Three graduating Orillia high school students have received YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka scholarships to assist with their post-secondary education.
Isaac Locker at Orillia Secondary School, Riley Marwick of Patrick Fogarty Catholic Secondary School and Sadie Harding at Twin Lakes Secondary School were awarded Skid Watson YMCA Scholarships for demonstrating YMCA values of kindness, integrity, inclusiveness, respect, and optimism.
The scholarship is in memory of local humanitarian and leader Gordon Alexander "Skid" Watson in recognition of his commitment to lifelong learning, leadership, and youth development.
"We are proud to continue the legacy of Skid Watson and support local youth in their pursuit of post-secondary education. At the YMCA, we believe youth are powerful agents for social change in their communities," said Y CEO Jill Tettmann. "By giving youth a chance to pursue their passions, our communities are strengthened now and in the future."
Scholarships were made possible through the Skid Watson Endowment Funds held by the Community Foundation of Orillia and Area in partnership with the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka. Skid Watson's family participated in the creation of the scholarships and the selection process and are incredibly proud that his legacy will continue to benefit youth in the Orillia community.
To qualify for one of the three available scholarships, students had to submit an essay or video emphasizing their commitment to Y values, commitment to creating a healthier community, post-secondary goals, and how this experience will benefit the community.
"I look forward to surrounding myself with like-minded individuals, inspiring others to follow examples of dedication and community involvement and partnership," said Isaac Locker, one of the recipients.
"Being a strong citizen opens opportunities for connection, contribution, achievement and well-being. With my post-secondary course of study, I will be provided with the education and tools to give back to my community through career possibilities in physiotherapy and chiropractic care, all while being closely involved with community sports and recreation," Locker said.
Locker, an active community member participating in numerous extracurricular and volunteer roles with the Salvation Army, and a member of the Junior A team for GMHL will be studying at Brock University, intending to earn a degree in physical education.
Riley Marwick, a student mentor and volunteer for the Orillia Lady Kings Association, described her future ambitions: "My desire for creating a healthier community is at the core of my post-secondary ambitions and professional development goals. As a young athlete myself, I am able to see the effects of injury in sport and how the knowledge of teachers and leaders in my life have been able to help me.
"Working in the health and wellness field can support a happier and better way of life by enhancing the physical and emotional health of community members. With a bachelor's degree in kinesiology and a doctor of chiropractic degree I will work to promote public awareness of the value of consistent physical activity and exercise, inspiring others to put their health and well-being first," said Marwick.
Said Sadie Harding, a dedicated tradesperson, mentor, and innovative thinker: "My dream is to own my own renovations company and to employ minorities and women to ensure they have a place in the trades, and to showcase the work they can do. The impact this will have on people's perceptions of female trades workers is huge. My path to this dream is well on its way – in November, I received early acceptance to Fleming colleges carpentry and renovation program. This teaches me not only renovation skills but small business management skills as well, making it perfect for my future career."
For more information about the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, please visit their website www.ymcaofsimcoemuskoka.ca.
