Journal staff
Two Point Edward students have been named to the Maynard and Rene Walker Family Scholarship, the village announced recently.
Alaina Burns and Thomas Guthrie — both graduates from Bridgeview Public School and Northern Collegiate — will receive up to $5,000 U.S. to support their pursuit of post-secondary education.
“The scholarship program was established in 2017 by the Walker Family in honour of Maynard and Rene Walker, long-time residents of Point Edward,” a news release stated. “Maynard Walker was born on Michigan Avenue in Point Edward in 1926 and lived on the same street his entire life. His wife, Rene, moved from Sarnia to Point Edward after their marriage in 1949.
Both Maynard and Rene cherished their life in Point Edward and made ongoing contributions to their community and church.”
Nine students in total have received the scholarship.
Both Burns and Guthrie will receive $2,500 for the first year of their chosen program, followed by another $2,500 for their second year of study, as long as the grades criteria continue to be met.
“My ultimate goal is to create new technologies that will improve the lives of individuals with disabilities and those suffering from various illnesses,” Guthrie told the selection committee in his application. He has applied to a number of Canadian universities and plans to specialize in Biomedical Engineering.
“I am deeply grateful for the Maynard and Rene Walker Family Scholarship, as it will help me pursue my dream of attending university and obtaining a degree in engineering.”
Burns has enrolled in a unique accelerated combined Masters program in Computer Science and Software Engineering at the University of Detroit Mercy.
“I hope to get a technological job that allows me to further develop ever-changing technologies to assist people in their everyday lives,” said Burns. “The benefits of living in Point Edward and being surrounded by such kind and supportive community members has really assisted me in getting to where I am now.”
Both applicants participated in a variety of sports, held part-time jobs while completing their high school education, and spent a significant amount of time volunteering for community or school organizations, the Village added.
High school grades and contribution to the Village of Point Edward are among the key criteria considered by the selection committee, and all applications are edited to remove the applicant’s name and any identifying information prior to the selection committee reviewing the submissions.
“It’s always a tough decision, as we’ve had so many impressive candidates, and this year was no exception,” said Mary Ellen Walker. “It’s wonderful to hear about the plans these young students have to continue their education and learn skills that they can use to help others in their future careers.”