Lydia Jane (Gregory) Armstrong

Lydia Jane (Gregory) Armstrong became the first woman to receive an honorary degree at UNB in 1905, when she was conferred an honorary Master of Arts degree in recognition of her services to education. Affectionately known as "Lady Jane" by her students, she was the first female teacher, and head of the English Language and Literature Department, at the Fredericton Collegiate School where she taught alongside George Parkin. Armstrong "was one of the first ladies to engage in the work of teaching in high schools in New Brunswick after the introduction of the free schools' system."

She later became the Collegiate School's first women Vice-Principal. Upon moving to Rothesay after her marriage in 1890, Armstrong used her influence to enlarge a small school there and became its Principal in 1895, laying the foundation for the school that became the Netherwood School for Girls. Armstrong retired from this position ten years later, but was greatly credited with the school's growth in efficiency and popularity during this time.

Note(s): Names in parentheses indicate maiden names.

Source(s):

• Telegraph Journal, 7 November 1928, p. 5.
• [UNB Honorary Degrees Database]

© UNB Archives & Special Collections, 2014