This September, the University lost two important faculty members. On September 6, Leta Fernandes, a deeply committed professor in the Department of Civil Engineering, suddenly passed away. Within days, on September 10, Gérald-A. Beaudoin of the Faculty of Law (Civil Law Section) passed away at the age of 79.
Dr. Fernandes joined the University as a professor in 1989. During her 20-year career, she contributed greatly to both teaching and research, as well as to the spirit and administration of her department and to the faculty.
“Her professionalism, experience, expertise, and passion changed the lives of many undergraduate and graduate students and colleagues,” said Dean of Engineering Claude Lagüe.
One of the country’s foremost experts in constitutional law in Canada, Senator Beaudoin began his career at the University in 1962 as a professor in the Civil Law Section. He went on to serve as dean from 1969 until 1979, and continued to hold an office at the University until this year.
Senator Beaudoin began practicing law in 1956 with the Department of Justice. In 1965, he became assistant parliamentary counsel in the House of Commons and in 1988, Brian Mulroney named him to the Senate of Canada, where he remained until the age of 75. In 1980, Mr. Beaudoin was awarded the Order of Canada for his outstanding contributions to our country.
