The Canadore College Foundation received quite the gift on Friday – $2 million from the Joyce Family Foundation – marking the largest single donation in its history and resulting in the creation of the renewable Joyce Family Foundation Bright Futures Bursaries. The endowed funds will support up to 20 students annually from northern Ontario to attain a full-time diploma or degree program of their choice. Former Ontario Premier Mike Harris, a trustee of the Joyce Family Foundation, was on hand to present the gift. “Education is a mechanism for change, and our board recognizes the important role Canadore plays in the region. As someone who grew up in northern Ontario, I understand the unique challenges often faced by students in the North,” Harris said, in a news release. “With these renewable bursaries, the board is very proud not only to provide much-needed financial support but also to inspire deserving recipients to follow their dreams through post-secondary education and bring their skills into the community.” Canadore College President and CEO George Burton said the “generosity” of this donation marks a milestone for our college and sets a new precedent for supporting the success of students. “(With) these resources, will enable even more students to pursue higher education, providing them with the tools and a support system they need to excel in their chosen fields and make impactful contributions to our communities,” he said. Kirk Kelusky is the chairperson for Canadore College Foundation’s board, he spoke about the lasting impact of the gift in the news release. “The Canadore Foundation is grateful for the exceptional support from the Joyce Family Foundation. Not only does this significant investment strengthen our ability to offer financial aid, resources and connections to our students, but it also contributes to a sustainable future for the college,” he said. “Through the responsible management of the benefits of these investments, we can continue to provide opportunities and support the educational journeys of our students for years to come.” This donation will expand Canadore’s existing portfolio of scholarships and bursaries. Last year, Canadore College awarded $1.7 million to students through scholarships and bursaries. The Canadore College Foundation said it exists to provide fundraising and development guidance to the college and to govern its endowments, financial donations and assets in such a way it maximizes benefits for Canadore’s students, programs and research. Established by Canadian entrepreneur Ronald V. Joyce, the Joyce Family Foundation’s mission is to support the social, economic and emotional well-being of children and youth by empowering them to develop into healthy, confident, independent contributors to Canadian society, according to their website.
