A Legacy of Faith and Service: Linda Ward Honoured with 2026 OCSTA Trustee Award of Merit

Linda Ward, a deeply faith-filled Catholic and lifelong champion of Catholic education, has been named the recipient of the 2026 Trustee Award of Merit by the Ontario Catholic School Trustees’ Association (OCSTA).

Linda is being recognized for her extraordinary 34 years of dedicated service to Catholic education and her unwavering belief in the power of faith-based learning. Throughout her legacy of service, she has consistently placed students at the heart of her work—advocating for academic excellence while nurturing the spiritual growth that helps young people live lives rooted in compassion, purpose, and hope.

Linda began her journey as a Trustee with the Lambton County Roman Catholic Separate School Board in 1991. Over the years, she has served with generosity and distinction, including as OCSTA Director for Region 5 from 2007 to 2024. In that role, she offered thoughtful leadership on provincial committees, supported senior administrative hiring processes, and contributed to system-wide initiatives. Her service also includes work with the Minister’s Advisory Committee for Special Education, the Catholic Education Foundation of Ontario, and the provincial bargaining team.

Beyond Catholic education, Linda has been a tireless servant leader within the wider community. She dedicated ten years to the United Way of Sarnia-Lambton, including three as President, and was honoured with multiple Volunteer of the Year awards. She has also served with the Sarnia Chamber of Commerce and the Bluewater Health Hospital Foundation.

Known for her kindness and compassion, Linda continues to support initiatives that uplift students and families, including social justice efforts like the annual Irish Miracle at St. Patrick’s Catholic High School. A parishioner at Sacred Heart Parish in Sarnia for more than 35 years, she is also a devoted member of the Catholic Women’s League.

St. Clair Catholic Board Chair John Van Heck shared his gratitude, saying, “Linda’s faith-filled leadership and selfless service have left an enduring impact on Catholic education and our community. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and sincere thanks for her remarkable legacy.”

In accepting the award, Linda expressed her gratitude. “I am deeply thankful to OCSTA for this honour,” she said. “It has been a true privilege to serve alongside what I fondly call The Dream Team, my fellow Trustees who have been so supportive of my efforts, and to work with dedicated educators who share a deep commitment to our students. I strongly believe in the importance of ensuring that the voice of Catholic education continues to be heard across our province, so that future generations of students are supported, inspired, and grounded in faith as they prepare to make a positive difference in the world.”

The OCSTA Trustee Award of Merit reflects a lifetime of service rooted in faith and leadership.