Queen’s University received a $25 million gift from an anonymous alum, the largest single donation for student financial aid in the university’s history.
The endowed gift will support undergraduate students with financial need and is intended to provide support for generations.
The gift will create the new Ann Baker Tuition Award, and the university has already awarded funds to students for the fall 2026 semester.
Patrick Deane, principal of Queen’s University, expressed his gratitude in a news release announcing the gift.
Deane explained that financial barriers can keep some students from attending the university, and a contribution of this size can help them thrive.
“Remarkable students want to come to Queen’s… And once those students are here, we want them to have every opportunity to learn, get involved, build connections, and discover what they’re capable of,” said Deane.
According to the university’s news release, the anonymous donor commended Queen’s for the opportunities the university gave them and wanted to lift financial burdens for students like them.
Corinna Fitzgerald, vice-provost of student affairs, believes an award like this can free students from worry and let them immerse themselves in the university experience.
“This award gives students greater stability and peace of mind, allowing them to make the most of their time at Queen’s and become the leaders and humans they came here to be,” said Fitzgerald.
The award supports students from Eastern Ontario and is expected to benefit 11 to 21 students each year. Each student can receive between $10,000 and $18,000.
Erin McLeod, associate registrar of Enrolment Services and Administration, told YGK News how this award will benefit students.
McLeod says that the university wants every student who applies to Queen’s to be in a position to accept the offer.
“The university has been focusing its awards program on need-based aid for several years to help increase access and inclusion and encourage every student who receives an offer of admission to accept that invitation to join our campus community,” said McLeod.
McLeod said students in different programs will receive different amounts and that recipients must qualify for OSAP, along with other donor-requested criteria.
“Recipients for this award must have demonstrated financial need, and preference is to be given to students who live in Eastern Ontario. This preference is at the donor’s request,” said McLeod.
The Ann Baker Tuition Award is one of several financial aid awards available to incoming Queen’s students. Students can apply through the Queen’s Financial Aid and Awards section in SOLUS.
