Metro Vancouver, B.C. - The Kwantlen Polytechnic University Foundation gave away $1.6 million to 1,450 students this year.
That’s the value of the university’s annual scholarship and awards program, which culminated in the 25th annual Scholarships & Awards Dinner last Wednesday.
Students received awards, scholarships and bursaries, made possible through the generosity of individuals, corporations and other non-profit organizations who believe in education as a means to building communities and creating a vibrant social and economic foundation for society.
“Being able to pursue education is one of the greatest opportunities in my opinion,” said third-year psychology student Zerlinda Chau, one of the keynote speakers at the ceremony.
Many students struggle financially while obtaining their education. With the average full-time tuition at more than $3,000 annually, in addition to other essentials such as books, course materials, housing and other living costs, students often find it challenging to complete their education – and when they do, many graduate with substantial student debt.
Student awards not only ease the financial burden students face, but also provide encouragement and incentive to strive for academic excellence and complete their programs.
KPU offers three types of awards:
· Scholarships are granted on the basis of academic merit, enabling Kwantlen to attract and retain the best students.
· Bursaries provide students with limited financial means opportunities to obtain a Kwantlen education.
· Awards make it possible to honour student excellence based on criteria created by the donor, including academic performance, community service and financial need.
Some of KPU’s larger awards include the Katherine Cummings President’s Endowed Music Scholarship ($5,350) and the Ronald H. Rea Endowed Memorial Award in Criminology ($3,250). Students can apply for one or many awards, and several attending last Wednesday’s annual ceremony collected multiple distinctions.
For information on how you can support KPU students in your community, visit kpu.ca/foundation.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region for 30 years, and has opened doors to success for more than 250,000 people. Four campuses — Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley — offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs, including business, liberal arts, science, design, health, trades and technology, apprenticeships, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 18,000 students annually have a choice from over 145 programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates and citations. Learn more at www.kpu.ca.
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For more information, contact:
Hayley Woodin
Media Specialist
604.599.2883
hayley.woodin@kpu.ca