Longtime RRC Polytech supporter Walter Schroeder has been named one of 12 Manitobans to receive the 2025 Order of Manitoba, the province’s highest honour. Schroeder will formally receive the recognition in a ceremony at the Manitoba Legislative Building on July 17, 2025. 

The Schroeder Foundation, the philanthropical organization that Walter and his wife Maria established following his retirement, is behind RRC Polytech’s largest donation in history: a $15-million gift to launch the Schroeder Institute of Entertainment and Media Arts. 

The Schroeders, in partnership with RRC Polytech, created the Institute to support ongoing opportunities for students at RRC Polytech, and to foster growth and development in Manitoba’s burgeoning creative arts industry. 

“Walter Schroeder is one of RRC Polytech’s prolific supporters, and his generosity is driven purely by his dedication to changing students’ lives,” said Fred Meier, President & CEO, RRC Polytech. “Through the Schroeder Foundation, Walter and Maria have created countless opportunities for students in Manitoba, particularly those with more barriers to accessing post-secondary education. The Schroeders’ investment in RRC Polytech, and their commitment to expanding programming to address needs, is a testament to their selfless desire to make Manitoba a more equitable place to work and learn, for all.” 

The Schroeder Foundation provides fully paid scholarships to hundreds of RRC Polytech students, which includes tuition, books, and wrap-around supports.  

In December 2024, the Schroeder Foundation reached a milestone of $18.2 million in support to RRC Polytech, with an additional $1.25 million donation coming on the heels of the $15 million Schroeder Institute gift, to provide even more full-ride scholarships for Winnipeg students. 

Schroeder Foundation students also have the opportunity to participate in the Transition to College program, which helps them start their programs with the knowledge and confidence they need to succeed from day one. 

In 2023, Walter and Maria Schroeder were awarded with the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Manitoba Outstanding Philanthropist Award.  RRC Polytech also honoured the duo with an Honorary Bachelor of Education degree in 2022, in recognition of their dedication to removing barriers to education for Manitoba youth.