The School of Mathematics and Statistics honoured the memory of Carleton instructor Luc Bourbonnais on September 30, 2022 by unveiling a memorial plaque in the outdoor area next to the Herzberg building. The ceremony was attended by his family, friends, and Carleton colleagues who all said a few words about Luc’s legacy. In spring of 2023, the contract instructor work space will bear a new name “The Luc Bourbonnais Instructor Office” in the School of Mathematics and Statistics.
After working as a Product Engineer at Nortel Networks for several years, Luc found a home at Carleton in 2007 where he most recently was teaching MATH 1401 and 1402 – Elementary Mathematics for Economics I & II. Luc would also teach elementary calculus and calculus for engineering and physics. Over the last several years, Luc worked with Professor Yuly Billig at the Math Enrichment Program teaching mathematics to elementary school kids.
Luc’s interests were wide and varied. He always loved music and enjoyed performing for those around him. Luc and his friends played covers of artists such as the Rolling Stones, Stevie Ray Vaughan, REM, and U2 and Luc would often be the lead vocalist. Luc also had a keen interest in chess and was a member of his local Chess Club in Gatineau. He even served as the club’s treasurer and managed the club’s inventory.
Above all else, Luc had a passion and dedication for teaching. Over the last 15 years, countless students have come and gone through his classes, and many have made note of the enthusiasm he had for mathematics. His vivacity and humour were infectious, and his absence leaves a gaping void within the School of Mathematics and Statistics.
Luc’s memorial plaque features two quotes. One from Albert Einstein, “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” A reference to Luc’s love for math and teaching. The second quote is from rock musician Frank Zappa, one of Luc’s favourite artists, “You should be diggin’ it while it’s happening!” A quote that Luc certainly lived his life with to the fullest.
Luc is survived by his wife Carole, daughters Jacinthe and Camille Bourbonnais, his siblings Roch, Guy, and Sylvie as well as many nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins, aunts, uncles, and long-time friends.
