Update

The Power of Scholarships

Both recipients and donors share a sense of belonging

Erin St. Pierre likes to be recognized for all the effort and energy she focuses on both school and volunteering. “At work, you’re recognized with a pay cheque. At school, you see the ‘A’ and that’s great,” she says. “But getting recognized by an outside source – a donor or institution – really emphasizes what I’ve achieved, and reading that congratulatory scholarship letter just lifts my heart.”

Strong community involvement and outstanding academic achievements shine through for this Bachelor of Commerce student, now in her second year of the program. The proof is in ten awards and scholarships she received in 2009 and 2010.

For students, financial help is not only encouraging – it can be life-changing. St. Pierre explains:  “Everything helps.  Last summer I had a broken leg and couldn’t work, so the scholarships made an incredible difference.”

Support can improve a student’s quality of life, also important to St. Pierre’s college experience. “That might mean the chance to take a day off and go on an occasional road trip instead of working every spare minute when you’re not in school.”

Recognition at the 2010 RDC Student Awards Ceremony brings more “feel good” moments.  She’s excited about this year’s event and looks forward to the guest speakers. But the highlight is meeting her donors. Last year she met a representative from local accounting firm Olson Joly LLP (the Olsen Joly LLP Chartered Accountants Leadership Scholarships for Business). “Since accounting is definitely one of the fields I’m interested in, it was really nice to talk to her about the firm, as well as her personal experiences through school and in the business world.”

A special honour she will receive this year is the Wayne Pocha Memorial Scholarship. “It’ll be special to learn about the person who has this award named after him,” she says. “Attending the ceremony is a reminder of how privileged I am.”

RDC donors feel a special pride in rewarding and supporting our future community leaders, according to Erin Schulha, Awards & Scholarship Advisor, “whether as Alumni, business and community members, or philanthropists. A strong connection to RDC and a sense of belonging create an atmosphere of dedication to our students and contribute to the high quality of education we offer.”

In theory, St. Pierre agrees with what she’s heard, how she’ll value her education even more if she has to pay for it. In reality, the support makes a huge difference. “I still want to do really well at my studies, to show donors how much I appreciate their help.”

To RSVP for this year’s November 1 ceremony, please contact Erin Schulha at 403.357.3647 or erin.schulha@rdc.ab.ca.