Simon Fraser University

Support Us

Fundraising Priorities

Gifts to the Department of Physics support students, new facilities, and special events.

Teaching Observatory and Science Outreach Centre

SFU is seeking $2 million to match a pledge of that amount to build a teaching observatory and science outreach centre that will provide a hub for local astronomical events and science outreach activities. The Teaching Observatory will support astronomy courses for both science and non-science majors and will be available in the evening for public viewing and special presentations. The Science Outreach Centre will provide space and support for both astronomy and general science workshops for elementary, middle and high school students visiting SFU during the daytime from nearby schools. With a focus on community involvement and outreach, it will become a destination of interest to the public and provide a vital link between the university and regional communities. 

For more information, please check here.

To see an interview of Howard Trottier on Global BC about astronomy and the outreach centre made June 16, 2010, please check here.

Student Support

Fundraising for support for physics students has traditionally included both bursaries for students in need of financial assistance and awards to acknowledge academic excellence. A gift of $20,000 or more will establish a named endowment fund that will continue to grow and support students in perpetuity, or donors can contribute to an existing endowment fund. Examples of student support include:

  • The Scott Wilson Memorial Endowment Fund, established in 2007 in memory of Scott Wilson, former Physics Technician. The purpose of the endowment fund is to provide bursaries for undergraduate physics students, particularly returning students, who are in financial need.
  • The Physics Charter Faculty Prize, awarded annually to the top graduating student in any major or honors Physics program. The endowment was established in recognition of Physics Charter Faculty: John f. Cochran, Konrad Colbow, Richard H. Enns, Robert F. Frindt, Rudi R. Haering, David J. Huntley, J.C. Irwin, Klaus E. Rieckhoff and K.S. Viswanathan.
  • The Billy Jones Graduate Award, awarded annually to a PhD student in the department for academic excellence.

Special Events

The Department would welcome the establishment of an endowment fund for a named lecture or colloquium series.

We invite you to contact the Department Chair or the Science Advancement Officer (Tracy London, 778.782.6967) to discuss your options for giving to SFU Physics.