Margaret Norrie McCain ( Norrie; born October 1, 1934) is a Canadian philanthropist who was the first woman to serve as the lieutenant governor of New Brunswick. She is known for her work in the promotion of early childhood education. As a member of the wealthy McCain family, she has donated millions of dollars to charitable causes.

Early life and education

McCain was born Margaret Norrie in Amos, Quebec. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Mount Allison University and a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Toronto.

Career

McCain is the founding patron of the Muriel McQueen Fergusson Foundation for the elimination of family violence. From 1994 to 1997 she was the Lieutenant Governor of New Brunswick. Following her term of office, McCain became co-chair with James Fraser Mustard of The Early Years Study into early childhood learning. The first report, Early years study : reversing the real brain drain, was commissioned by the Government of Ontario. Subsequent reports were published by other organizations. McCain continued to advocate for improvements in early childhood education. In 2008, McCain and her husband Wallace opened the McCain Student Center at Mount Allison University. McCain served as the Chancellor of the university.

Family

She was married to the late billionaire entrepreneur Wallace McCain, who co-founded McCain Foods. She has four children, nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Honours