Laurier Philanthropy Award recipients draw on deep, local roots to boost Laurier’s presence in their communities

Last week on Wilfrid Laurier University’s Waterloo campus, the university celebrated its 2026 Philanthropy Awards recognizing long-time, multi-generational donors, the Race family, and visionary Milton founder-donor Brian Penman (BA '65).

Granted at Laurier’s Awards of Excellence celebration on Thursday, May 28, the awards are presented annually in recognition of individuals, corporations and foundations whose generosity, leadership and time have significantly advanced Laurier’s mission and supported its students.

Accepting the award on behalf of the Race Family, Phil Race spoke first to the story and legacy of his father, John Race, a pillar of the Brantford business community who instilled a sense of philanthropy in his entire family. John was born and raised in Brantford and was a successful farmer and businessperson in Norfolk County, which is adjacent to Brantford.

“My father never finished high school, let alone attended postsecondary,” said Race. “But he certainly understood the importance.”

John was concerned that youth in the area were lacking opportunities to access a local post-secondary education. “When Fanshawe College announced they were establishing the Simcoe Campus, he immediately established a permanent endowed award,” said Phil. “Laurier opened in 1999 and in 2012, Dad established the Race Family Accessibility Award."

Since that time, the family’s giving has grown to include support for the Laurier Brantford YMCA capital campaign; the Race Family Undergraduate Research Apprenticeship Program, which provides funding to undergraduate students who seek training and mentorship in academic research skills; and the Academic, Creative and Engaged Research Showcase (ACERS) showcasing undergraduate research.

The Race family also supports StartUp Lab Brantford (formerly LaunchPad Brantford). Additionally, Phil is an active connector, sharing his time, attending events and providing input into the continued growth and development of Laurier’s Brantford campus.

“We’re happy to work with some very impressive people that are leaders in Brantford and continue the legacy of my father,” he said.

Brian Penman, a long-time business leader, politician, civic booster and hospital supporter in the Milton community, is also from a farming community in Southern Ontario. Brian credits his giving to his Laurier education, then known as Waterloo Lutheran University.

“My mentor took me aside and said, ‘Brian, you have to get an education,’” he recalls. “Being a farm boy, I liked Kitchener-Waterloo and the farmland all around it!”

Differing from his peers in the class of 1965 who were making more focused course selections for particular professions, Penman opted for a broader experience.

“I was prepar[ing] for another three years of grad work, 30 years in education, 30 years in politics, 30 years in environmental [advocacy], 20 years in hydroelectricity … I attribute it to the geometry of divergence and passionate [Laurier faculty who were] a model for my thinking and my heart.

“Any university that is worth its money has to touch both of those things, and Laurier is great at doing exactly that!”

Penman stayed connected with the Laurier community through his support of student emergency funding needs. When local leaders in Milton began to advocate for a Laurier campus, Penman dove in with his time and resources. He quickly became a founding donor and lead champion of Laurier’s Milton campus.

His entrance scholarships are ensuring students can access a postsecondary education right in their neighbourhood, his strategic advice is invaluable and his vocal advocacy brings in new supporters to the Laurier family and open doors for growth.

The Race Family and Brian exemplify the true spirit of philanthropy. Through their direct financial support, leadership and donation of time, they demonstrate a deep-seated and lasting dedication to Laurier and our students.