Beatrice Hunter’s Legacy – The Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute

Beatrice Hunter

Beatrice Hunter never sought recognition for her philanthropy. She gave not for glory, but to advance the collective understanding of cancer and to support the local researchers who could contribute to the search for a cure. Her bequest is an enduring gift that will continue to support research and save lives for generations to come.

Beatrice Hunter's Lasting Legacy: A Vision for Cancer Research

Beatrice Hunter, a lifelong supporter of the Dalhousie Medical Research Foundation, left an indelible mark on the future of cancer research in Atlantic Canada. A native of River John, Nova Scotia, Beatrice’s generosity and deep connection to her roots were apparent in everything she did. Though she spent much of her life in Ontario with her husband, John Hunter, Nova Scotia remained her true home.

Through her unwavering support of the Foundation's annual Molly Appeal, Beatrice made an impact that would resonate for generations. Her story is one of selflessness and vision — a legacy that continues to inspire.

Early Life and Philanthropy A Historic Bequest The Cameron Endowment Fund

Early Life and Philanthropy

Beatrice and John Hunter maintained a modest lifestyle, always living below their means and conserving their earnings. But while their lives were humble, their generosity knew no bounds. For years, Beatrice donated to the Dalhousie Medical Research Foundation, a cause close to her heart.

In 1997, while still living, Beatrice made an anonymous gift of nearly $2.2 million to the Foundation. This incredible donation helped establish several research labs at Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Medicine, with the Retina and Optic Nerve Research Laboratory serving as one of the most significant. This gift paved the way for groundbreaking vision research that continues to thrive today.

A Historic Bequest

Beatrice Hunter passed away in December 1999 at the age of 90, but her story didn’t end there. Early in 2000, Dalhousie Medical Research Foundation learned of an extraordinary legacy — a $12.5 million bequest. This was the largest single donation in the Foundation's history, and Beatrice’s instructions were clear: the funds were to establish an endowment to support cancer research in memory of her parents, Dr. Owen and Mrs. Pearle Cameron.

Dr. Owen Cameron was a respected physician in Cumberland County, known for his skill and compassion. Beatrice's decision to honor her parents with this monumental gift would go on to shape the future of cancer research in Atlantic Canada.

The Cameron Endowment Fund

Thanks to Beatrice’s remarkable foresight, the Cameron Endowment Fund was established to support cancer research at Dalhousie University. This endowment generates $500,000 each year, ensuring stable funding for cancer research in perpetuity.

In 2003, one of the program’s early milestones was the appointment of Dr. Patrick Lee as the first Dr. Owen and Pearle Cameron Chair in Basic Cancer Research. This position has been instrumental in advancing research in the fight against cancer, thanks to Beatrice’s gift.

The establishment of the Dalhousie Cancer Research Program, a collaboration between the Dalhousie Medical Research Foundation, Dalhousie Medical School, and Cancer Care Nova Scotia, was another key achievement. The program has provided critical direction and resources for cancer research efforts in the region.

Support the Legacy

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