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This history is something we are all affected by because we are all treaty people in Canada. We all have a shared history to reflect on, and each of us is affected by this history in different ways. Our past defines our present, but if we move forward as friends and allies, then it does not have to define our future.

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UOIT announces $25,000 donation from Purdue Pharma

Announcement made during second annual Purdue Pharma Distinguished Lecture

OSHAWA, ON. - The University of Ontario Institute of Technology's (UOIT) Faculty of Science hosted its second annual Purdue Pharma Distinguished Lecture on campus yesterday and, in conjunction with the event, Purdue announced it has made a $25,000 donation to create an endowment to support UOIT science students.

The donation, which is being matched by the Ontario Trust for Student Support for a total value of $50,000, will be used toward the creation of an endowment that will generate one $2000 award each year. The Purdue Pharma Award will be given to a student pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree with a specialization in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, with preference given to a student who has completed the requirements for six semesters of the program and is enrolled in fourth year.

"On behalf of all the students in the Faculty of Science, I would like to thank Purdue Pharma for this significant contribution,"said Dr. William Smith, dean of the UOIT Faculty of Science. "This generous donation will help relieve the financial demands experienced by students as they continue to pursue a career in the pharmaceutical chemistry field by providing access to UOIT's technology-enhanced learning environment, state-of-the-art labs and world-class professors."

The lecture was delivered by Dr. Timothy Geary, Tier I Canada Research Chair in Parasite Biotechnology at McGill University. Presenting Why Parasites Matter, Dr. Geary spoke to students and community members on a variety of topics including the effect that parasites have on their hosts and potential therapeutic exploitation.

The Purdue Pharma Distinguished Lecture is designed to expose students and the general public to some of the country's leading experts and researchers as they explore a broad range of research topics related to the health of Canadians.

The support of leading corporations such as Purdue Pharma helps enhance the innovative and exceptional educational experience offered to students at UOIT. In particular, it furthers the Faculty of Science's dedication to creating and sharing scientific knowledge and infusing the thrill of discovery in its students, preparing them for rewarding careers as the next generation of highly skilled scientists and professionals or for post-degree studies and graduate school.

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About UOIT
As an innovative university, UOIT delivers a leading-edge learning environment that uniquely combines academic knowledge, research opportunities, hands-on skills and a vibrant student life. UOIT's more than 5,500 students are taught by professors who are experts in their fields from around the world. As Ontario's first laptop-based university, the university offers a diverse array of challenging undergraduate and graduate degree programs through its faculties of Business and Information Technology; Criminology, Justice and Policy Studies; Education; Energy Systems and Nuclear Science; Engineering and Applied Science; Health Sciences; and Science. UOIT's commitment to research excellence has resulted in millions of dollars in grants and awards, including five Canada Research Chairs. To find out more, visit www.uoit.ca or call 905.721.8668.

About Purdue Pharma
Purdue Pharma is a fully integrated, research-based pharmaceutical company based in Pickering, Ontario. Its mission is to advance healthcare through research, education and pharmaceutical innovation.


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
Michelle Roebuck
Communications and Marketing
Ontario Tech University
905.721.8668 ext. 2197
michelle.roebuck@uoit.ca