(SAULT STE. MARIE, ON – September 21, 2026) Algoma University is honoured to announce a transformative $1.5 million gift from the Joyce Family Foundation, that will provide new bursary support to first-year local students from the region who demonstrate financial need and personal resilience. Last year, Algoma University supported nearly 4,000 students and awarded more than $9 million in scholarships, bursaries, and awards.
The generous gift will provide 12 students with $5,000 per year toward their studies, for up to four years. This support will help make a university education more accessible, ensuring students can pursue their studies without being limited by financial circumstances. The bursaries have been intentionally designed to help students who may face barriers to accessing post-secondary education, including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students, as well as first-generation learners, and are renewable for each year of the student’s program.
“The Joyce Family Foundation’s extraordinary generosity represents a meaningful investment in the future of our students and our region,” said Dr. Kofi Campbell, President and Vice-Chancellor of Algoma University. “This gift will help remove financial barriers for students who have demonstrated both need and resilience, creating opportunities for them to pursue their goals and contribute to the communities they call home. We are deeply grateful to the Joyce Family Foundation for believing in the transformative power of education and for becoming an enduring part of Algoma University’s story.”
Founded by the late Ronald V. Joyce (1930–2019), the Joyce Family Foundation carries forward his commitment to giving back and supporting young Canadians. Best known as the Canadian entrepreneur behind the success of the Tim Hortons franchise, Ron Joyce was recognized for his strong work ethic, business acumen, and dedication to helping young people build brighter futures.
“Ron Joyce believed that every young person deserves the chance to succeed,” said Rob MacIsaac, Board Chair of the Joyce Family Foundation. “Through this renewable bursary program at Algoma University, the Joyce Family Foundation is proud to continue that legacy by helping students move forward with confidence, knowing their dedication and promise are being recognized and supported. We look forward to hearing of their achievements in the years ahead.”
The establishment of the endowment marks a defining moment for Algoma University and reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that access to higher education is not determined by circumstance. By supporting students at the beginning of their university journey, the Joyce Family Foundation is helping create pathways to education that will have an impact for generations of learners.
This gift aligns closely with Algoma University’s mission to remove barriers to education, foster student success and contribute to the social and economic vitality of Northern Ontario. It also builds on the Joyce Family Foundation’s longstanding commitment to expanding access to education and creating opportunities for young Canadians.
Algoma University extends its sincere gratitude to the Joyce Family Foundation for this remarkable gift and for its confidence in the potential of Algoma University students. Through this endowment, the Foundation’s legacy of opportunity and community impact will continue to shape the lives of students for years to come.
To learn more, visit Algoma University’s Scholarships, Bursaries and Awards webpage.
About the Joyce Family Foundation
The Joyce Family Foundation is dedicated to supporting the social, economic and emotional well-being of children and youth, empowering them to become healthy, confident and independent contributors to Canadian society.
To view the cheque presentation image, click here.
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