Brittney Rayson-Stevenson, an alumna of St. Mary’s University and a current student, passed away unexpectedly after a short illness.

After graduating in 2016 with her BA with a Concentration in General Studies (with a focus on English and ), Brittney enrolled in the Education program to fulfill her lifelong dream of being a teacher. Brittney was passionate about special needs education and believed that “every student deserves the same education. You just have to find out what that looks like.” Brittney was in the final weeks of her education practicum and planned after graduation in May to work with special needs students in a mainstream school in rural Alberta.

Brittney’s roots are in rural Alberta, and she spent many summers working in the Village of Egerton running youth programs and trying to entice youth away from television and into activities. To staff, faculty, and students alike, Brittney was cherished for her ready smile and humour, her deep friendships, and her determined commitment to her learning. In her classes, Brittney always sat in the front row so as not to miss anything and brought a keen sense of life experience to enrich the theoretical learning. Brittney cheered on her peers and encouraged them without drawing attention to herself while livening classes with spirit and joy.

Brittney is too soon gone from our midst. The St. Mary’s community sends their deepest condolences and prayers to Brittney’s family and friends.

A Celebration of Life for Brittney will be held Thursday, April 19 at 1pm at E.H. Walter School in Paradise Valley, Alberta. See the link below for the obituary:
http://mccawfuneralservice.com/tribute/details/2840/Brittney-Rayson-Stevenson/obituary.html#tribute-start