“MJ is unaware of this initiative and will not find out until her retirement party – please assist us in keeping this exciting secret.”
Mary Jane James has been a trailblazer on the issue of sexual violence for nearly two decades. Starting as a volunteer at the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton (SACE) in 2007, Mary Jane quickly became indispensable, eventually becoming the agency’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
As CEO, Mary Jane has led the team with courage and tenacity, working tirelessly to expand the profile of the organization, enhance education on sexual violence, and increase support for survivors. A visionary at heart, Mary Jane has never been afraid to take a leap and try something new.
Mary Jane’s legacy includes many innovative projects, including the creation of the SACE Police and Court Support Program; bringing WiseGuyz under the SACE fold; partnering on Alberta’s One Line for Sexual Violence; and collaborating with the Edmonton Police Service on the Sexual Violence Advocacy Case (SVAC) reviews. In 2022, Mary Jane was a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth ll Platinum Jubilee Medal (Alberta) in recognition of her contributions, commitment, and dedication to bettering our community.
Mary Jane has chosen to retire from her role as CEO at the end of 2025 and focus on the next chapter of her life. She will be greatly missed by the entire team at SACE, as well as the many local, provincial, and national partners with whom she has forged relationships over the last 18 years.
It is thanks to Mary Jane’s steadfast leadership that SACE will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025 as a full-service agency serving thousands of clients and community members every year. In gratitude to Mary Jane, the SACE Board of Directors and staff are pleased to announce the Mary Jane James Legacy Fund for the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton. This fund will ensure Mary Jane’s work and legacy will live on for decades to come.
“Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”
-Ralph Waldo Emerson
Donate to This Fund
Fill out the form below to contribute a one-time donation or set up a recurring monthly donation to the 1310 Legacy Fund. We will notify the founder/family of your thoughtful gift unless you request anonymity.
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