The evening was opened by a short speech from artist and musician Garry Oker who also performed a traditional Aboriginal song.
Dave Conway, Community Relations Manager for BC Hydro, addressed the audience of approximately 50 people by noting the numerous large scale projects expected to be developed in the Peace Region in the next few years and the need to keep up with the demand for skilled workers. BC Hydro currently supports the largest student awards program in the College’s history, having donated one million dollars to the NLC Foundation in 2012. These funds are being distributed as entrance awards for domestic and Aboriginal students who are entering one of a number of eligible trades programs.
Several donors attended the event including representatives of the Fred den Ouden Memorial Award, Peace River Women’s Institute, Encana, Heritage North Consulting, Chetwynd Masonic Lodge, and BC Hydro. Several staff members who contribute to student awards were also in attendance as well as the College’s Board of Governors, college faculty, staff and guests. Entertainment at this year’s wine and cheese event was provided by Fort St. John-based musicians Twin Peaks.
Donna Kane, executive director of the NLC Foundation, spoke to the significant financial support its many donors have given over the years, and thanked the companies, groups, and individuals for their generosity.
“Many of our students experience unexpected hardships,” said Kane, “hardships such as running out of money for food, rent or utilities or sudden tragedies such as the loss of a family member.”
“Donor support assists with these challenges as well as provides funds for tuition and for awards that help us recognize the achievements of our students. This support is vital to the success of our students, and we thank you for all that you do in the name of NLC’s students.”
Kane’s words were echoed by student and guest speaker Kristiana Bailey, a winner of numerous awards including the Minerva Foundation for BC Women Award and the Ike Barber BC Aboriginal Student Award. Bailey is a perfect example of how financial awards changes lives. Bailey is a student success story having returned to school as a mature learner. Currently enrolled in the Alaska Highway Consortium on Teacher Education (AHCOTE) program, Bailey is fulfilling her dream of becoming a primary school teacher.
“I have been able to do three full years of university studies, move here from Fort Nelson with my children, and it’s been paid for largely because of the Northern Lights College Foundation,” said Bailey. “It’s helped me become who I am today.”
Other speakers included NLC President Nick Rubidge, and Director of Ceremonies Danny Schilds, Chair of the Board of Directors for the NLC Foundation.
For more photos of the Donor Appreciation event, visit NLC’s Facebook page.