Nearly 30 years ago, Parminder Parhar opened the first Renaissance Coffee shop on Burnaby campus—a small kiosk in the northeast corner of the AQ. It has since become a favourite place for students, faculty and staff to get their coffee and morning smile. 

Parminder, his wife Kamaljit and their staff have made a memorable impact on the SFU community through their exceptional service. So many have experienced the warmth and kindness that comes when you visit, or even when you just walk by.  

The Parhars are known as dedicated philanthropists. They started the Parminder and Kamaljit Parhar Endowment which supports students who excel in their academics and also contribute to their community. 

When asked why he donates, Parminder simply says that he believes that it is the right thing to do—supporting students to get through their education and get their degree. His only wish is that, at the end of the day, the students that come to SFU also find a way to make their own contribution to benefit society.

Today, as you think about the money you would have spent visiting Renaissance, please consider making a donation of that amount to the Parminder and Kamaljit Parhar Endowment. Not only will you be supporting students, but you will be showing the Parhar family and their team that they are appreciated and valued. That the community they have been so loyal to, continues to thrive—even when we’re not there to show them in-person.

So please take a moment and remember how a purchase at Renaissance made your day, or someone else's, a little brighter. And since you can't visit, make a donation of that amount.