Public support is the cornerstone of research, says Rosa Marie Ferraiuolo (BSc 2009, PhD 2015), a research associate in biology professor Lisa Porter’s lab.

“None of our work would be possible if we did not have sponsors, donors and supporters for our causes,” she told those gathered in Vanier Hall for a donor appreciation breakfast Thursday.

“Donor dollars fuel research in many ways: from providing scholarships and funding to graduate students working in the field, to the purchasing of new equipment and supplying essential reagents needed to conduct laboratory-based research,” Dr. Ferraiuolo said. “Every effort, both large and small, towards funding research makes a difference and today is a celebration of the difference that each and every one of you has made.”

More than 200 donors to the University attended the event and heard from drama student and scholarship recipient Billy Chandler; Alumni Association president John Renaud; grad Susan Wessel, who spearheaded the endowment of scholarship funds honouring local music teacher Ernie Gerenda and late soldier Andrew Grenon; and UWindsor president Alan Wildeman.