Description: Wilfred Laurier University of Waterloo, Ontario has named its business school after Blackberry co-founder Mike Lazaridis.  Mr. Lazaridis has had a long association with the University of Waterloo, but he has made a pledge of $20 million to Laurier for funding an institute offering technology management skills. The government of Ontario has joined in by pledging $15 million to support the initiative.

Source: Globeandmail.com

Date:  September 8, 2015

Link: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/careers/business-education/wilfrid-laurier-university-names-business-school-for-mike-lazaridis/article26243756/

Discussion Points:

1) As a student choosing a university, to what extent do you consider factors such as support from major donations such as these?

2) What would be some of the factors to consider in tax planning for the timing of honouring a major pledge such as this?

3) The taxpayers of Ontario are making a significant contribution to the institute as well, but the facility name will recognize Mr. Lazaridis only. How do you feel about the naming of institutions after private contributors when there also has been a major contribution by the taxpayers? What might be some ways to also recognize the public nature of this support?