A Lillooet man who passed away in 2019 left what Thompson Rivers University is calling a generous gift.

James Bain bequeathed his entire estate worth about $350,000 to the TRU Foundation which has led to the creation of an endowment that will fund at least 12 annual bursaries for students in the Faculty of Science.

“This was a significant gift the TRU Foundation had not anticipated,” said Greg Garrish, TRU Foundation past president.

“Not only was it a surprise, but it couldn’t have come at a more crucial time. If only Mr. Bain had known how profound his gesture would be. We are honoured to establish this legacy in his name.”

Garrish says the TRU Foundation is grateful to Bain’s family and friends for helping the university understand how to honour his intentions – which was to fund bursaries for women in science.

“Had the university been aware of Bain’s wishes before his passing, the foundation would have been able to thank him directly,” Garrish noted.

The TRU Foundation says Bain’s generosity will have a deep impact on students for generations to come.

“Women are doing great things in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics/computer science) but we are still underrepresented in these fields,” noted Catherine Tatarniuk, an assistant teaching professor in the department of engineering and applied science.

“I believe grants, scholarships and awards specifically for women are the best way to guarantee more women pursue careers in STEM.”

The first Bain awards will be handed out to students in 2021.