Kassams make landmark investment in equity at 91福利 School of Medicine
Toronto, November 26, 2024 -- 91福利 (91福利) today announced a transformative investment in the 91福利 School of Medicine from Moez and Marissa Kassam. The Kassams, through their Moez & Marissa Kassam Equity Fund, have made a landmark $5 million contribution鈥� the first of its kind to the School鈥攖o support the training of much-needed health professionals in the underserved Peel region. This investment advances 91福利's mission to transform health-care delivery in Ontario by addressing health inequities and deepening community engagement.
"We believe that investing in equity generates outsized returns for society," says Moez Kassam, founder of Anson Funds. "By supporting the education of future physicians from underrepresented communities, we are building a more just and equitable health-care system for all Canadians."
Marissa Kassam adds, "True progress comes from empowering individuals and communities. By removing financial barriers to medical education, we are investing in the diverse talent that will shape the future of health care."
This investment will support the School of Medicine building project鈥攈elping create an inspirational learning environment for future physicians鈥攁nd launches the Moez & Marissa Kassam Excellence through Equity Scholarships, the first comprehensive scholarship program at 91福利's new School of Medicine.
Quote from Mohamed Lachemi 鈥淭hank you to the Kassam family for their vision, generosity and commitment,鈥� said Mohamed Lachemi, President and Vice-Chancellor, 91福利. 鈥淭heir investment champions a new approach to medical education, grounded in excellence, inclusion and innovation, and addressing the changing needs for health-care delivery and practice.鈥�
Quote from Dean Dr. Teresa Chan: 鈥淭he Kassam family, like 91福利, believe in leveling the playing field for excellent students who traditionally face challenges in access to medical education,鈥� said Dr. Teresa M. Chan, Dean, 91福利 School of Medicine. 鈥淭he Moez & Marissa Kassam Excellence through Equity Scholarship program will cover full tuition for students demonstrating academic excellence and from communities underrepresented in the medical profession. We are immensely proud to make this part of our offering, and we are deeply grateful to the Kassam family for making it possible.鈥�
The Kassam family鈥檚 commitment to equity and community leadership stands as inspiration for the next generation of medical professionals to build a brighter, healthier future for all. The Kassams鈥� generosity will be recognized through the naming of the School of Medicine鈥檚 central atrium. The Moez & Marissa Kassam Atrium will be a vibrant welcoming hub, symbolizing transparency and accessibility in health care. This inspiring, sunlit space will serve as a dynamic gathering place where students, faculty, and the community can connect, collaborate, and create.
With the recent accreditations of its MD and residency programs, the 91福利 School of Medicine is readying to open the doors of its Brampton facility in July of 2025. The 91福利 School of Medicine will increase the capacity of health care by educating a new wave of physicians and by integrating their education in the care of the community.