BRANDON, Man. – Brandon University’s (BU) outstanding students and the generous donors that help them reach their goals were celebrated on Wednesday night at the annual BU Awards Reception.
In the 2015-16 academic year BU offered 589 scholarships and bursaries, many of which provide funding for multiple students. This has resulted in $1.4 million in assistance for students over the course of the academic year. In 2015, enrolment levels were up five per cent from the previous year, and scholarships support the attractiveness and affordability of education at BU.
Linda Jameson, the mother of scholarship recipient Alexis Jameson, thanked the donors in an emotional speech.
“The scholarships that you give these kids enlighten them to do things that they would not do otherwise,” Linda Jameson told the 300 people in attendance. “It shows them that someone else believes in them.”
Award recipients signed large whiteboards with messages of thanks for the donors. Following the formal portion of the event, a number of students were introduced to the donors that contributed to their education.
“Through their generosity, our donors set a tremendous example for others, including our students and alumni, to follow,” said Gervan Fearon, BU’s President and Vice-Chancellor. “Their gifts provide invaluable support and encouragement to students, who will in turn be our future leaders. Students had a chance to meet donors through the event, forming relationships and developing social responsibility that will benefit the community for generations to come.”
Other speakers at the reception included Ramjit Mann, who helped to establish the Guru Nanak Dev Scholarship last year on behalf of Brandon’s Sikh community, and bursary recipient Danielle Vieau. Vieau said in her speech that she has felt a connection to the donors throughout her time at BU.
“After three years of receiving bursaries here at BU, I have felt and feel as though my donors are encouraging me and cheering me on,” Vieau said. “I feel as though, in part, they are walking alongside us on this journey.”
Contact
- Brandon University
- communications@brandonu.ca
To receive any BU publication in an alternate format please contact Communications@BrandonU.ca
About BU
Success is built at Brandon University. Our growing, progressive campus welcomes a diverse and inclusive community that combines proud tradition with shared ambition. Through our excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship, we educate students to make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders. Join us at BrandonU.ca.