HOLLAND
COLLEGE FOUNDATION
MESSAGE FROM HOLLAND COLLEGE FOUNDATION CHAIR & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
We are excited to share our 2024 Donor Report, which highlights the incredible difference your generosity has made at Holland College over the past year. On behalf of the Holland College Foundation we extend our deepest gratitude for your support. Your contributions are essential in helping the Foundation achieve its mission of enhancing student success. Because of your support, our students are better equipped to achieve their academic aspirations, are more engaged in the learning process - inside and outside the classroom - and have more opportunities for personal growth and development.
In the report you will see some of the many ways you have positively impacted the College and students. In 2024, the Foundation has been able to:
• support the establishment of Holland College’s Centre for Student Wellness and Academic Success, providing students with a broad, integrated suite of services including mental health supports, a health clinic, academic support services, and career and academic counselling.
• establish a slate of entrance awards for students who have diagnosed learning disabilities and/or mental health challenges.
• offer scholarships, bursaries, and awards to approximately 450 students.
• grow our endowment, annual, and legacy funds to sustain student success for generations to come.
Your generosity allows our Foundation to make meaningful investments that impact the careers of our students and that shape future leaders of our community. We are inspired by your belief in our mission, and we hope you feel as proud as we do about the impact you have made at the College in 2024.
Thank you again for your support and commitment to Holland College. Your generosity truly changes lives.
Sincerely,
Mark Ledwell Chair, Board of Directors Holland College Foundation
Jo-Ann Campbell-Boutilier Executive Director Holland College Foundation
MESSAGE FROM HOLLAND COLLEGE PRESIDENT
Since opening its doors in the fall of 1969 with just 82 students, Holland College has evolved into a vibrant institution that educates and trains approximately 8,000 students each year. Our diverse student body, with its wide range of cultures, life experiences, and educational aspirations, brings a dynamic energy to our campuses and communities across the province.
The generosity of our donors is essential in ensuring that Holland College students have the opportunities they need to reach their full potential. Thanks to your support, we are able to continue growing our scholarships, bursaries, and awards program, removing financial barriers, and providing the guidance and encouragement that empower our students to succeed. Your contributions to the Holland College Foundation are instrumental in shaping the future of our students, our workforce, and our communities.
As we reflect on the progress made this year, I am proud to highlight one of our core initiatives—our commitment to the health and wellness of our students. In September, we officially opened the new Centre for Student Wellness and Academic Success at the Prince of Wales Campus. The centre houses a comprehensive range of health and wellness services, with expanded, centralized, and fully integrated support resources that allow us to create tailored support plans for each student. Thanks to the mobility of our team and through technology, these services are also available to students at all campuses across the province.
This special initiative was made possible through collaboration between Holland College, the Holland College Foundation, the Government of Prince Edward Island, and the generosity of businesses, foundations, and individuals like you.
Since opening the Centre, we have seen a marked increase in the use of these services. To further enhance our offerings, we have partnered with a number of organizations in the community, including PEI Mental Health and Addictions Services, Health PEI, PEI Family Violence Prevention Services, and a dental hygienist to provide on-campus care. We are also exploring future partnerships to continue expanding our student support services.
Together we are not only enhancing the student experience, we are also fostering a culture of wellness that extends beyond graduation, equipping our students to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. On behalf of the entire Holland College community, I would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering commitment to the future of our students and for being an integral part of the Holland College family.
Sincerely,
Dr. Alexander (Sandy) MacDonald President, Holland College
GROWTH & IMPACT
APRIL 1, 2023 TO MARCH 31, 2024
REVENUES
Revenues in 2023/24:
$2.6 MILLION
ENDOWMENTS
Valued at $8.7 MILLION
(and four new endowments were established this year)
AMOUNT DISTRIBUTED IN SCHOLARSHIPS, BURSARIES, AND AWARDS
$610,000 helped students achieve their educational goals.
NUMBER OF STUDENTS WHO RECEIVED A SCHOLARSHIP, BURSARY, OR AWARD
444 awards were given based on academic merit and other factors.
NUMBER OF DONORS
411 enriched the lives and futures of our students.
EMPLOYEE GIVING
41% increase in staff donor participation to create opportunities for students.
