Role in the Funding Ecosystem
The Columbia International Scholarship Endowment Fund (CISEF) is a registered Canadian charity established in 2009 to advance education by promoting and recognizing student achievement, providing financial assistance, and supporting educational initiatives in the community. Operated independently of Columbia International College and administered by a volunteer Board of Directors, the foundation serves as a dedicated scholarship provider for students at CIC in Hamilton, Ontario.
Scholarship Programs Offered
CISEF administers multiple scholarship programs including: Principal's Scholarship (University Pathway and College Pathway), Integrity in Leadership Scholarship, Kevin Matthews Perseverance Scholarship, English Excellence Scholarship (sponsored by Scarfone Hawkins LLP), Jim Lawlis Memorial Scholarship, Sciences Excellence Scholarship, Math Excellence Scholarship, and Fine Arts Excellence Scholarship. For 2025, the foundation projects to give out more than $175,000 in scholarships and community donations.
Community Support
Beyond scholarships, the foundation supports community initiatives including Youth Mental Health Canada, The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund, Ronald McDonald House Charities South Central Ontario, Neighbour to Neighbour, Food4Kids Hamilton, Telling Tales, Hamilton Victory Gardens, Mission Services Hamilton, McMaster Children's Hospital, and City Kidz.