On November 2, 2023, the Stephen J.R. Smith Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science at Queen’s University began a new era, founded on a vision of engineering education that prepares students to solve the world’s most challenging problems through an innovative combination of problem-based and experiential learning, competency-based assessments, and a multidisciplinary approach.
The Faculty has changed its name in recognition of a transformative gift of $100 million in support of this vision, from Queen’s alumnus Stephen Smith, Sc’72, LLD‘17.
This, the largest gift ever made to a Canadian engineering faculty, will enable Smith Engineering to re-imagine engineering education, preparing the faculty to educate ever-evolving engineers to meet the needs of an ever-changing world.
Building on over 130 years of history as a Canadian and global leader in engineering education, Smith Engineering is home to a diverse community of students, staff and faculty, creating global impact through education and research while fostering the next generation of leaders in engineering and other disciplines.
Stephen Smith, BSc’72, LLD’17, is one of Canada’s leading entrepreneurs in the financial services industry. He is renowned for innovation in information technology and financial structuring in the Canadian mortgage industry. He earned a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Electrical Engineering from Queen’s University (’72) and a Master of Science (Economics) from the London School of Economics and Political Science. In 2017, he received an honorary degree from Queen's University. Mr. Smith is the Chairman and CEO of Smith Financial Corporation, which has significant equity investments in a range of financial services businesses: First National Financial Corporation, Canada Guaranty Mortgage Insurance Corporation, Fairstone Bank of Canada, Peloton Capital Management, Equitable Bank, Glass Lewis & Co. and Home Capital Group.