(Published with permission from The Community Foundation)
CFUW-Saint John: From Grassroots Fundraising to a Lasting Legacy of Educational Opportunity in Our Community
Long before community philanthropy became a recognized movement in Saint John, a determined group of women were already building one.
The Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW)-Saint John was established in 1924, at a time when opportunities for women in higher education and leadership were still limited. What began as a local organization of educated women quickly became a force for change, advocating for education, literacy, equality, and community leadership across Saint John.
They knew that when women are given access to education, entire communities grow stronger.
In February 1942, CFUW-Saint John approved its first scholarship fund, a local entrance scholarship for a female post-graduate student entering Grade 12. The scholarship was funded through proceeds from a rummage sale, a grassroots effort that reflected the determination and generosity of the women behind it.
That first award went to Marion Magin of Saint John High School.
Over the decades that followed, CFUW-Saint John continued to expand its impact. Members organized annual book fairs, fundraising events, advocacy initiatives, and educational programs, all building scholarship support for local women pursuing university and post-secondary education.
But their work extended far beyond scholarships.
Meeting records from the organization reveal women advocating for representation on governing boards, supporting literacy initiatives, promoting social reform, and responding to issues affecting women and families in Saint John long before many of these conversations were happening.
In 2007, CFUW-Saint John entrusted its scholarship funds to the Greater Saint John Community Foundation, ensuring the awards would continue to grow and support future generations of students. Today, the scholarships are still awarded annually through the Community Foundation, continuing a legacy of educational opportunity that began more than 80 years ago.
