Maria Lisitsyna 16th October 2007

Thinking of Jim, the first image that appears: Jim is either seating in his office or is walking into the Sauvé House kitchen, and tells me about something “unbelievable” or “fabulous” that happened yesterday. Jim had this fantastic capacity to appreciate life, to be happy and thrilled about simple things. Dinner, week-end, a talk at the university, scholars’ trip somewhere, cappuccino from our very popular espresso machine were transforming into exciting fabulous events. And that’s how these memories will stay with me - the way Jim described them. Jim made the Sauvé Scholars experience so special. We can always see how committed and proud of the program, as well as of all of us he was. He passed away so tragically, so suddenly. We have his last happy email about a great canoe trip and different good news. He just started to plan the trips all over scholars’ countries, plan to reform the program, to do so much more in his life. I will always remember him being funny, smiling, happy, and looking forward. Montreal is now part of my life, and memories of Jim will always be part of it. I sincerely hope that Nancy and the family will realize Jim’s (and theirs!) dreams, and visit us in different countries across the world. And the memories will be with all of us. I really miss him. From Masha Maria Lisitsyna (2006-07)