Since it first teed off in September 2004, the Concordia Golf Classic has raised more than $5.8 million for scholarships and bursaries that have benefited more than 1,500 students.
The money raised from the annual event provides critical financial support, encouraging the next generation of leaders and change-makers — like former bursary recipient Liliane Chamas, BSc 09, a Rhodes Scholar — to reach their fullest potential.
Boasting an impressive roster of co-chairs and co-presidents, the fundraiser was presided over by Norman Hébert Jr., BComm 77, and George Hanna, BA 72, throughout its first decade. The late L. Jacques Ménard, BComm 67, LLD 06, also served as co-president for two years.
“Everybody looks forward to the Golf Classic and the money raised is going to a great cause. It’s also an opportunity for people to get together — a lot of the same players come back every year. People are generous in their support and I think that’s important.”
Held at the exclusive Golf Griffon des Sources in Mirabel, the tournament is the only fundraiser in Quebec to convene executives from Canada’s major banks in support of a good cause.
While COVID-19 has made it necessary to cancel the Golf Classic for 2020, organizers have high hopes for a successful event in 2021. Until then, continuing to extend support to students during this challenging time is more imperative than ever.
A heartfelt thank-you to our co-chairs, co-presidents, alumni, friends and partner organizations whose generosity and support have made this event such a huge success over the years.
“I think it’s a great model for a fundraiser where all the bankers come together. It’s all about, how can we better support the community? We compete on most days, but once in a while we come together to have a bigger impact on causes like education.”
“It is a great fundraiser. If you take the amount of money raised over time, that’s an impressive number. It helps out a lot of students who are going to make a difference in society. The money raised will give a chance to many people who would otherwise not have had the opportunity.”
“It’s a really unique tournament. The fact that all the banks, who are usually in competition, come together for this cause and to do something good for Concordia, for the students and for the reputation of the school, is very important.”
“I believe knowledge acquired through higher education drives the future of the world. So it is difficult to find a better cause to support. All the money raised is helping hard-working, financially challenged students who need assistance.”
“The ultimate objective of the Golf Classic is to build a better world by educating people and by giving them the necessary tools to make this a better world for everyone.”
“For us at HSBC, we want students to have the best possible education. Some of them obviously need financial support and we can help them get that through the Golf Classic.”
“It’s an important cause for Laurentian Bank because it helps students reach their potential by reducing financial barriers and challenges. We always like to promote this fundraiser because it’s promoting education, employment and entrepreneurship for tomorrow’s leaders.”
“Education is a very strong priority for our city. This is why National Bank is so keen on supporting universities. It is not only a corporate responsibility but a privilege.”
“RBC has been involved in the Golf Classic for years, and for many reasons. At RBC, it’s in our DNA and values to contribute to the prosperity of our communities. We also recognize how important it is to support the development of our youth, who are our future.”
“When I was in university, I benefited from what I consider to be not only an amazing education but an entrance scholarship. When I look back at the success I have attained in my career at Scotiabank, I really attribute it to Concordia.”
“The actual purpose of the Golf Classic speaks to not only me but also BMO, in terms of the importance of education. We strongly believe that education is the foundation of our society and social values.”
“The tournament gives people an enjoyable way to network and give back to a staple of the community.”
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