University saddened by the passing of the Hon. Marion L. Reid
The University of Prince Edward is saddened to learn of the passing of the Honourable Marion L. Reid on June 22, 2023.
The Honourable Marion Reid had a long and distinguished career—as a teacher for 21 years and as a member of the PEI Legislative Assembly serving three consecutive terms. She obtained her teacher’s certificate from Prince of Wales College in 1946, and continued her education at both Saint Dunstan's University and UPEI while raising her family. During her time in the legislature, she served as Deputy Speaker and as Speaker—the first woman on Prince Edward Island to hold both positions. She also served as the 37th Lieutenant Governor of Prince Edward from 1990 to 1995—again, the first woman to hold this position in Prince Edward Island and also in Atlantic Canada.
In 1997, she was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Laws from UPEI for her outstanding career as an educator and faithful representative for the people of Prince Edward Island. And in 2011, she received a Distinguished Alumni Award for her contributions to the Island community and to public service.
She was a member of the PEI Famous Five, a group of women who in 1993 held five of the most influential legislative positions in the province. Along with Lieutenant Governor Reid, the group included then Premier Catherine Callbeck, the current Chancellor of UPEI; Leader of the Opposition Pat Mella; Speaker of the House Nancy Guptill; and Deputy Speaker Elizabeth "Libbe" Hubley. This was the first—and last—time in Canadian history that five women held these positions at the same time.
In October 2018, UPEI hosted a public forum attended by all five to mark the 25th anniversary of the PEI Famous Five and their significance in the political history of PEI and Canada. As well, the PEI Famous Five Graduating Student Award was established in their honour; the award is granted to a graduating student who held a leadership role while a student at UPEI and who plans to pursue a career in politics.
“On behalf of the University community, I extend condolences to the family and friends of the Honourable Marion Reid,” said Dr. Greg Keefe, UPEI President and Vice-Chancellor (interim). “She was a remarkable leader in education and public service whose dedication and achievements we would do well to emulate.”
The flags on campus were lowered to half-mast in memory of Mrs. Reid.
