Kassams make landmark investment in equity at TMU School of Medicine
Toronto, November 26, 2024 -- Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) today announced a transformative investment in the TMU School of Medicine from Moez and Marissa Kassam. The Kassams, through their Moez & Marissa Kassam Equity Fund, have made a landmark $5 million contribution— the first of its kind to the School—to support the training of much-needed health professionals in the underserved Peel region. This investment advances TMU'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—helping create an inspirational learning environment for future physicians—and launches the Moez & Marissa Kassam Excellence through Equity Scholarships, the first comprehensive scholarship program at TMU's new School of Medicine.
Quote from Mohamed Lachemi “Thank you to the Kassam family for their vision, generosity and commitment,” said Mohamed Lachemi, President and Vice-Chancellor, TMU. “Their 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.”
Quote from Dean Dr. Teresa Chan: “The Kassam family, like TMU, believe in leveling the playing field for excellent students who traditionally face challenges in access to medical education,” said Dr. Teresa M. Chan, Dean, TMU School of Medicine. “The 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.”
The Kassam family’s 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’ generosity will be recognized through the naming of the School of Medicine’s 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 TMU School of Medicine is readying to open the doors of its Brampton facility in July of 2025. The TMU 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.