College of the North Atlantic (CNA) is proud to announce the launch of CNA Foundation, dedicated to empowering students, fostering educational excellence, and building lasting partnerships that transform lives.
Since the inception of its advancement office in 1996, CNA has been working alongside donors, industry leaders, philanthropists and community organizations to drive innovation and student success. These relationships have helped shape CNA into a major educational, economic and community force throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.
CNA Foundation builds on this legacy, ensuring the college continues to meet the needs of students, partners and communities today and into the future.
“Our donors, partners and supporters have always been the heart of our mission,” said Heidi Staeben-Simmons, Associate Vice-President of Public Affairs and Advancement.
“Through the Foundation, we will be creating even more ways to empower students, enrich learning environments and transform futures. Every gift, regardless of size, helps students thrive and fuels innovation at CNA.”
CNA Foundation’s mission is simple and powerful: empower education, foster student success and create lasting pathways for growth and opportunity. Guided by principles of equity, collaboration and innovation, CNA Foundation is focused on removing barriers, promoting excellence and building a stronger future.
Donors and partners have many ways to make a meaningful impact, including:
- Major Gifts – Individual philanthropists and corporate donors can leave an indelible mark on CNA by funding access to innovative infrastructure, technology and equipment.
- Gifts In-Kind – Donating industry assets directly to CNA to enhance the hands-on student learning experience.
- Organizational/Corporate Partnerships – Engaging with industry associations and the private sector to invest in education, innovation and workforce readiness through facilitated funding.
- Custom Giving Plans– Working one-on-one with donors to create personalized, impactful giving.
- Scholarships and Awards – Supporting students by recognizing academic excellence and easing financial challenges.
- Student Emergency Fund – Assisting students in times of critical need with food, shelter, medical support and transportation.
- Pantry Program – Helping stock campus food pantries to support students facing food insecurity.
- Period Products Initiative – Supporting student wellness by making free menstrual products available on campus.
- Memorial Giving – Honouring loved ones through named awards or contributions that create a legacy.
Thanks to the generosity of donors, CNA now awards more than $778,000 in scholarships awards annually and received more than $863,000 in in-kind contributions in 2024-2025 alone. These investments have opened new doors for students, and helped CNA maintain excellence across 17 campuses and its online learning platforms.
“The spirit of giving and collaboration has always been part of CNA’s story,” said Ted Cadigan, Director of CNA Foundation.
“CNA Foundation gives us a broadened capacity to steward that spirit, strengthen our partnerships, and continue changing lives for the better.”
Every contribution, whether through scholarships, emergency support, workplace giving or customized partnerships, plays a vital role in shaping CNA’s future.
To get involved or learn more, visit
www.cna.nl.ca/CNAFoundation.
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Media Contact
Ryan Crocker
Manager of Communications
P: (709) 699-8981
E:
ryan.crocker@cna.nl.ca