Learn about Special Naming Opportunities available through UWinnipeg's Doors and Windows Campaign
Help the University purchase Wesley, the land-mine sniffing dog.
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The University, with donor support, is building a $10 million Opportunity Fund to ensure access to higher education.
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May 31, 2010
The University of Winnipeg Foundation
Mourns Loss of Duff Roblin
It is with great sadness that we, at The University of Winnipeg Foundation, mourn the loss of The Honourable Duff Roblin. Former Premier Duff Roblin was a great Manitoban; dedicated to education, social welfare and healthcare he was truly admired by our campus community.
Dr. Roblin held Honorary Degrees from The University of Winnipeg, McGill University and The University of Manitoba. He also held a Doctorate of Canon Law from St. John’s College. His commitment to education, in addition to the granting of The University of Winnipeg Charter in 1967, included the restoration of the use of French in Manitoba Schools increasing opportunities for Manitobans to obtain post-secondary education, which he himself valued.
“It is a tremendous loss. The Honourable Duff Roblin deserves to be remembered as one of the most important leaders our Province has ever experienced. His dedication to our city, province and country was truly remarkable. He was a mentor for many people and will continue to be long into the future,” says Susan Thompson, President and CEO, The University of Winnipeg Foundation.
In 2007, The University of Winnipeg and The University of Winnipeg Foundation founded the Duff Roblin Award to recognize Dr. Roblin for his life-long commitment to the community and advanced education in Manitoba.
A special tribute to Dr. Roblin will take place at The University of Winnipeg Foundation’s annual Duff Roblin Gala Dinner on November 2nd, 2010.
Our deepest condolences to all who knew and loved The Honourable Duff Roblin.
The Duff Roblin Award has grown to over $450,000 thanks to over 160 donors who have proudly made generous contributions in honour of Dr. Roblin. Those wishing to commemorate his life and career may wish to consider donations to the Duff Roblin Scholars Fund.
Click here to make a gift in memory of The Honourable Duff Roblin.
February 28, 2010
Save the Date for the 2010 Duff Roblin Award Dinner:
November 2, 2010
The 2009 Duff Roblin Award Dinner was a great success, and this year's event promises to be equally exciting.
Proceeds from the Duff Roblin Award Dinner go to the Duff Roblin Scholars Fund to provide Graduate Fellowships in Aboriginal Governance at The University of Winnipeg. The fund is set up to enhance education opportunities for Manitoba's Aboriginal population and encourage Aboriginal students to obtain advanced degrees.
For more information, to reserve your tickets or table, and for sponsorship opportunities, please contact Louise Humeniuk at 204.789.1409 or by email at l.humeniuk@uwinnipeg.ca.
November 4, 2009
Kerry Hawkins receives 2009 Duff Roblin Scholars Award at 2009 Duff Roblin Award Dinner
The University of Winnipeg was delighted to pay tribute to Kerry Hawkins as the 2009 recipient of The Duff Roblin Award. The award was presented at the Duff Roblin Award Dinner on November 4, 2009 at The Fort Garry Hotel.
The inaugural Duff Roblin Award was named in honour of and presented to The Honourable Duff Roblin in 2007. This prestigious award recognizes a recipient's qualities as an outstanding Manitoban, a patron of education, and someone who demonstrates exemplary citizenship and life-long commitment to his or her community. The 2008 honoree was Tom Jackson.
This year's award recipient is Kerry Hawkins.
Born in Calgary, Alberta, Mr. Hawkins moved to Manitoba at an early age. In 1964 he joined Cargill, and spent the majority of his career as a business leader in the Agricultural and Food Processing sector.
As the recently retired President of Cargill Limited, Mr. Hawkins is a highly respected participant in the international grain industry.
Mr. Hawkins has played an integral role on many Manitoba Boards including serving as a Director with Manitoba Blue Cross, the Winnipeg Airport Authority, and as the Founding Chairman of the Business Council of Manitoba.
With a mind to build concrete positive relationships with the Aboriginal community in our city, province and country, Mr. Hawkins committed countless hours by serving as Director for the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, as past Chairman of the Manitoba Council for Aboriginal Business, and as a past member of the Canadian Aboriginal Economic Development National Board.
Mr. Hawkins has lent his support to the Winnipeg arts community through directorships on the Winnipeg Art Gallery, Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet and the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra and served on diverse local committees to promote our community and the City of Winnipeg.
In November 2001, he was the first recipient of the Lieutenant Governor's award for "Outstanding Contribution to the Community" and in May 2002, the Brandon University Foundation presented him the “Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser” award.
