care, compassion, and opportunity so that more students, particularly those affected by financial hardship, can realize the full power of education in their lives. Her legacy will continue to inspire hope, foster belonging, and create brighter, more hopeful futures for generations to come.
For Beverley, giving is not about grand gestures but about recognizing the potential in others and investing in their futures. In addition to this bursary, she created bursaries with the Learning Disabilities Association of York Simcoe and the Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada to help young people access opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.
By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others to see that generosity and a fulfilling life are not competing choices—you can give back in ways both big and small, and still live a fulfilling and joyful life.
Legacy and Estate Giving
A gift in your will, life insurance, or retirement assets can be a deeply meaningful way to give back and carry your values forward. Like Dr. Lee, you can help open doors, create opportunities, and support future generations of students at CSAHS. Every legacy gift—regardless of size—reflects your commitment to creating a healthier, more just, and more compassionate world.
Are you inspired to give? To learn more or explore ways you can make a difference, visit Giving to the College. Together, we can shape a future grounded in opportunity, inclusivity, and shared success—one that inspires a ripple effect of generosity for generations to come.