A $2-million gift from The Joyce Family Foundation will help more students access a Lakehead University education, removing financial barriers and opening doors to opportunity.
The gift will establish The Joyce Family Foundation Bursary, an endowed fund that will provide three bursaries of $22,000 per year ($5,500 payable per year for four years) and directly benefit students who face financial challenges. The first bursaries will be given out in September 2026.
"The Joyce Family Foundation Bursary is a door-opening opportunity that removes the financial barriers standing between students and their ambitions," said Lakehead President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Gillian Siddall. "As an access institution, we are thrilled that each year three Lakehead students will have the support of this bursary so they can focus on their studies and achieve their goals rather than worry about financial stress."
On average, 95 per cent of Lakehead's domestic student population faces barriers to attending university, such as financial need or being the first generation in a family to pursue post-secondary education. Support from donors helps bridge the gap between provincial student grants and loans and the financial needs of students.
Today's investment builds on a decade-long relationship between Lakehead University and The Joyce Family Foundation, grounded in a shared commitment to improving access to postsecondary education and supporting student success.
"The Joyce Family Foundation is honoured to continue Ron Joyce's legacy of investing in young people," said Rob MacIsaac, Chair of the Foundation. "This bursary program at Lakehead University affirms our shared belief that every student deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to their community."
Anchored by this transformative leadership gift, Lakehead is kicking off a fundraising initiative to raise $10 million for scholarships, bursaries, and awards over the next five years. With more than $2.6 million already raised, President Siddall explained that the campaign will not only ease financial burden, but it will unlock potential.
"When we invest in students, we strengthen not only their future, but the future of our communities," she said.
Lakehead University continues to be recognized as a leader in student support and undergraduate education. Among Ontario universities in the primarily undergraduate category, Lakehead ranked first in student awards, second in scholarships and bursaries, and held its position as Ontario's top primarily undergraduate university, according to the 2026 Maclean's University Rankings.
Investments like this help ensure that more students, regardless of financial circumstance, have the opportunity to pursue higher education and reach their full potential. Financial aid also plays a critical role in attracting talent, supporting Indigenous participation, and strengthening communities across Northern Ontario and beyond.
