Earlier this year, the University of Lethbridge announced a $2-million investment from the Jarislowsky Foundation to support the development of a collaborative program with four other universities. The program, designed to educate future leaders in government, politics and the public service, has received a significant boost at ULethbridge thanks to a $375,000 gift from Scotiabank to support its development.
“We are very grateful to Scotiabank for choosing to support this unique and valuable program,” says Dr. Matthew Letts, dean of the Faculty of Arts & Science. “Scotiabank’s gift, in support of the Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership, will directly enhance our ability to provide an exceptional experience for students with an interest in politics, fiduciary policy and public service. Students across the network will develop the transdisciplinary skill set necessary for responsible governance and informed engagement on social and political issues.”
“Now more than ever, Canada will benefit from a renewed effort to improve trust in public institutions by making those institutions more accountable and effective to the Canadians they serve,” says Maria Saros, Vice President and Global Head, Social Impact at Scotiabank. “Scotiabank is proud to support the development of future leaders through this program and we look forward to the strengthened leadership, governance and accountability they will bring to bear for our country.”
The program includes hiring an endowed Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership at each university in the network, which includes Trent University, Acadia University, l’Université du Québec à Trois Rivières (in collaboration with l’École Nationale d’Administration Publique) and Vancouver Island University.
These academic leaders will engage with a national network of scholars to educate the next generation of politicians and public sector leaders in ethics, democratic values and responsible governance given the diverse citizenry in Canada and the country’s commitment to democracy and Truth and Reconciliation. The Jarislowsky Chairs will offer innovative academic programming, experiential learning opportunities and promote communities of practice in political and governance decision making across the country.
The Jarislowsky Foundation was founded in 1993 by Stephen Jarislowsky, a prominent Canadian philanthropist and business leader. The Foundation's mission is to promote, support and foster excellence and ethics in education, medicine and the arts, and the environment and climate change.
The Foundation has 42 research chairs in areas of democracy, governance, public sector management, environment & climate change, Canadian art, and health across Canada.
The Foundation supports programs that allow students from diverse backgrounds to discuss contemporary issues with mentors and recognized experts. These programs aim to develop students' critical thinking skills so that they become leaders with strategic vision and thinking.