CONTRIBUTIONS TO TUTORING AND ACADEMIC SUPPORT
$60,000 was provided to support student academic needs
NUMBER OF STUDENTS WHO RECEIVED EMERGENCY AID 114 students received support.
PRINCESS AUTO FOUNDATION SURPASSES $250,000
IN CUMULATIVE GIVING
Since 2017, Princess Auto Foundation has been supporting Holland College students and making a significant impact on trades training in the province. This year their donations surpassed $250,000, all of which has been provided in entrance awards to students enrolled in a variety of trades programs at Holland College.
“ Over the last seven years Princess Auto Foundation has helped approximately 150 Holland College students overcome financial barriers and pursue rewarding careers in many of the core trades. Ensuring that students have access to the training they need is essential to our community and economy. ”
- Dr. Alexander (Sandy) MacDonald, Holland College President
Princess Auto Foundation’s commitment to supporting trades education aligns with the organization’s mission to enhance education and provide opportunities to those in the trade sector. By funding entrance awards at numerous colleges, the Foundation is helping students across the country obtain training in the trades with a reduced debt load.
“ We are pleased to partner with 18 colleges across the country, including the Holland College Foundation, and contributing to the success of students in Holland College’s trades programs. Our goal is to invest in and help foster the next generation of those who choose trades for their careers, and we are pleased to support them on their educational journey. ”
- David Shnider, Director of the Princess Auto Foundation
Ayden Allan from New Ross, Nova Scotia, is a student in the Construction Electrical program and one of the recipients of this year’s Princess Auto Foundation Entrance Awards.
“ Growing up, affording college seemed like a challenge. This award has significantly alleviated the financial burden on my family, especially on my mother, who has sacrificed so much to support my education.”
- Ayden Allan
Ayden Allan
TROUT RIVER INDUSTRIES GIFT HONOURS FORMER OWNER HARVEY STEWART
In 2024 Trout River Industries established an entrance award honouring the company’s former owner, Harvey Stewart. The Harvey Stewart Trout River Industries Award, endowed with a generous $100,000 donation, will support graduating students from Westisle Composite High School as they embark on their post-secondary education journey at Holland College.
The award honours the legacy and recognizes the outstanding contribution of Trout River Industries’ founder, Harvey Stewart, to the establishment, growth, and ongoing success of the company, making it one of Canada’s leading trailer manufacturers. Harvey Stewart, now Chief Innovation Officer at Trout River, is a graduate of Holland College and was honoured with a Holland College Distinguished Alumni Award in 2020.
The President of Trout River Industries, Stephen Kennaugh, expressed his enthusiasm and support for the initiative, noting that the company began in western PEI and continues to employ many people from the area.
“ We are proud to be honouring Trout River Industries’ 25-year journey of success and the people who have contributed along the way, by investing back into the community. As the company’s founder, Harvey’s legacy is one of hard work, integrity, and community spirit, and this award is our way of honouring his contributions and ensuring his values continue to inspire future generations.”
- Stephen Kennaugh, Trout River Industries President
Harvey Stewart
GREEN RETROFIT RESIDENTIAL LAB TO BE ESTABLISHED WITH
$200,000
GIFT
FROM RBC
The Holland College Foundation received a $200,000 gift from RBC Foundation to establish a Green Retrofit Residential Lab at the college’s John and Christine Andrew Centre for Excellence in Watershed Management in East Royalty. The RBC Foundation gift will support the development of green skills and contribute to environmental sustainability through energy efficiency.
Students will be involved in the completion of a green retrofit of the main building currently onsite and conduct energy audits to compile data that will be used to create resource materials to assist with future student learning. Informational materials will be developed for homeowners in our broader community to assist them in learning about, and adopting, practices for transitioning residential home and buildings to be more efficient.
“ We recognize the importance of helping our workforce keep pace with the rapid technological and operational changes driving the climate transition. That’s why we are thrilled the RBC Foundation is making such a significant investment in students at Holland College to help them develop the green retrofit skills needed to support our region’s clean energy targets.”
- Chris Ronald, Regional President, Atlantic Provinces, RBC
The four-year project, which began in September 2024, will provide an opportunity to expand and enrich the college’s delivery of trades and technology programming in an experiential learning environment. Under the leadership of the Heritage Retrofit Carpentry program, students from the Industrial Technology and Trades and Applied Sciences departments will collaborate on the initiative, and future students will access the lab for training purposes.
