The Guardian (Charlottetown)

Keys to her future

Holland College student’s outstandin­g effort and character recognized when she is presented with a 2016 Nissan Micra

- BY STEVE CLARKE

Sarah Duncan was in tears as her face turned red. She was smiling from cheek to cheek.

The Holland College plumbing student had just won a car.

For three years now, full-time students at the college have been given the chance to win a car. This year, 35 students were nominated because of outstandin­g effort and character, but it was the top five nominees who walked away with either $1,000 or a new set of wheels.

In the top five were Ryan Brown, sports and leisure management, Pam Corominas, nursing, Jody Milligan, constructi­on electrical technology, and Neil Riley, a resident care worker.

And then there was Duncan who didn’t even know she was in the top five until last week.

On Wednesday, she was holding the keys to a brand new car, and she could hardly believe it.

“I’m overwhelme­d. I don’t know what words to say.”

She didn’t own a car before, but she has her license and is looking forward to getting out in the next couple of days, she said.

Lou MacEachern donated the 2016 Nissan Micra, along with the cash prizes. His goal is to motivate students to achieve their personal and academic best, said MacEachern in a press release.

“In my experience, a little extra incentive can go a long way.”

It is important to encourage students to reach their full potential, said the Calgary businessma­n and former P.E.I. resident.

“They’re our future after all.” Emily VanToever and Tara Maddix, the two previous winners, came out to show support.

Brian McMillan, the president of Holland College, is proud of the students for their outstandin­g accomplish­ments and is grateful to MacEachern for providing them with the opportunit­y, said McMillan in the news release.

“His generosity is truly inspiring.”

“In my experience, a little extra incentive can go a long way.” Lou MacEachern

 ?? STEVE CLARKE/THE GUARDIAN ?? Sarah Duncan and Lou MacEachern pose with her new car on Wednesday in Charlottet­own.
STEVE CLARKE/THE GUARDIAN Sarah Duncan and Lou MacEachern pose with her new car on Wednesday in Charlottet­own.

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