University of The West Indies Toronto Gala Raises $300,000

A few weeks ago MNI Alive reported on The University of the West Indies' (UWI) benefit gala that was to be held in Toronto. Today, we can report that roughly $300,000 has been raised from the event held on March 26th. Proceeds will go towards the UWI Scholarship Fund and the UWI Haitian Initiative.

The gala took place under the patronage of Dr. G. Raymond Chang who is a past Chairman of CI Financial, Chancellor of Ryerson University and himself also an honourary graduate of UWI.

At the event, tribute was paid to individuals who made significant contributions to UWI, the Caribbean and Canadian communities. Some of the honourees included, Donovan Bailey, Michael Lee-Chin, The Right Honourable Michelle Jean, The Honourable Justice Dr. Irving Andre, Former Deputy Chief of Toronto Police Keith L. Forde, Kamala-Jean Gopie, Dr. Karl Massiah and Dr. John Stewart.

Additionally, Ryerson University was honoured for its contribution to the advancement of Caribbean people through its joint programmes with UWI. GAP Adventures too was given an award for its role in pushing the boundaries of sustainable travel.

Over 500 guests attended the sold out event, which was held at the Four Seasons Hotel.

Elizabeth Buchanan-Hind, Executive Director for the Institutional Advancement Division, University of the West Indies said, "The University is once again touched by the outpouring of support it received from the Canadian private and public sectors and the Caribbean Canadian community."

She further went on to say, "We are thankful for the scholarships that the University will now be able to award to students from the proceeds of the event."