A heartfelt thank you from Nipissing University to our alumni, donors and friends
Dear Nipissing University alumni, donors and friends,
As the final weeks of 2022 come to an end, we want to take this opportunity to share how deeply grateful we are for the Nipissing community and send a humble thank you. This past year, we have had lots to celebrate with the return of in-person events, students returning to campus, and stories of Nipissing supporters making a difference in the lives of students. I am honoured to be able to share some of these highlights with you.
In March, the inaugural Shoot for Change Charity Basketball game raised $18,000 towards BIPOC Bursaries at Nipissing University. This event was created by the Nipissing University Black Association for Student Expression (NUBASE) in partnership with Lakers basketball. This event was not only to raise money for BIPOC bursaries, but for students to advocate for marginalized communities.
We are excited for the 2nd Annual Shoot for Change Charity Basketball game to return in February 2023.
Providing opportunities for students to receive financial assistance remains a key priority at Nipissing. We do this through providing many scholarships, bursaries, and awards. This year, we were very fortunate to meet philanthropist Chris Braeuel who established the Mino-Bimaadiziwin Cultural Development Bursary. On Giving Tuesday, we raised funds in support of the Mino-Bimaadiziwin Cultural Development Bursary, as well as the establishment of an entrance scholarship from students from Nipissing First Nation, the first of its kind at Nipissing University. The response from our community on Giving Tuesday inspired us to extend this fundraising initiative until the end of the year. You can still make a tax-deductible donation before the end of year here.
We are humbled that two anonymous donors stepped forward to support the installation of a permanent tipi outside the Harris Learning Library. The Enji giigdoyang tipi is an important learning space for Nipissing students and we recognize its significance as we work towards reconciliation. To learn more about the Enji giigdoyang tipi, President Wamsley dedicated one of his Your Nipissing videos to this important learning space on campus.
The George and Helen Vari Foundation has continued to show support for Nipissing over the past year with the establishment of the George and Helen Vari BIPOC Student Scholarship and Bursary Fund and the George and Helen Vari Simulation Fund. More information about the new simulation centre will be forthcoming in 2023.
Nipissing University and the Canadian Federation of University Women North Bay (CFUW North Bay) were pleased to announce the establishment of a new scholarship in memory of Dr. Diana Walton, a French Language and Classical Studies professor at Nipissing University for 37 years who passed away last year following a battle with cancer. This scholarship will provide $1,000 for 15 years to a female-identifying student in the Faculty or Arts and Science.
A few weeks ago, we hosted the launch of Rare Dementia Support (RDS) Canada at Nipissing, a service for Canadians made possible with the support of the Hilary and Galen Weston Foundation. This service and research are reaching families and individuals impacted by rare and young onset dementia in all parts of the country. RDS Canada will provide a virtual space for those affected, offering access to information, tailored individual and group support and guidance, and connection with others affected by similar conditions.
At Nipissing, giving is never just about money. We have seen our community donate their time, resources and knowledge in order to keep students at the centre of everything we do. 2022 has been a great year, and we are excited to see what 2023 has in store.
Wishing you all a safe, healthy and happy holiday season.
Warmest,
Cristin Talentino, CFRE
Director, Advancement & External Relations