New bursary to support MSVU Applied Human Nutrition students from the Maritimes
Alumna Nancy Gilbert is committed to giving back to her alma mater and has generously demonstrated this commitment through the creation of a new bursary and endowed fund for the benefit of MSVU students and in memory of and appreciation for her parents, Margaret and Reginald Gilbert. The Nancy M. Gilbert Bursary was awarded for the first time during the 2020-2021 academic year to a student from the Maritime provinces pursuing a Bachelor of Applied Human Nutrition degree at MSVU. “I’d been thinking for some time about doing something to honour my parents and support my alma mater – a bursary seemed like the right fit,” said Nancy. “I was very fortunate to be able to pursue my post-secondary studies thanks to the support of my family, but I know many of my former classmates’ families were not in a financial position to provide that same opportunity, just like for many of today’s students.” Nancy feels a strong affinity for MSVU’s Applied Human Nutrition program, having studied nutrition and worked in the industry for many years. Nancy graduated from MSVU with a Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology (Nutrition) in 1977 and a Bachelor of Education degree in 1983. She also instructed courses in the Home Economics Department, Child & Youth Study Department, and in the Tourism and Hospitality Management Program. In 1991, Nancy completed a Master of Science degree in Food Systems Administration at
Nancy Gilbert, ‘77 1987 Yellow Rose Ceremony at the Mount
the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. She has been an active volunteer for many years, including a past term as a member of the Mount Saint Vincent Alumni Association Board of Directors. “I recently updated my Will, which now includes instructions to establish an endowed fund for the Nancy M. Gilbert Bursary,” says Nancy. “However, I also wanted to see the bursary benefit students now, so I contribute annually to award the bursary. While the endowment will come into effect after I die, it gives me comfort to know that all my wishes are outlined through an agreement with the University.” By informing MSVU that a gift will be made in her Will, Nancy is recognized as a member of the 1873 Society, MSVU’s legacy giving circle, named for the year of its founding by the Sisters of Charity. “I gave permission for my name to be listed in the hope it might encourage others to consider their MSVU legacy and the impact their philanthropy can have in supporting students today and in the future,” says Nancy. To learn more about creating your MSVU legacy, please visit msvu.ca/giving or contact Anne Thibodeau at 902-719-7010 or anne.thibodeau@msvu.ca.
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