DeGroote gives $50 million donation

There was a big surprise at Friday’s graduation ceremony at McMaster’s Michael DeGroote School of Medicine when the benefactor of the school made a remarkable announcement.

The graduates were collectively holding their breath during their oath ceremony when Mr. DeGroote approached the podium. He announced that he would be making a 50 million dollar donation to McMaster University and students got to their feet and cheered.

Michael DeGroote spoke with the Dean of the School of Medicine and told him that he wanted to give a large gift to the graduating class.

The Dean suggested instead of announcing it at a press conference, reward the students with the big news at their graduation ceremony. DeGroote says he is proud to play a small role in their education and hopes to inspire others to give.

One graduating student, Caryn Green says Michael DeGroote has been extremely generous with all of his donations and has helped students learn from the best teachers and researchers. Green said she was blown away by his announcement: “I was actually very emotional about it. I’m incredibly grateful for his dedication and his commitment to us.”

Dean John Kelton: “To be in that room was amazing. Suddenly the room erupted with just a gasp and it was really a wonderful joyous moment.”

The Dean said Friday that the money will go towards a few initiatives. They hope to produce health leaders by teaming up with the DeGroote School of Business. They want to reward students who make major discoveries to move their research forward and also increase funding for the biomedical engineering faculty.