BMO and Enbridge Bursaries Awarded to Students

On August 6th, the annual bursary luncheon was held at the St. Regis Recreation to connect representatives from the Bank of Montreal and Enbridge and their respective student bursary recipients. The luncheon is a nice way to acknowledge and celebrate students' academic achievements as bursary recipients. It also offers the students an opportunity to say "thank you" and to discuss their academic and career aspirations with the company representatives.

Twenty students from Massena High School, Cornwall Collegiate and Vocational School and St. Joseph's Catholic Schools were handpicked by school counselors to receive a bursary.

"We consult with school counselors and ask them to give us names of high school seniors that are furthering their education. We then look at grades and field of study in a technical field," explained Kawehno:ke District Chief Abram Benedict. "We have had a long standing relationship with the Bank of Montreal for over 20 years and Enbridge Gas Company for over 10 years. Both companies are committed to education and the bursaries are their way of giving back to the Akwesasne community."

There were a few changes this year in the number of students that received the bursaries. In the past, 10 students were chosen from the Canadian side schools, however this year the field was opened up to 20 students and included Massena High School Students. Next year Salmon River High School will be added into the mix.

District Chief Abram Benedict welcomed students, proud parents, BMO and Enbridge representatives. He told the students that, "We are here to celebrate your accomplishments and wish you well in your educational goals." Other chiefs in attendance were Kana:takon District Chiefs Larry King and Julie Phillips-Jacobs, and Kristy Lauzon, Executive Assistant to Council. Chief Larry King also addressed the students by saying, "I want to wish you well and let you know that the Mohawk Council is committed to ensuring access to assistance for college."

Chief Benedict introduced BMO representatives Frances Mannarino and Chris Booth by saying that the BMO has had a 20 year relationship with the Akwesasne community, providing the community its everyday banking needs. Mr. Booth started the bursary presentation by saying; "The bursary program is near and dear to us. Bank of Montreal is committed to education and to the youth. We wish the new graduates well on their future endeavors."

Recipients of the BMO bursaries are as follows: Deonna Bero (Massena), Coyote Cole (Massena), Hunter Francis (Massena), Serena Hall (Massena), Ryan Thomas (Massena), Mackenzie Adams (CCVS), Serena Boots (CCVS), Breanne Caldwell (CCVS), Rachel Jacobs (CCVS), and Shayla Oakes (CCVS).

Peter Valiquet and Michael Wagle represented Enbridge. Mr. Valiquet addressed parents and students by congratulating both. He told the students that education will help prepare them for the future. He relayed some words of wisdom to the students. "When you get to school it will be hard. Some courses won't be hard but some will. Tough it out; rely on friends, family and community to help you. It will be worth it in the end."

Students that were awarded Enbridge bursaries are as follows: Bradley Cooke, Jr. (Massena), Paige Lafrance (CCVS), Tori Jock (CCVS), Johnathan King (St. Joseph's Catholic School), Dayna Green (CCVS), Cullen Jacobs (CCVS), Clarence Van Every (CCVS), Lacey Jacobs (CCVS), Kharlene Garrow (CCVS), and Rhoades Tarbell (Massena).

"I am very happy for this award," commented Paige Lafrance, who will be attending St. Lawrence College in the fall in the nursing program. "It really touched me because it's for aboriginal people and I am being recognized for who I am as well as my academic achievement."

A wonderful lunch was provided by Johanne Jackson and her staff.

Chief Benedict closed out the ceremony by telling the students that college is a big adjustment for them as well as their families and they need to help each other adjust. "Best wishes to everyone."