UOIT recognizes donor generosity with interactive digital display

OSHAWA, ON. - The University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) recently celebrated and recognized the generous contributions of its donors during a special unveiling, following the annual general meeting of the Board of Governors, at the north Oshawa location. Using innovative technology, the university will honour its supporters and their commitment to excellence in education.

“We are truly grateful for the support of our donors,” said UOIT President Tim McTiernan, PhD. “Their generosity has helped shape UOIT into a 21^st-century university that is committed to excellence in teaching and learning, innovative research and providing our students with a technology-enriched learning environment.”

The donor wall, housed in the Energy Systems and Nuclear Science Research Centre, consists of two components: a permanent listing honouring donors of the Visionary, Champion, Innovator, Collaborator and Challenger societies; and an innovative touch screen digital recognition display, which honours all donors to the university who contribute $1,000 or more and includes a brief description of each. A second digital recognition display will be installed at the 61 Charles Street building at the end of the month, allowing UOIT to recognize its donors at the north Oshawa and downtown campus locations.

In addition to the display unveiling, presentations were made by President McTiernan; Doug McKay, chair of the Advancement Committee of UOIT’s Board of Governors; Bob Strickert, founding board member and current chair of the Friends of UOIT Committee; and Rachel Calvelli, president, Your Student Association. Each of them highlighted the significant impact donors have made on the overall student experience and growth of the university. The event concluded with a reception held outside in Polonsky Commons where UOIT alumni shared with donors how their support helped them as students.

Since opening its doors in 2003, individuals, foundations and industry, have contributed more than $124 million in support of students and their pursuit of a university education. They have also helped to build an endowment fund worth $13.1 million. Through this endowment and expendable awards, the university was able to provide more than 200 awards to deserving students during the 2011-2012 academic year.

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