Dedicated to education, business and the arts and as an advocate for Aboriginal participation in the workforce, Kerry Hawkins is a true mentor within and outside our University campus.
The dinner was a great success and we’d like to thank our sponsors for their support.
GOLD LEVEL
Manitoba Blue Cross
RBC Royal Bank
SILVER LEVEL
The Fort Garry Hotel
Power Corporation of Canada
Thompson Dorfman Sweatman LLP
BRONZE LEVEL
Cargill Limited
Frostiak & Leslie Chartered Accountants Inc.
Golden West Broadcasting Ltd.
Grant Thornton LLP
Keystone Ford Sales Ltd.
The Winnipeg Foundation
See you next year!
September 1, 2009
The University of Winnipeg
Canwest Centre for Theatre and Film Fall Seat Sale
Our worldwide seat sale is now on! Book your seat today and help us achieve our goal!
Thanks to generous donations from our alumni, friends, corporate community, Provincial and Federal Governments, renovations are nearing completion at The Canwest Centre for Theatre and Film.
Proceeds from the Fall Seat Sale will be directed towards the purchase of equipment and to putting the finishing touches on this spectacularly renovated building. We are asking all of our graduates and friends to consider a gift of $500, payable over time. In recognition of your support, all gifts at this level will be recognized with a plaque placed on "your" chair and your name listed on the donor wall displayed in the building.
Leave your legacy! Your generous gift will make certain our students have continued access to an outstanding theatre program, a world-class building, and state of the art equipment and will ensure theatre students leave The University of Winnipeg with the right skills and superior knowledge of the Theatre and Film industry.
Hurry! Limited Seating Available!!,
Call 204.789.1470 to book your seat today.
Join us at the 2009 Foundation Gala Dinner
November 4, 2009
The University of Winnipeg is pleased to honour Kerry Hawkins with the 2009 Annual Duff Roblin Award in recognition of his tireless efforts in support of our community. The award will presented at this year's Duff Roblin Award Gala Dinner, being held at Winnipeg's Fort Garry Hotel.
The 2008 Gala was a great success, reconnecting alumni and friends with one another and with the University and Collegiate, paying tribute to special honourees, and raising funds for the Duff Roblin Scholars Fund. This year's event promises to be equally exciting.
Proceeds from the Foundation Gala Dinner and gifts from individuals and organizations result in a boost to the Roblin Fund each year. The Fund provides Graduate Fellowships in Aboriginal Governance at The University of Winnipeg and is set up to enhance education opportunities for Manitoba' Aboriginal populaion an encourage Aboriinal students to obtain advanced degrees.
To purchase tickets or for sponsorship information, please contact Gala Coordinator, Louise Humeniuk at 204.789.1409 or by email at l.humeniuk@uwinnipeg.ca.
Individual Tickets - $175.00 each
Table (seats 10) - $1750.00
June 5, 2009
Distinction Announced as UWinnipeg's Chancellor Receives Honorary Doctor of Laws
In keeping with its vision of UWinnipeg as a hub of excellence for the study of Canadian History, the University takes pride in announcing the newly created H. Sanford Riley Centre for Canadian History.
The H. Sanford Riley Centre for Canadian history forms the umbrella for the H. Sanford Riley Fellowship in Canadian History; Canada's National History Society, which publishes the popular, national Beaver magazine; the Oral History Centre; the Chair in German Canadian Studies; the Plett Foundation; the Centre for the Teaching of Manitoba History; and Centre for Rupert's Land Studies, which now all have a consolidated presence on campus in Bryce Hall.
H. Sanford Riley, President and CEO of Richardson Financial Group Limited, has served as UWinnipeg's Sixth Chancellor for nine years. Serving also as Chair of The University of Winnipeg Foundation for over six years, he has demonstrated unwavering personal commitment to UWinnipeg. In 2007, he and his wife Debbie made a generous donation to establish a new fellowship fund devoted to enhancing the capacity for Canadians to explore our unique history.
"In his three full terms as Chancellor, H. Sanford Riley has displayed a keen understanding of and unparalleled commitment to UWinnipeg's mission to nurture an informed citizenship," said University President Lloyd Axworthy. "Our students, faculty and the public we serve will directly benefit for many years to come as we initiate lively discussion, lextures and conferences about our past, present and future as a country under the H. Sanford Riley Centre for Canadian History banner."
