Annual Donor Impact Report

2021-22

“

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Message from the

President Like the community around us, Brock University has faced unprecedented challenges over the past two years from the COVID-19 pandemic. However, as I look back and reflect, I am extremely proud of how our campus community was able to adapt to these changing situations and emerge stronger than ever. Offering students an outstanding University experience remains our unwavering priority. We continue to pursue the objectives outlined in our strategic plan to ensure that we are advancing our institution while continuing to offer an accessible and supportive student-centered experience that is also equitable, diverse, and inclusive. Over the past year, we have further advanced our research across the University while also putting a focus on developing new academic programming that meets the needs of our students and of the Region, implementing innovative teaching approaches, and delivering high-quality student services and supports, including and especially mental health and well-being supports. The Brock University campus is reinvigorated with the energy of our students, staff and faculty, and it has been wonderful to see the return of in-person events and celebrations such as Convocation in recent months. On behalf of the whole University, thank you for your support of our students and community.

Lynn Wells Interim President and Vice-Chancellor Brock University

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Message from the Associate Vice-President, Advancement & External Relations Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the community both at Brock University and beyond stepped up to support our students like never before. It allowed us to provide our students with a superb academic experience and the supports and services required for continued success. The story of this past year has been one of collaboration as new and existing partnerships were celebrated, showing the positive impact that comes as a result of working together. The continued commitment of our donors and partners was crucial to our story of success. Together, we will continue to advance Brock as a comprehensive university chosen by so many students as they embark upon their postsecondary journey. Thank you to all who are part of our story, and we look forward to what is to come.

Gord Arbeau Associate Vice-President, Advancement & External Relations Brock University

Message from the Executive Director, Development & Campaigns Words fall short to express the gratitude that is felt for the generosity, support, advocacy and cheering of our donors, community, and partners over the past year. Because of you, Brock continues to thrive. The impact of your support is felt in the spaces where students study, in the programs they pursue, in the awards and scholarships they are proud to receive and in their dedication to complete their studies and graduate as leaders of tomorrow. Thank you for choosing Brock to make a difference. Your support has touched many lives. We hope you enjoy reading some incredible stories of triumph and support. We would love to hear from you. If you have feedback or questions about this report, please contact stewardship@brocku.ca

Sonia Dupte Executive Director, Development & Campaigns Brock University Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

In conversation with

Hilary Pearson

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Brock University Chancellor Hilary Pearson is a recognized Canadian leader in philanthropy and community engagement who has worked closely with many of the country’s largest private charitable foundations. She sat down with Brock University Executive Director, Development & Campaigns Sonia Dupte to discuss the changing landscape of philanthropy, giving during the pandemic, and how donors can help make society more equitable for all.

SD: H ow has COVID impacted philanthropy? Will there be new philanthropic trends or opportunities as we recover from the pandemic? HP: The pandemic has made inequality and its consequences much more explicit. Philanthropy has been urgently called on to put more financial resource on the table to support needs — especially in those vulnerable and marginalized communities who already had much to deal with before the pandemic. There was a strong response with many foundations and individuals increasing their giving. They spread their giving to more organizations and neighbourhoods which hadn’t received such funding before the crisis. There is every indication this will continue. The pandemic has made clear that certain communities have less resilience to this kind of systemic challenge.

SD: H ow would you describe Canada’s current philanthropy support infrastructure? HP: Canada’s philanthropy infrastructure has come a long way since 2000. There are national networks now to support donor choices and to educate donors about philanthropy. Donors benefit from these networks which provide opportunities for networking and learning about giving practices. There are also well-established networks for fundraisers, financial advisors and other professionals who advise donors on their philanthropy. And the federal government has contributed a very generous infrastructure of tax incentives to redistribute wealth through philanthropy.

SD: H ow do we enhance giving in Canada and specifically to higher education? HP: In my experience, most giving is prompted by people’s individual stories and passions. Education, and specifically higher education, benefits from generous multi-milliondollar gifts and legacies, largely because education is such a formative experience for most people. Many donors want to recreate the opportunities they had for young people coming to higher education. Others are inspired by the potential for expanding knowledge and contributing to the improvement of human life through new discoveries.

