Scholarship Recipients 2023
Congratulations to the recipients of the 2023 Alberta Central Future Leader and Credit Union Future Leader scholarships:
- Cole Pearce – Alberta Central
- Landon Dautremont – Servus Credit Union
- Caitlin Kruger – connectFirst Credit Union
- Amaya Myhovich – Vermilion Credit Union
- Soren Skaret – Vision Credit Union
Each recipient will receive a $5,000 scholarship to go towards their studies.
The scholarships below are open to children of employees at Alberta Central (and it’s affiliates) and children of credit union employees and board directors. We also awarded a $5,000 scholarship to one Alberta-based student as part of the Credit Union’s of Alberta’s Future Leader of Alberta Scholarship – learn more here.
You can read more about the recipients of our 2023 scholarships below. To get on the mailing list for the 2024 scholarship program, contact communications@albertacentral.com.
Cole Pearce, recipient, Alberta Central Future Leader Scholarship
Cole, who lives in Chestermere, Alberta is currently enrolled in Mount Royal University and is studying History. When asked what it meant to be selected, he wrote:
“Finishing my history degree at Mount Royal University will allow me to acquire employment in one of Canada’s local military museums – where I can then work towards representing every group in Canada’s history which took part in the conflicts of the past. The funds from the Alberta Central Future Leader Scholarship will help me to pursue my studies and research in my desired field, and support my eventual transition into education or museum curation.
My goal is to bring to light the stories of those who came before us and sacrificed their innocence and youth, and in some cases their lives for the further advancement of our country. By sharing the stories of our nation’s past heroes in a modern way, I can encourage a younger audience to become engaged and interested and bring to light those who lacked representation in the past.
My collection of artifacts from the first and second world wars will enable me to teach future generations about the events that unfolded many years ago, which ultimately shaped the country that we know today. Through the use of social media, I’ve already begun connecting younger generations to the history of our nation, and am encouraging them to do their own research about family members, famous figures and battles. My love for history will continue to grow and I thank Alberta Central for giving me the opportunity to share and support my passion.”
Landon Dautremont, recipient, Credit Union Future Leader Scholarship
Landon, who lives in Cayley, Alberta and whose mother works at Servus Credit Union, is currently enrolled in Mount Royal University and is studying with the eventual goal of becoming a lawyer. When asked what it meant to be selected, he wrote:
“I am writing to express my deep appreciation for the opportunity to be a recipient of the Credit Union Future Leader scholarship. Winning this scholarship holds profound significance in my life, serving as a cornerstone in my journey towards personal and professional growth. Winning is a life-changing achievement for me, carrying momentous personal and academic
significance. This scholarship isn’t just a financial boost, it represents a gateway to my aspirations and a testament to my dedication.
First and foremost, this scholarship aligns perfectly with my educational ambitions. Pursuing a higher education degree has always been a priority for me, but the rising costs of tuition and living expenses have posed significant challenges. Winning this scholarship alleviates the financial burden, allowing me to focus wholeheartedly on my studies and extracurricular activities. It not only eases the financial strain on my family but also enables me to make the most of my educational experience.
The scholarship re-affirms the value of leadership and community involvement in my life. Throughout my academic journey, I have strived to be an active participant in my community, dedicating my time and energy to causes I am passionate about, such as coaching future athletes. This scholarship would reinforce the importance of service and leadership, motivating me to continue making a positive impact in my community. In conclusion, winning the Credit Union Future Leader scholarship is not merely a financial aid, it’s a testament to my dedication, a recognition of my leadership, and a catalyst for my future endeavours. It enables me to pursue my educational dreams, reaffirm my commitment to service, and connect with a supportive community of professionals. This scholarship isn’t just important; it’s a beacon guiding me toward a brighter, more promising future.”
Caitlin Kruger, recipient, Credit Union Future Leader Scholarship
Caitlin, who is from Calgary, Alberta and whose mother works at connectFirst Credit Union, is currently enrolled at Goethe University in Frankfurt and is studying to get her Masters of Arts in Science and Technology Studies . When asked what it meant to be selected, she wrote:
“Receiving these funds means that I can focus more of my time on school and research. I hope to be able to dedicate myself to my studies and meeting leading experts and researchers who are already working in this field. I want to be able to use research to change inequities in science and technology.
This money will allow me to dedicate time and energy to this goal without worrying about money while in a foreign country. It will also allow me to spend time connecting with the community and culture without being obligated to a set work schedule, rather, take opportunities to learn and connect as they arise.”
Amaya Myhovich, recipient, Credit Union Future Leader Scholarship
Amaya, who is from Mannville, Alberta and whose father works at Vermilion Credit Union, is currently enrolled at the University of Calgary and is studying Political Science. When asked what it meant to be selected, she wrote:
“Standing up for human rights has become a passion and necessity in my life. Growing up as a minority in rural Alberta, it was important to establish myself as a leader and advocate in order to give other marginalized communities a voice. During high school, my friends and I established the J.R. Robson Diversity Club, which created an inclusive space for all students and staff. In the creation of the club, we strived to achieve a loving and inclusive environment for the school and surrounding community.
