More Manitoba students can breathe easy knowing they won't have to pay for their program at RRC Polytech thanks to a $1.25 million donation from Walter and Maria Schroeder, through the Schroeder Foundation.
This most recent donation from the Schroeder Foundation comes on the heels of a $15 million donation to create the Schroeder Institute of Entertainment and Media Arts, the largest ever received by RRC Polytech, announced just three months prior - now bringing the Schroeder Foundation's total contribution to RRC Polytech to $18.2 million. Walter and Maria, born Winnipeggers, are changing the lives of their "Schroeder Students" at RRC Polytech who receive their scholarships.
"Walter and Maria are making a tremendous impact for students," said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. "This incredible donation is yet another example of how the Schroeders are easing the way for students in their post-secondary education journeys. The lives of more than 200 students have already been changed thanks to their generosity and more will be changed in the years ahead. They are setting an inspiring example of the impact that philanthropy can have - whether it's investing in state-of-the-art spaces and programs or eliminating financial barriers to higher learning."
The existing Schroeder Scholarship fund was established in 2018 to help eliminate financial barriers to education for students. To date, the Schroeder Scholarship fund has supported 213 students from Winnipeg high schools, and this most recent gift will continue to support even more students over the next five years.
"Supporting students who might need financial support to complete their education is important to us," said Walter Schroeder. "We know that not everyone can afford to attend post-secondary education, but we don't believe that should be a barrier. We created and continue to fund Schroeder Scholarships to give students at RRC Polytech the opportunity to get ahead in a career path of their choice without having to think about how they are going to be able to afford it."
The donation will support students like Veronica Ade - Schroeder Scholarship recipient and a second-year Business Administration student with dreams of opening a storefront for her hair braiding business after graduation.
"When I found out about the scholarship I couldn't believe it - I'm not sure I ever would have been able to go to school without it," says Veronica. "I want to thank the Schroeder Foundation for the opportunity, I really don't know how to thank them enough."
The Schroeder Scholarship fund covers the full tuition costs of nearly all programs at RRC Polytech for the recipients, as well as textbooks and access to wraparound supports like the transition to college program offered by the college.
The Schroeder Foundation's donations are in support RRC Polytech's comprehensive campaign In Front of What's Ahead, the College's largest fundraising campaign ever with the aim of transforming learning and research spaces, amplifying RRC Polytech's impact, and enhancing the student experience.
Walter and Maria Schroeder were awarded in 2023 with the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Manitoba Outstanding Philanthropist Award. The Schroeders are the largest donor of full-ride scholarships at RRC Polytech and in 2022 were awarded an Honorary Bachelor of Education Degree from the College for their steadfast dedication to removing barriers to education for Manitoba youth.
