Morry Hunt knows a good business opportunity when he sees one. When Hunt started Windriver Glass in 1995, he began bidding on contracts for the University of Lethbridge; since then, Windriver Glass has been involved in almost every major construction project at the
U of L.
"I was able to do lots of work for the U of L as I built my company: as the University grew, so did Windriver Glass," says Hunt. "We started with smaller jobs and eventually worked our way up to larger projects. We were able to secure work at the University at every level."
Windriver Glass has been involved with the construction of several buildings on campus and is currently completing work on Markin Hall. While Hunt enjoys watching the building take shape, he is aware that without the students, the bricks, the mortar and, of course the windows, would lack purpose.
Wanting to do something in return, Hunt established three scholarships aimed at helping students succeed: one for each of the Pronghorns men's and women's hockey teams and one for a student completing a bachelor of arts degree. The awards are not necessarily for the top achievers in each category, but are aimed at supporting hard-working students who might not otherwise be able to complete their education. Hunt explains that supporting student scholarships is a way for him to personally support the institution that has given him so much.
"The University has played an important role in helping me establish my business, so it's nice to be able to give something in return."
A longtime Lethbridge resident, Hunt believes it's essential for people to engage in the support and improvement of the communities in which they live.
"It's important to help people around you, whether you know them or not," says Hunt. "I think that's part of being in a community."
When it comes to supporting institutions within the community, Hunt offers straightforward advice: "If you can afford it, support local organizations. Your little bit of help can make a significant difference to someone in need."
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