“There’s a very different feel at McMaster,” says Rotimi Fadiya, a fourth-year electrical and biomedical engineering student.

“It’s very tight-knit, very friendly. I chose Mac because I knew it would be a place where I could succeed both academically and personally.”

As he entered his second year, Fadiya learned he had been awarded the Brash Academic Grant.

“My first thought was, wow, someone took the initiative to support students. I’m very grateful,” says Fadiya, who has also been recognized as a Scotiabank Scholar by Toronto’s Black Business and Professional Association.

“There are a lot of talented black individuals in situations that make it difficult to pursue a post-secondary education,” he says. “Just knowing there are people who want you to succeed — that has a tremendous impact. It changes lives in a very meaningful way.”

Ron Brash (1932-2006) graduated from McMaster with his BEng in 1964. As part of his estate planning, he established the Gordon and Agnes (Twambley) Brash Academic Grant in memory of his parents.

“If I could have met Mr. Brash, first of all I would have said thank you!” says Fadiya. “I applaud him for looking out for students and for knowing the value of higher education.”

The award has given Fadiya a greater appreciation for the importance of giving back to future generations.

For the immediate future, though, he’s focused on his studies in the Faculty of Engineering. “The Faculty is building a reputation as the premier engineering school in Canada,” says Fadiya.

“I feel as though I’m really part of something — like I’m watching history unfold.”

To learn more about estate gifts, contact Kelly Trickett in University Advancement at 905-525-9140, ext. 21990, or tricket@mcmaster.ca.