SD: H ow is philanthropy important in achieving a more equitable society? HP: Philanthropy has been criticized for being the domain of wealthy people who may have made their money based on an unequal economic system. In this view, philanthropy comes from inequality and therefore can’t be expected to end inequality. I think this is a little simplistic. Capitalism enables wealth creation. But it also enables the development of a philanthropy that can apply creativity and a long view to the resolution of our complex social issues. Philanthropy can’t solve inequality alone. But with more collaboration, more innovation and more attention to the ideas and assets found in communities themselves, philanthropy can strengthen communities and help to spread opportunity.

SD: W hat are your thoughts on philanthropy as it relates to reconciliation with Canada's Indigenous communities? HP: Philanthropy has been very late to the reconciliation table. Historically, foundations and donors did not give to Indigenous communities despite the very great need. Since the Truth and Reconciliation Commission reported in 2015, I think there has been the beginning of a change, though there is a long way to go. But foundations signed on in encouraging numbers to the Philanthropic Community’s Declaration of Action on reconciliation in 2015 and after. They have committed themselves to education, building respectful relations with Indigenous communities and making efforts to support the needs of these communities, following in their lead. In the reconciliation process, learning about how to decolonize philanthropic assumptions and language is very important. I see many donors making that effort, and it will take a generation or more. But it is happening.

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Notes of triumph, led by Brock’s strategic plan W ith the support of our donors and friends, Brock has remained committed to advancing the strategic priorities of the institution, resulting in enhancements for our students, faculty, staff and community. Led by our Institutional Strategic Plan, Brock continues to advance as Niagara’s comprehensive university by offering a transformational and accessible academic and university experience; fostering a culture of inclusivity, accessibility, reconciliation and decolonization; expanding research capacity locally and globally;

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

and enhancing the life and vitality of our region and beyond. As we reflect on the past year, we are grateful to the Brock and Niagara community for their support of our mission, vision and values, and look forward to all that we, together, can accomplish. Guided by strategic priorities, Brock looks to maintain balanced excellence and stay on a trajectory to become the university of choice for a growing number of students and academics.

Scan to see a full listing of donors who support these priorities and many other campus initiatives to enhance Brock’s student experience.

Brock men’s hockey coach Ed Davis, right, pictured in a photo from a practice in November 1968. From left are Wayne Kenyon, Bill Enovy, Mike Nicholson, Ron St. Louis and Davis.

Ed Davis Many recognize Brock University alumnus Ed Davis (BA ’72) for his legacy as Brock’s first men’s hockey coach from 1967 to 1969. To date, the Brock men’s hockey Most Valuable Player trophy is named in Davis’ honour and Davis was inducted into the Brock Hall of Fame in 2009. What many don’t know is that Davis didn’t just coach the team, he established it. In 1966, Davis stood on the Brock campus — one that would be unrecognizable to most today — and envisioned the future of a men’s hockey team for a University that was just two years old. Originally from Stratford, the young pharmaceutical representative and Senior A hockey player was working in St. Catharines one day when the University’s first President, James Gibson, called him. “He heard I had helped with the hockey program at Waterloo and wondered if I would be interested in starting a hockey program at what was then the brand new Brock,” said Davis. Recently, some 55 years after his tenure as a Brock coach ended, Davis chose to once again invest in the future of Brock men’s hockey. Through a personal gift, he established the Ed Davis Scholarship, which will be awarded to incoming varsity student-athletes of the men’s hockey team starting in September of 2022. After reflecting on his time at Brock, Davis said he just felt it was time to give back. “Not only did I get to graduate from Brock, but I got to start a hockey team for the same university. Who else can say that?” said Davis. The scholarship will live as a tribute to Davis’ contributions to the prosperity of our University and his dedication to the future of Brock hockey and its players. Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Dr. Yousef Haj-Ahmad (BSc ’80, MSc ’82), retired Brock Professor and President of Norgen Biotek.

