When Marilyn Monk, MSc(A)’80, made the decision to leave a bequest in her will to McGill University, she provided very specific instructions: her gift will establish the Marilyn Monk Next Generation of Leaders Bursary, and go to female graduate students in STEM programs who face systemic barriers to education and demonstrate financial need.
“Women, racialized communities, and indigenous communities are woefully underrepresented in senior leadership positions,” says Monk. “I think it’s so important for individuals from underrepresented communities to have access to funds and support to further their careers.”
Monk’s decision was inspired by her 40-year career in healthcare leadership. “I saw what a phenomenal opportunity healthcare leaders have to make a difference – not only in the lives of individuals, but in families, communities and employees. If my bursary can help the next person, that’s a good thing.”
I think our global society would be better off if we had more diverse representation in senior leadership roles. That’s the intention behind my gift.”
Monk’s healthcare career began at McGill; she earned a BSc from Mount Allison University then enrolled in the Master of Science (Applied) Nursing. The program had only existed for a year when she arrived, and her class totalled nine people. “I liked that it was a novel program,” says Monk. “I’m a child of the 60s, so doing things that are innovative or non-traditional are part of who I am.”
She received a scholarship, which was “critically important to me. Having that financial support allowed me to live and study in Montreal.” In turn, she was introduced to strong female leaders. They included Dr. Moyra Allen, BN’48, McGill’s former Director of Nursing Research; Dr. Mary-Ellen Jeans, BN’67, MSc(A)’69, PhD’76, Monk’s thesis advisor and McGill’s former Director of the School of Nursing; and Evelyn Malowany, MSc(A)’63, former Director of Nursing at the Montreal Children’s Hospital.
“Evelyn was my mentor, and an inspirational leader during my time in Montreal. They were all incredible role models, and they ignited my passion to make a difference in health care.”
Monk would go on to hold multiple senior leadership positions during her 40-year career, including within the McGill University Health Centre. She recently retired as an Executive Vice-President at Toronto’s SickKids Hospital, and continues to lead by volunteering on Boards and mentoring university students and emerging leaders.
“I think that our global society would be better off if we had richer and more diverse representation in senior leadership roles and on boards,” says Monk. “We need to build the pipeline and provide support – coaching support, moral support, and financial support. That’s the intention behind my gift.”
“I’m grateful for my scholarship and for McGill’s contribution to my rewarding career. Now I want to support others in realizing their dream.”
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