The retrofit will include energy efficiency audits, water efficiency measures, renewable energy integration, HVAC system optimization, energyefficient lighting, roof replacement, attic and basement retrofits, and door and window replacements.
“ This initiative will enhance our students’ experience and the skills and knowledge they take into the industries and communities they will work and live in. It will also advance the talent pipeline and help to support our provincial, regional, and national energy efficiency and sustainability agendas as we collectively work toward a net-zero future.”
- Dr. Alexander (Sandy) MacDonald, Holland College President
(L-R) Kaye Kelly, Community Manager, RBC; Janice McNutt Lanctin, RBC Regional Vice President, Eastern New Brunswick and P.E.I.; Todd Strickland, RBC Regional Vice President, Cape Breton and North East Nova Scotia; Chris Ronald, RBC Regional President, Atlantic; Mark Ledwell, Holland College Foundation Board Chair; and Patricia Shields, Holland College Vice President of Academic and Applied Research.
“ We truly appreciate the significance of Holland College to PEI. The college has seen tremendous growth over the past decade and has ambitious plans to further develop its programs and activities across the province. We take great pride in assisting the Holland College Foundation to further enhance the legacy of Holland College.”
- Inger & Kent Scales Thrive Campaign Donors
CENTRE FOR STUDENT WELLNESS AND ACADEMIC SUCCESS
(L-R) Kent Scales, Past Chair, Holland College Foundation and Thrive Campaign Lead; Murray MacInnis, Director of Student Wellbeing, Accessibility, and Support, Holland College; Jessie Inman, Chair, Holland College Board of Governors; Hon. Jenn Redmond, Minister of Workforce, Advanced Learning and Population and Minister Responsible for the Status of Women; Oluwatoyin Abieyuwa Festus-Olagbende (Uwa), President, Holland College Student Union; Mayte Luna, Vice President, Holland College Student Union; Dr. Alexander (Sandy) MacDonald, President, Holland College; and, Mark Ledwell, Chair, Holland College Foundation Board.
When Holland College recognized that more was needed when it came to mental health and wellness on its campuses, a vision was developed that centered on helping our students build resilience, succeed academically, and live healthier lives. This fall that vision became a reality when Holland College and the Holland College Foundation celebrated the official opening of the new Centre for Student Wellness and Academic Success!
Located on the Prince of Wales campus in Charlottetown, the building that is now home to the Centre underwent a $5.9 million renovation and expansion, for which the Province of Prince Edward Island committed matching funds and operational support. The opening also marked the successful completion of the Foundation’s Thrive campaign, a special initiative to financially support the centre’s establishment.
The goal for the Thrive campaign was $2.5 million and, thanks to the many businesses, foundations, and individuals who contributed, we surpassed our goal and raised over $2.7 million!
The three-story centre is now home to a broad, integrated suite of services with satellite offerings servicing students provincewide.
The first floor, which is dedicated to student academic support, is where services and resources such as tutoring, adaptive technologies, and testing accommodations are provided.
The second floor is where our medical team is located, and all mental health services and resources are located on the third, with our expanded counselling team. Integrating and expanding all these services and resources has allowed for the development of individualized student support plans.
In addition to the construction of the centre itself, funds raised through the Thrive campaign have established a slate of entrance awards for students who have diagnosed learning disabilities and/or mental health issues.
Ultimately, the goal of the Centre for Student Wellness and Academic Success is to ensure that students have the supports they need to be successful while they are with us as students, make a strong transition into the workforce, and thrive throughout their lives. Your generosity is making this possible.
LEAD GIFT FROM THE SAINT DUNSTAN’S UNIVERSITY BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Saint Dunstan’s University is deeply rooted in PEI’s history and played a significant role in the founding of post-secondary education in the province. The SDU Board of Governors continues to invest in the education of students and in initiatives that are of importance to the community today, evidenced by their $500,000 gift to support student wellness and success at Holland College.
