In Memoriam: Dr. Yvonne Hébert, Werklund School of Education

It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of our friend and colleague, Dr. Yvonne Hébert.

Dedicated to advancing scholarship and practice in the disciplines of citizenship and immigration, democracy, educational reform, second language and multicultural education, Yvonne built a singular body of work. 

In 1982, Yvonne earned a PhD in linguistics from the University of British Columbia. She began her post-secondary career at the University of Regina before joining the University of Calgary in 1985. Throughout her 28-year career at UCalgary, Yvonne experienced the many changes and challenges that come with a life in academia. During these times, her counsel was often sought and always valued.

“Yvonne Hébert was an incredible advocate for advancing pluralist dispositions in the Canadian multicultural society. She was a leader in citizenship education, peace education and multilingualism across Canada. Her scholarly work informed the debates in how schools could create more inclusive environments,” says Werklund School of Education Dean Dianne Gereluk.

As a mentor and supervisor, Yvonne would often welcome her graduate students at the airport, ensure that they were settled, and regularly invite them into her home for meals.

“Her daily acts reflected her scholarly commitments. Yvonne ensured that students and their families were cared for,” says Gereluk.

This concern and compassion for others extended to the community. She was actively involved with immigrant and newcomer societies and was known to buy groceries and provide babysitting to families in need of support.

Yvonne’s commitment to professional service is well known. The UCalgary Consortium for Peace Studies; Prairie Metropolis Centre; l'Observatoire Jeunes et Société, Institut national de recherche sur la société, Université du Québec; and the Centre for Culture, Identity and Education at the University of British Columbia are among the many organizations that profited from her expertise. In addition, she was the founding co-ordinator of the Citizenship Education Research Network and held the office of national president with the Canadian Society for the Study of Education. She was a lifetime member of the Canadian Education Association.

In 2010, Yvonne earned the prestigious Roger Motut Prize, which recognizes literary and historical works in Francophone Alberta. Her scholarly leadership and research contributions to Francophone education and community in minority contexts was recognized in 2012 with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.

Though Yvonne retired from the Werklund School in 2013, the field of Education continues to benefit from her considerable contributions.

Yvonne will be missed.

The UCalgary campus flag will be lowered to half-mast in honour of Yvonne on Friday, Dec. 10, 2021. 

A celebration of Yvonne’s life will be held at the Ste-Famille Catholic Church. Full details can be found on the Choice Memorial website.