I confess that my greatest fear before becoming Dean was the role I would have to play in fund raising. Although I still don’t feel comfortable wearing a suit and tie, after four months on the job I have discovered that fund raising can be a personally satisfying experience. In a few short months I have met numerous people with generous hearts and amazing stories to tell. I enjoy interacting with them because they are passionate about supporting and enhancing the University of Alberta experience for today’s and tomorrow’s students, staff, and faculty. It is a humbling experience.
Recently, the Canadian Senate passed Bill S-201, recognizing
November 15 each year as being National Philanthropy Day (NPD). NPD was
created to recognize the great contributions of philanthropy -- and those
people active in the philanthropic community -- to the enrichment of the world.
On Friday, November 16 I represented the Faculty of Science in Edmonton's
Philanthropy Day celebrations that recognized the individuals and organizations
who have given much to improve quality of life in this city. While many donors
were represented at the luncheon banquet, the room wasn’t big enough to hold
the many people who contribute to the Faculty of Science, or the innumerable
supporters of the plethora of charitable organizations that thrive here.
Therefore, I am using my blog to give a special thank you to each and every
donor to the Faculty of Science, and to the University of Alberta.
Over the last several months I have enjoyed watching the Faculty
of Science receive thoughtful philanthropic gifts from grateful alumni and
valued university friends. This exposure has opened my eyes to both the process
of giving, and the responsibility of the receiver to use these gifts wisely and
productively. Generous donors have created scholarships, initiated awards,
supported research, enhanced student experiences, improved physical spaces, and
contributed to a myriad of opportunities that continue to enrich the lives of
all who pass through our halls. Their benevolent acts have transformed and
continue to transform our Faculty into a living, vibrant campus.
The
Faculty of Science take seriously the role of stewards for the gifts bestowed
upon us. It is vitally important to use accepted gifts as donors have
requested. This has to be a symbiotic relationship – both the giver and
receiver must benefit.
We
are grateful to each and every one of you.