Busy scholarship season at UCOL sees record number awarded
Whanganui Campus Manager Bronwyn Paul says it was the most scholarships UCOL had ever given out in one ceremony at the Whanganui campus.
“We had 10 donors contribute a total of 47 scholarships. They’re all local donors we’ve worked with in the past. One donor alone, Akoranga Education Trust, gifted 23 scholarships — almost half!
“Akoranga Education Trust is the most beautiful organisation to work with. This year they gave us a significant amount for scholarships, as well as contributions for the graduation valedictorian and for hardship.”
Ms Paul highlighted the significant impact of the hardship funding, particularly for nursing ākonga on placements.
“It makes a huge difference for our nursing ā konga who can’t work parttime to earn extra income. They can use it at any time during the year to ease their financial stress.”
A new award was also presented during the scholarship ceremony in honour of one of the founding members of the Akoranga Education Trust.
“The Sandy Dobbin Accounting Memorial Award is for our Chartered Accountant ākonga. Sandy was one of the founding members of Akoranga Education Trust.
“He died a few years ago and Akoranga dedicated a $2000 memorial award in his name. On top of this, they also give an additional $2000 each to the two topperforming students.
The highest achieving award went to second-year Bachelor of Nursing student and mum-of-three, Angela Munro. She was followed in second place equal by Camila Garner and Niomi Belton.
“I love these times of year — scholarships and graduation.
“It’s rewarding helping create these special moments where we can celebrate our ā konga for all their hard work.
“With almost 50 scholarships presented, it seems they’re all going above and beyond this year,” says Ms Paul.