Southeast College's Practical Nursing Second Year Student, Avva Padagdag is the proud recipient of a Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) Paul and Gerri Charette Bursary, worth $5,000.00.
"I am very grateful for receiving the CICan award, because I am now set to manage my present and upcoming finances in terms of our clinical rotation and final enrichment placement. I wish CICan organization all the best to continue helping students to achieve their dream career and future" says Avva.
The CICan Paul and Gerri Charette Bursary awards are given to post-secondary students who have financial needs and face challenges in accessing post-secondary education. Preference is usually given to students attending rural and remote post-secondary institutions.
Avva received the first half of the bursary in December 2024. The second half was given to her in January 2025.
"We are so proud that Avva has been chosen for this prestigious award," says Jody Holzmiller, interim President and CEO. "We know that this award will go a long way to helping Avva to continue with her studies."
Paul Charette has more than 50 years of experience in construction and engineering, working with Bird Construction in several capacities and rising to the position of President and Chief Executive Officer. He retired in 2008. Paul played an integral role in the Bird Construction Inc. success story. A press release from Bird Construction Inc. notes that "notably, he played a key role in establishing the Bird Construction/Paul and Gerri Charette Endowment Fund in partnership with Colleges and Institutes Canada, which is dedicated to supporting Indigenous students pursuing post-secondary education. The Fund of $200,000 is held in perpetuity with annual disbursements; its first disbursements were made in the 2021-2022 school year."
Paul and his wife, Gerri are committed supporters of student bursary and scholarships.
