As reported earlier in our newsletter, the China Institute's benefactor and friend, Sandy Mactaggart passed away in Scotland on July 3, 2017. The China Institute will close for the afternoon of October 2, 2017 to allow staff member for attend a memorial service that has been organized by the Mactaggart family.
Cécile and Sandy Mactaggart were lifelong collectors of a premiere private Chinese imperial art collection: the collection was donated to the University of Alberta in 2005. The Mactaggarts were instrumental in convincing the Alberta Government to match the appraised value of the generous Mactaggart donation, which in turn funded the endowment to create the China Institute.
The passing of Sandy Mactaggart is a profound loss for both the University and this Institute, to which he remained a passionate and devoted advocate. When in Edmonton, Sandy made a point to visit the China Institute to meet staff, researchers, and students. Adventurous, kind, humble, and generous, Sandy Mactaggart will be missed by us all.
On behalf of the China Institute to our dear friend Sandy, thank you.
Gordon Houlden, Director of the China Institute