Ken Olynyk

Terry Whitehead Donates $10,000 to Ken Olynyk Pronghorn Endowment Fund

5/6/2025 11:05:00 AM

Pronghorn Athletics is proud to recognize a significant milestone in the Ken Olynyk Pronghorn Endowment Fund campaign with a generous $10,000 contribution from University of Lethbridge Chancellor Terry Whitehead. This meaningful gift honours the lasting impact of Ken Olynyk.

Established to celebrate Ken's legacy and empower future generations of Pronghorn student-athletes, the endowment fund is part of a transformative initiative to raise $250,000 – a total that will be matched dollar-for-dollar through the University's $10 million scholarship matching campaign, doubling the impact and creating a $500,000 legacy fund.
 
Terry Whitehead
Terry Whitehead, Chancellor
"Ken Olynyk's contributions to Pronghorn Athletics were significant and he left a lasting legacy of excellence and commitment to his players. His contributions to basketball in Canada extend well beyond our campus. I know first hand the impact Ken made on his teams during his career as a coach. He made his athletes better players, but most of all, better people. He ignited the love of basketball in all of them and instilled the great pride of being a Pronghorn.
 
I hope my contribution to the Ken Olynyk Endowment Fund inspires others to make a special extra gift to celebrate Ken's legacy. A tribute gift to this fund, no matter the amount, will provide much-needed scholarships to all Pronghorn Athletes, and every single dollar donated to the fund will be matched, dollar for dollar, by the University of Lethbridge board of directors $10 million scholarship matching campaign. This is our chance to say Thank You to Ken for all he's done for Pronghorn Athletics."


 

The Impact of Your Gift
Your support of the Ken Olynyk Pronghorn Endowment Fund will directly enhance the experience and success of Pronghorn student-athletes:
  • Empowering Dreams:  Generate nearly $20,000 annually in scholarships to help student-athletes reach their academic and athletic goals.
  • Fostering Excellence:  Provide critical resources that allow student-athletes to compete, succeed and graduate as leaders.
  • Building a Legacy:  Celebrate the career of Ken Olynyk and continue his mission of mentorship, excellence, and opportunity.

Ken Olynyk: A Legacy of Excellence
From 1979 to 1988, Ken Olynyk built the foundation of success for Pronghorn Men's Basketball. Under his leadership, the program reached a CIAU semifinal and captured a Canada West championship. Beyond Lethbridge, he continued to shape the sport nationally, holding key roles at the University of Toronto and Thompson Rivers University, while mentoring countless athletes, including his son and NBA standout, Kelly Olynyk.

Ken's coaching career was built on connection, leadership and a commitment to helping student-athletes grow as players and people. His upcoming induction into the Pronghorns Hall of Fame is a reflection of the legacy he leaves behind – one of excellence, integrity and impact.

Join Us in Reaching Our $250,000 Goal
Terry Whitehead's donation sets a strong example for Pronghorn alumni, supporters and friends. Now, we invite you to join him. With the University matching every dollar, your gift will go twice as far.

Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us closer to our goal—and helps shape the future of Pronghorn Athletics.

Make Your Gift Today
Be part of this meaningful tribute to Ken Olynyk. Support student-athletes. Build a legacy.

Donate now and be part of this transformative legacy!

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