We are proud to shine a spotlight on three dedicated members of the Royal Roads community whose generosity through payroll giving is making a meaningful difference in students’ lives.  Pedro Márquez, professor of strategic management and international business, Moira McDonald, associate professor in the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management and Nancy Prévost-Maurice, education specialist in student recruitment all participate in RRU’s payroll giving program to donate funds towards student supports. 

We recently chatted with them about why they give and what it means to them.  

What motivated you to sign up for payroll giving? 

Pedro: I feel the duty of helping others. I have been very fortunate through my life receiving the support and assistance of others. It is time to pay it back as best as possible. 

Moira: When I first learned of payroll giving, I was impressed with how easy it was to initiate and give. 

Nancy: I feel fortunate to work for RRU on the beautiful traditional Lands of the Lekwungen-speaking Peoples. Being involved with The Farm and the food we bring to the Sequoia Fridge for a year now, I see the need of our population. By supporting students with financial aid, we can remove some of the pressure on them, and it seems like the right thing to do. 

What surprised you most about your participation in payroll giving? 

Pedro: The convenience. 

Moira: The simplicity of the involvement—and the notation on my T4 was a pleasant surprise. 

Nancy: That even a small amount can help! If we all give a little bit, the amount becomes bigger and that can make an impact in someone’s life. I also appreciate the gratitude from the Advancement team towards donors. 

What’s been the most rewarding part of supporting students this way? 

Pedro: Not one thing in particular. All students need support of some kind. I hope my small contribution makes a difference. 

Moira: I appreciate the Advancement team’s communication on how impactful Payroll Giving has been; we can see a direct connection between giving and the impact of giving. The students are our students, and to help in any way is rewarding, especially knowing you are making a difference in someone’s life. 

Nancy: To know that the money goes into something good. Being an RRU alum myself, I know how hard it is to go back to school, and if a part of my salary can help make a student experience easier, then I am all for it! 

Their generosity remind us that giving back doesn’t have to be complicated—small, consistent contributions can create lasting impact. 

This Giving Day, Nov. 26–27

Be part of 36 hours of giving to support Royal Roads students where they need it most. For RRU employees, one of the easiest and most impactful ways to give is through payroll giving—small, regular contributions that add up to big change.

👉 Sign up today at royalroads.ca/payrollgiving
🌟 Learn more at RRUgivingday.ca