A grade 12 student at the Grande Prairie Composite High School says he’s still coming to grips with what he calls a life-changing scholarship to the University of Calgary. Sam Ergando was named the recipient of the Kennedy Scholars Academic Excellence Scholarship, a first for the Grande Prairie Public School Division.
The scholarship, created by Paul Kennedy, is given out annually to one first-year U of C student who shows exceptional leadership at the intersection of science and business and is worth up to $125,000.
Ergando, who is currently enrolled in the Comp’s International Baccalaureate program, says he hopes the scholarship will be the first jumping off point to an outstanding career, but believes the opporunity will also provide him the chance to give back to the Grande Prairie community long term.
“Not only because of the generous sponsorship but also because of the various networking and internship opportunities that come with it.” I recognize the responsibility I now have and hope to use this opportunity and the ones still to come to be a generous contributor to my community, just as Mr. Kennedy has been,” Ergando adds.
GPPSD Superintendent Sandy McDonald says the officials in the division are over the moon about the accomplishment and believe it’s a perfect example of hard work paying off.
This incredible accomplishment is a direct result of his desire to learn, welcome challenges, and strive for success,” McDonald says. “We can’t wait to see what Sam will do next and wish him all the best in his academic journey.”
