It might sound a little cliché, but saying that peace isn’t permanent—and it’s certainly not passive—is an understatement. For more than 50 years, Pearson College has relied on alumni and donors to bring together nearly 100 nationalities every year on the beautiful shores of Pedder Bay. Here, students learn to live and lead in ways that make the world more peaceful, and that’s where we need you.
The Time to Act Is Now
For decades, individuals and foundations have supported Pearson College financially, ensuring access to education for students from all walks of life. Today, that commitment matters more than ever. As Head of College for the past three years, I’ve heard one consistent message: sometimes we need to be more direct in asking for your help. So here it is—the reality is, we need you.
Why Your Support Matters
Pearson College has always stood for collective action. That’s why you’ll find our students climbing mountains, paddling the Salish Sea, debating late into the night, and engaging in programs like Ripple to learn how to make the world more peaceful. But these experiences come at a cost—a financial cost. If we work together, we can ensure that access to Pearson College remains as open today as it was in 1974.
This past summer, alumni asked what it would take to return to a 100% scholarship model. The answer? If we look at the first 40 years of Pearson College—roughly 4,000 alumni—it would take an average of $120 per month from each alum to fully fund all financial need. We know some can give more, some less, and some may not be able to give at all. But if we raise our participation rate from the current 12.5%, we can make a real difference.
The Challenge Ahead
Pearson College has always stood for access to education, and that remains true across the UWC movement today. But the reality is, we currently need 25% full-fee payers to make our budget work. To replace those contributions—and ensure full access for all students—we need alumni support. Years 1 through 40, we’re looking to you to pay it forward for the next generation, just as others did for you.
For 50 years, Pearson College alumni have been out in the world living our values. Wherever you are, thank you for carrying those values forward. Now, we ask you to help us continue this legacy—so that students for the next 50 years can have the same opportunity you did.
STAND WITH US. MAKE YOUR GIFT TODAY.
Thank you!
Jason McBride, Head of College
