$1 million endowment pledged to Newcastle University
Last month, we were thrilled to welcome Dr Gillian Cannon to campus from the US to finalise plans for her family’s generous $1 million endowment to Newcastle University, supporting future generations of students and researchers.
31 May 2025
The Cannon Family Endowment: Making a difference for generations to come
Dr Gillian Cannon is a North East native, having spent her childhood in the 1960s and 70s in Tynemouth. Gillian has lived in the US for the past 30 years, where she has built a successful career in the pharmaceutical industry, but she still sees the North East as her home and is passionate about supporting educational opportunities in the region.
Following her visit to campus, we spoke with Gillian to find out more about why she has chosen to support Newcastle University and the difference that her family’s endowment will make.
The transformative impact of a university education
Having grown up in a single parent family, with her dad working in the Wallsend shipyard, Gillian knows only too well the transformative impact a university education can have. This is why part of the Cannon Family Endowment will award scholarships of £2,000 a year to help students who have overcome the greatest barriers to higher education.
“Attending university opened up a whole world of possibilities for me. So many of the positives in my life — including meeting the love of my life — can be traced back to my university experience. I know how fortunate I was to have had that opportunity, and I feel a responsibility to help others in similar situations. I truly believe education is the great equalizer — if we can support determined, motivated students, they will go on to do wonderful things in the world.”
Spending her childhood in the North East, Gillian understands the economic challenges facing the region. She told us:
"I believe Newcastle University plays a pivotal role in supporting the region, especially during difficult times. I am delighted that my family’s support will mean that future generations of young people will be given the same opportunities as I had as a student. By helping local students attend university, we’re unlocking the region’s potential and contributing to a brighter future.”
Protecting our region’s maritime heritage
The endowment will also contribute to a transformation of the Dove Marine Laboratory in Cullercoats, just a stone’s throw away from Gillian’s hometown of Tynemouth. Established in 1897, the Dove is one of only two surviving Victorian Marine Stations in the UK and the sole remaining marine station along the English North Sea Coast. It is used by Newcastle University to carry out research on sustainable marine management as well as offering the wider public the opportunity to learn more about our coastline and marine environments. The Cannon Family Endowment will invest in infrastructure to ensure the laboratory is fit for purpose for the next 100 years and the challenges to come, including the pressing climate and biodiversity crises.
The Dove has a special place in Gillian’s heart. When she was younger, she dreamed of being a marine biologist and was inspired by a member of staff at the Laboratory. She told us:
“My dad had a scouting friend (Frank Evans) who worked at the Dove Marine Lab, so we visited Frank at his home as we had no one in the family who had been to university. Frank was a strong force in supporting me to apply to university.”
Empowering the doctors of tomorrow
Gillian also recognises the unique role of Newcastle University in providing the medical training needed for future healthcare. With funds from the endowment, the University will be able to purchase a cutting-edge patient simulator so that students can practice essential skills and gain exposure to almost every medical eventuality, from A&E to end of life care, in a safe and controlled environment to grow their confidence and knowledge. Gillian noted
“Our family have been very inspired by the University’s vision of building on their incredible history and continuing to move Newcastle to the forefront of medical education. We were all particularly excited to hear about the plans for a high-tech centre, which could benefit enormously from a patient simulator as part of the setup. We look forward to supporting the education of the next generation of doctors in the UK."
Supporting Newcastle University
Gillian has been supporting students at Newcastle University for several years, including providing financial assistance and mentorship advice to female students in STEM subjects, where they are still underrepresented. She said:
“Supporting Newcastle University has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. Talking to scholarship recipients and hearing firsthand how their lives are being changed is incredibly powerful. Things have changed a lot since I was a student, and I learn so much from our conversations — it’s a wonderful way to stay connected to the next generation of graduates.
“When considering supporting Newcastle, I approached the process cautiously at first. I had donated to other institutions but often felt unclear about how my contributions were used, which left me disillusioned.
“But with Newcastle, it was different. I took the time to get to know the team — and they got to know me. When I was ready to commit, they presented options that completely aligned with my interests and values — it was as if they were reading my mind! I never felt pressured. Instead, I felt truly supported in identifying what mattered to me and how I could get involved.
“It was also important that my family be part of this journey. Though we all attended different universities, Newcastle has become a central connection point for us. The team has been incredibly thoughtful and inclusive in working with us all.
“Everyone should give in a way that feels right for them, but I can honestly say there is nothing I’ve done that has brought me as much personal satisfaction as my connection to Newcastle. I’d love to see more alumni and supporters find the same fulfilment.”
Dr Ria Snowdon from Newcastle University’s Advancement team has worked with Gillian over the years to support her giving and pinpoint projects and causes that align with her values. She said:
“From the very first time I had the privilege of working with Gillian, it was clear that her generosity to the University extends far beyond financial contributions. Gillian invests her time and energy into building meaningful connections, always taking the time to listen, advise, and encourage those around her.
“Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact Gillian has had at Newcastle University, not only through her financial support but as a role model for both students and staff. Her leadership, rooted in her personal background and values, continues to inspire all of us who are fortunate enough to work with her. She’s an incredible force who leads by example, with integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to the University’s mission.
“She’s not just a donor; she’s an advocate, a mentor, and an inspiring woman who wholeheartedly believes in the transformative power of education. Through her generosity, countless lives will be positively impacted, and for that, we’re truly grateful.”
Helping our students thrive
Our mission to give Newcastle students the best possible opportunities is at the heart of everything we do. Our aim is to give each student the skills and experiences they need to thrive while with us, and in their future.
We don't want any student to miss out on what makes belonging to Newcastle University so special. With your help, we can fund scholarships to ensure no student misses out on a Newcastle experience.
If you’d like to discuss how you can help us in this mission, please get in touch with Alexa Charlton, Head of Individual Major Giving at Newcastle University.
If you are interested in supporting causes on campus and making a donation from the US, we would love to hear from you. Donations can be made tax-effectively from the United States using our partner, Chapel and York US Foundation which is a registered 501(c)(3).