November 15 marks National Philanthropy Day 2023 – a day to celebrate those who make a concerted effort to create positive change in the lives of others in their community by donating time, talent and financial support.
Each year, The Association of Fundraising Professionals Edmonton and Area Chapter hosts the National Philanthropy Day Awards to celebrate the outstanding achievements of philanthropists who create impact in their communities through their charitable work.
This year, MacEwan University recognizes two award recipients who have partnered with us to support students and nurture campus community.
Stephen M. L. Anderson
A testament to his dedication to philanthropy, inclusivity and transformation, the Stephen M. L. Anderson Award supports 2SLGBTQ+ students at MacEwan and fosters a more inclusive society.
“It is important to me to support 2SLGBTQ+ students as they continue their journey of enlightenment, and gain tools to articulate themselves in meaningful ways,” says Anderson. “People are the heartbeat of a civilized society. Creating space where the next generation feels safe to explore and expand on the ideas of those who came before affords students the liberty to share their unique gifts.”
Anderson also supports MacEwan’s community and students with his time and encouragement as a member of the Centre for Sexual Gender and Diversity Campaign Cabinet, where he encourages the full and equitable participation of sexual and gender minorities on campus and in society. Anderson is committed to enacting meaningful social change at MacEwan, in Edmonton and beyond.
Michael Mountford
Driving home from MacEwan from an evening group project session, Michael Mountford was t-boned at an intersection, and sustained many fractures, and a brain injury. “A year later, with MacEwan's aid, I resumed courses, adapted to my injuries and attended Accounting Bootcamp, leading to Certified Management Accountant Entrance Exam success. Grateful for their help, I now support fellow accounting students at MacEwan as a token of my appreciation.”
Mountford has committed to helping MacEwan students time and again over the past 20 years, funding more than 55 student bursaries. The Michael Mountford CPA Bursary, for example, helps students from Northeast Alberta pursuing an accounting degree or Chartered Professional Accountant designation.
He has also created an endowment that will provide bursaries well into the future. His continued dedication to MacEwan students reflects his personal belief that creating impact relies on change through education.