Money from Rotarians in Nanaimo and surrounding areas will provide support to Vancouver Island University students.
In a press release, Rotary clubs announced formation of the Rotary Clubs of Nanaimo and Lantzville Endowment Fund at VIU, with $32,000 from the Rotary Club of Nanaimo and $16,000 from the VIU Foundation to offer support to those pursuing post-secondary education.
“The endowment fund will provide one or more awards that recognize and support students who have demonstrated academic achievement as well as service to their community,” the press release stated.
The awards, from $1,000-2,000, will be given out starting with the coming fall semester.
In order to be eligible, students must be enrolled at VIU’s Nanaimo campus, in any post-secondary program, second year or higher. In addition, students must contribute to the community as a volunteer, with activities that can include “fundraising for charities, mentoring and coaching, assisting those with special needs and participating in environmental or food security programs.”
Keith McFarlane, Rotary Club of Nanaimo president, said he and fellow Rotarians are pleased to start the scholarship fund.
“We are delighted to build on our commitment to education in our community through the [fund],” McFarlane said in the press release. “Thank you to the VIU Foundation for their generous contribution to our endowment. Together, we are helping students achieve their educational goals through this award.”
Richard Horbachewski, VIU Foundation executive director, said the fund will assist well-rounded students.
“This scholarship will inspire students to build strong connections with our community and open their minds to fresh perspectives as they are exposed to community volunteerism,” he said in the press release.
The scholarship fund will be managed by the foundation. Donations are being accepted for the fund and as it grows, “more awards will be available.”
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karl.yu@nanaimobulletin.com
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