Barry Monson Honours Family Legacy with Endowment to Support Future U of R Math Students
Barry Monson, a proud graduate of the University of Regina’s Class of 1974, has established the Monson Family Scholarship with a generous $60,000 endowment to support students pursuing a degree in mathematics. Monson, who graduated just months before the University became an autonomous institution, credits his time at the U of R for nurturing his passion for mathematics. A pivotal moment came in the spring of 1973, when he worked on a research project under Professor Chris Fisher in the Mathematics Department, a transformative experience that shaped his graduate studies and career. The scholarship, which honors his family’s interest in mathematics, aims to create lasting opportunities for future students in the field.
Q: Could you tell us about your family’s connection to mathematics and how that influenced your decision to set up this scholarship?
A: My family’s love of mathematics runs deep. My father, Ernie, was bright and interested in science and engineering but (this was the reality in 1929) could not afford to pursue formal education past grade 8. He later found success after serving in the Canadian Army during World War II and investing his army pay in the Matador Co-op Farm near Kyle, Saskatchewan. In a rather direct way, this endowment can be traced to my father's dedication and hard work.
My mother, Evelyn, wasn’t so interested in technical subjects but had a natural ease with numbers, which surfaced in games like cribbage. My younger brother, Kelly, also had a keen interest in arithmetic.
Q: What inspired you to create an endowment for mathematics at the University of Regina?
A: U of R was very generous to me, starting with an Entrance Scholarship in 1970. In addition, it was fairly easy then to find a good summer job. It is rather different today. Students need more financial support, and I wanted to give back to help them pursue their dreams in mathematics.
It wasn’t always easy, but the challenges I faced at U of R prepared me for graduate school. I often tell my students that it’s pointless to take an easy class if you’re paying tuition – it’s better to challenge yourself.
— Barry Monson, BSc'74
Q: Looking back, how did your time at U of R prepare you for your career?
A: The professors at U of R were demanding, and the classes were hard. The intellectual challenges I faced at U of R prepared me well for graduate school. I have often told my own students that it’s pointless to take an easy class if you’re paying tuition – it’s better to challenge yourself.
At the same time, the Mathematics Department was friendly and welcoming. I was part of a keen cohort of honours students who helped and motivated each other.
When I went to graduate school at the University of Toronto, I found I was well-prepared. I did well enough to secure a job at the University of New Brunswick and later retire comfortably. My education at U of R set me on that path.
Q: What do you hope will be the long-term impact of your endowment at the University of Regina?
A: I hope it encourages dedicated students to pursue mathematics, a unique and important field. The endowment will provide scholarships for students pursuing advanced studies, helping with the high costs of tuition and living expenses. It’s my way of giving back, just as I received support during my time at the University of Regina.
Q: How does it feel knowing your donation will create lasting opportunities for students?
A: It feels great to help students, and it’s also a way to honour my family, especially my father’s hard work on the farm. I’m sure he’d be proud to see this contribution to young people today.
Banner photo credit: Barry Monson