The difference you make...

My name is Phil Taber. I grew up in a small town in southern New Brunswick called Hampton. My father is a carpenter and a farmer; my family’s history in New Brunswick dates back eight generations. I am a proud New Brunswicker and a proud Loyalist.

My time at King’s has been tremendously important. I have been very involved in the chapel community and the Students’ Union, both of which have afforded me friendships and good experiences. I stayed at King’s for the History of Science and Technology Programme; I have always had a very strong interest in the philosophy of science, but I didn’t have any interest in the mathematical aspects. HOST kept me here, but the King’s community made it worthwhile.

As a graduating student, I’ve taken the time lately to reflect on my experience at King’s. For me, it is our traditions and history that have been most important. Our history as a Loyalist college in Windsor is what gives King’s such a strong tie to local history and local culture.

When I came to King’s in 2005, I was surprised to find a place that preserved the parallel history of the Loyalist community. King’s holds an essential aspect of Maritime history within its walls, and that history is kept alive through the presence of Maritime students.

The presence of these students at King’s is vital to the preservation of our collective history and culture. Many of us come from blue-collar, agricultural backgrounds, and the bursaries that support us are invaluable. I would not have been a part of King’s without bursary support; this is true of most of the students who come from similar backgrounds. We have an important part to play in the diverse King’s community, but that is often contingent on assistance to overcome tuition barriers.

Supporting the college can often seem like throwing money down a well; it falls into the darkness and vanishes with no obvious effect. I can assure you that this isn’t the case. There is a whole body of students for whom bursaries are a lifeline. Many of us are the first university generation from working class families; all of us appreciate your support.

When I was growing up, my father told me I could do anything I wanted, as long as I didn’t become a carpenter. The support of the College's benefactors has played an essential part in making that dream financially feasible.

Phil Taber (BAH '09) played an active role in the King's Chapel community and was known for his quirky additions to the campus (from tapping a tree in the Quad to bringing sharp wit to Big Night). He received the Hazen Trust Scholarship (2005/2006), the King's College Bursary (2007/2008, 2008/2009), the King's University Scholarship (2008/2009) and the CIBC History of Science and Technology Bursary (2008/2009) during his time at King's.