Helping students thrive

I studied music because it’s honestly the only thing I can truly see myself doing. I love the idea of teaching those passionate about the art to move forward with their creativity by offering them a technical and theoretical foundation, as well as just being able to create new music whether it be a film score, art music or rock music.

Receiving the Evelyn Mae McLaughlin Memorial Award in Music Composition meant so much to me. I can often find myself discouraged as a composer, questioning if I really have what it takes to work in the field. Getting this award is a huge encouragement to me to continue to work hard and move forward, and to know that my potential is recognized.

I have been working on a rock album as well as producing my final-year composition at Laurier. This process has been quite costly and I wasn’t able to get enough funds this year to purchase the required software or pay the performers for recording. This award made it possible for me to do this and I am so excited!

Gifts to Laurier can change a student’s university experience. They go from just being able to scrape by to being able to thrive. And not just financially – it is also a huge motivation to keep going strong.

- Travis, Music Student, Year 4/Class of 2020

Evelyn Mae McLaughlin (BA ’74), was a music teacher and taught in the Kitchener-Waterloo school system for years. She loved music and established the Evelyn Mae McLaughlin Memorial Award in Music Composition, through a bequest, to recognize outstanding Laurier students.

If you are interested in making a bequest to Laurier, please contact Cec Joyal, Development Officer, Individual & Legacy Giving, Development & Alumni Relations 519.498.4168 | cjoyal@wlu.ca