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By rdnewsNOW staff

New bursaries

Joyce Family Foundation donates $1.5 million to remove financial barriers for RDP students

Jan 6, 2026 | 1:07 PM

Red Deer Polytechnic received a generous donation of $1.5 million from The Joyce Family Foundation.

The institution says the donation means RDP students will face fewer financial barriers when pursuing a post-secondary education, as the donation will expand access and opportunities for learners across the province.

The donation will form The Joyce Family Foundation Bursary that will provide 11 awards valued at up to $5,000 each that will go to students heading into their first year of any RDP program. These bursaries, RDP says, are renewable for the duration of the student’s programs as long as they maintain good academic standing.

“We are extremely grateful to receive this endowment gift to create The Joyce Family Foundation Bursary,” said Patrick Machacek, vice president of development and partnerships at RDP in a media release. “These funds will help eliminate financial barriers and ensure that more students can continue to access post-secondary education, participating in job-ready education, training and applied research opportunities while attending RDP, and contributing to Alberta’s skilled workforce after graduating.”

The funds will be given to full-time students who are Canadian citizens just beginning their first post-secondary program and have demonstrated perseverance in overcoming personal challenges.

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RDP says that preference will be given to students from central Alberta.

“This bursary program reflects Ron Joyce’s lifelong commitment to giving young people a chance to pursue their dreams,” said Rob MacIsaac, chair of the Joyce Family Foundation. “We’re proud to continue that legacy by helping students advance their education at Red Deer Polytechnic, knowing that their dedication and promise are being recognized and supported.”

The Joyce Family Foundation is a private family foundation established by Ronald V. Joyce, and they are dedicated to supporting the social, economic and emotional well-being of children and youth.

RDP students can apply for this bursary beginning in the 2026-27 academic year.