The Acta Nostra of 1965 may have foreseen a bright future for Mary Ellen Jeans, but it came nowhere close to predicting the success and impact of this GCVI alumni.After being an enthusiastic member of basketball, ISCF and student council, Mary Ellen earned her nursing papers from Hamilton Civic Hospital. Her parents were surprised, as Mary Ellen hadn’t shown a particular interest in medicine or science. Mary Ellen herself admits, “I really did not have a career plan per se. It evolved as a result of opportunities, ambition/risk taking and the support and advice of fine individuals.” It would be an understatement to consider Dr. Jeans’ risk taking and determination a success. As a member of six professional associations, and over forty hospital, university, research, national, and international committees, it is clear that Dr. Jeans is dedicated not only to nursing and medicine, but also to her responsibilities as a leader. Among her many accomplishments, Dr. Jeans served as the Director of McGill University’s School of Nursing, where she founded the PhD in Nursing program. She also served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Nurses Association from 1996 to 2001. Dr. Jeans was also a co-chair of the Health Action Lobby, and has practised as a nurse, psychologist, researcher, educator, administrator, and, obviously, as a leader among students and colleagues. 
Currently, Dr. Jeans is the CEO of Mary Ellen Jeans and Associates, and is continuing to have a profound impact on nursing and health-related issues in Canada. To future GCVI grads, Dr. Jeans offers sound advice: “Try to be a leader in whatever career you choose, and chances are you will be a success.”