MAY 20, 2009
Federal Government Helps Realize State-of-the-Art Science & Environment Complex
An historic $18,042,000 infrastructure grant by the Government of Canada to The University of Winnipeg means world-class researchers will be attracted to Winnipeg and thousands of science and environmental students will receive the highest calibre of education in a state-of-the-art complex for many years to come. In addition, the potential for Manitoba businesses to directly benefit from a commercialization unit within the Science Complex and Richardson College for the Environment broadens the positive impact by supporting knowledge-based jobs now and into the future.
Class Acts IV a Great Success
Class Acts IV is a musical cabaret featuring UW Faculty & Staff, with proceeds going to the General Scholarship Fund
This year's Class Acts raised a record-breaking $4,000 with the help of a full house in Eckhardt-Gramatté Hall on March 6, 2009. Proceeds from the musical cabaret, featuring UW Faculty & Staff, support the General Scholarship Fund
This popular event started in 2002 as the brainchild of Marion Tetrault (Education) and first was brought to the stage by UWinnipeg’s own impresario Harry Strub. Class Acts IV is a showcase of the hidden musical talents of faculty and staff. And that talent is abundant. Most of the performers are accomplished amateurs, but accomplished pros are featured as well.
Serving as co-hosts for this year’s student scholarship fund-raising event, which last year raised over $1500, were Professor Ed Byard and Deputy Provost and Associate Vice-President (International) Neil Besner.
Featured guests this year included Nathan, the Juno award-winning band (which includes Devin Latimer from Chemistry) as well as Glenn Buhr, composer, music professor and one of the founders of the Winnipeg New Music Festival, playing with his partner Margaret Sweatman (English), with whom he won a Genie Award.
Back by popular demand from previous Class Acts were Murray Evans (English), Robb Matheson (Security Services), the Blasphemers (Angela Failler, Sociology/Women’s Studies, and Craig Willis, Biology), Hector Leon Valenzuela (partner of Melodie Doherty, Student Services), Uptown Grass (with Ed Byard, Biology and Don Metz, Education), Neil Besner (with son Daniel and daughter Barbara), and Paul Friesen (Library), who again performed his “tweener” gig.
First Photo: Uptown Grass (left to right) Ed Byard (banjo), Graham Towers (guitar), Jim Gladstone (bass), Doris Verwey (vocal) and Don Metz (mandolin).
Second Photo: Neil Besner and son Daniel Besner
The University of Winnipeg Foundation Thanks Dr. C.R. Harington
The University of Winnipeg Foundation was privileged to welcome Dr. C. Richard Harington, Curator of Quaternary Zoology Emeritus and Research Associate at the Canadian Museum of Nature, to Winnipeg for two very special events: a Harington Fellows Reception on October 8, and The University of Winnipeg’s Bonnycastle Lecture on October 9.
At the reception, Dr. Harington received a plaque of appreciation in gratitude for his generous endowment of the Harington Fellowship in the Centre for Rupert’s Land Studies at The University of Winnipeg. Since 1989, there have been 22 Harington Fellows, 9 of whom will be in attendance October 8, and will receive commemorative certificates.
The Fellowship is awarded annually to a student with research interests in historical environmental studies in the region formerly known as Rupert's Land, whose research involves the use of Hudson's Bay Company Archives at the Archives of Manitoba; and/or focuses on the fur trade and Aboriginal history of Rupert's Land. The fellow is provided with work space and computer access, and is invited and encouraged to participate in and contribute to the work and activities of the Centre for Rupert's Land Studies. A number of Harington Fellows have developed careers in academic research and senior administration in government and with Canada’s leading universities.
On October 9, Dr. Harington was featured as this year’s University of Winnipeg Bonnycastle Lecturer. This free lecture was held on The University of Winnipeg campus in Convocation Hall.
Dr. Harington spoke about Climatic Change in Perspective, drawing on his research on paleoenvironmental information derived from artic vertebrate fossils over the last 400 million years.
The University of Winnipeg Foundation is grateful for Dr. Harington’s tremendous support of student scholarship and research, and was most pleased to welcome him to our campus and city.
Born in Calgary, Dr. Harington received his academic training at McGill University and the University of Alberta. He was awarded a PhD in zoology from the latter institution in 1977.
He directed the National Museum of Natural Sciences (now Canadian Museum of Nature) Climatic Change Project from 1977 to 1992, and received the Massey Medal of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society in 1987. He retired in 1998 and is presently Curator of Quaternary Zoology Emeritus and Research Associate at the Canadian Museum of Nature.
In 2001, he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada, and was awarded an honorary DSc degree by University of Alberta in 2004. The Bonnycastle lecture, held annually at The University of Winnipeg, was established in memory of Richard H.G. Bonnycastle, publisher, former Chair of the Winnipeg Metropolitan Council, and the University’s first Chancellor.
