By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
“Attending John McGregor allowed me to grow in all areas and become the person I am today. I would not be where I am without the support of the amazing teachers and staff. John McGregor allowed me to get out of my comfort zone and try new things,” Beuckelare said.
Cadance Beuckelare’s journey from John McGregor Secondary School (JMSS) in Chatham to Lawrence Technological University in Southfield, Michigan, has been remarkable. As a standout student-athlete, her path exemplifies perseverance, dedication, and the crucial support she received at JMSS.
At John McGregor, Beuckelare excelled both academically and athletically, a feat that inspired many. She embraced every aspect of school life, balancing her academic achievements with her success in sports. Additionally, she played an active role in student leadership, participating in the School Council and Student Athletic Association. Her efforts earned her recognition as the Senior Athlete of the Year, a Jack Perry nominee, and the honour of Valedictorian for her graduating class.
Since graduating, Beuckelare has taken her talents and drive to Lawrence Technological University in Michigan, where she is rostered to the women’s golf team while pursuing a degree in civil engineering. Her impact has continued to shine in academics and athletics, as she has earned a spot on the Dean’s List and been recognized as an All-American—an honour reserved for students who excel in their studies and sports.
When asked about the factors that played a role in her success, Beuckelare was quick to mention the school environment and opportunities presented to her during high school.
“If it weren’t for the support of the teachers and staff at JMSS, I would not have been able to participate in so many extracurricular activities while still maintaining good grades. Attending JMSS was undoubtedly a key factor in allowing me to continue my academic, athletic, and professional journey in University,” Beuckelare says.
The small school enriched her high school experience at JMSS, which provided her with numerous opportunities to excel academically and participate in extracurricular activities often limited to larger institutions. Through the school’s dynamic offerings, Beuckelare explored her passion for sports, joining multiple teams, including cross country, tennis, golf, volleyball, curling, softball, and badminton. She also took on leadership roles with the Student Council and Student Athletics Association, further cementing her well-roundedness as a student and athlete.
One of the standout achievements of her athletic career at JMSS was representing the school at the South Western Ontario Secondary Schools Association (SWOSSA) tournaments in tennis, badminton, and golf. Beuckelare’s dedication and skill earned her a place at OFSAA (Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations) in golf in 2023, and she also competed in badminton at OFSAA on two separate occasions. In 2023, she earned a Silver Medal in the “C” flight at OFSAA, a remarkable accomplishment that underscored her hard work.
As Beuckelare continues to blaze a trail in her studies and sports career at the collegiate level, she remains deeply appreciative of her roots at JMSS.
“I’m so grateful for the opportunities and guidance I had at JMSS,” Beuckelare said.
“The teachers and staff there really helped shape my journey, and I will carry those lessons with me as I continue to grow and pursue my dreams.”
Cadance Beuckelare is one of Lambton Kent District School Board’s shining examples of the vital role that school culture, environment, and staff support play in providing opportunities that help students achieve academic and athletic success.
