New scholarship fund enables next generation of ocean scientists to make waves

Dalhousie’s Faculty of Science is now home to a transformative student support fund designed to encourage the next generation of ocean scientists: The Michael Albert Garron Fund.

Established by parents Myron and Berna and brothers Anthony and Mark, this fund has been named in memory of their beloved son and brother Michael who had a fascination with the ocean and marine life, and dreamed of becoming a marine biologist. Tragically, Michael passed away from cancer at the age of 13.

Michael's legacy lives on through the incredible generosity of the Garron Family, who have made considerable philanthropic commitments to hospitals and research institutions across Canada, including the Garron Family Cancer Centre at Toronto’s Sick Kids Hospital, and most recently a $25-million commitment to the IWK to support adolescent mental health.

Their creation of this fund at Dalhousie will provide generous scholarships and bursaries to both undergraduate and graduate students pursuing studies in ocean sciences, marine biology, oceanography, and marine affairs.

Honoring Michael’s passion for the sea

Michael Garron (left) and aquatic drawings (right).

Born in 1961, Michael demonstrated a passion for marine biology early on, developing a deep love for the ocean, swimming, and fishing. His dream was to pursue studies in marine biology and dedicate his life to protecting and conserving marine ecosystems.

“Michael was incredibly passionate about the ocean and marine life,” says brother Mark. “He would have been 63 years old today, and I know he would be thrilled to see students carry that same spark of curiosity. We hope this scholarship helps inspire students to explore the oceans with the same enthusiasm Michael had.”

Michael’s passion for learning was nurtured by his devoted parents, Berna and Myron, who made certain that their son’s love for the ocean would continue to inspire others long after his passing. Both Myron, originally from Westport, Nova Scotia, and Berna, who spent her early years in the Caribbean, encouraged visits to the sea, visiting places like Peggy’s Cove.

Michael and mother, Berna, and family at Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia.

As a child, Michael spent countless hours drawing and studying aquatic life. His brothers fondly remember his deep love for nature, often collecting creatures and exploring the outdoors with curiosity.

The fund—a generous $1.25 million gift from the Garron Foundation—was officially announced on September 9th. The event brought together members of the Garron family, close friends, scholarship recipients, and leading figures from Dalhousie’s ocean sciences community. 

Back row, left-to-right: Anthony Garron, Dr. Leslie Phillmore, Mark Garron. Front row, L-R: Berna and Myron Garron.

Dr. Leslie Phillmore, Dal's associate vice president academic, highlighted the unique role experiential learning plays in Dalhousie’s ocean sciences programs.

"Our proximity to the ocean, combined with our strong faculty and research infrastructure, offers unparalleled opportunities for experiential learning. Students, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels, gain practical skills and insights that go far beyond the classroom. This fund will enable them to fully immerse themselves in cutting-edge marine research, shaping their journey from student to scientist,” said Dr. Phillmore.

Ruth Riley (BSc’22), an inaugural recipient of the scholarship is completing a Master of Marine Management through Dalhousie’s Marine Affairs Program. Now in her second year, Ruth’s research focuses on whale conservation efforts within the Gully Marine Protected Area, a critical habitat off the coast of Nova Scotia.

"The support from the Michael Albert Garron Fund has allowed me to dedicate more time and resources to my conservation work. It’s incredibly motivating to know that others share my passion for marine life," said Riley.

Ruth Riley.

With Dalhousie's global reputation for excellence in ocean education and research, the Michael Albert Garron Fund serves as a lasting tribute to Michael’s passion and legacy, living on through the recipients of this scholarship.

Mark emphasized the importance of nurturing students' passion for marine science, saying, "We truly need more marine biologists to help protect and understand our oceans.”

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