Remembering Bernard Lecerf |
09/13/2022
A message from Principal Sam McKinney on the passing of a treasured Prep educator.
It is with sadness that I share news of the passing of Bernard Lecerf.
Beginning in 1968 and continuing for the next 46 years, Bernard served the College with distinction and dedication. He is remembered as a wonderful role model to the thousands of students fortunate to have known him. Amongst his former colleagues, he was a steadfast supporter and mentor to many. He was valued by all for his gentle and calm manner, his sense of humour, his passion for teaching and learning, and his commitment to making UCC the best experience possible.
Bernard’s wide range of roles at the school included form master, boarding housemaster, guidance coordinator, director of student affairs, Admission counsellor, assistant head of programs, and director of studies. He led the French department with expertise and vision for 20 years, authoring textbooks, teachers’ guides and other materials to the benefit of the greater scholastic community. He retired from the role of Middle Division head, where his deep interest in pedagogy helped drive curriculum improvements. He was also a member of many committees, including two headmaster’s selection committees. As an esteemed athletics coach, he led soccer, volleyball and track and field teams to outstanding results.
Throughout his years of service, he always put the best interests of our students first, and for this we are grateful. Bernard’s legacy at the College will endure, in part through the annual academic prize in his name awarded for exceptional performance in Year 7 Enriched French.
At our Middle Years Assembly last Friday, the sound of a soccer whistle marked the beginning of a moment of silence in his honour. He will be missed.
Those wishing to make a gift to The Bernard Lecerf Memorial Fund may do so here.
