The ministry and movement of the SCM is supported by countless senior friends, whose legacy is felt by today’s students, even if their names are not known. One of these is recently departed saint Nancy Whitla, a senior friend and lifelong supporter of SCM and WSCF. Involved with the SCM as a young woman, Nancy supported the movement throughout her lifetime, variously serving on the SCM National Board, the GTA SCM advisory board, and the WSCF Board. She was a mentor and supporter of countless young leaders, as well as a formidable fundraiser for the Movement. Nancy’s work established and raised significant amounts for the SCM Endowment Fund, which is instrumental in supporting the SCM financially to this day. In the words of Senior Friend and former General Secretary Sheilagh McGlynn, “I don’t know if the SCM would still be around today without Nancy and the Endowment Fund.” As National Coordinator, when speaking with chaplains and others about re-establishing local units and hiring student coordinators to lead them, I’m often asked with some incredulity “where do you get the money for that?” And so I tell them with gratitude of the tremendous support of Senior Friends, and the Endowment Fund. Thank you, Nancy for making it possible for us to continue helping and empowering students to create inclusive, active faith based community all across this country.
Here are some specific reflections on Nancy and her legacy, from SCMers who knew her well. If you have a story to share, please tell it in the comments!
“I first met Nancy when we were both on the national Board of the SCM: I was one of the central region representatives, and she was the Senior Friend. It was wonderful to have her lengthy history that gave us insight and wisdom into choices we were making in the early 90s, as well as knowledge about what had happened in the past, and the powerful role that the SCM had played in Christian student development and activism. She was kind, gracious, and had a clear focussed vision about possibilities, without in any way discouraging us from directions that we were moving in.” – Sarah Shepherd
“I had a lot to learn when I began working for SCM in 1995. Nancy took me under her wing and became a gentle teacher and mentor. She was especially wise with finances and budgeting. I was terrible with those things, and she taught me how to budget for myself and for SCM.
I had a kidney stone attack one night when staying at her house. She and Bill drove me to the hospital at 3 am, and she kept me distracted from the pain with her charm and wit.” – Rick Garland
“I have some beautiful memories of Nancy from my time in the WSCF. I remember her as a very kind and gentle woman. She was deeply committed to the SCM and WSCF and I’ve learned a lot from her. I’m sure she will be greatly missed.” – Clarissa (Gigi) Balan
“Nancy was such a staunch and strategic SCMer, hospitable and gracious.” – Michael Wallace
“I got to know Nancy in my years as Ecumenical Chaplain, in 2004-18. I remember her so well as one of the trio of inspiring women who were the life-blood of SCM U of T advisory board for many years, the other two being Audrey Tobias and Jean Lee.
I will always remember Nancy’s understated – but not to be underestimated – resolve and dedication, particularly with regard to the SCM and WSCF. She would ask probing questions, always in a spirit of kindness and discernment. Her clarity of insight for SCM was unstinting, generous toward the student leaders, with an unwavering eye on the high goal and purpose of the SCM. May her legacy continue to inspire those of us who follow in her footsteps.” – Ralph Carl Wushke
Is there an SCM Saint who you’d like us to lift up, as a memorial or to celebrate a significant birthday? Please let us know via info@scmcanada.org