A Gift That Will Grow the Economy

By Suzanne Robicheau | spring 2016

The Master of Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation (MTEI) program at the Sobey School of Business received some exciting news in October 2015. Alumnus Mike Durland (BComm ’87) announced two gifts totalling $1.5 million. One from Scotiabank – where at the time, Durland was CEO, Global Banking and Markets – and one from Mike and his wife Catherine, also a Saint Mary’s graduate (BComm ’87). Scotiabank’s gift created the Scotiabank Professorship in Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation, a position held by MTEI founder and designer Professor Dawn Jutla. The Durlands’ support went to MTEI student scholarships and the Durland Innovation Fund. 

“Saint Mary’s Sobey School of Business has a vision to increase the number of technology start-ups in Canada and drive innovation and entrepreneurial activity,” said Saint Mary’s President Dr. Summerby-Murray. “With the support of Scotiabank and Mike and Catherine Durland, the MTEI program will contribute to the growth of Atlantic Canada’s economy by preparing our next generation of leaders for new technologies and transformative opportunities.”

Campus Notes: “I give because I believe in Saint Mary’s University.”

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