Mary Electa Adams initiated major reforms to women’s education in Canada during the second half of the 19th century. As principal or head teacher, she significantly raised the standards at a number of ladies’ colleges in Ontario and New Brunswick, including the one here at Mount Allison Academy. She developed a rigorous academic curriculum, demonstrating that women were capable of receiving the same instruction as men, and pioneered the study of modern languages and literature. An outstanding mentor and leader, Adams paved the way for women to be accepted into Canadian universities.