Advancement

Advancement Advancement

The Engineering Advancement team works with alumni, friends and donors to support students, faculty, research and special initiatives that contribute to fostering a culture of innovation and excellence at McMaster.

The Pivot Campaign

The Pivot is the largest, most ambitious undertaking by McMaster Engineering inspired by a long history of innovative pedagogy. Dean Ishwar K. Puri is steering this natural evolution of the Faculty’s strategic priorities, by committing $1.5M in Faculty funding for every $1M invested from private sources for this transformative initiative.

“

The Pivot is all about helping current and future McMaster Engineering students to become well-rounded global citizens who can adapt to changing industry trends, economies and societal needs wherever they go after their time at McMaster. I’m very proud to be a supporter of this important initiative which will empower generations of future engineers.”

Michael Pley, President, Pley Consulting Inc. Chair, Deans Advisory Board Electrical Engineering and Management alumnus, ‘83

Total pivot funds:

$3,408,905 - Private revenue

$5,113,358 - Faculty contribution $8,522,263 - Total funds raised on $15M goal.

145 DONORS to the Pivot

Dean Chambers: My giving story

In early 2016, Dean Chambers created the Chambers Experiential Learning and Discovery Fund. Each summer since, the fund has provided an engineering undergraduate with a paid summer research placement that includes an industry component.

“I was lucky to get some great summer jobs,” he recalls. “It really helped me hit the ground running."

Chambers graduated in 1978 with his degree in chemical engineering and management — and went on to a 35-year career as a senior executive in the chemical, mining and metals industries.

Now a corporate director and consultant, Chambers decided he wanted to give students a leg-up on their own future careers. “I’m a big believer in experiential learning,” he says. He’s also a believer in providing undergraduates with hands-on industry experience.

“The idea is to help promising students develop career-ready skills.”

Supporting our students

“

I’m so happy to let students know about this aid provided by the University. A situation like this could cause a student to lose hope. I felt so desperate at the end of the winter term, and it was hard to complete my final assignments – but the financial aid gave me the support to overcome the situation. Thanks to the University and the officials who processed my application – who came forward to help me when my situation was desperate.” Anonymous McMaster Engineering Student

McMaster has established a Student Emergency Relief Fund to provide financial relief to students affected by the economic impacts of COVID-19.