USask Receives Historic $10 Million Gift for Student Scholarships

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) has received its largest-ever legacy gift, a remarkable contribution of $10 million intended to establish the Pringle Scholarship Program at the Edwards School of Business. This significant endowment will provide scholarships for undergraduate students demonstrating financial need, specifically targeting those who graduated from high schools outside Regina or Saskatoon.

The Pringle Scholarship Program comprises three distinct awards: the William G. Pringle Award, the Bertram H. Pringle Award, and the John A. Pringle Award. Each award will cover the full tuition costs for selected recipients throughout their degree programs. This initiative marks a pivotal moment for the business school, as it represents the most substantial scholarship program introduced to date.

Vince Bruni-Bossio, President and Vice-Chancellor of USask, expressed profound gratitude for the Pringles’ generosity. “The generosity of Bill and May Ellen Pringle is an extraordinary gesture that will have a lasting impact on the lives of students at the Edwards School of Business,” he stated. He emphasized the alignment of their vision with the university’s mission to inspire future generations to contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Bill Pringle, who graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce in 1955, maintained a strong connection to USask until his death in 2015. After graduating at the top of his class, he built a successful career as a chartered accountant and real estate developer in Calgary, Alberta. Bill’s commitment to education remained evident throughout his life. In a 2005 interview with Green & White magazine, he reflected, “If I hadn’t got an education at a reasonable price, I wouldn’t have had the chance to do as well as I have.” He expressed his desire to give back to USask, where he felt his education laid the foundation for his success.

The Pringle family has a deep-rooted history with the Edwards School of Business. Both of Bill’s brothers, John (Jack) and Bertram (Bert), attended the College of Commerce, now known as the Edwards School of Business. Jack graduated in 1938 and enjoyed a distinguished career at USask. Bert, however, left college just one course shy of graduation to enlist in the Royal Canadian Air Force and tragically lost his life in action in 1943. The scholarships named in their honor reflect the family’s commitment to education and community service.

The Pringles’ estate gift was part of their legacy planning for over two decades. Following the death of May Ellen in 2024, the family initiated steps to memorialize the couple’s contributions. On July 31, 2025, a special event was held at the Edwards School of Business to unveil a plaque recognizing Bill and May Ellen’s extraordinary generosity. Don Pringle, their nephew, remarked, “I was thrilled by the effort that the Edwards School of Business put into highlighting my uncle and aunt.” He emphasized their thoughtfulness and generosity, particularly towards education, which they both valued highly.

The impact of this legacy gift is expected to be significant. It is estimated that approximately 35 continuing students at the Edwards School of Business will receive a Pringle award each year. Dr. Keith Willoughby, Dean of the Edwards School of Business, noted that the scholarships will not only alleviate financial burdens for students but also foster a culture of philanthropy within the institution. “Our students are inspired by the generosity of Bill and May Ellen Pringle,” he stated. “They recognize that this support is an investment in their future as business leaders.”

The establishment of the Pringle Scholarship Program stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Bill and May Ellen Pringle, ensuring that their commitment to education and community will resonate for generations to come.