Impact of Giving

The impact of the Beaverbrook Scholars Community

For generations, the Beaverbrook Scholars Award has supported exceptional students at the University of New Brunswick. More than financial support, the program creates a community that encourages curiosity, leadership and a lifelong commitment to helping others succeed.

Many Beaverbrook Scholars say the same thing when reflecting on their experience: it gave them the foundation to pursue opportunities they might not otherwise have imagined.

One such scholar is Dr. Laura Richard, Beaverbrook Scholar (2002) and the new chair of the Beaverbrook Scholars Award Committee. Laura studied chemistry at UNB before completing her PhD at Oxford University. Her career took her abroad for a decade, working in research for companies including Procter & Gamble. After returning to New Brunswick, she co-founded Saltwinds Coffee, blending her background in science with entrepreneurship and innovation. She recently appeared on Dragon’s Den with co-founder Brad Rideout to pitch their ocean air infused coffee!

Like many Beaverbrook Scholars, Laura credits the program with helping shape the confidence and skills that carried her through each stage of her career.

Today’s scholars are at the beginning of their own journeys.

Meet the current scholars

The 2025–26 Beaverbrook Scholars, Keon Park, Jacob Dunsmore and Liam Simmonds, are already making the most of their time at UNB.

Their reflections show the real impact of this support:

“Your generosity has given me the freedom to focus on my studies. I am so grateful for this chance, and I hope one day I will be able to support another student on their journey.”— Jacob Dunsmore, BA

“I am excited to grow academically and personally throughout all the opportunities that UNB offers.” — Keon Park, BSc

“The Beaverbrook Scholars Award has been a great help, especially with the stressors that come with adjusting to university life.” — Liam Simmonds, BSE

These students represent the next generation of the Beaverbrook community – they are talented, ambitious and supported by those who came before them.

A community that stays connected

The Beaverbrook Scholars community extends well beyond graduation. Every year, they have opportunities to reconnect and build lasting relationships across generations through events like the annual Beaverbrook Scholars Dinner and gatherings like Beaverbrook Hockey Night at the Aitken University Centre.

These moments reinforce what makes the program special: scholars supporting scholars.

The impact continues to grow. To date, over $3.7 million has been awarded to 104 students, with the award increasing to $15,500 annually (up to $62,000 over four years) in September 2026. Read more on updates to the Beaverbrook Scholars Award in the AGM minutes.

Supporting the next generation

Programs like the Beaverbrook Scholars Award exist because of the generosity of alumni and supporters who believe in investing in students.

Their support provides more than financial assistance. It gives students the time and freedom to focus on their education, explore new opportunities and find their direction in life.

It is, at its heart, a tradition of supporting others as we were once supported.

If you would like to support the next generation of scholars, you can make a secure donation online.

Together, we can continue building a community that fosters excellence, innovation and opportunity for years to come.