Alberta Blue Cross announced the winners of its annual Indigenous scholarship program on April 5.
This year there are nine recipients, including several living and working in Central Alberta.
The scholarships of $1,500 were awarded based on personal goals, financial need and community involvement.
“We’ve been privileged to support some incredibly deserving individuals in their education journeys through this program,” said Brian Geislinger, a senior vice-president with Alberta Blue Cross, in a press release.
This year’s recipients are Jordan Chayer, Hailey Shukaliak, Demaris Young, Robert Tate, Penny Delver, Jennifer Auger, Mel-Lisa Belcourt, Michaela Lewis and Courtney Crane.
Belcourt is a mother of four working towards her BA in Indigenous Social Work at Maskwacis Cultural College. She works with Asikiw Mostos O’pikinawasiwin (AMO) Society in Louis Bull to help bring children in care back to their community. She also works in the preventative program and assists with families and grocery support.
Crane is an Indigenous Education student at Maskwacis Cultural College. She has been an education assistant at Ermineskin Elementary school for 12 years and was inspired by colleagues to go back to school and become a teacher. She intends to pass on Cree culture and language to her future students.
Alberta Blue Cross has provided the Indigenous scholarship program for 20 years. In 2023, the company received 73 applications — a record number — and decided to double the number of mature student awards.
“We are thrilled to be continuing this program,” said Geislinger.
Alberta Blue Cross will begin accepting applications for next year’s program in September, 2024.
More information can be found on the Alberta Blue Cross website.