BONNYVILLE – Lakeland Catholic School Division’s Board of Trustees has approved the formal naming of its Bonnyville Central Office as the St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Catholic Education Centre (pronounced: Saint Mar-guh-REET Boor-GWAH) during the August 19, 2026 Board meeting.

Lakeland Catholic School Division will remain the official name of the Division; the new name applies specifically to the Division’s Central Office building in Bonnyville.

The decision reflects the Board of Trustees’ Strategic Plan, specifically Faith that Forms Leaders, which aligns with Priority 1 of the Division’s 2026–2030 Education Assurance Plan: Catholic Christian Identity.

Naming the St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Catholic Education Centre brings this commitment to life, providing a visible expression of the Catholic identity that guides leadership, decision-making and educational excellence across Lakeland Catholic.

St. Marguerite Bourgeoys.
Portrait attributed to Pierre Le Ber.
Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.

“The Board viewed this naming opportunity to formally recognize the Catholic identity that has always been at the heart of our division,” said Board Chair Anna Brockhoff. “St. Marguerite Bourgeoys leaves a legacy of faith-filled leadership and educational excellence that continues to inspire Catholic education today.”

“Every day, staff working within this building support schools across our division in ways that help students learn, grow and thrive,” stated Superintendent Sheldon Germain. “Naming the centre after St. Marguerite Bourgeoys reminds us that even our administrative work is ultimately rooted in service to Catholic education and the students entrusted to our care.”

Born in France in 1620, St. Marguerite Bourgeoys was a Canadian saint and pioneer of Catholic education in New France. As foundress of the Congrégation de Notre-Dame, she dedicated her life to education and service, particularly to children, families, Indigenous Peoples and those on the margins of society. Her ministry was rooted in meeting people where they were and responding to the needs of the communities she served.

Her legacy continues to resonate with the mission of Lakeland Catholic School Division. Known for her humility, courage, and commitment to education, St. Marguerite believed that every child deserved dignity, opportunity, and faith-filled formation.

“St. Marguerite Bourgeoys understood that Catholic education is far more than the transmission of knowledge; it is the formation of the whole person in faith, wisdom and service,” said Most Reverend Gary Franken, Bishop of the Diocese of St. Paul. “Her witness continues to inspire Catholic educators today, and it is fitting that a centre dedicated to supporting Catholic schools and communities would bear her name.”

St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Catholic Education Centre also reflects the Division’s commitment to both English and French Catholic education and honours the saint’s French heritage and contributions to Catholic education in Canada.

Administrative updates and branding development will take place and a formal blessing and sign unveiling ceremony is planned for late Fall 2026.

The new name reflects Lakeland Catholic School Division’s commitment to its vision, Christ Our Model. Children Our Focus, and the shared mission as a Catholic community of learners opening hearts, minds and doors.