Nipissing University receives $1-million gift from The Peacock Family Foundation
(left to right) Nipissing University representatives, Drs. Kevin Wamsley, President and Vice-Chancellor, Mary-Pat Sullivan, Principal Lead, Rare Dementia Support Canada, and Barbi Law, Associate Vice-President of Research, Innovation and Graduate Studies
North Bay, ON – Earlier today, Nipissing University announced the receipt of a $1 million donation from The Peacock Family Foundation in support of student research, Indigenous initiatives, and Rare Dementia Support Canada (RDS Canada). Drs. John and Adrienne Peacock, who received honorary doctorates from Nipissing in 2023, are passionate advocates for post-secondary education across Canada and have made this gift to enhance opportunities for students and faculty at the University.
“This generous gift from John and Adrienne Peacock will have a lasting impact on our University community,” said Dr. Kevin Wamsley, President and Vice-Chancellor of Nipissing University. “Their investment in student research, Indigenous initiatives, and Rare Dementia Support reflects their deep commitment to education and to fostering meaningful change in communities. We are grateful for their vision, generosity, and support.”
The donation will be allocated to three key areas:
- Undergraduate Research Fellowships and Giving Tuesday Matching Funds ($600,000): This funding will expand opportunities for undergraduate students to engage in hands-on research. A portion of the funds will also be used to match donations made to Nipissing University’s 2024 Giving Tuesday and End of Year Appeal, in support of the Student Research Opportunity Fund.
- Rare Dementia Support Canada ($250,000): This funding will strengthen the work of Rare Dementia Support Canada. Based at Nipissing University, RDS Canada uses a translational research model to provide meaningful support for Canadians impacted by rare and young-onset dementias.
- Indigenous Initiatives and Reconciliation Efforts ($150,000): This portion of the gift will contribute to the creation of a wampum belt as part of Nipissing University’s strategic planning process, as well as provide funding to support Reconciliation events on campus.
The Peacock’s history of supporting higher education across the country reflects their belief in the power of education to transform lives.
“Nipissing University is a leader in fostering student success and driving innovative research,” said John and Adrienne Peacock. “We are honoured to contribute to these important initiatives that will provide students and faculty with valuable opportunities to make a meaningful impact in communities across Canada.”
The Nipissing University community expresses its deepest gratitude to the Peacocks for their generosity and their ongoing support of higher education and student success.
Media Contact:
Khia Beauchesne
Communications Officer
Nipissing University
(705) 474-3450 ext. 4035
communications@nipissingu.ca