Hon. Carolyn Bertram, Minister of Health and Wellness, responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, today announced that Ashley Jadis, Emily Ferguson and Amanda Malley are the first recipients of the 2009-2010 John J. Sark Memorial Scholarship.
“The Province is very pleased to support these three students as they pursue their post secondary education at the University of Prince Edward Island,” said Minister Bertram. “We understand the crucial role a strong education plays in helping Aboriginal youth achieve their goals in life. These students embody the values of John J. Sark through their dedication and achievements, both to their communities and their academic studies.”
The scholarship program was established in the name of distinguished Mi’kmaq Islander John James Sark. He earned a post-secondary education at St. Dunstan’s University, and was the Island’s first Mi’kmaq teacher.
The program awards three $1,000 scholarships to Aboriginal students at UPEI. These students have demonstrated their contribution to their First Nations, Inuit or Métis community, a commitment to their field of study, and a strong academic performance.
This is the first year of the John J. Sark Memorial Scholarship, which was launched in September 2009 by the former Department of Communities, Cultural Affairs and Labour.
For more information on the John J. Sark Memorial Scholarship, visit UPEI Student Services, the Mawi’omi Aboriginal Student Centre at UPEI or the PEI Aboriginal Affairs Secretariat.