An award to recognize outstanding contributions of individuals living with a disability

The purpose of this fund is to provide an award recognizing high achievement by a Nova Scotian with a disability.  It honors the accomplishments of Mr. James McGregor Stewart who overcame many barriers, despite a reliance on crutches throughout his life as a result of childhood polio. First in his class at Dalhousie Law School in 1914, he was also President of the Students' Council. He was shortlisted for the Rhodes Scholarship but was not successful, in part due to concerns expressed about his physical disability by the Dalhousie University Senate. Nevertheless, Stewart went on to head a Halifax law firm that became the present day Stewart McKelvey. He was Chairman of Dalhousie's Board of Governors.  In 2000, Canadian Lawyer magazine named him as one of Canada’s ten greatest lawyers. This Fund was established by a friend of the James McGregor Stewart Society and donations by The Maple Tree Fund to recognize Nova Scotians living with a disability for their leadership, personal accomplishment or effective advocacy.

Eligibility

Nominations are accepted for residents of Nova Scotia with disabilities.

Selection Criteria 

Nominees will be evaluated for determination and achievement in conquering personal or externally imposed boundaries, with emphasis on leadership, personal excellence and advocacy.

Award Frequency and Value

The one-thousand dollar Award will be presented annually on June 30th, the anniversary of the birth date of James McGregor Stewart.