Nipissing provides $2 million in student awards

?This academic year, Nipissing University will provide almost $2 million to students in the form of academi?c-based and needs-based scholarships.

The university held its annual student and donor awards social last Thursday, celebrating the philanthropic spirit and allowing students to thank the individuals responsible for funding their awards.

In the 2012-13 academic year, there were 1,500 separate academic-based and needs-based scholarships, bursaries and awards for the university to provide to students.  These awards often make a significant contribution to a student’s university education by assisting with living costs as well as the cost of books and supplies.

“As a student, it is rewarding that the people who donate recognize us for our efforts as students and feel strongly enough to offer support,” said Kurt Templemans Plat, a second-year business student who spoke at the reception. “For me, their generosity has allowed me to concentrate on my studies as well as volunteer my time outside the classroom to give back to my community by coaching sports and founding the Enactus groups on campus. On behalf of Nipissing students, I offer sincere thanks to all of the donors for their generosity and ongoing support.”

Templemans Plat received the Jack Smylie Memorial Award for Environmental Conservation, and a Chancellor’s award.

“Meeting the student recipients at this reception is a distinct highlight of my year,” said donor John Follis, who spoke at the luncheon as a representative of the Rotary Club of Nipissing, and also funds a family award, the ME Follis University Founders Athletics Award. “It is an honour to represent both Rotary and my family here and to be able to provide financial aid to students in their academic pursuits.  These individuals are future leaders and it is truly a pleasure to get to know them.”?
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