The history of SDU originates with the founding of St. Dunstan’s College on the northern outskirts of Charlottetown, PEI, in 1855. By the mid 20th century, the college had expanded into a small liberal arts university, and a post-Second World War enrolment boom mandated an expansion of residences and teaching buildings on the campus. SDU received a provincial degree-granting charter in 1917 but its first bachelor’s degrees weren’t awarded until the spring of 1941. Prior to this, SDU had been affiliated with Université Laval, through which they had been awarding joint degrees since the 1890s.
(L-R) Representatives from Saint Dunstan’s University (SDU) Board of Governors, George Morrison, Executive Director, and Robert Pierce, Board Chair, stand with Kent Scales, Holland College Foundation Past Chair and Thrive Campaign Lead; and, Dr. Alexander (Sandy) MacDonald, Holland College President.
Much like its sister institution, Prince of Wales College (PWC), SDU included a high school, offering senior matriculation to those students wishing to continue into academic or professional studies. In the 1960s, the provincial government began a review of its post-secondary education institutions, concluding that the institutions should be merged. In May of 1969, the last classes graduated from PWC and SDU. The University of Prince Edward Island opened in September 1969 on the former SDU campus, and the former PWC campus became the new home of Holland College.
“ It is most appropriate for Saint Dunstan’s to support students at Holland College. Opening in 1855 on the outskirts of Charlottetown, Saint Dunstan’s was a major pillar in the province’s postsecondary education for 114 years. With this contribution, Saint Dunstan’s is continuing its tradition of supporting students in their post-secondary studies.”
- Robert Pierce, Chair, Saint Dunstan’s University Board of Governors
RECOGNIZING AND HONOURING THRIVE CAMPAIGN DONORS
We are incredibly grateful for the many donors who supported the Thrive campaign. Contributions to Thrive have made a meaningful difference in advancing our mission and supporting the health and wellness of our students.
To recognize and honour the commitment of our Thrive campaign donors, we are pleased to feature a dedicated donor wall on the main floor of the Centre for Student Wellness and Academic Success.
“ We are so pleased to be able to play a role in establishing this new facility at Holland College, that will give students access to the services and resources they need to help them build resilience as they move forward in their lives.”
- Wayne Carew, Board Member, The Windsor Foundation Thrive Campaign Donors
This installation serves as a lasting tribute to all who have made this special initiative possible. We are proud to showcase the power of collective generosity and the transformative impact this support brings to our college. We hope this installation will not only serve as a token of our appreciation but also inspire others to join us in making a difference in the lives of our students.
“ The health and wellness of students is critical to their success in their studies and beyond. Education is the one thing that can level the playing field for everyone. We can advance ourselves and society by learning and applying new skills for the better good.”
- Ron & Susan Keefe Thrive Campaign Donors
“ Our family feels that this new centre will build a healthier, high performing Island population, have a huge impact on the future of Island healthcare, and the overall wellness and success amongst our communities. As Holland College continues to thrive and flourish, we’re thrilled to be a part of its future development and advancements.”
- Warren, Marlene, Brody, Josh Ellis & Families Thrive Campaign Donors
STAFF GIVING
Holland College’s staff and faculty play a crucial role in shaping the student experience, going beyond academic instruction to inspire growth and development. By actively encouraging students to explore their talents, strengthen their skills, and pursue both personal and professional development, they create a foundation for lasting success. This dedication reflects the college’s commitment to fostering an environment where every student’s potential is nurtured and valued.
Holland College’s faculty and staff are more than educators and administrators — they’re mentors and supporters who understand the full scope of student challenges, from balancing finances and family responsibilities to managing school and work. Their daily interactions give them unique insights into when students are thriving and when they need extra support.
This close connection makes their contributions to the Holland College Foundation even more meaningful. Through employee giving, our faculty and staff help open doors and create new opportunities, providing essential support that can truly change lives.
It’s inspiring to see the growing number of Holland College employees choosing to give back to support students. This past year, staff giving participation increased by 41 per cent, and 11 per cent of those who were already donors increased their giving. This participation highlights their commitment to enhancing the student experience, paving the way for academic and personal success. Their generosity is a testament to the strong, supportive community at Holland College.
92
Several awards created by the generosity of Holland College staff will continue to help students in perpetuity.
100%
of all donations made to the Holland College Foundation are directed towards their intended purpose.
