The evening of March 19, 2025, came alive as more than 530 donors, students, faculty and staff gathered at the annual Humber Polytechnic Scholarship Celebration to recognize the impact of philanthropic support on student success.

“Thanks to the generosity of donors, scholarships and bursaries have helped alleviate financial pressures, ensuring that students have access to education while opening the door to opportunities that enable their success,” said Ann Marie Vaughan, president and CEO, Humber Polytechnic.

Over the past year, more than 850 donor-funded scholarships and emergency bursaries, totaling $1.5 million, were awarded to students at Humber. Vaughan also introduced Humber’s newest campaign – The You You Knew Was In You.  

“With hands-on learning, support from expert faculty, customized educational experiences and the generosity of our remarkable donors, Humber is the ideal environment for students to build confidence, discover their edge and take the next step toward their future,” said Vaughan.

Ian Crookshank, associate vice-president, Learner and Career Success and dean of Students, moderated a panel discussion with student scholarship recipients. 

Each scholarship recipient spoke candidly about the impact of donor-funded scholarships and how it helped them find their edge at Humber.  

“One of my most fulfilling projects was a podcast on false advertising and deceptive marketing,” said Amy Kaur, a Bachelor of Commerce – Marketing student. “It empowered me to explore substantial topics in a genuine, relatable way, fueling a passion within me.”  

Kaur is now considering a career in ethical marketing.  

For Bachelor of Public Relations student Sonny Walton, a compelling communications presentation and research paper caught the attention of his professor who suggested they apply for an ACE award – a well-regarded award recognizing outstanding work in the practice of public relations and strategic communications.  

“That extra boost of confidence really helped bridge the gap and made the experience so much more positive,” said Walton.

The celebration concluded with a vibrant performance by Humber Music’s Salsa Ensemble, directed by Alex Naar Quiroz, and performed by Humber students in the Bachelor of Music program.

Throughout the night, members of the Humber community connected with scholarship recipients, shared stories of success, and celebrated the transformative power of education, made possible through Humber’s Unlimited Campaign.