Lynda Warkentin named JA P.E.I. volunteer of the year
Lynda Warkentin went above and beyond in volunteering her time to Junior Achievement P.E.I. this past year and as a result has been named the organization’s volunteer of the year for 2016-17.
JA P.E.I. delivered 240 programs to more than 5,493 students across the Island in the past year, thanks to the dedication of people like Warkentin and others who volunteer their time to the curriculum-based programs that focus on financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship.
Warkentin was raised in Souris along with her eight brothers and three sisters. She now lives in New Haven with her husband, Peter, and son Decklyn.
She has been working with Invesco since October 2008, a company she says has provided her with ample opportunities for personal growth and development over the years, including the opportunity to volunteer with JA P.E.I.
Warkentin was one of the first Invesco associates to volunteer with Junior Achievement and has continued to be an active volunteer ever since. Her enthusiasm for the organization’s programs helped inspire other associates to volunteer.
A new model at the University of Prince Edward Island aims to prepare students for careers after graduation.
The work integrated learning (WIL) model builds on knowledge gained through traditional academic education, helping graduates to transfer that knowledge into practice in workplace settings.
At UPEI, the programming will include experiential learning, co-op and clinical placements, internships, research and teaching practice, volunteerism, international academic exchange and field placements.
On Tuesday, the governments of Canada and Prince Edward Island announced funding to support the model. The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency is providing a non-repayable contribution of $114,660 through its business development program to UPEI for the project, while the provincial government is providing a grant of $17,640.
“The University of Prince Edward Island has long played a central role in building our community, attracting talented staff and students from P.E.I. and around the world, and developing expertise that focuses on the strengths of our region,” said Charlottetown MP Sean Casey in making the announcement.
Sonny Gallant, P.E.I. minister of workforce and advanced learning, said the programming will prepare students for success and drive prosperity in the province.
“Increasing the connection between post-secondary education and the workforce is another step in linking Islanders to great job opportunities,” said Gallant.