Tom Jackson receives 2008 Duff Roblin Scholars Award
at President's Gala 2008
The University of Winnipeg was delighted to pay tribute to Tom Jackson as the 2008 recipient of The Duff Roblin Award. The Award was presented at the President's Gala Dinner on October 18, 2008 at The Fort Garry Hotel.
The inaugural Duff Roblin Award was named in honour of and presented to The Honourable Duff Roblin in 2007. This prestigious award recognizes a recipient's qualities as an outstanding Manitoban, a patron of education, and someone who demonstrates exemplary citizenship and life-long commitment to his or her community.
This year's Award recipient Tom Jackson is a role model for students. Born on the One Arrow Reserve in Saskatchewan and raised in Winnipeg, Jackson is not only an accomplished actor and musician, he is also a well-known philanthropist and humanitarian. His work to initiate The Dreamcatcher Tour focuses on empowering Aboriginal youth and high-school students to create opportunities for themselves through positive messages about stress, mental health, suicide prevention and coping.
Appointed as an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2000 for his talent and work with the less fortunate, his tireless efforts and determination continue to establish him as a gifted entertainer dedicated to improving the quality of life of the underprivileged. Jackson's active commitment continues, as he has recently agreed to be the spokesperson for the University's Opportunity Fund. The Opportunity Fund exists to ensure that everyone, regardless of background or socio-economic status, has access to higher education.
The President's Gala Dinner
October 18, 2008
The 2008 President's Gala Dinner was held on Saturday, October 18 at Winnipeg's Fort Garry Hotel. The 2008 President's Gala was a great success, reconnecting alumni and friends with one another and with the University and Collegiate, paying tribute to special honourees, and raising funds for the Duff Roblin Scholars Fund.
Guests at this year's dinner enjoyed tributes to special award winners while also enjoying festivities celebrating the on-going success of 'A World of Opportunity' Capital Campaign.
Gala MC Debra Radi, Chair of the University's Board of Regents and University of Winnipeg Foundation Board Member, introduced special guests Premier Gary Doer, Ginny Devine, Hon. Diane McGifford, and Councillor Harvey Smith, along with honourees and guests including: 2008 Duff Roblin Award Winner Dr. Tom Jackson; Honorary Doctor of Laws recipients Dr. Pat Broe and Dr. Phil Fontaine; Fellow Dr. Frank Hechter; Distinguished Alumnus The Hon. Howard Pawley '57; Clarence Atchison Award Winner Rev. Dr. James Christie; and Erica and Arnold Rogers Award Winner Dr. James Currie.
Proceeds from the 2008 President's Gala Dinner and gifts from individuals and organizations support the Duff Roblin Scholars Fund. Proceeds from this year's dinner resulted in a boost to the Fund by $25,000, bringing total funds on hand to over $350,000 as of November 2008. The Fund provides Graduate Fellowships in Aboriginal Governance at The University of Winnipeg and is set up to enhance education opportunities for Manitoba' Aboriginal populaion an encourage Aboriinal students to obtain advanced degrees.
L to R: Denise Ommanney, Phil Fontaine, Paula Broe, Pat Broe, Alison Jackson, Tom Jackson, Lloyd Axworthy (seated), Ginny Devine, Premier Gary Doer, Kathleen Mahoney
Standing L to R: Frank Hechter, Susan Hechter, Adele Pawley, Ed Wajczynski, Jill Ogborn, Mike Ogborn, MaryLynn Broe. Seated, L to R: Jennifer Rattray, Howard Pawley, Diane McGifford
The University of Winnipeg and its Foundation extend appreciation to our generous sponsors for this year's dinner. Thank you.
GOLD LEVEL
The Fort Garry Hotel
RBC Dominion Securities
SILVER LEVEL
Power Corporation of Canada
Thompson Dorfman Sweatman LLP
BRONZE LEVEL
Frostiak & Leslie Chartered Accountants Inc.
Keystone Ford Sales Ltd.
Thanks also to reception pianist Don Shannon, Wine Sponsor Manitoba Liquor Control Commission, Program Designer Warren Schuetz, and lea marc inc. for program printing.
To make a gift to the Duff Roblin Scholars Fund, you may donate online (select the Duff Roblin Scholars Fund from the drop-down menu in the online giving box) or contact Gift Planning Officer Louise Humeniuk at 204.789.1409 to discuss your gift in person.
