National Nursing Week gift will be commemorated by naming of Leslie and Irene Dubé School of Nursing

May 2024

Saskatchewan Polytechnic is excited to announce a $7.5 million gift from renowned philanthropists and successful business leaders Leslie and Irene Dubé toward its Time to Rise campaign supporting the construction of the new Jospeh A. Remai Saskatoon Campus. In recognition of this gift during National Nursing week – the School of Nursing will be renamed the Leslie and Irene Dubé School of Nursing.

“Leslie and Irene Dubé are an inspiring couple with an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others,” says Dr. Larry Rosia, president and CEO. “Their mission in life has always been to make the world a better place through philanthropy. The Leslie and Irene Dubé School of Nursing is a fitting legacy for a couple whose generosity will enable our students to meet the growing healthcare needs of our province for years to come. Sask Polytech is deeply grateful for the Dubés' support, which will have a lasting impact on the quality of healthcare across Saskatchewan.”

A portion of the Dubés' generous gift, $1 million, will be used to establish an endowment for Sask Polytech psychiatric nursing student awards. This investment will ensure that future generations of psychiatric nurses receive the education and training they need to provide exceptional care to our communities.

“Nurses serve on the frontlines of providing quality healthcare in this province,” says Irene Dubé. “Day and night they are a source of comfort and care for patients… indeed they are the heart and soul of caring. We have witnessed this firsthand over the years and we now can demonstrate our respect by giving this gift. Both Les and I felt that it was very important to show the nursing profession the recognition it deserves by announcing this gift during National Nursing Week.”

Leslie and Irene Dubé, founders of the Concorde Group of Companies, have always believed in sharing with their community. Their philanthropic efforts have focused on various causes, including health, education and poverty. Their dedication to social consciousness and their desire to uplift the most vulnerable members of society have made them exemplary leaders in charitable giving.

Driven by their faith, the Dubés hope their actions will inspire others to follow suit. They firmly believe that every gift, regardless of its size, makes a difference in the lives of those in need. Their continued commitment to improving the lives of the most vulnerable members of society is truly commendable.

Sask Polytech extends its heartfelt gratitude to Leslie and Irene Dubé for their extraordinary gift. Their support will not only shape the future of nursing education but also inspire others to make a positive impact in their communities.

This important gift supports Sask Polytech’s $100 million Time to Rise campaign.