Employees at the Department of Education are deeply saddened by the untimely death of Dr. David Boswell, a longtime, former employee at the Department. Staff fondly recall Dr. Boswell as a compassionate and caring man, with a true sense of humour.
Dr. Boswell is remembered as being one of the pioneers of physical education in the province, as he was the founder of the School Physical Education Program and the School Athletic Association.
"On behalf of the Department of Education, I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to Dr. Boswell's wife Beverley and his four children," says Minister of Education, Chester Gillan. "He made a very significant contribution to the education system in PEI. The Island has lost a visionary and a great advocate for youth."
Dr. Boswell joined the Department of Education in 1960 as Director of Health and Physical Education. In 1967, he was appointed Provincial Director of Youth, Fitness and Recreation and in 1980 he was appointed Executive Director of Youth, Fitness and Recreation, where he served until his retirement from the Department in 1986.
Deputy Minister of Education, Elaine Noonan says David was a personal friend. "His commitment and leadership were respected by everyone," says Noonan. "His interests, in addition to youth and education, show the wide scope of his dedication to the betterment of our Province. We will miss him. Education has lost a great friend."
Dr. Boswell was also the founder of the Provincial Allied Youth program (AY) in 1961. During the early 1960's, he had the foresight and wisdom to address alcohol and drug awareness issues and to develop a peer education program which is still strong today. He was a former chairman of the International Board of Trustees of Allied Youth and he maintained an active interest in the AY program after his retirement from the Department.
A true reflection of his belief in young people was shown by providing them with decision making and leadership skills to develop the total person through social fitness. He was a "champion" for providing PEI AY with positive opportunities.
During his years with the Department of Education, Dr. Boswell wrote many articles, curriculum materials, reports on physical education and coaching manuals which were published both provincially and nationally. He also received numerous awards for his contributions to the physical education system including: his induction into the PEI Sports Hall of Fame, being named the first Honourary Life Member in the PEI Physical Education Association and an Honourary Member of Sport PEI.
Dr. David Boswell died suddenly Wednesday, June 17, 1998 at the age of 71.