In the not-too-distant past, the phrase “Renaissance Man” was used to describe an individual who excelled in many different areas.
With the (hopefully) wider lens through which society now views individuals and their accomplishments, it is more than accurate to describe the late Lynn McGeachy-Schultz as one of Chatham-Kent’s foremost “Renaissance Women.”
Since her passing in February, tributes continue to pour in for McGeachy-Schultz so it was no real surprise when she was named the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce’s citizen of the year.
It’s the first time the chamber has so honoured someone on a posthumous basis and it is somehow fitting that even in death, McGeachy-Schultz continues to be one-of-a-kind.
Chatham-Kent is fortunate to have, in every community, individuals who have been standouts in their respective areas of expertise, from agriculture to education to culture.
McGeachy-Schultz excelled in all these areas and more.
As a University of Guelph kinesiology graduate, she worked at the Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent. She was instrumental in helping special needs children in a therapeutic pool and other adapted recreation program for kids. Sledge hockey, Challenger baseball, bocce ball and sailing programs benefitted from her help.
The St. Clair College HealthPlex and the student residence exist in large measure due to her efforts, as is the Mary Uniac Nursing Centre.
McGeachy-Shultz was always up to a challenge. It took years of hard work, negotiation, perseverance and diplomacy to see the opening of the Chatham Capitol Theatre and the new animals shelter come to fruition.
Instead of another parking lot, downtown Chatham has a fine performing arts venue. Instead of a ramshackle building that was an embarrassment to the community, we have a first-rate facility for the humane treatment of animals.
McGeachy-Shultz’ legacy will live on.
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