Mount Royal University
A 40-year relationship built on shared commitment to education and community
The Tallman family's relationship with Mount Royal University spans nearly 40 years — from Gord's first introduction through Board Chair Roy Deyell in 1985 to three grandchildren currently attending the university today. It is the family's deepest and most enduring educational partnership.
David's widow attended MRU for two years before transferring to the University of Calgary, where she completed both her undergraduate degree and a master's in social work. This personal connection deepened the family's commitment to supporting MRU students.
Four Decades of Partnership
- 1985First Connection with MRU
Association began through Board Chair Roy Deyell's quarterly business dinners.
- 2001–03$25M Capital Campaign
Gord co-chaired the 'Bright Minds – Bright Futures' campaign, MRU's largest fundraising initiative.
- 2004–06Foundation Board Chair
Served as Chair of the Mount Royal University Foundation Board.
- OngoingDavid Memorial Fund
$207K+ fund providing scholarships for single-parent students, with an 8% estate bequest (~$1.3M).
- 2022Life Long Learnings Display
Gord's framed 'Life Long Learnings' art presented and displayed in MRU President's and VP's offices.
- 2023Enhanced Scholarships
Donated extra $2,000 per recipient through a connection with David's RBC colleagues — students received $7,000 each.
Key Contributions
David Memorial Fund
$207K+
Plus 8% estate bequest (~$1.3M). Scholarships to single-parent students. MRU matched $50,000 from Province of Alberta.
Military Memorial Bursaries
$25K
Donated in memory of father William Tallman and Great Uncle Stanley Tallman, honoring the family's military heritage.
Bright Minds, Bright Futures
$25M
Gord co-chaired MRU's landmark capital campaign from 2001–2003, the largest fundraising initiative in the university's history.
Dr. John H. Garden Memorial Park
Contributed to the memorial park on campus, honoring a key figure in MRU's history.
Corporate Board Connections from MRU
Gord's MRU involvement led directly to several significant corporate board positions:
Enbridge Income Fund
$12.5M total return
Enerjet Airlines
Via Tim Morgan, WestJet co-founder
ECL Group
Via Tom Fredericks, MRU alumnus
The Next Generation at MRU
Three grandchildren — Alex, Matt, and Nick — are currently attending Mount Royal University. Jeff attended for one year before transferring to the University of Alberta. The Tallman-MRU connection continues.