University of Winnipeg Announces
Doors and Windows Campaign
Launched at Homecoming 2008, The University of Winnipeg's new McFeetors Hall: Great-West Life Residence "Doors and Windows Campaign" offers an opportunity to help build a new home away from home for over 200 UWinnipeg students. It offers a place where knowledge will be gained and experiences shared, and where lifelong friendships will be made.
"As a graduate of The University of Winnipeg, I am proud to be part of a campaign that will help build the first student resident on the campus in decades. I am thrilled with its design, especially the fact that it includes community housing and the addition of a new daycare with 120 spaces to be constructed right next door," said Dr. Raymond (Ray) McFeetors (Class of '68).
"Living at Graham Hall and Wesley Hall was a wonderful experience for me that added to an invaluable university education that set me on my life's path," said McFeetors. "Please take this opportunity to reserve your room and leave a legacy that will be celebrated and remembered by generations of students who will call UWinnipeg's McFeetors Hall: Great-West life Student Residence home."
Reserve a room and be part of UWinnipeg's history by ensuring your name or the name of someone you care about lives on in perpetuity.
Learn more about the Special Naming Opportunities available through The Doors and Windows Campaign.
Campus Development Plan Update
Exciting capital projects are underway at the University, supported by A World of Opportunity Capital Campaign and forming part of The University of Winnipeg Campus Development Plan.Learn more about how your donations to capital projects can help our students, and read more about the status of projects being developed under our University's Campus Development Plan.
Construction Underway on McFeetors Hall: Great-West Life Student Residence
Construction began July 30, 2008 on The University of Winnipeg’s new McFeetors Hall: Great-West Life Student Residence, with Dr. Ray McFeetors (third from left) present at the construction site. He is pictured here with Community Renewal Corporation Property Manager Sherri Pchajek; UWinnipeg Vice-President of Finance & Administration Bill Balan; Project Superintendent Allan Kleemola of Man-Shield Construction Inc.; and UWinnipeg Community Renewal Corporation Managing Director Sherman Kreiner. (Photo: Kelly Morton / uwinnipeg.ca)
The new McFeetors Hall: Great-West Life Student Residence is being built on the north-east side of UWinnipeg’s future Richardson College for the Environment & Science Complex on Langside Street
UWinnipeg & Collegiate Alumnus Dr. Raymond L. McFeetors, Chairman of the Board of Great-West Lifeco Inc., has embraced the University’s vision of a greater downtown campus for the community, making a personal gift of $1.67-million that will launch development of an innovative student residence for The University of Winnipeg. Great-West Life has committed a further $1-million to the project, for a combined gift of $2.67-million to help make the student residence come alive.
McFeetors is a member of The University of Winnipeg Collegiate Class of 1965 and completed a UWinnipeg Bachelor of Arts degree in 1968. He was named a Distinguished Alumnus in 2006 and was awarded a University of Winnipeg Honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) in 2007 in recognition of lifetime achievements.
The University of Winnipeg Science Appeal
This is a period of unprecedented global environmental awareness. Effects of climate change, dependence on fossil fuels, shortages of potable water, pandemic diseases and numerous other issues that impact our quality of life are talked about daily. While these are big problems, they bring new opportunities for innovation and discovery, many of which will revolutionize the way we live. In our quest to become global citizens, what better way to address these issues than to build a green campus in the heart of downtown Winnipeg?
Located on Portage Avenue between Furby and Langside Streets, The Richardson College for The Environment and Science Complex promises to offer exciting new opportunities for trans-disciplinary research, environmental programming and integration with the community. This state-of-the-art facility will position us to develop tomorrow’s leaders in areas such as Environment and Health, Water, Environmental Management, Urban Ecology and The Global North. This is your opportunity as an alum and friend of the University of Winnipeg to make a dramatic difference in our future student’s post secondary experiences. Thank you in advance for your donations and support.
To support this appeal, donors may donate online and give today.
The University of Winnipeg Theatre Appeal
So much is happening at our new Canwest Centre for Theatre and Arts. As construction on the outer shell and interior spaces nears completion, our donors have an opportunity to make a $500 contribution to a theatre seat and receive special recognition through a named plaque in the Canwest Centre. These donations will help us provide our students with a learning environment that utilizes state-of-the art lighting, sound, film, prop and costuming equiment. We are proud of our donors and theatre friends who are becoming part of the dedicated effort to bring this outstanding centre to completion and thank you in advance for your donations.
To support this appeal right away, donors may donate online and give today. Or, donors may complete the Theatre Appeal by mail in July 2008 in order to help students study at one of Canada's leading teaching centres for theatre and the performing arts.
