Supporting students through philanthropy
University donors celebrated on National Philanthropy Day
Homeless and struggling to cope with devastating personal loss, University of Manitoba student Ashley Richard never lost sight of her goal to pursue an education. The support of a $15,000 scholarship made that dream a reality.
Ashley Richard
“I didn’t have anything before – no friends, no family and no future,” says the Asper School of Business student. “Getting the scholarship meant everything to me. And my experience with the University of Manitoba has surpassed all of my expectations. At first, I just wanted to get in and get out so I could have my degree. I never thought I’d get as involved as I have. But now I’m getting the chance to help other students achieve their dreams and there’s nothing that makes me happier than that.”
It is stories like Ashley’s that illustrate the critical value of philanthropy to U of M students.
This week across Canada, organizations like the U of M are celebrating National Philanthropy Day and the donors who are building better futures for our students and community.
In the past year alone, donor support has led to the opening of the Active Living Centre, the pursuit of innovative stem cell research, the creation of mentorship programs for northern Indigenous youth, and the establishment of countless student scholarships and bursaries.
On October 3, the University launched its Front and Centre campaign, the largest philanthropic investment in the province’s history. Already, $365 million has been raised towards the campaign’s ambitious $500 million goal.
And we’re just getting started.
Thanks to the support of a dedicated community of donors, as well as that of our provincial government, the University’s faculty and researchers will continue to educate tomorrow’s leaders and spark discovery and innovation—making a profound impact in our city, our province, and around the world.
Did you know: Each year, the U of M issues more than $13 million in the form of awards, scholarships and bursaries. Find out more about awards and scholarships.