A Magazine for Alumni and Friends
Laurier’s most loyal and generous donors were celebrated during a special event hosted by Development and Alumni Relations on May 24. The annual Laurier Society Celebration recognizes individuals, corporations and foundations that support Laurier in its mission to inspire lives of leadership and purpose.
"We are here to say 'thank you,'" said Jana Gordon, assistant vice-president of development and campaign director. “Thank you for your donations. Every year, your generosity is the catalyst for ideas, learning, leadership, action and change… This annual event is very important, as it provides Laurier the opportunity to personally thank and celebrate our remarkable community of donors."
The evening included remarks from Laurier’s past president and vice-chancellor Max Blouw and Chair of the Board of Governors John Bowey. A highlight was the presentation of the 2017 Laurier Society Philanthropy Awards.
Roger and Edith Davis and their family were recognized with a Laurier Society Philanthropy Award for their long history of supporting their community of Brantford. Over the years, the couple has made several donations to the development of Laurier’s Brantford campus, most recently committing a leadership gift to the Laurier Brantford YMCA. The award was accepted by their son and daughter-in-law, Floyd and Kim Davis.
Helen and Steve Kun also received the 2017 Laurier Society Philanthropy Award. Devoted supporters and champions of Laurier, the Kuns have a long and generous history of supporting Laurier’s Brantford campus. Ten years ago, they supported the construction of the Steve and Helen Kun Lecture Hall, located in the Research and Academic Centre. In 2014, the Kun family provided a leadership gift to the Laurier Brantford YMCA. The award was accepted by the couple's children, Richard Kun, Cathy Tuck and Helen Tindale.
Marcia Powers-Dunlop (BA '69, MSW '76) also received the 2017 Laurier Society Philanthropy Award. An engaged alumna, volunteer and one of Laurier’s 100 Alumni of Achievement, Powers-Dunlop has generously supported Laurier since 1983, including establishing the Powers-Dunlop Female Athletic Award to recognize female athletes and team managers.
During the past year, 3,545 donors generously donated more than $8.7 million to help enhance and expand Laurier and its student experience.