Thanks to the generosity of the Hamilton Golf and Country Club Foundation, one graduating student from every secondary school and alternative education program across Hamilton has been given a $5,000 bursary to help fund their post-secondary education.
At an award celebration on June 12, eight students representing the Hamilton-Wenworth Catholic District School Board were each honoured. This year's recipients were:
- Sireen Alshaer (St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School)
- Yuvraj Ari (Bishop Ryan Catholic Secondary School)
- Kenzie Baset (St. Jean de Brébeuf Catholic Secondary School)
- Alyssa Archer (Bishop Tonnos Catholic Secondary School)
- Celena Miranda (Cathedral High School)
- Reece Brathwaite (St. John Henry Newman Catholic Secondary School)
- Sierra Thorne (St. Mary Catholic Secondary School)
- Amia Colson (Wilma’s Place)
The bursary was created in 2015 to not only reward the success of students during their high school career, but to ensure they would not have to put their post-secondary dreams on hold due to financial strain.
Funding for the bursary is obtained in two ways, said Hamilton Golf and Country Club Foundation Chair Ken Lancaster.
“We hold an annual golf tournament that's been going now for 54 years, so we designate some of the funds from that tournament to the bursary program, and as well we've got a bursary campaign that we just completed that was extremely successful.”
In addition to the financial support, the Hamilton Golf and Country Club Foundation is currently working on adding a mentorship program.
“The goal of this program is to ideally pair recipients with actively working mentors of similar academic and working backgrounds,” said Member Francine Pilon.
“They could provide counseling, advising, possible connections, and or support on an ongoing basis as needed.”
“So please keep in touch with us regularly during your program.”
In the fall, St. Mary Catholic Secondary School recipient Sierra Thorne will be heading to Mohawk College for Mechanical Engineering.
“The support means so much more than just financial assistance,” said Thorne. “It is validation of the hard work, the late nights spent taking part in robotics, and the commitment to community outreach that has defined my high school experience.”
“The mentors, teachers, and supporters who have guided me, and now the HGCC Foundation, are the shoulders upon which I stand as I prepare to reach new heights.”
“Receiving this bursary removes a significant barrier, allowing me to focus my energy where it matters most: on my studies, my passion for engineering, and the continued commitment to volunteer work that has shaped who I am today.”
“Your investment in our education is an investment in our future, and by extension, an investment in the future of Hamilton. You are not just providing funds; you are providing the confidence we need to pursue our ambitions and reach our full potential.”