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Brock alumnus & retired professor invests in the future of engineering at Brock

ousef Haj-Ahmad (BSc ’80, MSc ’82) has been investing in the future of Brock University’s students and programming since 1989. After completing both an undergraduate and Master’s degree from Brock, Haj-Ahmad joined the Brock faculty as a Professor of Biological Sciences in 1989, where he taught students for 24 years before retirement. During his time at Brock, Haj-Ahmad also founded Norgen Biotek Corp in 1998, a slow but steadily growing company advancing the field of biotechnology research and testing, which he continued to run after retirement from the University. After retirement, Haj-Ahmad’s dedication to Brock and its students remained; Haj-Ahmad established a scholarship to provide financial support for students studying Biotechnology and Biological Sciences at Brock. Additionally, Norgen Biotek Corp continuously welcomes Brock co-op students and graduates, often giving them their first chance at industry through the lab. “When nobody believed in me, Brock believed in me,” said Haj-Ahmad. “Now, I believe in the new graduates, we’ll happily take them in at Norgen Biotek Corp, and we’ll teach them.” Now, through a $5-million gift from The Yousef Haj-Ahmad Family Foundation, Haj-Ahmad will have another game-

Lila Haj-Ahmad (BSc ’16)

changing impact on Brock students, the Niagara community and beyond. The transformational gift has established the Yousef Haj-Ahmad Department of Engineering at Brock University. With four of Haj-Ahmad’s children also holding degrees from Brock, the family of alumni’s decision to make a visionary gift to the University is the result of the family’s lifelong collective connection to Brock, and their belief that their alma mater can play a major role in an emerging sector. The new Integrated Engineering Department will offer Brock students unique, made-in-Niagara interdisciplinary programming, blurring the lines between traditional engineering disciplines. The Department will continue to expand its offerings, with a Bachelor of Engineering on the horizon for 2024 and Master’s and Doctoral programs to be launched shortly after. “Brock University has been home since I moved to Canada in the mid-1970s” said Haj-Ahmad. He’s now making ‘home’ a place of excellence and possibility for teachers, researchers and students. In more ways than one, Haj-Ahmad is shaping the leaders of tomorrow and has continuously invested in Brock in support of job creation, business development, community development and social inclusion across the Niagara region and beyond.

Miriam Haj-Ahmad (BA ’19)

Zak Haj-Ahmad (BSc ’17)

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

TD support improves well-being and advances Brock programming for seniors in Niagara

s a long-time supporter of Brock University and the Niagara region, TD Bank Group (TD) responded to the increased need of both physical and sociological support for seniors in our community. Through a multi-year grant, TD has invested in Brock’s SeniorFit program, offered by the BrockNiagara Centre for Health and Well-Being. The SeniorFit program, designed for Niagara residents 55 and older, works to enhance the quality of life across the lifespan by promoting and supporting a healthy lifestyle. The program focuses on exercise for seniors and those with other chronic conditions to improve strength, mobility and independence, while also enhancing confidence and self-esteem. Manning the program and working directly with seniors are Brock students from Kinesiology, Health Sciences, Therapeutic Recreation, Nursing and Gerontology programs. In addition to promoting physical and mental well-being for seniors, while providing Brock students a unique experiential learning opportunity, SeniorFit also supports intergenerational interactions that benefit both the senior and the student. As expected, as we emerged from the pandemic, the unique SeniorFit program has increased in popularity, with more seniors needing or wanting assistance, programming and social interaction. The grant from TD will help the Brock-Niagara Centre both assess and expand the program to better serve seniors in the region.

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Primarily, a full needs assessment will be completed to identify other potential areas for growth, while a research project will be conducted to evaluate the positive impacts the Centre’s programs are having on its members. “TD’s generous funding provides a secure foundation for what has become an important resource to the community,” said Faculty of Applied Health Sciences Dean, Peter Tiidus. Additionally, the grant allows the Centre to expand its SeniorFit program across the region using satellite locations. By bringing programming where the people are, we remove barriers to accessibility for seniors and thus expand awareness and opportunity for seniors to work to reduce the occurrences and severity of chronic conditions and illnesses. With expanded locations comes expanded program offerings and staff. More student-staff mean more one-on-one experiences for SeniorFit members, ensuring an individualized program is created based on each member’s needs. “This donation from TD is allowing us to do things we always wanted to do, but weren’t able to do without this funding,” shared SeniorFit Director Kim Gammage. Thanks to TD’s support, the expanded locations and offerings, and the assessment and research that will take place, Brock anticipates SeniorFit to continue to grow quite quickly, furthering its benefits for students and seniors of Niagara.

