Larsens' Legacy to Leave Lifelong Impact on Generations of Students
Donna and Neil Larsen feel they have a lot to be thankful for and the University of Regina has played an important role in helping them establish a strong foundation in their lives that they are eager to pass on to others.
In 2024, they established a named scholarship – the Donna and Neil Larsen Entrance Award – to provide a permanent source of funding for deserving students, particularly from rural areas, who are entering the University of Regina. Neil, BA'79, BAHC'82, and Donna, BA'75, are strong advocates for post-secondary education and recognize the important benefits it provides for the students who make this investment in their future, for their families, for the organizations that employ them, and for society at large. Through this award, Donna and Neil are creating a legacy of support and optimism for generations of students.
As University of Regina alumni, what does your alma mater mean to you?
Donna: The University of Regina was where I first stepped out into the wider world after leaving home. It provided me with a supportive environment for growth, maturing, and learning. Living at the Luther College residence was central to my whole university experience, and my time on campus provided me with a solid foundation for the rest of my life.
Neil: I have fond memories of the University of Regina. Its location in Regina made it accessible to me as I grew up south of the city. The student body in 1973 was about 3,500 students which helped me to transition from a small rural high school of fewer than 100 students. The courses, professors and students, especially the international students, exposed me to a wider world and helped to set me on the path of my life.
Do you recall during your time at the University of Regina a defining moment that would later have an impact on your life or career?
Donna: Many moments were important and affected me greatly, but none were more significant than meeting Neil. Our shared experience at university was the foundation of our relationship.
Neil: There was no single, defining moment. However, my exposure over years to the university environment, students and professors and their energy and curiosity, and the tremendous breadth and depth of the knowledge, information, and expertise available on campus had a significant impact upon me. Perhaps most importantly, I learned to be disciplined and focused and came to appreciate the importance of making the effort needed to achieve a goal.
That said, there was the moment 52 years ago when Donna walked into my apartment in College West. That moment had a lifelong impact.
What was the inspiration behind creating the endowed Donna and Neil Larsen Entrance Award for first-year students who are facing financial need?
Donna: Getting a start in advanced education can be a significant financial challenge at a time when the load of other challenges (e.g., leaving home, being on one’s own, etc.) can be quite intimidating. Providing some support to help people at this critical point can make the difference between them making this first step or deciding not to proceed.
Neil: We believe that our education was the foundation upon which we built our lives and led to the opportunities and successes which we have enjoyed. We were fortunate to have attended the University at a time when costs were not a major obstacle to attendance. Today is a far different time and costs of post-secondary education can be a serious obstacle. We want to offer assistance to young women and men who might not be able to attend the University if assistance was not available so that they might have the opportunity for a successful and prosperous life.
What motivated your decision to give back to the University of Regina through a planned legacy gift?
Donna: My experience at the University of Regina was pivotal to my own good start to advanced learning, fitting into an urban environment, and solidifying my interests for building a career.
Neil: We find ourselves in a position where we can provide financial gifts to the University so that young people might have the experiences and opportunities which have been so important to our lives.
Why is philanthropy important to you?
Donna: "Giving back" is an important role for all of us as members of our society. Where we can, we should.
Neil: We believe that we should provide assistance to those who may benefit from it.
Banner photo credit: Donna and Neil Larsen.