Scholarship program raises more than $10 million for TMU students – giving

For Edmund Natkunarajah (Urban and Regional Planning '23), receiving the PACE award was “a beacon of support and encouragement. Thanks to the TMU Pride Award, I was able to focus on my studies, complete my degree, and now I'm in a position to give back to the community. It makes me happy because as a queer person, as a member of the LGBTQ community, I feel accepted at the university.”

“This kind gift has eased the burden on my shoulders,” says Catchway. “I'm a first-generation student and this wouldn't have been possible without the scholarship. I am grateful to be able to continue my education and pay my living expenses and travel home.'' During the summer months, Catchway returns home to Skownan First Nation in Manitoba to mentor students in grades 3 through 7. “I want to inspire Indigenous children to further their education.”

Natkunaraja and Catchway's stories are just part of the impact of the ECPA program. More than 5,900 students are supported each year through the PACE award program.

PACE aims to support promising young talents. Recipients may be the first in their family to attend university. They may be an international student, Indigenous student, racialized and/or 2SLGBTQIA+ student, or student with a disability. She may also be a woman in a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) field or from another group underrepresented in postsecondary education.

The awards are founded on the recognition that improving access to education is an engine of change, not just for the people they support, but for society as a whole. Equity and access remain priorities at TSU, and fundraising for PACE will continue.

If the President's initial goal of $10 million is met, let's celebrate this milestone as a community. Thank you to everyone who joined this campaign to protect property rights.