Cambrian College celebrates donors of student scholarships and bursaries – March 28

SUDBURY – Education became more affordable last night for many of the students at Cambrian College.

Cambrian held its annual financial awards ceremony, celebrating both the students receiving scholarships and bursaries and the donors who provided them.

In total, approximately $1.5 million dollars was gifted to nearly 1,000 students.

One of those students was 27-year-old Heather Gagnon of Moose Factory, Ontario, who is in her second year of Cambrian’s Social Service Worker program. Gagnon, a single parent, was the recipient of the Marie Tincombe-Shaw Memorial Bursary worth $4,000. She plans to return to her hometown upon graduation.

“This award is more than financial support, it is a profound source of peace and hope,” explained Gagnon. “Knowing I don’t have to worry about rent, groceries, or daycare fees for now allows me to focus wholeheartedly on completing my education and pursuing my dreams. What touches me most is the belief of those who chose me. They saw just a glimpse of my story and still trusted in my potential to make a difference. Their faith in me strengthens my resolve to help others who face similar challenges. This award fuels my journey, and I am deeply blessed and inspired by the opportunities it opens up for me.”

One of the donors supporting students this year was Sudbury entrepreneur Joseph Mansourian, who established the Mansourian Family Bursary for Louis Street Residents, which is an inner-city neighbourhood in downtown Sudbury.

“As someone who spent 20 years growing up on Louis Street, I understand the challenges that many students in that community face,” said Mansourian. “I chose to support Cambrian College’s scholarships and bursaries program because I believe in the power of education to transform lives. Sometimes, all it takes is a bit of support at the right time to help someone reach their full potential. This bursary is my way of giving back to a neighbourhood that shaped me, and helping the next generation chase their dreams without financial barriers holding them back.”

“To our donors, I want to convey our deepest appreciation for the support you have shown our students,” added Cambrian President Kristine Morrissey. “The impact of your contributions will be felt for generations to come. To the students who are the recipients of these scholarships and bursaries, seize the opportunity they have provided you, dream big, and make a difference.”

Photo: Cambrian College has distributed more than $1.5 million dollars in scholarships and bursaries from its numerous donors to nearly 1,000 students this year. Heather Gagnon of Moose Factory (second from right, with her son Royce) received the $4,000 Marie Tincombe-Shaw Memorial Bursary. Members of the Tincombe family joined her at the awards ceremony at the college.