A vision for women’s leadership and learning
Susan Moulton McMaster believed deeply that education should prepare women “to do good.”
Born into a prominent New England Baptist family, Susan’s faith took root early. As a young student, she was influenced by educator Mary Lyon, whose vision for Christian higher education for women left a lasting impression. It was a vision Susan would carry with her throughout her life.
After settling in Toronto with her husband, Senator John McMaster, Susan became known for her gracious hospitality and strong sense of purpose. Their home on Bloor Street was not only a place of influence, but a gathering space for ideas, faith, and service.
n 1878, Susan was among a group of women who gathered to hear missionary A. V. Timpany’s urgent call to respond to the needs of women in India. Within hours, those women organized the Women’s Baptist Foreign Missionary Society of Ontario West, and Susan was chosen as its first president.
With wisdom and quiet strength, she helped guide the new society through its earliest days—encouraging women to step forward in faith, even amid resistance to their leadership.
After her husband’s death, Susan found herself with an unexpected opportunity. Unable to sell her Bloor Street mansion, she chose instead to offer it for a greater purpose. Remembering Mary Lyon’s vision, she gave the home to be used as a college for women.
In 1888, Moulton Ladies’ College opened its doors—shaping generations of young women in faith, character, and leadership. Susan herself visited often, offering encouragement and wise counsel. Students remembered that “her presence was like sunshine, and her words a benediction.”
Through both mission and education, Susan McMaster helped cultivate a legacy that continues to bear fruit.