Opportunity Fund Gives Students Chance to 'Earn & Learn'
The University of Winnipeg on May 20, 2008 announced generous donations totaling $1.76 million in support of its innovative Opportunity Fund – a student support program aimed at closing the “graduation gap” for hundreds of students traditionally under-represented at university. The successful fast-track Opportunity bursary program has already provided financial help to more than 100 young adults this past academic year.
The Opportunity Fund is a comprehensive, three-part program, including fast-track bursaries, micro-financing, and tuition credits that enable children as early as Grade 4 to “earn as they learn.” The program extends all the way to adult learners. The “earn as you learn” approach is unique for a university in Canada, designed to assist Aboriginal children, young people from war-affected nations and refugee populations, and students from inner-city neighbourhoods – obtain financial help and encouragement to be successful in school.
As announced by The Hon. Vic Toews, the Government of Canada's contribution of $746,000 over three years allows The University of Winnipeg to continue to work in the inner city, and with Aboriginal and new Canadian communities to promote post-secondary education, the Government of Canada's Education Savings Grant program and Canada Learning Bond, the University's Opportunity Fund and financial literacy.
Funding for the on-going bursary and tuition credit programs is possible due to generous support from the provincial government and private donors, includng the following new gifts to the Opportunity Fund...
$500,000 from The Province of Manitoba for the Opportunity Fund
“The Manitoba government is committed to widening the range of learners at our post-secondary institutions. We are confident that our investment in the Opportunity Fund will further encourage disadvantaged youth to pursue their academic interests and make long-term plans that include post-secondary education.” Hon. Diane McGifford, Minister of Advanced Education & Literacy
$150,000 from BMO Financial Group
“Scholarships and bursaries are the helping hands that create opportunities for students at all levels and in every stage of life. BMO Financial Group is pleased to be able to support such an important initiative at The University of Winnipeg.
BMO District Vice-President John MacAulay
$150,000 from TD Bank Financial Group
“TD Bank Financial Group is lending its support to The University of Winnipeg in making advanced education more accessible for Winnipeg's underprivileged and under-represented populations.”
TD Canada Trust District Vice-President Anne Taylor
$150,000 from Scotiabank
“We concentrate on direct support to improve student access to learning in order to give students the skills, tools, and experiences to develop their potential.”
Scotiabank District Vice-President Terry Bjornson
$100,000 from McLean Budden Limited
“We consider the Opportunity Fund to be an investment in the future. The importance of higher education cannot be underestimated, considering its capacity to leverage future success for students.”
Executive Vice-President Doug Andrews
Ray McFeetors, Great-West Life Commit $2.67-Million for New UWinnipeg Residence for Students and Community Neighbours
UWinnipeg Alumnus Dr. Raymond L. McFeetors, a Collegiate and University of Winnipeg graduate and Chairman of the Board of Great-West Lifeco Inc., has embraced the University’s vision of a greater downtown campus for the community. At a May 2, 2008 new conference on campus, McFeetors announced a personal gift of $1.67-million to launch development of an innovative student residence for The University of Winnipeg.
He also announched that Great-West Life has committed a further $1-million to the project, for a combined gift of $2.67-million to help make the student residence come alive. The new student facility, to be named McFeetors Hall: Great-West Life Student Residence, will be built on the north-east side of UWinnipeg’s future Richardson College for the Environment & Science Complex on Langside Street.
“Ray McFeetors and Great-West Life are helping to create an expansion that will fundamentally change student life and revitalize UWinnipeg’s campus and surrounding neighbourhoods.,” said University President and Vice-Chancellor Lloyd Axworthy, This important new facility will offer excellent and affordable housing right on campus so that our students and people in the community have a real opportunity and proper support to achieve their goals and dreams.”
Marilou McPhedran Named New Global College Principal...C.P. Loewen Family Foundation donates over a quarter million $
The University of Winnipeg is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Marilou McPhedran to the position of Principal of the Global College, effective mid-June 2008. A dedicated human rights advocate, Dr. McPhedran has been recognized for her work nationally and internationally, with medals from the Governor General and Queen's Jubilee and induction into the Order of Canada. Currently she serves as Chief Commissioner, Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission.
Hiring of this vital leadership position is possible through a supporting grant of $290,000 from the C.P. Loewen Family Foundation, of which $240,000 has been allocated to Global College, and $50,000 over four years has been allocated for Mennonite Studies fellowships.
