Doug Bruce, Sc’85,
Queen’s University Council Member
Board of Trustees Member
I have always felt a strong connection to Queen’s as both my parents went to Queen’s. My mom, Patricia, was an Artsci’56 Science major and my dad, Robert, was a Sc’55 (Electrical). My affinity is with Electrical Engineering as I am a Sc’85 (Electrical), as is our son, Matthew, Sc’18 (Electrical).
I have become more involved with Queen’s in recent years. I’m in my seventh year serving on the University Council and in my sixth year as a member of the Board of Trustees. This added involvement in the life of the university has been a tremendous opportunity to give back in a meaningful way. It has also provided insight into the challenges associated with offering an exceptional student experience that is also accessible to as many students as possible.
When I was at Queen’s, the provincial government covered 80 per cent of the costs to educate a student. The funding level is now around 40 per cent, leaving the balance to be covered by tuition fees and donations, putting a post-secondary education out of reach for many. That’s why philanthropy is more important today than ever before. It can give an opportunity to those students who otherwise would not be able to pursue their passion. Donations from alumni can collectively make a huge difference to potential students and it is my pleasure to be part of that alumni community that chooses to make a difference.
I applaud the university’s commitment to making the Queen’s community far more welcoming and inclusive for all and, to support this initiative, I have directed my most recent support to the Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Indigenization Fund in the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. Together, we can make a difference.
