Meet Ada Slaight & The Slaight Family Foundation: Transforming OCAD U Through Philanthropy

Ada Slaight and the Slaight Family Foundation have profoundly impacted OCAD University with donations totalling nearly $3.75 million and fostering a vibrant environment for art and design education. Their contributions have provided vital financial aid to students and supported transformative projects, including the Ada Slaight Studios and the Ada Slaight Exhibition Centre. These initiatives have enhanced the educational experience for students and faculty alike. 

A Legacy of Creativity and Support 

Ada Slaight was a steadfast advocate for the arts and a recipient of an honourary doctorate from OCAD U in 2015. She believed in the power of creative minds to drive societal change. The Slaight Family Foundation's support has also been instrumental in creating the Ada Slaight Graduate Scholars Fund, offering renewable scholarships to graduate students. The Fund enables students to focus on their studies and passions without financial impediments and emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility within the OCAD U community.  

Advancing Professional Growth and Community Engagement 

The Ada Slaight Exhibition Centre, featuring the Ada Slaight Gallery and Ignite Gallery, serves as a central hub for student exhibitions, professional development and community programs. The revitalized Ada Slaight Studios have reimagined learning spaces to incorporate technology-enabled studios and a student gallery, promoting experiential learning and creativity. 

What motivated the Slaight Family Foundation’s most recent gift? 

“OCAD University has always been a beacon of creativity and innovation, which resonates deeply with my family’s values. It’s our hope that the Ada Slaight Graduate Scholars Fund will empower the next generation to break boundaries and shape the world with their visionary ideas.”  

 
- Gary Slaight