“ I believe it ’ s our duty to take care of our brothers and sisters , improve fairness and equity of opportunity in our society regardless of one ’ s financial circumstances , and offer a beacon of hope to the current generation for a better future .”
Department of Psychiatry and the Chief of the Psychosis Program at the Douglas Institute . “ If we can give to others , then it ’ s the right thing to do as a University of Regina alumnus , and a Canadian citizen . I believe it ’ s our duty to take care of our brothers and sisters , improve the fairness and equity of opportunity in our society regardless of one ’ s financial circumstances , and offer a beacon of hope to the current generation for a better future .”
“ The inspiration to create the Florence & Grace Donison Bursary in Education came from my desire to honour the memory of my beloved grandmother and aunt in a meaningful and lasting way .” Bloom goes on to say , “ the purpose was to help out deserving people who may not necessarily have the grades to win a scholarship , but have the potential to become admirable teachers .”
Among such deserving people is Kayla Ward , recent alumna of the University of Regina and Saskatchewan Urban Native Teacher Education Program ( SUNTEP ). SUNTEP was established to ensure that people of Métis and non-status First Nations ancestry are adequately represented in urban teaching positions . Interestingly enough , both the founder and recipient of the Florence & Grace Donison Bursary in Education share something special in common — both were raised by their grandmothers , and saw their share of struggle .
“ My grandmother and I were never well off financially ,” says Kayla , who is of Métis ( from Lebret ) and Cree ( from Peepeekisis Cree Nation ) descent . “ I began working at the young age of 15 , and have paid my own way ever since . Receiving bursaries like the one Dr . Bloom established has allowed me to focus my time and energy on my academics , rather than my finances and working a second part-time job .
“ With the help of his and other bursaries , I managed to maintain a high gradepoint average and finish my degree with great distinction ,” adds the Coronation Park Community School teacher . “ Now , I strive to make a difference in children ’ s lives , just like the teachers before me have in mine . SUNTEP taught me the importance of integrating culture and identity into our teachings , which ultimately fostered my passion to teach children about the true history of Canada , and the importance of identity .”
Named bursaries and other academic awards are a testament to how acts of kindness can not only change the lives of others , but also touch their hearts forever . The Florence & Grace Donison Bursary in Education will endure as a memorable expression of Bloom ’ s admiration and love for his grandmother and aunt , a heartfelt tribute to the memory of two remarkable women , and a symbol of philanthropy .
“ This bursary will continue to help many others in the future , and provide them with extra help that will be instrumental in their academic and career success , as it was in mine ,” says Kayla . “ For that , I am eternally grateful .”
Photo caption : Kayla Ward , recent recipient of the Florence & Grace Donison Bursary in Education , after her virtual graduation ceremony , wrapped in the starblanket she was honoured with for having received the Spirit of SUNTEP award . The award is given in recognition of members of the Métis community and Indigenous communities at large who demonstrate commitment to leadership and active volunteerism . She was also presented with a hand-woven Métis sash to celebrate her graduation and other personal achievements .
The Marcus and Elaine Bloom Brighter Futures Student Award
One award of $ 1,000 will be presented annually in the Fall , commencing in 2021 .
Student ’ s needs are diverse , and the education system is becoming more inclusive and welcoming to those from a variety of backgrounds and orientations . Many elementary and high school students experience educational disadvantages because of their experiences , including neglect , abuse , and poverty , while in the social care system . The Marcus and Elaine Bloom Brighter Futures Student Award will support an aspiring educator who has overcome such challenges as they pursue their undergraduate degree through the Faculty of Education , with the ultimate goal of mentoring and encouraging students from similar socioeconomic backgrounds .
Target : $ 50,000 by 2022
YOUR INVESTMENT WILL HELP ASPIRING EDUCATORS TO BECOME ROLE MODELS AND CREATE BETTER EDUCATIONAL OUTCOMES , GIVING HOPE TO THOSE EXPERIENCING DIFFICULT CIRCUMSTANCES .
Support an aspiring educator today !
Education News | Page 7