Ontario Tech University Names SIR Lobby for Sorbara Family After $1 Million Donation

Ontario Tech University has named the lobby of its Software Informatics Research Centre (SIR) the Sorbara Family Lobby following a $1 million capital donation from the Sorbara Family, the university announced on August 28, 2024. The SIR building on the university’s Oshawa campus houses the Office of the Registrar, hosts campus tours, and contains laboratories and flexible learning spaces equipped with new technology.

According to Ontario Tech University, the $1 million capital donation will be used to develop and outfit high-tech facilities for students. In addition, the university states that Edward Sorbara contributed $80,000 to establish scholarships in honour of his 80th birthday. The university reports that eighty Ontario Tech students have received these scholarships.

Eunice Caputolan, a second-year Mechanical Engineering – Energy Engineering specialization student and recipient of an Edward Sorbara Entrance Scholarship, described in the university announcement the positive impact of the scholarship on students’ finances and educational experience.

The university’s announcement outlines the Sorbara Family’s involvement in community initiatives, naming The Sam Sorbara Charitable Foundation as a key vehicle for philanthropic support. The foundation was established by Sam Sorbara over forty years ago. In 2023, Ontario Tech University awarded honorary Doctor of Laws degrees to Edward Sorbara and Christina Sorbara in recognition of their business achievements and volunteer work.

Statements regarding the donation were included from Christina Sorbara, Vice-President of Sorbara Group of Companies, and Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor of Ontario Tech University, in the official university release.