Fuelling transformational change through philanthropy

For half a century, the University of Calgary has created and grown a community of thinkers, leaders and drivers, all contributing to something bigger than ourselves. With ambitious plans to energize the next decade and beyond, the University of Calgary thanked its strongest supporters and closest friends at a Toast of Gratitude evening on April 29. Community leaders Wayne and Liz Henuset, supporters of the Haskayne School of Business and the University of Calgary as a whole, co-hosted the event at Henuset’s Willow Park Wines & Spirits flagship store.

Pictured above are, from left: Matt Saunders, Zaheed Damani, Samantha Chang-Foidl, Brianna Ghali, Laura Fadar, Kelly Ann Meeuwisse, Junette Huynh, Dr. John Yackel.

“We are excited about all that we have achieved to date as a result, in large part, of community support,” said President Elizabeth Cannon to the approximately 200 donors, community and business leaders who attended the event. “We are equally excited about all we want to accomplish in the next 10 years.”

The University of Calgary is embarking on a $1.3-billion comprehensive fundraising campaign, which we will publicly celebrate April 29, 2016, in conjunction with the university’s 50th anniversary. The campaign will have an increasingly broader public presence following the university’s 50th birthday.

Since the launch of the Eyes High strategic vision in 2011, the institution has undertaken numerous transformative changes. These initiatives advance our impact and influence both on and off campus, and continue to benefit and serve the local and global communities. These achievements could not have been possible without the support of the philanthropic community. Just a few examples of these initiatives include the Taylor Institute for Teaching and Learning; the Hunter Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation; the Cumming School of Medicine; the Werklund School of Education; and the UCalgaryStrong initiative.

Energize: The Campaign for Eyes High builds on the momentum of Eyes High, and encompasses three pillars supporting the Eyes High strategic vision.

“Through the support of the philanthropic community, we will energize student experiences to unleash potential, energize research outcomes to benefit society, and energize community connections to strengthen our ties,” says Nuvyn Peters, vice-president, development. “Working together, we will positively charge our campus community, our city and beyond.”

Visit Energize: The Campaign for Eyes High to learn more.