For two decades, Darlene MacDonald has quietly shaped a more empathic world—one classroom at a time.
As Roots of Empathy celebrates its 30th anniversary, we honour Darlene’s extraordinary contributions: 20 years as an Instructor, reaching more than 1,000 children across New Brunswick; over six years as Provincial Manager; and a dedicated Mentor who supported and connected an entire network of Instructors. Her impact is both measurable and deeply human—felt in classrooms, communities, and in the lasting relationships she built.
But to understand Darlene’s legacy, you have to begin where she did: with a lifelong commitment to children and families.
A Foundation in Care
Darlene spent 40 years in nursing—half in obstetrics, the other half in public health. Throughout her career, she was driven by one question: how do we reach families early enough to make a difference?
When she discovered Roots of Empathy in 2002, the answer became clear. She said, “I saw these messages as very important and thought if we could teach them to the next generation, then that is primary prevention at its best.” She had spent years trying to deliver critical lessons to new parents—about infant safety, emotional development, and healthy environments—but found that shortened hospital stays made that increasingly difficult.
Roots of Empathy offered something different.
The Power of the Classroom
From her very first classroom, Darlene saw something remarkable unfold. She says, “I remember how the baby became very quickly the class’s baby.”
That shared connection—between students, Instructor, parent, and baby—became the foundation for something deeper. Over time, she witnessed even the most hesitant students begin to open up. She added, “I have witnessed the most cautious students get involved, feel safe and share their most private thoughts and observations.”
Across urban, rural, and First Nations communities, and across every grade level, the pattern was consistent. Something shifted.
And with that safety came growth—not just in empathy, but in emotional literacy. She observed, “I am always surprised by the lack of vocabulary that students have for their feelings… They develop this vocabulary throughout the year.”
Moments That Matter
Over 20 years, there were countless moments—but one story captures the essence of Darlene’s work.
A middle school student, often disciplined for his behaviour, showed up reliably on Roots of Empathy days. In that classroom, there were no behaviour issues—only connection. When it came time to choose someone to present the class scrapbook to the baby’s family, a quiet student nominated him. Her reason? “Because he always wears his bright yellow shirt and the baby loves his bright shirt.”
That simple recognition changed everything. She reflected, “That boy was beaming… For at least two days he felt valued, included and special.” For Darlene, this is what empathy looks like in action—small, powerful moments that can shift how a child sees themselves and others.
Building a Province of Connection
Darlene’s impact extended far beyond her own classrooms.
As Provincial Manager in New Brunswick (and supporting Prince Edward Island), she helped grow Roots of Empathy across diverse communities—building relationships with school districts, governments, and local partners.
Her approach was effective and powerful: “I learned that relationships are vitally important. Relationship building is the basis of everything we do”, she explained.
She worked closely with Anglophone and Francophone districts, and brought the program into First Nations communities, where she saw how deeply it resonated.
Even with limited funding, Darlene found ways to keep the program growing—often, as she recalls with a smile, raising funds “$100 at a time.”
She often said, “If everyone gave a little together, we have a lot.”
It’s no surprise that across the province, she built personal relationships with every Instructor and strong connections with school leadership. To this day, people still say they miss her.
Mentoring the Next Generation
As a Mentor, Darlene found joy in supporting new Instructors as they began their own journeys. She said, “I enjoyed seeing their excitement… and helping them understand the why behind the practices.”
She also learned an important lesson herself: “Each individual Instructor brings their own experience and way of doing things”, she reflected.
Her role was not to judge, but to guide—ensuring program integrity while nurturing confidence and connection.
A Lasting Impact
After 20 years, what keeps Darlene coming back—even now as a volunteer? “I want to make a difference in the lives of those who experience this amazing program.”
She speaks often about the unique role babies play in the classroom—their ability to connect with the children who need it most.
“It never ceases to amaze me that the babies can figure out which students need them the most.”
For Darlene, Roots of Empathy has been more than a program—it has shaped who she is. “I think that I am a better person because of being involved… I know that I have made a small difference in the lives of these children and that makes me very happy.”
Darlene MacDonald, Program Manager for NB & PEI speaking at Hope Restored/ L’espoir renaît: New Brunswick Trauma Conference 2023
We know Darlene has made a huge difference.
Looking Ahead
When asked what the world might look like if every child experienced Roots of Empathy, Darlene doesn’t hesitate:
It’s a vision she has carried throughout her career—and one she hopes will continue to grow.
“I can die a happy woman if every child in New Brunswick could experience Roots of Empathy at least once.”
As Roots of Empathy celebrates 30 years, Darlene MacDonald’s story reminds us that lasting change doesn’t always come from grand gestures. Sometimes, it begins with a baby on a green blanket, a safe space to share, and one person who believes deeply in the power of empathy.
And through that belief, thousands of children—and an entire province—are better for it.
