University Expresses Appreciation For Generous Bequest

The University of Prince Edward Island recognized the generosity of Ruby Rogers diIorio today at a special ceremony at the School of Nursing. Earlier this year, UPEI received an unrestricted gift of approximately $981,000 from Mrs. diIorio’s estate. The ceremony was an opportunity to acknowledge the significance of this large bequest and to celebrate the public-spiritedness of the woman who made it.

"This magnificent gift shows us the significant impact that planned giving can have - in perpetuity. We are especially proud that it comes from one of our graduates," says UPEI President, Wade MacLauchlan. “Through this leadership contribution to UPEI's general endowment, Ruby Rogers diIorio has left a legacy that will benefit many future generations of UPEI students and Prince Edward Islanders.”

President MacLauchlan noted that gifts of an unrestricted nature are particularly beneficial to the University because the funds can be directed to the areas of greatest need or opportunity, such as student awards, library collections, acquisitions, enhanced grounds and facilities, or special events.

A native of Kensington, Ruby Rogers diIorio was born March 29, 1909 to Layton and Catharine (Katie) Morrison Rogers. She graduated from Prince of Wales College in 1926 and went on to the North Adams Training School for Nursing in North Adams, Massachusetts. On March 3, 1934 she married Benjamin V. diIorio in New York City. Her career included a position as a nurse at Doctor's Hospital in New York and later she became a receptionist at Munson Williams Proctor Institute in Utica, NY.

Mrs. diIorio’s brother, Charles Rogers of Norboro and other members of her extended family attended the ceremony. A special plaque was unveiled to recognize Mrs. diIorio’s generosity. She is one of a growing circle of philanthropists who have made significant gifts in support of the University of Prince Edward