UPEI announces new $75,000 endowed leadership award in memory of Susan (Knickle) Deighan
The University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) has announced a major endowment supporting student-athletes in memory of one of the University’s most decorated women’s basketball alumna. Thanks to a generous $75,000 gift from the Faye and David Huestis Family Foundation, the Susan (Knickle) Deighan Memorial Leadership Award has been established to celebrate and support members of the UPEI Women’s Basketball program.|
The endowment honours the life and legacy of Susan (Knickle) Deighan who passed away on March 13, 2026, at the age of 58. Born in Saint John, New Brunswick, Deighan arrived at UPEI in 1985 and quickly left a lasting mark both academically and athletically. A gifted athlete and fierce competitor, she found her greatest passion on the soccer pitch and the basketball court. As the floor general for the Panthers, she earned three AUAA All-Star selections, led the 1988–89 team to a CIAU National Silver Medal, and received Tournament All-Star honours. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in 1989 and was named class valedictorian. She completed her Bachelor of Education in 1991.
The creation of the Susan (Knickle) Deighan Memorial Leadership Award celebrates the close friendship between the Huestis and Knickle families while leaving a meaningful mark on UPEI student-athletes who excel on and off the court.
“Susan was a very competitive person who had the grit, the tenacity, and the endurance to give her all in everything she applied herself to, whatever the athletic activity. Whether it was the first game of the season or the finals of the Canadian Women’s Basketball Association, she gave it her all,” said David Huestis. “She was gracious, friendly, and gave 110 per cent in everything she did. Her students were very important to her, and her family was equally important.”
Huestis said the Knickle family shares an enduring bond that spans generations of children, grandchildren, and extended family, and that Deighan carried that same warmth into her work as an inspiring educator and role model, leaving a lasting mark on her students and making the world a better place.
Starting in the winter of the 2027–2028 academic year, the annual award will be granted to two full-time student-athletes on the UPEI Women’s Basketball team. Recipients must be in their second or third year of any UPEI academic program (with preference given to students who intend to pursue a career in education); must lead by example in practices, competition, and team culture; demonstrate integrity, respect, and a strong work ethic while encouraging and elevating teammates; and demonstrate leadership on and off the court and within the greater community.
Jane Vessey, UPEI Director of Athletics and Recreation, believes this award will help ensure that future generations of UPEI women’s basketball student-athletes are recognized and supported as they pursue their academic and athletic goals.
“On behalf of UPEI Athletics and Recreation, I want to express our sincere gratitude to the Faye and David Huestis Family Foundation for this meaningful gift,” said Vessey. “This award is a fitting tribute to an extraordinary alumna whose impact on UPEI extended far beyond her accomplishments on the basketball court. Susan was a gifted athlete and a natural leader whose passion, determination, and commitment to excellence continue to inspire those who knew her and those who have learned of her legacy. We are deeply thankful to the Huestis family for honouring Sue’s memory in a way that will make a lasting difference in the lives of our students.”
Through this philanthropic gift, the Faye and David Huestis Family Foundation ensures that Deighan’s leadership, character, and legacy will continue to empower future generations of Panther student-athletes.
To create a scholarship or award at UPEI, please contact Kathy Weatherbie, Senior Development and Donor Relations Officer, at (902) 626-6791 or krweatherbie@upei.ca.