Brock student volunteer Daphne Redillas helps to guide retired Brock Professor Tony Ward through a workout at the Brock-Niagara Centre for Health and Well-Being.

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Brock joins important conversations during Bell Let’s Talk

rock University joined organizations across Canada in recognizing Bell Let’s Talk Day on Wednesday, Jan. 26 with a week of workshops and initiatives focused on raising awareness about mental health and wellness. As a leader in campus mental health — ranking first among all comprehensive universities in Canada for mental health supports in the annual Maclean’s University Rankings for the fourthconsecutive year — Brock encouraged its students, staff and faculty to participate in the many planned activities dedicated to growing the community’s collective knowledge about mental health and demonstrating how to support students, colleagues and others with their mental health struggles. Interim President Lynn Wells reminded Brock University students and employees of the importance of caring for one’s mental health and well-being. “The past several years have been challenging for all of us,” she said. “Brock University takes the mental health and overall well-being of our community members very seriously.” The University hosted a wide range of events around Bell Let’s Talk Day ranging from sleep and mindfulness workshops to relationship building sessions and an important conversation around healthy body image. Brock’s Student Wellness and Accessibility Centre also partnered with Brock Sports for a series of wellness workshops designed specifically for student-athletes. While the Brock University Students’ Union (BUSU) hosted a free mental health talk and virtual Q&A session with Canadian sprinter and six-time Olympic medalist Andre De Grasse. There was also a full social media campaign around mental health supports while Brock’s Alumni Relations distributed 400 cookies called Badger Grams with messages of support and encouragement from graduates for students living in residences.

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Brock Campus Store student staff members Hailey McCurk, a third-year Child and Youth Studies student, and Charlotte Giroux, a third-year Concurrent Education student, package an online order from the Campus Store in advance of Bell Let’s Talk Day.

Fred Kingsley Fred Kingsley was a long-time supporter of Brock University and the role post-secondary education played in the growth and success of the Niagara region that he loved. Kingsley met his wife Judy during his time as a reporter, columnist, and editor at the St. Catharines Standard, where he worked for nearly four decades. In the early years of development for the University, Kingsley and colleagues at the Standard led the “Mile of Quarters” initiative, collecting quarters until a row of them stretched from the front desk to the newsroom and back again. The quarters were then donated towards the initial funding of Brock in 1964. Reflecting on her late husband’s excitement towards the efforts, Judy shared, “It was a big deal. We didn’t have a university in St. Catharines and many of us, Fred especially, believed the region deserved one.” From the initial years, the couple followed the evolution of the University and the growing impact it had on the region. Judy shared they were “absolutely fascinated” by the level of education available in their hometown. Following Kingsley’s passing in 2020, Judy and their children chose to donate a generous gift to Brock in support of student success and resources in his honour. “Everything about Brock has served so much good in our lives,” said Judy. “Fred would be pleased to know this gift was made in his memory to establish a good on-campus experience for students.”

MONEY-CHECK-DOLLAR-PEN 636

Number of Funds Supporting Student Awards

The Kingsley family gathered around their father, late Fred Kinsley and mother, Judy Kingsley. Back row from left to right, Catherine Kingsley (Millson) (BA ’89), Peter Kingsley (BA ’89), Susan Kingsley and Carolyn Boll.

award $ 1,228.40 Average Donor-Funded Student Award

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

“ Throughout this last year, students continued to overcome odds presented by the pandemic. Though some of those odds remain, the support and generosities by donors have offered a light in the darkness. Your contributions have made consequential differences in the lives of graduate students and the greater Brock community. The depth of your generosities do not go unnoticed, unappreciated or unacknowledged – you’ve helped illuminate the paths of our futures.”

Haley Myatt

President & Chief Executive Officer, Brock University Graduate Students' Association

“ Thank you for the support of the nursing simulation labs that provide us with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and skills.”

Elisha Fogg 4th year Nursing

“ The many study places we have on campus are so important. Being able to study in the Rankin Family Pavilion, Market Hall, the Library, Plaza and various other locations on campus have allowed me to be successful academically. Thank you for all of your support!”

