Brandon University Receives $1.1 Million Gift to Expand Award

Brandon University has been awarded a significant $1.1 million gift from longtime supporter Michael Chernoff, aimed at enhancing one of its most prestigious entrance awards. This generous contribution is intended to create new opportunities for top incoming students at the institution, according to a news release from the university.

The Chernoff Family Award, established in 2001, honors Chernoff’s late wife, Dorine, along with her parents, Agnes and Roland Dennison, who played pivotal roles in her educational journey. Dorine, a graduate of Brandon College, passed away in 2023 at the age of 92.

Chernoff, who resides in West Vancouver but has strong ties to the Prairie region, expressed that both he and Dorine were first-generation university graduates. He reflected on the encouragement they received from their families, stating, “When we were able, we committed to helping students throughout Canada pursue their education, and it has been deeply rewarding to hear from those we have been able to support.”

The Chernoff Family Award initially began with a contribution exceeding $500,000, which was matched by the province and the Brandon University Foundation. Over the past two decades, this fund has provided scholarships totaling more than $1.1 million to students at Brandon University. Each year, the award has supported the top two entering students, providing $7,500 annually to each recipient, renewable for up to four years.

Doubling the Impact of Student Support

With Chernoff’s latest contribution, the university plans to significantly increase the award’s impact. Starting in the upcoming academic year, the award will be given to the top incoming student from each of the university’s four faculties: arts, education, health studies, and science, as well as the School of Music. Each recipient will receive approximately $6,000 per year, renewable for up to four years. This adjustment means that as many as 20 students annually will benefit from the award, with a potential total of $24,000 provided over the course of their degrees.

In response to the generous donation, Christine Bovis-Cnossen, president of Brandon University, expressed gratitude for Chernoff’s commitment to honoring his late wife. She stated, “His commitment to honoring Dorine — and the family who supported her education — reflects the very best of what higher education can inspire. We are deeply grateful for this gift, which strengthens our mission, expands opportunity, and will enhance student success for decades to come.”

Chernoff emphasized that this gift is a tribute to both his wife’s formative years and the values shared by their family throughout their more than 60 years of marriage. He noted, “This is a gift that will keep on giving. I’ve been particularly touched by the number of students who, after receiving our support, have vowed to engage in similar philanthropy when they are able to pay it forward themselves.”

This significant donation not only enhances the educational landscape at Brandon University but also ensures that future generations of students will have access to the resources necessary to succeed in their academic endeavors.