Momentum Builders Scholarship

Dec. 20, 2021, By UT Physics

Diversity is one of U of T's strengths, and supporting it is our priority. We know we can do better.

We are creating opportunities for Black and Indigenous students to achieve their educational goals and contribute their ideas, insights and knowledge to the field, thereby enriching our collective understanding of physics and the universe.

We know that many Black and Indigenous students face systemic barriers in pursuing their educational goals. These barriers are multifold and complex, rooted in histories of colonialism and oppression. As one of the premier departments for the study of physics globally, and as part of the University of Toronto, we have a responsibility to address systemic barriers — including financial need — that prevent Black and Indigenous students from pursuing STEM careers.

The Department of Physics has therefore established the Momentum Builders Scholarship to support Black and Indigenous undergraduate students, to be awarded based on academic merit and financial need.

I believe so strongly in the importance of this fund for our students that I have personally donated $12,500 toward it. Another faculty member, who prefers to remain anonymous, was so thrilled to hear about this initiative that they have also pledged $12,500. We are already off to a great start!

Every gift — no matter the size — has an impact in the lives of our students. We encourage you to give at the level that makes sense for you.

Similar scholarships are already making a tremendous impact across the Faculty of Arts & Science. Riley Yesno graduated with an honours bachelor of arts in political science and Indigenous studies in June — and was honoured with a President's Award for Outstanding Indigenous Student of the Year Award. She credits scholarships for her success.

"I am not exaggerating when I say the only reason I have been able to make it through my undergrad was because of financial support. I am extremely grateful for the opportunities these scholarships helped afford me," Yesno says.

Please join us in making a donation toward these scholarships. What's more, you can double your impact. Your gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to a total match of $100,000.

Support exceptional Black and Indigenous students in physics

Excellence flourishes in an environment that embraces the broadest range of people and empowers them to achieve their full potential. Please join us in supporting the next generation of physicists and build momentum for greater diversity in physics.

Kimberly Strong

Chair, Department of Physics