Historic $11 Million Gift Creates Perpetual Scholarship Program at University of Saskatchewan
In what University of Saskatchewan president Vince Bruni-Bossio describes as "an extraordinary gesture that will have a lasting impact," the institution has received its largest-ever legacy gift—an $11 million bequest from William (Bill) and May Ellen Pringle that will establish a permanent scholarship program for business students.
Transformative Support for Future Business Leaders
The newly created Pringle Scholarship Program will provide perpetual financial support to undergraduate students in the Edwards School of Business. According to university officials, this landmark gift will allow dozens of business students each year to focus more intently on their academic pursuits while worrying less about financing their education.
"Their belief in our university's ability to shape the future aligns with our mission to be what the world needs," stated President Bruni-Bossio. "This enduring gift will continue to inspire generations of students to make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond. We are honoured to carry on Bill and May Ellen's legacy through these awards."
The Pringle Family Legacy
The scholarship program honors the Pringle family's deep connections to Saskatchewan and the University of Saskatchewan:
- Bill Pringle, born in Harris, Saskatchewan, graduated at the top of his class with a commerce degree from U of S in 1955
- He built a successful career as a real estate developer and chartered accountant in Calgary while maintaining strong ties to his Saskatchewan roots
- Bill's brother John graduated from U of S in 1938
- Another brother, Bertram, left school during World War II to enlist in the Royal Canadian Air Force and was killed in action in 1943
- Bill and May Ellen married in 1963 and shared a love for outdoor activities, frequently traveling to destinations like Shuswap, Maui, and Victoria
Scholarship Details and Impact
The Pringle Scholarship Program comprises three named awards:
- The William G. Pringle Award
- The Bertram H. Pringle Award
- The John A. Pringle Award
These scholarships will be awarded to undergraduate students who demonstrate financial need and who graduated from high schools located outside Regina and Saskatoon. Each recipient will have their full tuition covered for the remainder of their degree program.
The University of Saskatchewan estimates that approximately 35 continuing students will receive a Pringle award each year, creating a sustainable pipeline of support for business education.
"Students at the U of S recognize that this support not only helps to relieve financial burdens today, but that it is an investment in their future as business leaders," said Keith Willoughby, dean of the Edwards School of Business.
Lasting Educational Impact
This transformative gift represents more than just financial assistance—it embodies the Pringle family's commitment to education and their belief in the power of business education to create positive change. The perpetual nature of the scholarship program ensures that Bill and May Ellen Pringle's legacy will continue to support Saskatchewan students for generations to come, removing financial barriers and enabling talented individuals to pursue business education regardless of their economic circumstances.
The establishment of the Pringle Scholarship Program marks a significant milestone in the University of Saskatchewan's history, demonstrating how philanthropic vision can create enduring educational opportunities that benefit both individual students and the broader business community.