Sally Bellevue

4th year Concurrent Education

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

“ Donor support is vital for us as Brock students to achieve success in our studies and to ensure a positive student experience from day one through to convocation. Ranging from student award support, to essential programming, to advancing research, and the necessary spaces to learn, gifts in support of all areas of the experience mean so much to us.”

Faten Darbaj

President, Brock University Students’ Union

“ I want to thank Brock for recognizing that equity within the institution is important enough to address overtly. By creating this scholarship, the University has elevated us as students and amplified our platform.”

Nwakerendu Waboso

(BA ’07, MA ’12) was honoured to be chosen as one of the first 20 recipients of Brock University’s Horizon Graduate Student Scholarship.

“ Having the ability to book free personal counselling sessions around the clock really helps to make us Brock students feel supported during our studies. These resources are made possible through the support of our generous donors. Thank you!”

Liam Nielsen

4th year Sport Management Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Community rallies to raise more than $42,000 in support of student success on Giving Tuesday

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

n November 30, Brock University was among thousands of not-for-profit organizations celebrating Giving Tuesday, a day used to encourage communities to volunteer and donate to charitable causes that are near and dear to their heart. At Brock, that cause is student success. With students back on campus for the first time in two years, Brock University asked our community to make donations designated to our students; with focus on initiatives enhancing the student learning experience and making a meaningful difference in the lives of Brock students. And like always, the Brock and Niagara community answered. By rallying together and supporting a range of student-centric funds such as scholarships and bursaries, facilities and spaces, academic programs, student services, athletics, and research, our community raised over $42,000 for Brock students through this initiative. Together with faculty, staff and students, we were able to raise awareness and share the potential a day like Giving Tuesday has on the future of our

institution and the value we place on supporting the urgent needs of students and the value of the student experience at Brock. By putting student success at the forefront of our minds, together with our community, Brock creates future-ready, resilient, and versatile Badgers ready to change the world. Students in the coming years will reap the benefits of both new and increased capacity for existing student supports, thanks to the funds raised in this year’s Giving Tuesday activities. “The overwhelming response to this year’s initiative is validation that the community is committed to seeing our students, and Brock, succeed,” said Sonia Dupte, Executive Director, Development & Campaigns. At Brock we are proud of what our students accomplish every single day. We also recognize the advancement of our students and institution are a direct result of the supportive community and culture of philanthropy that surrounds us. When we unite as a community, there is no limit to what we can make possible for our students.

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Goodman alumna Deborah Rosati, centre, presenting the 2018 Deborah E. Rosati Entrepreneurship Award to Brock Goodman School of Business student Olivia Poulin and Neuroscience student Ethan Foy.

Deborah Rosati Alumna Deborah Rosati (BAdmin ’84), has spent nearly four decades building her career as a respected Corporate Director, Entrepreneur and Fellow Chartered Professional Accountant. While gaining monumental life and business experience as a woman in leadership, Rosati has kept Brock front of mind. Over the years and through various engagements with the Brock community, Rosati has ensured students continue to have the positive experience she once did. Recently, Rosati’s social purpose company, Women Get On Board Inc. (WGOB) launched a mentorship program to match aspiring corporate mentees with accomplished corporate directors (mentors). Following suit, based on the WGOB’s success with the program and in alignment with Brock’s existing initiatives to support women in leadership, Rosati’s recent gift has established a Women in Leadership mentorship program at Brock.

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Rosati’s goal for the mentorship program in both her company and now at Brock holds the same intention as most of her work; to inspire, elevate, support, encourage and motivate women in leadership. Spending most of her professional career leading and serving on boards and in executive positions where she was one of few, if not the only woman around the boardroom table, Rosati wants to make the landscape more diverse and inclusive for women entering board and leadership roles today. “The only way to lead is by example,” said Rosati. “My hope is that by giving back to my community in ways that are meaningful and by stepping up as a woman leader, I will inspire others to do the same. The goal of my support is not only to enable and motivate the next generation of women leaders at Brock but also encourage other existing women leaders to invest in the future of the next generation of us.”

