Vera Pezer on legacy, learning, and giving

Originally from Meskanaw, Sask., Pezer is a three-time USask graduate whose contributions to the university span decades. She first joined USask as an employee in 1966, serving in a variety of roles including instructor, director of student counselling, assistant professor of psychology, assistant dean in the College of Arts and Science, and associate vice-president student affairs. Following her retirement in 2001, Pezer went on to serve as USask’s 13th chancellor from 2007 to 2013, becoming the third woman to hold the position.

Today, Pezer continues to support the university through volunteering as the president of the University of Saskatchewan Retirees Association, a gift in her will, and a life insurance gift to support student initiatives in the College of Arts and Science and establish the Vera Pezer Scholarship for female Huskie athletes. She also donates the proceeds from her book, Saskatchewan Superwomen, to the Huskie Athletics Female Leadership Award.

We sat down with the celebrated alumna to learn more about the motivation behind her giving and the legacy she has created for future generations of USask students.

What are some of the reasons you give back to USask?

The university has been a very significant part of my life. I’ve benefited from my involvement with the University of Saskatchewan on a number of different levels. I was a student here, I had a lovely career here, and, over time, I came to really appreciate what the university has to offer. So, it became important to me to continue to give back.

I believe in the university. I’m a very loyal alumna, and I want to support what it’s doing. One of the things I appreciate is that the university gives me the flexibility to support areas that are personally meaningful to me.

When you think about future students who might benefit from your gift, what do you hope they might feel or experience?

Through my roles in student services and as chancellor, I’ve had the opportunity to meet many students who have received awards from USask. They were always very grateful for anything the university could provide to help them with their studies.

Many students don’t have abundant financial resources. My own background was growing up in a small town of modest financial means, so I have a soft spot for supporting students who might be in a similar position.

I hope students who receive support because of my gifts feel encouraged and valued. I know how appreciative they are when they receive scholarships or bursaries and I know it will make a meaningful difference in their educational journey — I’ve seen it firsthand.

What do you hope your support will mean for Huskie student-athletes in particular?

A good student experience involves much more than going to classes and labs. Students who participate in extracurricular activities—whether it’s drama, music, art, or athletics— gain skills that complement what they learn in the classroom.

I was an athlete, so I’ve always had a special interest in supporting the Huskies. Student-athletes learn time management, teamwork, discipline, and how to work with others—skills that will serve them long after they graduate.

What would you say to someone considering a legacy gift to the university?

A legacy gift is an opportunity to contribute to a larger good well after your will is read.

In my case, I know that years from now, students will continue to benefit from the scholarships supported by my gifts to USask. And it’s important to me that when I pass, the world is a little better than it was when I found it.

For anyone considering a legacy gift, I’d simply encourage them to make a donation or give in a way that feels comfortable. And if you’re not sure where to direct your gift, go back and revisit some things that the university has to offer. Whether it’s visiting the art galleries or attending free lectures, I would encourage you to become involved.

I find that once people give, they often find it very satisfying and will continue to give, continue to stay connected, and really begin to see the impact their support can make.