Credentials 

The Clergy Support Memorial Church Board was in full agreement to certify the Rev Leslie Anne St Amour to the office of Appointed Designated Minister- Life Celebrations and Environmental Justice on February 2023. Her empathetic nature, extensive experience in supporting marginalized communities, and her dedication to providing guidance and support through significant life events make her an excellent addition to our clergy. We welcome her bilingual skills (French, English and working on Spanish) and drive she brings to her ministry work. 

Academic Credentials 

• Canadian Ministers Institute, November 2023 
• Juris Doctor, University of Toronto (2017 – 2020) 
• Bachelor of Arts, Major in Political Science and Minor in Indigenous Studies, McGill University (2012 – 2016) 

Pastoral Care 

Rev. Leslie demonstrates her commitment to caring for others through her extensive volunteer work and board memberships. She serves on the Board of Directors for Aboriginal Legal Services, which provides essential services to Indigenous people across Ontario, including legal aid, child welfare dispute resolution, and social support programs. Leslie also co-developed a leadership program for women and non-binary participants in Arctic research expeditions, emphasizing the inclusion of Indigenous traditional knowledge and opportunities for women in STEM fields. 

She volunteers as a mentor for individuals interested in law school or post-secondary education, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, including Indigenous and Black communities. 

Personal Growth 

Leslie is consistently focused on personal growth. She is perfectly fluent in English and French, and she is dedicated to improving her Spanish language skills from conversational to workplace proficiency through individual study and immersive travel experiences. This dedication to learning and self-improvement highlights her commitment to personal development and cultural understanding. 

Spiritual Dimension 

Leslie’s spirituality is deeply connected to nature and the world around her. Raised in a spiritual but not traditionally religious household, she spent many years working at a United Church-run charity summer camp, where she assisted in leading children’s worship programs. Leslie recognizes the value that religion and religious organizations bring to communities and finds her spiritual fulfillment in the majesty of nature. 

Hobbies 

Leslie is an avid scuba diver and camper, finding joy and happiness in exploring the outdoors. Her love for nature and being active is a significant part of her life, providing her with a sense of peace and fulfillment. 

 Awards 

• Dean’s Leadership Award (U of T, 2018) 
• John Willis Award for Student Leadership (2020) 
• Petawawa Base Commander’s Commendation Award 
• Ontario Volunteer Award for volunteer work with the OSPCA 

Memberships 

• Board of Directors, Aboriginal Legal Services (previous Board member)
• Board of Directors, Algonquin Wildlife Research Station 
• Women’s Leadership Program Co-Lead, Sea Women Expeditions 
• Advisory Council Member, Platform (previously Young Women’s Leadership Network)