Wilfrid Laurier University gets huge donation from long-time supporter, alumni

Wilfrid Laurier University received a massive donation from a long-time supporter and alumni of the school.

Peter Ansley, who graduated in 1966, donated $1 million to the school. In his honour, the Alumni Field will now be renamed to the Ansley Alumni Field.

Both Ansley and his wife Cheri have supported the school for years, including the establishment of the Peter Ansley Basketball Award in 2011.

“Peter is a deeply valued friend of Laurier and the Golden Hawks,” Kate McCrae Bristol, director of Athletics and Recreation, said in a press release. “With this generous donation, he is an integral part of building momentum in our quest to develop leaders and champions at Laurier.”

The field has undergone extensive renovation the past two years including updating the turf and seating, a press box, scoreboard and a centre-field gateway feature. It is now the size of a FIFA soccer field and better suited for soccer, rugby and lacrosse competitions.

“It’s truly fitting to see Peter’s name associated with the field, as he is himself a hub of relationship and service within the Laurier and broader Waterloo community,” Deborah MacLatchy, president and vice-chancellor, said. “We are deeply grateful to him for this gift, and for all the ways he has contributed to our university over decades.”

Ansley graduated with a Bachelor of Arts and was a varsity basketball and football athlete. He participated in the school’s Board of Governors and committees and was the chair of multiple groups.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without Laurier, and Laurier students hold a special place in my heart,” Ansley said. “I want to make sure that generations of future Laurier students can enjoy the opportunities I had to work hard and have fun in athletics, build the skills to prepare for a successful career and make life-long friendships.”

An event on Sept. 12 will be held to celebrate the donation at the newly renamed Ansley Alumni Field.