Gala raises $250,000 for student scholarships and bursaries

OSHAWA, Ont. - Hundreds of students at Durham College and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) will be able to make their educational dreams a reality, thanks to the generous contributions of sponsors, auction donors and guests. A gala event held on Saturday, September 24, raised over $250,000 in support of scholarships and bursaries for students at both institutions.

"Thanks to the generous spirit of our donors, numerous students will have access to high quality post-secondary education," said David Chambers, president of the Durham College Foundation and vice-president of Advancement with UOIT. "The tremendous support from our Durham Region and Northumberland communities is overwhelming. Their generosity reflects their commitment to ensuring a bright future for the leaders of tomorrow."

Honorary Co-Chairs, Bob and Sallie Baun, led a team of community and campus-member volunteers who donated their time to create an entertaining and profitable event. "We wish to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Gala Committee volunteers who devoted so much personal attention to making sure the evening was an outstanding success."

Auction items generously donated by 250 local retailers and corporate sponsors, helped to make the night extraordinary. The sold-out event ensured that Durham College and UOIT students will have educational opportunities that otherwise may not have existed.

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About the University of Ontario Institute of Technology
As the province's newest university, the University of Ontario Institute of Technology provides a unique combination of academic knowledge, vibrant student life, leading-edge research, and hands-on skills. As Ontario's first laptop-based university, UOIT offers career-focused undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the fields of business and information technology, sciences, engineering, nursing, social science, and education. The university is committed to research excellence and has attracted significant research grants and awards including a Tier 1 Research Chair. Sharing facilities and selected services with Durham College, UOIT has attracted over 3,000 students since its inception in 2003. To find out more, visit www.uoit.ca or call 905.721.8668.

About Ontario Tech University
A modern, forwarding-thinking university, Ontario Tech advances the discovery and application of knowledge to accelerate economic growth, regional development and social innovation. We inspire and equip our students and our graduates to make a positive impact in a tech-focused world. For us, it’s not only about developing the next tech breakthrough. Understanding and integrating the social and ethical implications of technology differentiates us as university. Learn more at ontariotechu.ca.

Media contact
Heather Middleton
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
905.721.3111 ext. 2513
heather.middleton@dc-uoit.ca