A family affair

Tanna Goldberg-Schulich and Seymour Schulich pose for a photo in front of the Henry Hicks Building. (Danny Abriel Photo)

Dalhousie University officially named the Goldberg Computer Science Building in honour of a storied Halifax family.

The dedication recognizes a new scholarship fund donated by Canadian billionaire philanthropist Seymour Schulich. The scholarships were created in tribute to his wife, Tanna Goldberg-Schulich, the Goldberg family and their contributions to Dalhousie and Halifax.

SEE PHOTOS: A family album

“The motivation for this was the Goldberg family,” said Mr. Schulich. “They elicit quite a bit of inspiration.”

Arriving in 1912, the Goldbergs prospered through hard work, family values and their Jewish faith to became prominent figures in Halifax. Nine members of the Goldberg family are Dalhousie alumni, including Halifax lawyer Victor Goldberg, who spoke on behalf of the family at the announcement.

“Our religion values study and ingenuity,” said Mr. Goldberg. “Because of Dalhousie’s influence, the Goldberg family transformed itself from its immigrant roots to a family of professionals and business people well-equipped to make significant contributions to the community.” He said it was a privilege to have the Goldberg name associated with Dalhousie.

The announcement also celebrated Dalhousie’s connection to the Jewish community. “Most universities in North America limited the number of Jewish students until the 1960s, but Dalhousie has always remained open to all,” said Dalhousie President Tom Traves.

A native of Montreal, Seymour Schulich has donated over $200 million to education in Canada. Dr. Traves said that Mr. Schulich’s donations to Canadian education and the Jewish community are legendary.

“I couldn’t have achieved what I have without my education at Canadian universities,” said Mr. Schulich. “This is a debt that’s owed and I’m happy to repay it.”

The Seymour Schulich Fund will award four $39,000 renewable scholarships in the faculties of Science and Computer Science. Two academic merit scholarships and two community service-based scholarships will be awarded to first-year students entering Dalhousie.

“Seymour Schulich is one of Canada’s greatest philanthropists,” said Dr. Traves. “There is no better testament to Dalhousie than to have his support,” he added.