$10 million gift to drive futuristic learning

LETHBRIDGE, AB, March 14, 2018 /CNW/ - The University of Lethbridge announces the transformation of its Faculty of Management to the Dhillon School of Business, which will have a strategic focus on finance and business innovation.

Navjeet (Bob) Dhillon pledged a $10 million gift, the largest in the institution's history. In recognition of Dhillon's contribution, the University is renaming the Faculty of Management to the Dhillon School of Business.

Along with a new name, the business school will build on its curriculum by expanding its focus on innovation, entrepreneurism and internationalization.

As an innovative and transformational entrepreneur, Dhillon created a real-estate empire by identifying an underserved niche, supporting it with resources and nurturing its growth. He sees the same potential in the University of Lethbridge.

"The future of Canada depends on education," says Dhillon. "I wouldn't have achieved the success I've had if it wasn't for education. I'm a first-generation Sikh immigrant and I'm very fortunate that I'm in a position to make this contribution. This is my way of giving back to Canada. Supporting innovative education is key to launching Canadian talent in today's world."

University of Lethbridge President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Mike Mahon sees Dhillon's support as transformational.

"Our university was founded by forward-thinking mavericks, people who identified a need for a university, and who pushed ahead with a wholly unique model," says Mahon. "Here we are 50-plus years later and we're still looking ahead, pushing boundaries and creating an educational experience like no other. This gift, will help drive us forward."

Dr. Bob Boudreau, dean of the Dhillon School of Business, says that the Lethbridge and Calgary campus will offer the latest in hands-on training with a focus on integrating theory and research into practice.

Dhillon eyes opportunity with U of L. With strong connections to the region's business sector, innovative academic programming and a vibrant and growing population, he sees the framework of a destination university town.

"I was very fortunate that the importance of education was drilled into me by my family," says Dhillon. "Education is what drives successful nations and Canada is unique in that there is so much opportunity here. U of L is a world-class university that the world needs to discover."

Dhillon is keenly aware of his position as an industry leader. He does not see his philanthropy as a solo act but a call to action.

"I am an immigrant and a businessman and I'm extremely thankful for the opportunities I've had growing up here in Canada," he says. "We all have a chance to give back and to do so through education is critical for our country's young people. I want to see our youth succeed. I want to see Canada prosper. We can do that through education, by making the Dhillon School of Business a leader in financial and business innovation and a destination for education."

SOURCE University of Lethbridge

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