Wu Chung Scholarship Fund Receives New $1 Million Donation
Further opportunities for students from Huadu, China will be made possible thanks to a second generous gift of $1 million donated by Hopewell Holdings Limited, which was founded by Hong Kong businessman Sir Gordon Wu.This announcement builds on the Wu Chung Scholarship Fund for Chinese students created in 2006 with Hopewell Holdings Limited’s initial $1 million gift. The combined $2 million fund is the largest international scholarship in The University of Winnipeg’s history.
Sir Gordon Wu, Chairman of Hopewell Holdings Ltd., created the Wu Chung Scholarship Fund as a tribute to his father, Wu Chung, who believed in the value of education. Three students from Huadu, in the region of Guangzhou, China are today studying at UWinnipeg as a result of the original gift.
“The leadership of Sir Gordon Wu is not only changing the lives of individual students, it is assisting us in building the foundation of Global College, which reaches out to students around the world and engages them in global issues,” said Dr. Lloyd Axworthy, President & Vice-Chancellor of UWinnipeg. “Sir Gordon Wu’s commitment to advancing understanding about the expanding role of China in the world’s economy will have an impact that transcends borders.”
Introducing the Bill Wedlake Athletic Award
In honour of Bill Wedlake, UWinnipeg Wesmen Athletic Director from 2000 - 2008 and Wesmen Basketball Coach 1984-2000, The University of Winnipeg on February 12, 2008 announced the naming of the new fitness facility in Duckworth Centre as the Bill Wedlake Fitness Centre.
As well, through The University of Winnipeg Foundation, the University established the Bill Wedlake Athletic Award to build on his tremendous legacy of strengthening UWinnipeg's athletic recruitment and retention programs. With the support of many, the Bill Wedlake Athletic Award helps to shape and define the lives of future generations of athletes and uphold the outstanding levels of excellence achieved by UWinnipeg Wesmen teams under Bill Wedlake's leadership.
Former Athletic Director Bill Wedlake retired on April 1, 2008.
To donate to the Bill Wedlake Athletic Award, please click here
To download and print a donation form, please click here Read more...UWinnipeg's Pet Project
UWinnipeg is adding Wesley, a mine-sniffing dog to the UWinnipeg Family and the University needs your help. The University is looking to raise more than $15,000 to obtain this hero so he can begin his life-saving work.
Wesley is a German Shepherd that will save lives and limbs of civilians in war-affected countries of the world where landmines remain hidden below the ground ready to take their next victim. Mine-sniffing dogs are one of the most productive and safest ways of increasing the efficiency of demining and returning the land to productive use without the dogs coming into direct contact with the mines. The health and safety for the dog is a primary concern. Photo, at right, by Jason Halstead
Wesley is a concrete result of The University of Winnipeg's Global College's No Landmines Action Week that took place on campus in the last week of November 2007.
To donate, please click here
Read more...
To review an April 13, 2008 story on Wesley in the Winnipeg Free Press, click here here
University of Winnipeg Foundation Board Member Leonard Asper Named Media Player of the Year
The University of Winnipeg and its Foundation congratulate Leonard Asper (Coll. ’82), President and CEO of CanWest Global Communications Corporation, for being named Marketing magazine’s Media Player of the Year for 2007.
Asper earned the award for his astute business acumen, his innovative ad programs, and for taking a giant leap into specialty TV. These strategic changes generated growth for CanWest Global Communications Corp., creating an impressive comeback in the highly competitive field of communications that merited recognition and the Media Player of the Year Award.
A generous supporter of the University and its Collegiate as both a Foundation Board member and as a donor, Asper’s contributions to date include a corporate gift of $3 million to establish the CanWest Centre for Theatre and Film and a personal contribution to The Collegiate for the creation of an endowed bursary to help students in financial need.
Read More...UWinnipeg Launches $70 Milllion 'A World of Opportunity' Capital Campaign
University of Winnipeg President and Vice-Chancellor Lloyd Axworthy and Campaign Chair R.M. (Bob) Kozminski on November 27, 2007 announced the launch of The University of Winnipeg's $70-million “A World of Opportunity” Capital Campaign, the largest fundraising endeavor in the University's history. To date, the Campaign has raised an inspiring $55.5 million towards its campaign goal, Kozminski announced at the Capital Campaign's formal launch in the University's restored Convocation Hall.
“A World of Opportunity” Capital Campaign has already attracted significant lead and advance gifts to support students and key strategic initiatives at The University of Winnipeg. These include significant contributions to establish the Richardson College for the Environment & Science Complex and the CanWest Centre for Theatre & Film. As well, donors have come forward to support areas of academic excellence such as the National Centre for Canadian History, Global College and the Innovative Learning Centre, as well as scholarship and bursary programs including the Opportunity Fund and The Collegiate bursary program.