. Donated by staff to the Holland College Foundation since the early 1980’s.
$350,000
Initiatives donated to or created by Holland College staff.
2024/25 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Holland College Foundation is governed by a board of directors comprised of community, business, and industry leaders and professionals.
Our board is responsible for fund development, stewardship, granting, and financial oversight related to donor gifts and the work they do empowers students, transforms families, enhances business and industry, and enriches communities.
Mark Ledwell, Chair Retired Lawyer
Peter McLaughlin, Vice-Chair President & Managing Partner, Anne of Green Gables Chocolates
Kati McCarvill, Secretary/Treasurer (Ex-officio) CFO, Holland College
Kent Scales, Past-Chair CEO, Scales Group of Companies
Kathleen Casey Former MLA & Community Leader
Lloyd Compton, CPA, CA, CBV Partner, MRSB & Holland College Alum
Blake Doyle President, Confederation Group
Dr. Katherine Ellis Ghiz Physician, Queen Elizabeth Hospital
Todd Gregory Senior Portfolio Manager, RBC Dominion Securities
John Horrelt President, REJ Holdings & LandFest Company Ltd.
Barbara E. Smith, K.C. Partner, Stewart McKelvey
Alanna Taylor, K.C. Partner, Cox & Palmer
Dr. Alexander (Sandy) MacDonald (Ex-officio) President, Holland College
Jo-Ann Campbell-Boutilier (Ex-officio) Executive Director, Holland College Foundation
Peter McLaughlin Vice-Chair
Mark Ledwell Chair
Kent Scales Past-Chair
Kati McCarvill Secretary/Treasurer
Kathleen Casey
Jo-Ann Campbell-Boutilier
Alanna Taylor
Dr. Alexander (Sandy) MacDonald
Barbara E. Smith
John Horrelt
Dr. Katherine Ellis Ghiz Todd Gregory
Blake Doyle
Lloyd Compton
2023/24 REVENUES
2024/25 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
$2,575,973
• Donations and fundraising events: $1,606,206
• Investment income: $384,420
• Operating grant: $585,347
PRIORITIES FUNDED BY THE FOUNDATION
DURING 2023/24
$1,656,219
• Campus revitalization, teaching and learning resource enrichment, and other contributions to the overall student experience: $1,046,298
• Scholarships, bursaries, awards, and emergency assistance: $609,921
AS OF MARCH 31, 2024
$10,773,225
• Invested endowments funding scholarships, bursaries, awards, and other projects: $8,713,906
• Cash: $2,059,318
Audited financial statements are available by contacting the Holland College Foundation at (902) 566-9590 or at foundation@hollandcollege.com. The Holland College Foundation’s charitable registration number is 11895 9121 RR0001.
THE POWER OF YOUR SUPPORT
For students, receiving a scholarship, bursary, or award symbolizes more than just recognition – it affirms that someone values their efforts and believes in their aspirations. The gratitude our students feel is profound. The following thank you messages, written by scholarship, award, and bursary recipients to donors and the foundation over the past year, reflect the heartfelt impact your generosity has had on their lives.
“ Once I graduate and land a job, I am determined to help others in any way I can, just as you have helped me, and to spread the same goodwill that you have shown me.”
“ Your scholarship will play a pivotal role in enabling me to pursue my aspirations with unwavering focus and determination.”
“ I am deeply appreciative of the support you have shown me and the confidence you have placed in my academic and career pursuits.”
“ The impact of your support extends far beyondthe financial assistance provided.”
“ This award represents a significant part of my journey toward resilience and success.”
“ Your generosity has not only opened doors for me academically, but has also instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to make a positive difference in the world.”
“ This award represents a significant part of my journey toward resilience and success.”
“ Your belief in my potential serves as a powerful affirmation of the hard work and dedication I have poured into my studies.”
“ I feel truly blessed to have your help in writing the first pages of the rest of my story.”
“ Your support serves as a constant reminder that there are individuals like yourself who believe in my potential and are invested in my success. ”
“ This award means the world to me.”
“ Your generosity has truly made a difference in my journey, and I am incredibly grateful. Thank you again for your kindness and belief in my future.”
“ This award represents a significant part of my journey toward resilience and success.”
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