Bishop’s University Forges Strategic Partnership with Desjardins Group – Enhancing initiatives focused on the student community

Bishop’s University is thrilled to announce a transformative partnership with Desjardins aimed at supporting four key initiatives benefiting students over the next three years. Desjardins has pledged a generous donation of $310,000, reinforcing its commitment to education and community development.

Financial leverage to support innovative solutions

Estrie-Preneur ($170,000)
Under the leadership of Vincent Cloutier, this initiative will pair students with local entrepreneurs for a two-month immersive experience. Through full-time collaboration, students will gain valuable hands-on experience in the business world, fostering a deeper understanding of real-world challenges and opportunities.

Desjardins Exam Care Packages ($60,000)
With a focus on promoting a healthy lifestyle, these care packages aim to support students during the stressful exam period. The initiative underscores the importance of well-being during challenging times and reflects the supportive spirit of the community.

Scholarships ($50,000)
These bursaries, ranging from $2,500 to $5,000, aim to alleviate the financial burden on students pursuing excellence in their academic endeavors.

Desjardins Pitch Competition ($30,000)
Integrated into select courses offered by the Williams School of Business (WSB), this competition challenges students to create startup companies and present comprehensive business plans to a panel of judges. The top three teams will be rewarded with monetary prizes, encouraging creativity, and building students’ confidence in entrepreneurship.

Dr. Sébastien Lebel-Grenier, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Bishop’s University, expressed gratitude for Desjardins’ commitment to education, stating, “This partnership contributes significantly to empowering our students, promoting excellence and fostering a vibrant, supportive learning community.”

“As we renew our partnership, Desjardins Group is proud to continue enriching the lives of students at Bishop’s University,” said Isabelle Garon, Executive Vice-President, Marketing, Communications, Cooperation and President’s Office. “Giving young people the resources and support they need for their professional development is essential, and I believe that these four initiatives will play a key role.”

“I am very happy to be one of this year’s recipients of the Desjardins Bursaries, and I am very appreciative of Desjardins’ generosity and support towards my future as I continue furthering my education,” declared Courtney Gallan, second-year student in the School of Education at Bishop’s University.

Ms. Jacqueline Scott, Associate Vice-Principal, Alumni Relations and Philanthropy, highlighted the impact of these initiatives on student well-being, saying, “The Exam Care Packages and Scholarships will make a tangible difference in the lives of our students, supporting both their academic and personal journeys.”

The collaboration between Bishop’s University and Desjardins exemplifies a shared vision for the advancement of education, entrepreneurship, and student success. The combined efforts will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and development of the Bishop’s University community.

About Desjardins Group
Desjardins Group is the largest financial cooperative in North America and the fifth largest in the world, with assets of $414.1 billion as of September 30, 2023. Desjardins was named among the world’s best employers for women according to Forbes magazine. To meet the diverse needs of its members and customers, both individuals and businesses, it offers a complete range of products and services through its vast network of service points, its virtual platforms and its subsidiaries present throughout Canada. Ranked among the strongest banking institutions in the world according to The Banker magazine, Desjardins boasts capital ratios and credit ratings that are among the best in the industry.

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MEDIA INQUIRIES:

Sonia Patenaude
Communications Manager – Bishop’s University
819-342-2587 | sonia.patenaude@ubishops.ca

Information (for media only):
Jérémi Trudel
Public Relations Desjardins Group
514-281-7000, extension 5553436
media@desjardins.com