‘Together Concordians make their biggest impact’

Although the COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt our lives, I hope that you and those close to you are healthy and coping with its evolving impact.

Despite the undeniable tension that we’re all experiencing, and the uncertainty about what the future may hold, it’s heartening to see so many members of our community determined to make a positive difference in this crisis.

I’m extremely grateful to everyone who has contributed to the COVID-19 Emergency Student Relief Fund. 

Thanks to the contributions of more than 500 donors, including $50,000 from the Concordia University Alumni Association, nearly 1,400 students have been supported by the fund, which has raised more than $1 million to date. Our Concordia Farmers’ Market is providing free emergency food baskets for those in need. 

Our Ageing + Communication + Technologies (ACT) research group has mobilized teams of volunteers to shop for and deliver food to seniors, while our Concordia LIVE Centre is partnering with community organizations to make regular phone calls to those who are homebound. 

Such generosity makes me especially proud to share this year’s edition of Momentum, our annual newsletter to promote the benefit of philanthropy. The profiles of our students and donors in its pages demonstrate the profound difference that your gifts make. 

Philanthropy plays a vital role in advancing Concordia’s ambition to be Canada’s next-generation university. Now, more than ever, we must reflect on what a next-generation university should be. 

And now, more than ever, I thank you for your ongoing support. Please take care of yourselves and continue to follow the advice of public health officials wherever you are.

Graham Carr
Concordia President