Professor Sheldon Lin, a faculty member in Arts & Science’s Department of Statistical Sciences, has made an outstanding gift of $100,000 to the Actuarial Science program — the largest donation from a faculty member in the program’s history.
“Teaching is very rewarding for me,” says Lin, who has been with U of T since 1993. “I feel joy when I pass my knowledge on to our students and see them become successful.”
Lin’s donation will establish two transformative funds designed to amplify student opportunities and drive inclusive excellence. The Sheldon Lin Actuarial Science Student Excellence Fund will channel $50,000 into empowering student-led activities. Another $50,000 will create the Sheldon Lin Actuarial Science Student Award, an endowed fund providing ongoing financial awards for undergraduate students in the program.
“I was stunned when I heard about Professor Lin’s gift,” says Professor Sebastian Jaimungal, chair of the department. “Knowing that a member of our own faculty believes so deeply in our mission is incredibly meaningful and inspiring.”
For actuarial science students, the impact of Lin’s gift will be immediate and far-reaching. It will provide crucial support for scholarships and events that celebrate academic achievement while helping those who face financial barriers. It will also provide career-building opportunities, including workshops, seminars and networking events with industry leaders.
“He’s always looking out for his students,” says Vicki Zhang, associate professor and undergraduate chair of actuarial science.
“Thousands of students have come to Professor Lin for career advice, and he has never hesitated to help them get an internship or job using his vast industry connections. Many of our students have fond memories of him — he has always been one of the most popular professors in our department.”
Despite his remarkable career and generosity, Lin remains modest.
“The department has been very supportive of my career and for that, I am extremely grateful,” he says. “That’s why I decided I wanted to give back.”