Strengthening our Faculty
Support from our community keeps us at the leading edge. Whether through scholarships, research chairs or physical infrastructure, the contributions of our supporters — including our vibrant global network of more than 50,000 alumni — enhance our global impact and student experience.
U of T Engineering community gathers to celebrate Faculty's 150th anniversary
On April 1, 2023, more than 1,300 members of the U of T Engineering students, staff, faculty and alumni gathered at the Fairmont Royal York hotel in downtown Toronto to celebrate the Faculty’s 150th anniversary — and officially kick off its new Defy Gravity fundraising campaign. The gala event was the first in a series of initiatives that took place throughout 2023 in celebration of the past 150 years and the future to come.
The evening featured a keynote address from Canadian astronaut and engineering graduate Col. Chris Hadfield, who spoke about the power and potential of engineering as a force for good in the world. There were also exhibitions from many student clubs and teams, performances from the Skule™ Orchestra, the Skule™ Stage Band and the Lady Godiva Memorial Bnad [sic], among many others.
U of T Engineering celebrates 25 years of Lassonde Scholars
In December, U of T Engineering students and friends gathered for a special 25th-anniversary celebration of the Lassonde Scholarships.
The Scholarships, valued at up to $10,000 per year, support students in the Lassonde Mineral Engineering program at U of T’s Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering.
Philanthropist Pierre Lassonde (Hon DEng 2001) founded the awards in 1996 as the first step in a visionary program of giving. He has also created two chairs, supported an interdisciplinary research initiative, and donated generously to help renovate the Lassonde Mining Building and its sustainability-focused Goldcorp Mining Innovation Suite.
I got my first job thanks to a U of T alum. It was not a job that I applied for—they reached out directly only to U of T and that shows what kind of a connection the school has with the alumni.
– Channa Kumarage (MinE 1T5 + PEY)
Alex McLean Scholarship
This year, former students of MSE Professor Emeritus Alex McLean came together to surprise him with generous gifts to establish a scholarship in his honour. When he heard about this campaign, he joined them in making his own contribution.
The Alex McLean Scholarship will support a materials engineering student and has already raised more than $200,000, including a $100,000 matching donation from the Department.
A celebratory event to honour Professor McLean was held on June 3.
Paul Gardiner Engineering Science Award: Inspiring others to pursue their dreams
Coming from modest means, the late Paul Gardiner (EngPhys 6T2) was deeply grateful for the bursaries and awards that enabled him to complete his Engineering Physics (Engineering Science) degree.
Sam Mantenuto gift enhances lab and learning spaces
Salvatore (Sam) Mantenuto (ElecE 8T0) is a long-time supporter of U of T Engineering. He has served founding member of the ECE Industry Advisory Board, as well as on Faculty Council.
Class of 8T8 establishes three new awards
This year marked the 35th anniversary of the graduation of the class of 8T8 — which included Dean Chris Yip. In advance of meeting up at Alumni Reunion, the former classmates came together to establish awards that will enhance the experiences of future students:
Philanthropic Support
U of T Engineering raised nearly $21 million in philanthropic support from a variety of sources in 2022–2023. Below this figure is broken down by source and designation: