The VandenHoek Schlachter Pride Fund will support a suite of awards aimed at reducing barriers for 2SLGBTQ+ students. (Photo: LNN)

By Christian Oldale

University of Lethbridge receives $200,000 endowment to support 2SLGBTQ+ students

Jun 19, 2023 | 1:23 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The University of Lethbridge (U of L) has received a first-of-its-kind endowment fund to support 2SLGBTQ+ students on campus.

Two U of L alumni, Kurt Schlachter and Jason VandenHoek have established the VandenHoek Schlachter Pride Fund, a $200,000 endowment fund which will support a suite of awards aimed at reducing barriers for 2SLGBTQ+ students. The fund was announced at the school’s Progress Pride flag raising ceremony on June 19, 2023.

The fund is the first of its kind for the University, who also added in a news release that it is one of the few post-secondary institutions across Canada to offer awards for 2SLGBTQ+ students.

Martha Mathurin-Moe, Vice-Provost of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at U of L said, “As we work to build a more inclusive and welcoming campus, this significant gift sends a powerful message to our students and the broader community that by working together, we can create the culture shift we all seek – a truly safe and welcoming campus space for everyone.”

Schlachter and VandenHoek graduated from the University of Lethbridge in 2000 and 2005 respectively, with both serving as ULethbridge Senators. Schlachter was also a member of the school’s board of directors from 2016 until 2022.

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Schlachter said the pair drew on their experiences in small towns growing up and saw an opportunity to provide for those who cannot access vital supports when the U of L announced their Campaign for Students initiative in 2022.

READ MORE: U of L announces new initiative to support student scholarships

He explained, “With a smaller population, these students are less likely to be exposed to diversity of perspective, thought and individual circumstances in the same way as when you can come to a larger centre, and especially to a university campus. It opens your eyes in different ways. It’s important for students to see themselves represented and to feel that they are not alone.”

The first award from the VandenHoek Schlachter Pride Fund will be presented in June 2024.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

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