During the public phase of this Campaign, alumni, students, friends and supporters of The University of Winnipeg have an unprecedented opportunity to partner with The University in its evolution into a national centre of academic excellence.
Read More...University Opportunity Fund Attracts Donor Support
Our University of Winnipeg vision is to help people realize their dreams for higher education. Through its new Opportunity Fund, The University of Winnipeg is opening a door to a world of possibilities by encouraging non-traditional students to envision a future that includes higher education.
Dr. Lloyd Axworthy
President and Vice-Chancellor
The University of Winnipeg
The Homecoming celebration of The University of Winnipeg's 40th Anniversary from September 13 to 16, 2007 was a time for reconnecting with old friends and making friends anew. The University of Winnipeg Foundation is grateful for the strong support of its donors, Legacy Circle Members and other friends who continue to show their commitment in remarkable ways - through gifts of time and resources.
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On September 14, Convocation Hall was rededicated with thanks to Dr. Douglas Leatherdale and Louise Leatherdale for their donation of $500,000 for the historical restoration of Convocation Hall’s plaster ceiling. The entire Wesley Hall heritage building project was made possible thanks to the support of the Province of Manitoba. |
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Three announcements were made following the Convocation Hall rededication: by The Winnipeg Foundation for $500,000 in support of the University's Innovative Learning Centre and Collegiate student awards; by Investors Group for $500,000 in support of the University's Opportunity Fund programs and a Model School Classroom; and by the Westland Foundation for $238,000 in support of the Opportunity Fund Tuition Credit program. |
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The University of Winnipeg Foundation held its inaugural Gala Dinner on September 14 as part of The University of Winnipeg 2007 Homecoming and 40th Anniversary Celebrations. At the Gala Dinner, the University announced the creation of the Duff Roblin Award, paying tribute to Manitoba’s former Premier whose government granted University status to United College in 1967, establishing The University of Winnipeg. Proceeds from the dinner support the Duff Roblin Scholars Fund that will provide Fellowships for students in the University’s new Aboriginal Governance Master’s program. |
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A Legacy Circle Garden dedication ceremony was held on September 16, honouring 44 Legacy Circle Members whose combined future gifts to the University exceed $1.5 million. |
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At the Presidents' Brunch on September 16, former University of Winnipeg President Dr. Marsha Hanen announced a gift of $200,000 to create a new Global Dialogue and Ethics Fund.
Read about the Marsha Hanen Global Dialogue and Ethics Program |
In Memorium
Dr. George Tomlinson
The University of Winnipeg community mourns the loss of long-time faculty member and senior administrator Dr. George Tomlinson, who passed away September 27, 2007. Dr. Tomlinson joined the University's Chemistry Department in 1974 and served in many academic and administrative capacities at The University of Winnipeg. He served with distinction from 1991 to 1995 as Academic Assistant to the President (Planning) and from 1995 to 2001 as Vice-President (Academic) under former president Dr. Marsha Hanen. Since 2005, Dr.Tomlinson was Chair of the Chemistry Department. Throughout his career, he served the University with great loyalty and commitment contributing to self-governance and University committees and task forces.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The University of Winnipeg Foundation, directed to the recently established Marsha Hanen Global Dialogue and Ethics Program. The new Global Dialogue and Ethics Program will support the open expression of ideas and provide a forum for dialogue and leadership on topics of global significance. Funds will assist in the delivery of faculty-initiated seminars, conferences, research projects, short courses, and publications that encourage ethical responsibility and respect for human rights.
University Alumnus Donates $500,000 on June 19, 2007 for Convocation Hall Restoration; Convocation Hall Rededicated September 14, 2007
Dr. Douglas W. Leatherdale, United College Alumnus and University of Winnipeg Foundation Board Member, announced on June 19, 2007 a donation of $500,000 to complete the historical restoration of Convocation Hall. On September 14, 2007 the University community and friends gathered in the Hall and celebrated the reopening of the Hall as the preeminent meeting place at the heart of the University and The Collegiate. Dr. Leatherdale experienced first-hand how central Convocation Hall was to campus life as a student in the 1950s. A 1957 graduate of United College, a predecessor of UWinnipeg, Dr. Leatherdale was awarded an honorary degree from the University in 2000. “I am delighted to see the results of this beautiful restoration to Convocation Hall.”
Read June 19, 2007 Announcement