BUFFALO, NY - The legacy of Patrick “Pat” Warn Lee will live on at Canisius University through a newly endowed $2 million scholarship.
Established by Patrick P. Lee HON ’99, the Lee Foundation Scholarship Program will support students who study finance, computer science, physics, mathematics and/or statistics. The scholarship coincides with a similar $2 million endowed chair that Lee created to support the Palliative and Supportive Care Program at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. Both honor the memory of Lee’s late son, Patrick Warn, who passed away September 4, 2017.
“These gifts, made in memory of my son, will allow Roswell Park and Canisius to have greater impact and will align with the Lee Foundation’s commitment to mental health and education,” says Lee. “The endowed chair at Roswell will expand the emotional and psychological supports for cancer patients and their families. And the scholarship at Canisius will provide academic opportunities for science and math students. My family and I are proud to have Pat’s legacy carried forward by these outstanding community institutions.”
The Lee Foundation Scholarship Program at Canisius will award two scholarships of $10,000 each to freshman students who demonstrate financial need and a commitment to excel in one of the targeted majors. Scholarships are renewable over four years. Additionally, in the inaugural year of the program, eight junior and senior scholarship awards will support students in the targeted majors who are at risk of not completing their educations at Canisius due to financial circumstances. The program will provide $10,000 per student, per academic year to relieve a portion of unmet financial need and reduce post-graduation debt. Students in their junior years of study may receive scholarships for a second year as long as they remain in good academic standing.
“Patrick Lee is a longtime benefactor and dear friend to Canisius University,” says President John J. Hurley. “We are extremely grateful to him for his continued commitment to the future of the college, and it is a privilege to honor the memory of his son in this way. The Lee Foundation Scholarship Program will be a key part of our strategy to recruit the best possible students to Canisius who can truly enhance the intellectual life of campus.”
Lee has a long history of support at Canisius University. He served in a variety of roles including as a member of the Board of Trustees (2000-2006) and the Board of Regents (1980-1986).
