UBC graduate and noted philanthropist Ken Woods has donated $1 million to establish a scholarship for gifted athletes.
The Ken Woods Award for UBC varsity athletes is shared over 10 years. UBC will match the award at $90,000 per year.
Woods is an active fan of UBC varsity sports and says supporting the athletes in their pursuit of success both on the field and in academics is worth every penny.
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“To assist students who aspire to excel both academically and athletically is indeed an honour and an excellent way of giving back to my alma mater,” said Woods. “High achievers who learn to compete in a team environment under the mentoring of excellent coaches and professors should develop great life skills, establish strong friendships and lasting memorable experiences. We hope this scholarship fund will enable many students over many years and contribute to the development of these fine individuals.”
UBC Athletics Managing Director Ashley Howard says the Woods donation will go a long way to helping university athletes reach their goals.
“The donation is exceptional and we sincerely thank Mr. Woods for his generosity,” said Howard. “His contribution not only speaks to the importance of athletics in students’ lives, but to the UBC community’s desire to see our athletes achieve excellence.”
Two athletes per team from women and men’s basketball and golf teams are able to apply for the funding initially. Men and women’s soccer athletes will be added to the applicant pool in coming years.
Recipients are evaluated by an awards committee, based on the recommendation of their coaches, their academic achievements and their leadership on campus and in the community.
