Meet Catherine (Kiki) and Ian Delaney & The Delaney Family Foundation: Championing Creativity and Indigenous Culture Through Philanthropy

Catherine (Kiki) Delaney is a leading advocate of the arts and a cherished supporter of OCAD University. Alongside her husband Ian and the Delaney Family Foundation, Kiki has been instrumental in propelling OCAD U forward through significant philanthropic gifts totalling $5 million. This unwavering support has deeply enriched the OCAD U community and continues to inspire and shape the future of art and design education. 

A Journey of Impact and Advocacy 

During her tenure as Chancellor (2011-2017), Kiki's leadership was pivotal in an era of transformation at OCAD U.  In recognition of her tremendous contributions to the University, Kiki was awarded an honorary doctorate in 2012. The Delaney Family also has a longstanding relationship with OCAD U, which has included generously funding many scholarships, The Delaney Chair in Indigenous Visual Culture and The Delaney Indigenous Visual Culture Research Initiatives Fund. 

Their most recent transformational $2.5 million gift underscores this legacy, enhancing OCAD U's Onsite Gallery programming and establishing both The Delaney Family Emerging Curator’s Prize and The Delaney Family Bursary Fund. These initiatives not only champion curatorial excellence but also ensure financial support for students in need. 

What motivated their recent support of OCAD U? 

“We are proud to support OCAD University as it leads the way in educating the next generation of creative thinkers and showcasing a broad range of dynamic artists and designers. It is our hope that this gift will contribute to nurturing creative excellence at both Onsite Gallery and OCAD University. We are delighted to be part of this journey.”   

- Kiki Delaney