RBC Foundation supports new climate change management programming at Laurier

Nov. 9, 2022
For Immediate Release

WATERLOO — RBC Foundation announced a new partnership with Wilfrid Laurier University on Nov. 9, 2022 to support new programming in the area of climate change management. RBC Foundation’s gift of $850,000 through its Future Launch program will support experiential learning, research and teaching with the goal of preparing students for critical emerging careers in climate change management.

“I am truly excited and grateful for RBC Foundation’s support as we enhance experiential opportunities for our students in the area of climate change management,” said Anthony J. Clarke, dean of the Faculty of Science. “With RBC’s support, our graduates will leave Laurier better equipped to tackle the complex challenges of climate change.”

The gift was announced at an event called "Building a Sustainable and Inclusive Future of Work" hosted by RBC at the Perimeter Institute in Waterloo. The event featured a panel discussion between Dave McKay, RBC president and CEO; Deborah MacLatchy, president, Wilfrid Laurier University; Vivek Goel, president, University of Waterloo; and John Tibbits, president, Conestoga College. It was moderated by Claude DeMone, regional president, Southwestern Ontario, RBC.

Before an audience of more than 100 community members, RBC employees, university representatives, and community and business leaders, participants discussed the importance of private-public partnerships in driving inclusive and just transitions to a more sustainable future, and supporting young people toward successful careers in this changing context.

During the panel discussion, MacLatchy expressed her gratitude to RBC and how much the RBC-Laurier partnership can accomplish.

“The time to act on climate change is now,” said MacLatchy. “Laurier develops and supports the talent who will be leaders in advancing planetary health and effecting positive outcomes. We are excited to partner with RBC, an organization that shares our commitment to developing leaders and providing them with the skills and aptitudes to thrive.”

Through their Future Launch program, RBC is also supporting University of Waterloo and Conestoga College with a partnership that empowers young people today for the jobs of tomorrow.

“At RBC we’re committed to collaborating with the brightest minds across Canada to help young people succeed in the future world of work,” said DeMone. “We’re thrilled to continue our long-standing partnership with Wilfrid Laurier University with the aim of supporting the next generation of leaders who can spark change and catalyze ideas to contribute to the transition to a net-zero economy.”

“As a Geography student and as someone who has a deep passion for the environment and climate change, I’m excited to see the leadership and collaboration in this area that will result from the RBC- supported programming in climate change management,” said Amber-Buston White, a Laurier student who is also featured in an RBC Future Launch video. “This programming will ensure students have dedicated and essential understandings that provide them with opportunities to work towards a sustainable future to their best capabilities within their professional capacities. I would like to extend an enormous thank you to RBC for their support.”

RBC is a long-time supporter of Wilfrid Laurier University, focusing primarily on experiential education and athletics, with support for capital campaigns as well. Through RBC Future Launch, the company is also supporting many different post-secondary institutions across Canada, including the University of Guelph, York University and Western University.