KPU students donate $100,000 to support peers

Tue, Jun 9, 2015

Surrey, B.C. – Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s (KPU) student-led publications are giving back to journalism and writing students in a big way.

Polytechnic Ink Publishing Society (PIPS), the student-owned not-for-profit that oversees The Runner and other student publications, has generously donated $100,000 to fund multiple scholarships for those with a passion for publication.

"When it boils down, it’s the students’ money in the first place and it should go back to them. If it were to go outside of KPU, it would just feel wrong," said PIPS operations manager Scott Boux.

“KPU is extremely grateful to Polytechnic Ink Publishing Society for their generosity and leadership in establishing endowments that will support KPU students for years to come. Knowing that our current students are building capacity for future students through this level of philanthropy is something that we take a great deal of pride in,” said Steve Lewarne, chief executive officer of the KPU Foundation and executive director of the university’s office of advancement.

PIPS’ donation will be endowed to support five annual awards in perpetuity that support students enrolled in KPU journalism and creative writing programs, as well as those who have contributed significantly to KPU student publications. Starting in 2016, $5,000 in scholarships will be awarded each year.

"As students, we know that university can be a challenge, and not just a financial one. It’s really life-changing to get a vote of confidence, and we wanted to recognize the great things our peers do that may not be otherwise taken into account in award criteria,” said PIPS board chair Stephanie Peters.

The KPU Foundation builds community and corporate partnerships that benefit students, support faculty and enhance education. Each year, hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships and awards are given to students across disciplines. More on the KPU Foundation is available at kpu.ca/foundation.

Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region since 1981, and has opened doors to success for more than 250,000 people. Four campuses—Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley—offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs, including business, liberal arts, science, design, health, trades and technology, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 19,000 students annually have a choice from over 124 programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates citations and apprenticeships. Learn more at www.kpu.ca.

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Photo caption: (From left) Kier Christer-Junos, PIPS coordinating editor; Stephanie Peters, PIPS board chair; Scott Boux, PIPS operations manager; Lisa Robinson, KPU advancement officer; Steve Lewarne, CEO KPU Foundation and executive director of advancement; Diane Purvey, KPU Dean of Arts. Photo also available on Flickr.

Media contact:
Hayley Woodin
Media Specialist
t: 604.599.2883
c: 604.364.1288
hayley.woodin@kpu.ca

For more KPU news:
@KPUmedia
kpu.ca/newsroom
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