Three exceptional students were recognized by the Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands Council during its June 16 meeting, receiving bursaries to support their post-secondary education.
Through the Youth Bursary Program, the township honours young people for their academic achievements, volunteerism, leadership, and extracurricular involvement – qualities demonstrated by all applicants this year. After a competitive selection process, three students were chosen to receive awards of $1,000, $600, and $400.
Mairin McConnell, a student at Gananoque Secondary School who will attend the University of Toronto, received the top award. Courtney Hoekstra, from Rideau District High School and heading to Queen’s University, placed second. Jory Leakey, a Thousand Islands Secondary School student who will attend the University of Ottawa, received the third bursary.
Mayor Corinna Smith-Gatcke praised the recipients for their excellence and dedication.
“The township is proud to recognize three outstanding young individuals who have demonstrated exceptional accomplishments in civic engagement, academic excellence, leadership, and extracurricular involvement. Each of these recipients has shown remarkable commitment to their community and a strong dedication to personal growth and achievement. Their contributions inspire us all and reflect the values we strive to nurture in the next generation of leaders. As they take their next steps, I am confident they will continue to make a positive impact. The support from the township is a small way to recognize their achievements. On behalf of council, I congratulate Mairin, Courtney and Jory. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for these remarkable young people.”
Keith Dempsey is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of the Brockville Recorder and Times. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.