Guided by Gratitude: Anonymous donor gives back to students in need
Arriving in Canada as a refugee more than 50 years ago, a young man embraced the opportunity provided by post-secondary education and the kindness of strangers – donors who believed in the power of education and the importance of financial support to open doors to success. Degree in hand, he went on to achieve substantial success in his career, and made significant contributions to the Canadian innovation economy and technology development. Turning to philanthropy in his retirement, he became a donor himself and has created scholarships in every province and territory to mark his 50th anniversary in Canada – all anonymously.
The ‘VK to C in 50’ scholarship, established in 2018, recognizes students who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to tolerance, respect, and responsible citizenship, and who contribute positively to campus life and the broader community. In recognition of our donor's significant contributions to Canadian innovation, the scholarship is now designated for students enrolled in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) programs.
Since 2019, the VK to C in 50 scholarship at the University of Regina has supported three students in attaining their degrees in a variety of disciplines, including Systems Engineering, Psychology, and Kinesiology and Health Studies.
Inspired by our donor's decision to give anonymously and refocus his scholarship on students in STEM programs, we asked him to shed some light on his academic journey and philanthropy.
There is nothing better than to show my own appreciation for the opportunity I received. This philosophy remains my guiding principle – giving in return to others and providing them with the opportunity to succeed. — Anonymous donor
What inspired you to initially establish the VK to C in 50 scholarship?
I came to Canada in 1968 without any money. The only reason I graduated was because I received totally unexpected funding from the university I attended. Already, at that time, I knew I would do the same and support other students requiring financial aid if I ever had the opportunity.
Why did you decide to create this award anonymously?
I feel that the key focus in creating this award is the student recipient and supporting his or her ability to continue their studies. My name as a donor is totally irrelevant at this point.
What led to your decision to change the award designation to focus on undergraduate STEM students?
I am a physics – aka science – graduate, and I feel emotionally closer to those pursuing similar fields of study.
This is a unique award in that it is intended to specifically help students who are committed to tolerance, respect, and non-discrimination. What led you to decide on this award focus?
I prefer to support students who are focusing on their science subjects without any other distractions.
What is your philosophy when it comes to philanthropy?
Canada has been incredibly good to me. There is nothing better than to show my own appreciation for the opportunity I received. This philosophy remains my guiding principle – giving in return to others and providing them with the opportunity to succeed.
Banner photo credit: Donor