Inspiring a community of leaders

An alumni dinner held on September 27 marked the 15^th anniversary of the Pitblado Scholars Program. The event was an opportunity for James and Sandra Pitblado to celebrate the achievements of current and former Pitblado Scholars.

“We wanted to invest in young people who will make a difference,” said James Pitblado. “You will be role models, you will give back to your community. We are so gratified to make this investment and see the outcome.”

Kathleen McCandless [LLB/06] with James and Sandra Pitblado

“I wish to emphasize just how important the Pitblado Scholarship was to me as a student,” said McCandless. “Being a Pitblado Scholar allowed me the freedom to focus on my studies, but more than that, gave me the motivation that allowed me to succeed. It set me up for success and opened opportunities for me.”

At the event, Jim and Sandra Pitblado renewed their commitment to the University with a gift of $500,000 to bolster the Pitblado Scholars Program. This gift will inspire the next generation of law students in Manitoba to realize their full potential.

“The impact Jim and Sandra have had on law students over the past 15 years extends far beyond the considerable financial support provided through this prestigious scholarship,” said President and Vice-Chancellor David T. Barnard. “The Pitblados have always demonstrated the vision and commitment to ensure their philanthropy has the greatest impact possible, personally connecting with and developing a community of leaders who are helping to write the story of this province and its people.”

The Pitblado Scholars Fund was established in in 2001 with an initial gift in excess of $1 million by James and Sandra Pitblado. Since its inception, the Pitblado scholarship has supported more than 200 law students at the University of Manitoba. Pitblado scholars are the top 10 per cent of students in their first and second years in the Faculty of Law.

Eric Postma