Mohawk College students pursuing studies in sustainability, climate action, biotechnology and environmental technology are eligible for new entrance scholarships created through a generous $100,000 gift from the Paletta family and the Alinea Land Corporation.
Scholarship recipients, who will be based in the College's School of Climate Action, can gain practical expertise in sustainability solutions, agricultural and medical biotechnology, biomanufacturing, sustainable business models, data use and energy systems. Co-op work terms are available in some programs.
Five $4,000 scholarships based on academic excellence and merit will be awarded each year for five years.
The School of Climate Action, which officially launched in April, offers diploma and degree programs focused on solving real-world problems in a variety of fields, including environment, health and business.
The gift was made by the Paletta family, through the Pasquale and Anita Paletta Family Fund at the Hamilton Community Foundation, and Alinea Land Corporation. Paul and Michael Paletta said they were proud to invest in the next generation of climate action and sustainability leaders who are passionate about building a more sustainable future.
"At Alinea, we believe true community building extends beyond development it's about investing in the people who will shape the future," said Paul Paletta, Chief Executive Officer and President of Alinea Land Corporation. "Through our family's ongoing commitment to education and sustainability, we hope to inspire young leaders to create lasting, positive change."
Through the Pasquale and Anita Paletta Family Fund and business initiatives, including Alinea Land Corporation, the Paletta family is dedicated to fostering growth, opportunity, and wellbeing in the communities they call home. Alinea's work is rooted in the belief that responsible development and education are key to building a thriving and sustainable Ontario.
Mohawk College President Paul Armstrong thanked the Palettas and Alinea Land Corporation for their leadership and generosity.
"We are immensely grateful to the Paletta family and the Alinea Land Corporation for their generous gift in support of our students," said President Armstrong. "The Alinea Excellence in Achievement Entrance Scholarship will enable our students to contribute meaningfully to their communities and our shared sustainable future. This gift really speaks to what strong communities do best they work together to open doors, to support people, and to invest in the future."
David Santi, Dean of the School of Climate Action and Dean of the Marshall School of Skilled Trades & Apprenticeship, said the new scholarships are a tremendous opportunity for students committed to pursuing careers in sustainability and climate action.
"We are thankful for this gift which gives us the ability to help meet growing demand from our students for a climate-focused education that will shape their future careers and address climate challenges," said Santi.
The School of Climate Action will be launching two new applied degree streams next fall. The Honours Bachelor of Technology - Sustainability and the Honours Bachelor of Management - Sustainability are designed to prepare students to lead in the transition to a more sustainable future. Key features include work-integrated learning, applied research and capstone projects, strong links to industry partners, integrated Indigenous knowledge and ways of knowing and flexible curriculum delivery.
The School partners with industry, non-profits, local community and government, bringing together diverse perspectives, expertise and resources to collectively advance sustainability and climate action locally, regionally and beyond.
