The scholarship “not only gave me the motivation to strive for excellence, but it also made it easier for me to focus on my studies and personal development,” says the Orillia student
news release
Simcoe Muskoka YMCA
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Nearly a year after three local Orillia students received their first Skid Watson YMCA scholarships, the Simcoe/Muskoka YMCA is pleased to announce how the award will help students navigate their first year of post-secondary education. I’m following up to see if it helped.
The scholarship is named in memory of local humanitarian and leader Gordon Alexander “Skid” Watson. He recognizes his commitment to lifelong learning, youth development, and his YMCA movement in our communities across Canada and around the world.
The scholarship fund, maintained by the Orillia and Area Community Foundation in partnership with the Simcoe/Muskoka YMCA, awarded $1,433 each to three winners last June. The scholarship will be awarded to Orillia’s middle school graduate who embodies her YMCA values of kindness, integrity, inclusivity, respect and optimism.
The transition to post-secondary education can be daunting, but for Elora Kronk, Samantha Strong, and Zoha Fatima, the transition was made easier with the financial support of scholarships.
Stong studied linguistics at McGill University and is “really enjoying his course and life in his new city.” She says her scholarship has allowed her to “focus solely on her studies” while adjusting to her life in Montreal.
Fatima studies biochemistry and says: She is very grateful to receive this award as it has enabled her to reach her post-secondary school goals. “
Cronk encourages everyone to apply for scholarships and appreciates their support.
“I love Lakehead’s business program and am very happy with the path I have taken. Thanks again for the scholarship. It really helped me until I settled in my first year of college.” said Cronk.
“The Skid Watson YMCA Scholarship has helped me get the most out of my education with less financial stress. .”
Applications for the next Skid Watson YMCA Scholarship will open for graduates of Orillia Secondary School in Spring 2023. For more information, keep an eye on Simcoe/Muskoka’s YMCA social media channels and his website.
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