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Waterloo Region entrepreneurs and philanthropists Margaret and Larry Marsland are the 2021 recipients of the Laurier Philanthropy Award.
The Marslands are long-time, active supporters of Laurier, as well as highly engaged members of the Kitchener-Waterloo community.
They have given back to the university in several ways, including donations of more than $1 million in support of the Laurier Start-up Fund and Lazaridis Hall, where the 150-seat Marsland Family Classroom was built and named in the family's honour.
Margaret and Larry Marsland, recipients of the 2021 Laurier Philanthropy Award, speak with Lazaridis School of Business and Economics Dean Micheál Kelly during a past visit to Laurier.
“The Laurier Philanthropy Award is one of our most meaningful awards at Laurier, honouring those who have made a lasting impact for both Laurier students and the broader community,” says Laurier President and Vice-Chancellor Deborah MacLatchy. “Margaret, Larry and the Marsland family’s generosity have touched the lives of generations of people.”
Jason Coolman, vice-president: Advancement and External Relations
The Marsland family has deep roots in Waterloo Region. Their original family business, Marsland Radio Service, which became Marsland Engineering, was started by Larry’s father, Stanley, in 1929.
Their current family business, Marsland Centre Ltd., was established in 1972 from that original business. Today, it develops and manages a portfolio of commercial and industrial buildings located mostly in Waterloo.
In addition to their successful business, the Marsland family has engaged in extensive volunteerism and philanthropy in the greater Kitchener-Waterloo community.
“Larry and I have lived in the community for a long time,” says Margaret. “We’ve watched it grow and, as it grew, we grew with it in our business. We just feel that we owe the community a great deal and we’re very fortunate that we are able to do that – and we will continue to do that.”
Due to pandemic protocols, Laurier was unable to present the Laurier Philanthropy Award in person. Instead, the award was presented virtually during a small and intimate celebration.
“The Marsland family has made a tremendous impact at Laurier and in our community, driving economic prosperity, nourishing the arts and supporting community wellness,” says Jason Coolman, vice-president: Advancement and External Relations. “We are grateful for their friendship and thrilled to honour Margaret and Larry as recipients of the Laurier Philanthropy Award.”