The Canadore College Foundation received a $2 million leadership gift from the Joyce Family Foundation earlier, 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. 

Mike Harris, a Trustee of The Joyce Family Foundation, presented 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.” Mr. Harris said, “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.”

“The generosity of this incredible donation marks a milestone for our college and sets a new precedent for supporting student success. 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,” said Canadore College President and CEO George Burton.

Kirk Kelusky, Chair of the Canadore College Foundation Board of Directors, spoke to the lasting impact of the gift. “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. 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 substantial gift helps expand Canadore’s existing portfolio of scholarships and bursaries. Last year, Canadore College awarded $1.7 million to students through scholarships and bursaries, reflecting the College’s commitment to supporting student success. 

Established by Canadian entrepreneur Ronald V. Joyce (1930-2019), the Joyce Family Foundation seeks to build a legacy for the future through ongoing leadership and innovative partnerships by improved and meaningful social, economic, and emotional engagement for young Canadians. Through this dedicated support, the Joyce Family Foundation is helping to empower youth to develop into healthy, confident, independent contributors to Canadian society. 

The Canadore College Foundation exists to provide development and fundraising guidance to the College and govern its endowments, financial donations and assets in a manner that maximizes benefits for Canadore’s students, programs, and applied research.