Gregory Lewis, a rising star on the national and international stage, frequently plays with orchestras across Canada, and has graced the stage at Carnegie Hall twice in the past year.
Scholarships get a $140,000 boost from donors
Student Support Matching Campaign to benefit both undergraduate and graduate students
Award-winning violinist Gregory Lewis, a student in the Desautels Faculty of Music, knows first-hand the impact scholarships have on the lives of students.
“Because of my scholarships, I do not have to worry about paying tuition all throughout my undergraduate degree,” said Lewis “This has allowed me to dedicate myself to my studies and really make the most of my education.”
Lewis, a rising star on the national and international stage, frequently plays with orchestras across Canada, and has graced the stage at Carnegie Hall twice in the past year. Competing internationally as a soloist, Lewis took home first prize at the 2015 American Protégé International Piano and Strings Competition and second prize at the 2014 ENKOR International Piano and Violin Competition.
A desire to support amazing students like Gregory was evident during the recent Student Support Matching Campaign, which ran from May 1 to June 30. It saw gifts towards graduate scholarships tripled and donations to undergraduate scholarships matched dollar for dollar by the university as a part of the ongoing Front and Centre campaign. In total, 413 donors gave $147,461 to support U of M students.
Alumna Valerie Thompson [BSW/62] has given to students since 1989. This year, she chose to donate as part of the Student Support Matching Campaign.
“The fact that it was matched made it a wonderful time and opportunity to donate,” said Thompson. “Some students are disadvantaged financially, and we should do whatever we can to help them.”
On the question of why she gives, Thompson said encouraging students through scholarships can open doors towards lasting achievements.
“It’s in recognition of the fact that education is of utmost importance in terms of them being self-sufficient, and to help students develop their skills and abilities,” she said.
Gregory Lewis plans to graduate from U of M in 2017. Afterwards, he hopes to pursue a master’s degree in violin performance.
“Eventually, I would love to hold a career as an orchestral violinist,” said Lewis.