Humber receives record-breaking $30M donation

Andre La Rosa-Rodriguez News Reporter

Humber College is receiving a $30 million donation from the Barrett Family Foundation.

“Our roots are built around helping others,” said Bob Barrett, founder of the Barrett Family Foundation and CEO of Polytainers. “That’s why we do it.”

The investment marks the largest single-donation that has ever been given to an Ontario college. The foundation has given Humber a total of $42 million in donations across their years of continued support.

Ann Marie Vaughan, president and CEO of Humber College, said the funding will go towards science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. This includes offering more than 100 annual scholarships and grants while creating more opportunities for experiential and work-integrated learning.

“This transformational gift is an investment in the future of Humber students that will strengthen the industry, the economy, and our communities,” said Vaughan, who holds a doctorate in higher education leadership.

She said she gathered students, professors, and Humber leaders into the Barrett Centre for Technology Innovation (BCTI) building on Jan. 24 because it felt “fitting” to make this announcement on the annual International Day of Education.

The BCTI, which opened in 2019, was created with the support of a $10 million donation from the foundation.

Francine Barrett, co-founder of the Barrett Family Foundation, said the funding has been made to further help prepare students to a “planet that is changing.”

“You’ll have the education to do it,” she said. “I believe in Humber and that the gift will give people knowledge and great jobs in the future.”

The Barretts said they are confident that their children, Rebecca and Kim, will continue to show the generosity that they have given to the community.

Premier Doug Ford thanked the Barrett family in a short video shown at the presentation and highlighted the importance of prioritizing funding post-secondary education in Ontario.

“Your recent contribution is history-making,” he said. “This funding will allow for hands-on learning experiences to prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow.”

Mikael Mitchell, a first-year international student from Jamaica who holds a part-time job and is a recent recipient of the Barrett Family Foundation Scholarship, said the donation will help him and many students perform at their best.

“There are many great minds out there who are unfortunately limited by their circumstances,” he said. “I’ve always had to work hard, but I found that sometimes even the most hard-working people need help.

“All of us have needed help at one point or another,” Mitchell said.

Bob Barrett said it’s important to create hands-on experiences because classroom education alone does not always lead to a job.

He hopes the donation will create pathways that put Humber students in better positions to find work after graduation.

“It’s because of you that we’re here today,” Bob said. “We’re here to make student life better. To help you get better jobs, and work for your family and the community.”