Schulich Leader Scholarships support Canada's top talent in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM)
Northern Collegiate Institute & Vocational School (NCIVS) student Liam Henderson has been selected to receive a $100,000 Schulich Leader Scholarship to study Honours Integrated Science (iSci) at McMaster University.
Henderson will be entering the Honours Integrated Science program this Fall. He was selected by school staff at NCIVS for his outstanding academic and extra-curricular achievements. This is the second consecutive year that an NCIVS graduate has been a recipient of this prestigious national award.
A total of 100 scholarships are being awarded 50 engineering scholarships valued at $120,000 each, and 50 science, technology or math scholarships valued at $100,000 each.
"Schulich Leader Scholarships enable Canada's top universities to attract and retain our exceptional STEM talent here at home, empowering them to become the innovators and entrepreneurs our country needs. When these scholars go on to drive prosperity and strengthen our economy, Canada must ensure the right economic conditions exist so they can build their promising futures here. Supporting their entrepreneurial ambition is essential for turning Canadian ingenuity into lasting national success," says program founder Mr. Schulich.
Henderson expressed gratitude and excitement about receiving the scholarship.
"Receiving the Schulich Leader Scholarship worth $100,000 means that I can direct more of my focus to my academics and community involvement, with the financial burden of attending university and postgraduate school being relieved to a significant extent. The moment that I received the scholarship was one of joy, relief, and celebration. As soon as I saw the subject line in that email, I said to myself, I don't believe it, I do not believe it!' I told my family and they were ecstatic like me, congratulating me on my accomplishment. With this scholarship, I will be able to afford schooling after my undergrad degree without burning a hole in my pocket, which means that I can continue my mission of improving the lives of those in my community through scientific knowledge and philanthropy."
School nominator Mr. Todd Whitlock also highlighted Liam's remarkable leadership and impact.
"It is so nice to see a student who so willingly gives of himself, and who has achieved at such a high academic level, rewarded from an organization that receives thousands of nominees each year, and has to make such difficult decisions over who and what a successful candidate should be. The Northern community is so proud for Liam, and so and so thankful to the Schulich committee for choosing such a worthy candidate."
As the staff trophy recipient of the school, his award presenter Mrs. Natalia Ferrar explained that Liam is a worthy recipient because he, doesn't just participate he inspires. He doesn't just join he leads. And he doesn't just dream about change he makes it happen.'
Liam has over 600 hours of community involvement which has helped transform both his school and the greater community.
Gary Girardi, Director of Education for the Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB), also shared his congratulations.
"We are extremely proud of Liam and all he has accomplished. Being named a Schulich Leader is one of the most prestigious honours a Canadian high school student can receive, and Liam's achievement is a testament to his incredible work ethic, as well as the high quality of education, educators, and student leadership that exists across the LKDSB. His contributions through the LKDSB Student Senate and his commitment to academic excellence have made a lasting impact, and we are confident he will continue to do great things in his next chapter."
