Dr. Jacqueline “Jacqui” Fanchette Clotilde Clay Shumiatcher, arts patron and esteemed member of the University of Regina community, passed away on Monday, February 1st, 2021.
Jacqui Fanchette Clotilde Clay joined Dr. Morris C. Shumiatcher (1917-2004) as his secretary in 1947, while he was serving as counsel in the Tommy Douglas government. Partners in business and life, they built a private law firm together, marrying eight years later. The newlyweds bought – and later expanded – a large property at 2520 College Avenue. Their beloved home provided a space for many lively gatherings, family memories, and even hosted visiting royalty.
It was also home to their extensive art collection. Together, Jacqui and Morris created a collection which represented the best in Canadian art, and championed Inuit, First Nations and Saskatchewan artists. In 2014, it was announced that the University of Regina would receive the remarkable gift of this collection, comprising over 1,300 artworks.
This act was just one of the Shumiatchers’ many profound gestures of generosity. At the University, they will both be remembered through two graduate fellowships, the Shu-Box Theatre, and contributions to the College Avenue Revitalisation Project. Their philanthropy in the arts reached many in the city and province, through support for local arts organisations such as the Mackenzie Art Gallery, the Regina Symphony Orchestra, and others.
In 2001, Jacqui was awarded the Saskatchewan Order of Merit, and in 2002, the University awarded Jacqui an honorary degree in recognition of her outstanding community work. She was inducted into the Order of Canada in 2017.
Beyond her passion for art collecting, Dr. Shumiatcher will be remembered for her role as a caring and generous community leader. She will be deeply missed by the University community and all those who knew her.
Read more about Drs. Morris and Jacqui Shumiatcher’s art collection and legacy, here.