In Memory of Clare Gaudet

NYO Canada is deeply saddened to share the passing of Clare Gaudet, a steadfast supporter of the arts, a fierce advocate, Chair of our board of directors and most importantly, one of the truest friends this organization has ever had.

Clare joined the NYO Canada board of directors in February 2017 and went on to serve nearly a decade in support of our mission. In March 2024, she was elected Chair of the Board of Directors, a role she carried out with the same judgment, warmth, and generosity that defined her distinguished career as a lawyer and financial industry executive. She brought that same rigour and care to every conversation about NYO Canada’s future.

Clare’s board service was never a formality for her. She showed up prepared, asked the questions that moved a decision forward, and pushed the organization to think seriously about its future rather than settle for comfortable answers. Nearly nine years in, she was still doing that work, still showing up, still invested in what NYO Canada could become.

On behalf of NYO Canada’s musicians, alumni, staff, and board of directors, we extend our deepest gratitude for everything she gave to this organization, and by extension to arts and culture across Canada. We were fortunate to have her support for as long as we did, and we will miss her enormously.

A celebration of Clare’s life will be held on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Morley Bedford Funeral Services, 159 Eglinton Avenue West, Toronto. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations in her memory be directed to The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. https://www.legacy.com/ca/obituaries/theglobeandmail/name/clare-gaudet-obituary?id=62065846