Secondary school students choosing Brock at near-record levels

rock University has seen a significant increase in applications among Ontario high school students wanting to attend the University this fall. Nearing pre-pandemic levels of enrolment interest, Brock received an 11.2 per cent increase in applications from Ontario secondary school students in the first in a series of key application dates for the upcoming 2022-23 academic year. After a pandemic-related dip across the sector last year, post-secondary schools across the province saw an 8.4 per cent average increase in applications, according to data released by the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC). Brock outpaced that average by nearly three per cent, while also seeing an eight per cent increase in applicants who listed the University as their top choice of the universities they selected on the OUAC application forms. “This level of interest from Ontario high school students tells us that students have persevered in their studies through difficult pandemic conditions and are ready to continue their journey with Brock University as their home,” said Brock Interim President Lynn Wells. The University’s recruiting team continues to use creative ways to reach prospective students. With the pandemic causing the cancellation of major events such as the in-person Ontario Universities Fair in both 2020 and 2021, Brock turned to virtual tours, online open houses and a significant digital marketing campaign. “We’ve tried to meet the prospective students where they are,” said Matt Melnyk, Director, Student Recruitment and Acting Director, International Market Development. “We’re trying our best to meet their needs through creativity, responsiveness and being agile with how we engage with these potential students.” To learn more about what Brock has to offer prospective students, visit discover.brocku.ca

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Brock University Nursing students Anna Khutornaya (left) and Gabrianne Webster (right) work with a patient simulator in one of the University’s Nursing labs on the St. Catharines campus.

Brock launches Canada’s first accelerated concurrent Nursing program 22

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

or more than two decades, Brock University has been educating future health-care workers through its renowned Nursing program. With demand soaring, Brock Nursing has taken two significant steps forward in 2022 — launching a first-of-its-kind concurrent Bachelor of Nursing/ Master of Nursing (BN/MN) program, while also greatly expanding the capacity for its popular undergraduate program. “We have grown exponentially this year,” says Department of Nursing Chair Karyn Taplay. “Everyone connected to our program stepped up immensely to help make this year of transition a success; all are to be congratulated.” The concurrent BN/MN degree in Nursing is an innovative, course-based program designed to provide students with a high-quality alternative entry to practice that includes a hands-on and theoretical approach.

The 20-month expedited program offers students both an undergraduate and graduate degree in Nursing. Graduates of the program are also eligible to write the NCLEX-RN registration exam. Shortly after that program held its first classes in early May, the Faculty of Applied Health Sciences also announced it was increasing undergraduate intake from 80 to 180 students starting this fall. The increase in enrolment led to the addition of 11 full- and part-time faculty and staff positions, as well as 23 part-time clinical instructors to help teach students. “The important contributions and leadership Brock Nursing students and graduates provide to the health of citizens in Niagara, the Province of Ontario and beyond, help to address systemic gaps and improve quality of care for patients,” says Faculty of Applied Health Sciences Dean Peter Tiidus. “More broadly, the growth of our Nursing program and the learning opportunities we provide enables our graduates to embark on career paths that respond to the changing health needs of Canadians.”

To accommodate the rapid growth of Brock’s Nursing program, a third Nursing simulation lab was recently constructed. “Brock’s Nursing simulation labs are safe learning environments that allow students to learn to proficiently care for their patients,” Taplay says. “Practising in the lab prepares students to learn basic skills they will use with every patient on every shift. “They also become skilled in high stakes, low frequency events they may not encounter during their academic career.” While the official opening of the third Nursing lab will not take place until September, the space is already being used by that first cohort of BN/MN degree in Nursing students. “The expansion of Brock’s nationally recognized Nursing program responds to the growing need for health-care professionals,” said Interim University President Lynn Wells. “Brock is proud to support the health-care system in Niagara and beyond with our talented faculty educating future nurses in modern on-campus learning spaces.”

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Marilyn Burman (BA ’94) with her husband, Graham Love (BBE ’03).

