The KPU Alumni Association (KPUAA) is playing a lead role in a campaign to raise much-needed funds to support students at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU).
The KPUAA’s board of directors has committed to matching donations from KPU alumni during Giving Tuesday on Dec. 1, a global day dedicated to giving back on the heels of the shopping frenzies of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Funds raised from the drive will go towards a KPU Alumni Association Endowment for bursaries, community-service awards and scholarships.
As Challenge Champion, the association will contribute $25,000 in matching dollars on Giving Tuesday, and with alumni matching this commitment, will launch its fund with $50,000 raised on the international day of philanthropy.
“Many students struggle financially throughout their post-secondary studies, and the COVID-19 pandemic has placed additional strain on students as they struggle to make ends meet at a time of high unemployment,” said Dr. Alan Davis, KPU president and vice-chancellor.
“This funding support from our alumni community could not come at a better time.
“Giving Tuesday donations from KPU alumni will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $25,000, but the KPUAA’s financial commitment goes further.”
The board of directors has pledged an additional $25,000 over the next five years to continue to build the endowment, introducing a growing number of annual student awards at KPU.
With KPU alumni also personally contributing to the fund, the endowment will quickly become one of the largest student award endowments held by the KPU Foundation.
