Why Give?

Barb Anderson (’77) enjoyed a career in public health nutrition and management before returning to her alma mater as a professor and director of Acadia’s School of Nutrition and Dietetics. The School offers its students real world experiences in food product development, sensory evaluation, food sustainability, and management of food. Community outreach that connects people to their food is just one aspect of how Anderson “gives back” – she’s also a donor. “I see the difference contributions make to our students and faculty as they conduct impactful research. I want to be a part of something bigger than myself. It just feels right to give back to Acadia.”

Clive V. Anderson (’89) went on to study law after earning a BA in French at Acadia. Today, he manages legal matters for an insurance provider in Southeast Asia. “For my wife Athline (’91) and me, supporting Acadia is something that’s a real point of pride and we feel strongly about the importance of giving back to our alma mater. The University has been a big part of our lives, and that’s now true for our son Ethan as well – he’s having a great experience, just like we did. I encourage all of my fellow alumni to make Acadia part of their annual charitable plan, and to contribute to whatever program or activity resonates most strongly – for me, it’s Acadia Athletics, and basketball in particular, but for others it might be student scholarships, their academic department, the University’s greatest needs, or the beautification of campus. Whatever the choice, giving back matters and helps to keep Acadia strong.”

Kevin Mullen (’86) attended Acadia to sharpen his entrepreneurial skills. By his own account the now owner and president of Empire Kitchen and Bath in Calgary, Alberta says he wasn’t a “brilliant” student. He financed his education through bursaries and work. He graduated with a goal to “come back and create a program where you didn’t have to be an ‘A’ student to be eligible to get financial assistance.” That sparked the creation of the Roland and Leona Mullen business and entrance awards to honour his hard-working parents. “Acadia gave me a chance. I think that’s the number one thing that I’m trying to do with the scholarship program; just give people a chance.” 

"My family has had a long and wonderful relationship with Acadia. My grandfather, Curtis Chipman, received an honorary degree from the University and my father, Fred (’61), was a professor in Acadia’s Mathematics and Statistics department. I even took a math course from him during my undergraduate degree! My brother, two aunts and my wife are all Acadia graduates, and each of us has benefitted from the many gifts that Acadia provides. That’s why it’s important for me to give back. My monthly donations are directed toward scholarships so Acadia can continue to attract outstanding students and then encourage them to excel in their chosen field of endeavour."

Dr. Hugh Chipman (’90) Canada Research Chair in Mathematical Modeling Director of the Acadia Centre for Mathematical Modeling and Computation

"We are so pleased to have made contributions to Acadia and the community of Wolfville. Acadia University is part of our family heritage, with three generations of McCains as alumni, including my father; my brother and sister; a nephew who recently graduated from the business school; and a niece who is currently pursuing a science degree. We hope that our donations will improve an already great place, and help future generations to have wonderful experiences as students at Acadia."

Nancy McCain (’82) Donor and member of Acadia’s Board of Governors

"Scholarships [like the Spicer-Hennessey Scholar-Bursary] play a large role in helping students choose their university. While it is easy to get overwhelmed by the hours required for study, rewarding students’ dedication and hard work with scholarships encourages us to continually do our best. I am grateful for the support I have received from alumni in recognition of my achievements."

Brandon Shute 4th year Math and Business student.