Marilyn Burman For Marilyn Burman (BA ’94), graduating from and giving back to Brock is a family tradition. Born in Montreal, at the age of eight, Burman moved to St. Catharines where she would stay and later have a family of her own. Burman’s husband, Graham Love (BBE ’03) and son, Christopher Love (BA ’16) attended Brock and often boasted about their positive experience at the University and how integral it was to the region. With the aspiration to write a children’s book in her 40s, Burman enrolled in a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and History at the highly recommended University. After a positive educational experience of her own, Burman and her family (the Burman-Love family) began donating to Brock shortly after her graduation. “I ended up using every single skill learned during my time at Brock to have a successful career as the Executive Director of the Children’s Discovery Centre of Niagara,” shared Burman. Both Graham, who retired as Marketing

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Director of Henry Schein, and Christopher, who works as a family mediator in Niagara, also attribute their success to the education they received from the University. Fast forward 25 years and the Burman-Love family have been loyal supporters of Brock University and its many campaigns and initiatives for more than two decades. For the past decade of their giving, the family has been supporting the Burman Love Family Award, which they established in 2012. The award is given annually to a student of Indigenous descent, in any year of study, with preference given to students enrolled in the Indigenous Studies program. Building on Brock’s priority to foster a culture of inclusivity, accessibility, reconciliation and decolonization, the BurmanLove family shared that they have always felt it important to support the Indigenous community. By combining that personal desire with the giving options at Brock, they can also pay tribute to the family’s alma mater.

Darren Fox “Start early and give what you can” has been Darren Fox’s (BBA ’00) motto since he started giving back to Brock nearly 22 years ago. The Brock alumnus looks back on his time at the University quite fondly. As a student, he held various roles from Residence Action Council Executive and Residence Don to Conference Services employee. “I believe there’s two types of learning that you do during your time at university – the kind that happens in the classroom and the learning of life skills that happens on the side, and I really wanted to experience both,” shared Fox. Initially, it was through his time, dedication and leadership that Fox saw a way of giving back to the University. Upon graduation, he joined the Brock University Student’s Union (BUSU) as the Vice-President of Finance, where he served a one-year term as well as the Brock University Alumni Association (BUAA) Board, where he served for six years, with his last two as President. After a few sporadic gifts in the years following graduation, Fox began a monthly donation to Brock in 2011 in support of the University’s area of greatest need, which he has continued to this day. By allowing Brock to allocate the funds where students need them most, Fox’s giving has supported all aspects of student life – from student awards and bursaries to mental health supports, extracurriculars and more. “It wasn’t until I received a call from a student caller that I realized I could donate monthly. I started at a small amount that was affordable for me at the time. I knew I wouldn’t miss a few dollars a month and those dollars had the potential to really add up,” said Fox. Today, Fox works as an Alumni Relations Officer at Brock. Reflecting on his giving, both volunteer and monetary, he recognizes that his invaluable university experience was a result of someone else in the community paying it forward, and he feels a draw to do the same. “As alumni, we all attended Brock on the good graces of other people who were willing to give and both establish and grow this University into what it is today. I want to keep that going,” said Fox.

Darren Fox (BBA ’00), Alumni Relations Officer at Brock University.

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Brock University Assistant Professor of Kinesiology and Canada Research Chair in Tissue Plasticity and Remodelling Val Fajardo, left, is heading up a research team investigating how to prevent space travelers from experiencing muscle loss and weakness, bone fragility and cognitive decline, and how this can be applied to health on Earth. From left: Fajardo, master’s student Ryan Baranowski, PhD student Jessica Braun, master’s student Briana Hockey and master’s student Emily Copeland.

Brock University's newest Canada Research Chairs (CRCs) are, from left to right: Paula Duarte-Guterman, Assistant Professor, Psychology; Newman Sze, Professor, Health Sciences; Matthew Kwan, Assistant Professor, Child and Youth Studies; and Danielle Sirianni Molnar, Associate Professor, Child and Youth Studies. They are four of 10 CRCs at Brock studying a range of topics across the university.

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

Canada Research Chairs program puts Brock on the map B rock University Professor of Psychology Karen Campbell has made breakthroughs in understanding how age affects memory. She’s shown that older adults have difficulty recalling things because they’re more easily distracted and connect more unrelated items in their minds than younger people. As a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair (CRC) in Cognitive Neuroscience of Aging, Campbell has built an impressive laboratory, attracted major research funding, formed community partnerships and received an Early Career Award, among other accomplishments. “Being a CRC has benefited my career in a number of ways,” she says. “This position earns you a certain amount of respect, since people know it’s an honour to be nominated for a CRC position.” Campbell is one of 10 CRCs at Brock and among nearly 2,000 across the country. The Canadian government created the Canada Research Chairs program 22 years ago to put Canada on the world’s research and development map. The federal government’s three major research granting agencies — the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) — invest around $311 million each year in the Program. There are two levels of CRCs: the seven-year Tier 1, seasoned researchers deemed by their peers to be international leaders in their field; and the five-year Tier 2, emerging researchers judged by their peers to

have potential to lead in their field. Both terms can be renewed once. Assistant Professor of Kinesiology Val Fajardo, who is a Tier 2 CRC in Tissue Plasticity and Remodelling, says the program enables him to pursue new and exciting research in aging, spaceflight, obesity and muscle disease. “It provides me with more time to devote to my research, mentorship, training and establishment of national and international collaborations as well as pursuing knowledge translation activities,” he says. The federal government uses a formula to determine the number of CRCs each degree-granting institution receives. Brock has 14 CRC allocations, 10 of which were active in mid-June with more to be filled. It’s up to the institution to decide the research areas and descriptions for the allocated CRCs as well as recruitment policies and procedures that meet national requirements. Associate Vice-President, Research Michelle McGinn says Brock is committed to supporting Indigenous research by creating a Tier 2 CRC in Indigenous Child and Youth Well-being, expected to be operational next year. The CRC program requires institutions to implement Equity, Diversity and Inclusion policies that address barriers faced by groups historically marginalized, including women, Indigenous peoples, members of visible minorities, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ2+ persons. This includes ensuring individuals from these groups are nominated as CRCs.

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

The Brock women's hockey team made history as they captured its first provincial championship banner since the program began in 2000.

Brock Badgers unforgettable season backed by crucial community support

acking the Badgers on their most successful sport season in history were several partners and donors who ensured Brock’s student-athletes had the necessary facilities and financial support to excel. With more than 900 athletes gearing up for the 2021-22 season, support from the Brock community allowed the Badgers to focus on getting back in the game. With the last two sports seasons cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was more important than ever that athletes worried less about financial stressors and were able to show up undistracted and give each game their all. And that they did. The Badgers ended the 2021-22 season with one national and six provincial championship titles. While these titles are the strongest testament to the dedication, hard work and training of Brock's studentathletes, they are also a testament to the University's increased support and

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

opportunities for the Badgers, made possible by generous donors. Brock's student-athletes represent the University and showcase their Badger pride both on and off the court, so we look to support them and set them up for success in as many ways as possible. This year we saw an increase in the number of individual and organizational donors who wanted to step up to create additional student awards for athletes. Brock donors truly understand the importance athletics and recreation has on the student experience and the joy their return brought students. For athletes, having tuition and other expenses supplemented meant they could spend time outside of their studies, on the field, court and/or ice. Collectively, the Brock community believes this year was only the start of a strong comeback for the Badgers. Likewise, the vital support from the Brock community will continue to have an impact on athletes for years to come.

Late Michael Spironello (BSc ’00 , MSc ’03).

Kathleen Spironello Kathleen Spironello, mother of the late Michael Spironello (BSc ’00 , MSc ’03), was always fascinated by the passion her son carried through all aspects of his life. It is with that same passion that Kathleen urged both Michael and his sister Andrea to attend the up-and-coming institution only seven minutes from their home, Brock University. In fact, during Michael’s studies at Brock, Kathleen began donating to the University and investing in the competitive student experience Michael was receiving right in their hometown. Upon completing his Bachelors and Master’s degree in Biological Sciences at Brock, Michael moved to Toronto to further pursue his PhD in evolutionary biology and entomology. At the young age of 28, Michael unexpectedly passed. Together with Brock’s Professor of Biological Sciences, Fiona Hunter, who supported Michael through his Masters, the Michael H. Spironello Memorial Fellowship was established in his memory. “Both of my children had a great experience at Brock,” recalled Kathleen. “I know Michael especially had such a strong connection to Brock and the supportive environment there.” Today, nearly 15 years after its establishment, the Michael H. Spironello Memorial Fellowship continues to be awarded annually to a graduate student in Biological Sciences at Brock. Kathleen feels strongly that Michael would be proud to know that his award supports graduate students that are passionate about learning. By continuing to support Brock, Kathleen remains inspired by today’s youth, their curiosity and drive to learn – just like her Michael.

Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

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Donor Impact Report 2021-2022

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