Frances Helen McClelland's remarkable life is celebrated for her integrity, humor, generosity, and strong will. Born in Tucson, Arizona, on August 4, 1923, she was the first child of W.T. and Winifred McClelland, Irish immigrants who instilled in her the values of hard work and honesty.
Despite being struck by polio at a young age and facing mobility challenges, Frances became a world traveler, business pioneer, philanthropist, and community leader. Graduating from St. Joseph’s Academy in Tucson in 1940 and later obtaining an Accounting degree from the University of Arizona in 1944, she played a vital role in various efforts to strengthen families, viewing them as the foundation for a successful society.
Joining her family in the Shamrock Dairy business in 1946, Frances, alongside her brother Norman, transformed it into the Shamrock Foods Company, operating throughout the western United States. Actively engaged in post-graduation activities, she served on the Institute’s advisory board and the University of Arizona Foundation Board, receiving an Honorary Doctorate Degree of Humane Letters in 2003.
Frances' philanthropic spirit endured through the Emerald Foundation, established before her passing, contributing over $25 million to support Arizona's children, youth, and families. The foundation backed initiatives like the Frances McClelland Institute, YWCA’s Frances McClelland Community Center, and the Phoenix Children’s Hospital Pediatric Frances H. McClelland Rehabilitation Center.
A dedicated community servant, Frances held leadership roles in organizations such as YWCA Tucson, the Tucson Library Board, and the Phoenix Irish Cultural Center. Alongside Norman, she provided seed money for the Institute and made substantial gifts to the John and Doris Norton School of Human Ecology and the University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
Norman, class of 1949 and Shamrock Foods treasurer, emphasizes that Frances, despite her success, never forgot her family’s immigrant roots and their pursuit of freedom from religious persecution.
Frances passed away at 81 in July 2005, leaving an extraordinary legacy of visionary action and generous giving that continues to resonate today.
Norman McClelland expresses their family's special bond with the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, acknowledging the benefits received over the years from the institution's innovative ideas and products, ranging from cooling systems to crop genetics and disease control. He and Frances express their gratitude for these advancements.