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Image Credit: FLICKR/Thompson Rivers University
February 17, 2022 - 1:02 PM
The Thompson Rivers University business school will be named after an iconic Kamloops businessman.
A $10 million donation from the Gaglardi family and Northland Properties is the largest donation ever given to the university, which will fund the renamed business program.
The Bob Gaglardi School of Business and Economics will expand its programming, research and financial support for its students with a portion of the donation, according to a TRU announcement.
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“It was important to us as a family to give these funds to TRU in support of the growth and future enrollment at their business school, while also continuing a legacy of contributing to the community that our family has long valued,” said Andrea Gaglardi, Bob Gaglardi's daughter and corporate development vice-president of Northland Properties Corporation.
Bob Gaglardi's company is massive with several brands under its umbrella, but the company and the Gaglardi family have their roots in Kamloops.
The company is now headquartered in Vancouver and led by Bob's four children: Tom, Andrea, Mitch and Devonna.
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“This is the first time in TRU’s history that a school or faculty is being named. The impact associated with this donation extends beyond the monetary value and represents leadership for TRU,” TRU president Brett Fairbairn said.
“TRU strives to be a leader in diversity, a leader in community-mindedness, a leader in curiosity and a leader in sustainability. The Bob Gaglardi School of Business and Economics champions that mission as one of our flagship faculties.”
The business school boasts eight undergraduate programs and three master's degree programs.
“This is the start of a strong partnership with the Gaglardi family rooted in our shared values, including developing ethical business leaders and entrepreneurs who will shape and grow their communities," business school dean, Michael Henry, said in the announcement.
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