Later, In collaboration with another community organization, we successfully hosted the first Vermilion Pride Walk. It is my hope that my experiences will show others that even though you may come from a small community, your contribution towards the common good still makes an impact on the world at large.
While I am currently studying political science at the University of Calgary, I hope to enter law school then become a human rights lawyer to continue fighting for equality. This scholarship will contribute to my plans of changing the lives of many more people to come. “
Soren Skaret, recipient, Credit Union Future Leader Scholarship
Soren, who lives in Edmonton, Alberta and whose father works at Vision Credit Union, is currently enrolled at the University of Alberta and is working towards a Bachelor of Science. When asked what it meant to be selected, he wrote:
“To me, being a Future Leader means showing dedication to the community and encouraging those around you. It is also about embodying qualities such as resiliency, empathy, and a commitment to your goals and to others. As a Future Leader, I push myself to not only excel in my education but also use my knowledge and influence to make a meaningful impact on society through my volunteer and research pursuits.
These funds play a crucial role in helping me achieve my post-secondary goals. They represent not just financial support, but a belief in my potential and a recognition of my efforts. This financial support lightens the burden of tuition and allows me to focus on my studies and personal growth. It enables me to engage in extracurricular activities, volunteer roles, and research opportunities that will further shape my leadership abilities. Furthermore, it enables me to connect with peers who share my aspirations, creating a network that will sustain and inspire me throughout my journey.
Ultimately, these funds are an investment not only in my education but in myself as a whole. They motivate me to work harder, and continue to strive for excellence in all my endeavors. Thank you so much for this opportunity.”
Overview of the 2023 scholarship program:
Why do we provide scholarships?
Alberta Central, the central banking facility and trade association for Alberta’s credit unions, believes in supporting the children of employees and board members from the Alberta the credit union system. By providing scholarships, we are helping to build future leaders and deepen understanding of the credit union system.
Alberta Central provides three different scholarships each year: the Alberta Central Future Leader Scholarship open to children of Alberta Central, CUPS and Prairie Payments Joint Venture employees; the Credit Union Future Leader Scholarship open to children of Alberta credit union employees and board directors; and the Future Leader of Alberta Scholarship open to any Alberta-based student (learn more here).
Eligibility:
- Any child of an Alberta credit union employee or board member.
- Students can be entering any year of a post-secondary degree, diploma, certificate or trade program (including undergraduate and post-graduate programs).
- Programs can be based anywhere in the world (not just Alberta or Canada), as international programs are accepted.
Application requirements and timeline:
- Complete the online application form below by August 31, 2023.
- Included in the application form is a consent to the collection of personal data and to the sharing of your name, photo and biography on Alberta Central/Credit Unions of Alberta digital properties and/or social media channels if you are selected as the recipient.
- Submission of the following items by August 31 to communications@albertacentral.com:
- Scholarship essay (topic outlined below);
- Reference letter; and
- Proof of post-secondary acceptance (e.g., acceptance letter).
- Judges from Alberta Central will review all applications and select a recipient no later than September 29, 2023.
- Funds will be distributed by October 31, 2023.
Scholarship essay:
The Credit Union Future Leader Scholarship Essay has two components that must be addressed, as outlined below. Essay’s must be at least 500 words and no more than 2,000 words.
Essay components:
- Explain what your goal is with your area of post-secondary studies, what you hope to learn or achieve and why you think you will be successful; and
- A primary focus of credit unions is supporting the communities they operate in, either through donations, sponsorships or with volunteer hours at local organizations.
- Give an example of a unique way you have given back to your community, either by volunteering, raising funds or providing expertise or services to a local group. How did it make you feel to give back and what did this experience teach you about leadership and/or how did it help you develop leadership skills. Include specific examples where possible.
Scoring:
Applications will be reviewed and scored using the following criteria:
- Applicant has completed all elements of the application and submitted all required materials on time and in full.
- Applicant has demonstrated thought and attention to their goals for post-secondary studies and has considered what it means to be successful or what they want to achieve in their studies.
- Applicant consistently demonstrates a commitment to supporting the community they live in or are a part of (e.g., community groups or other organizations they belong to). They have explained, with examples, how they give back to their community and demonstrated leadership and described what it means to them to give back.
- Applicant demonstrates with written examples how supporting their community has helped them develop as a leader or taught them about leadership, with specific details of how this has helped them grow and learn and/or how it has impacted or changed their outlook or perception of leadership.
Frequently asked questions:
- Why does Alberta Central provide scholarships?
- Alberta Central, the central banking facility and trade association for Alberta’s credit unions, believes in supporting our member credit unions. By providing scholarships to children of Alberta credit union employees and Board Directors, we are helping to build future leaders and deepen understanding of the credit union system.
- Who is eligible for the Credit Union Future Leader Scholarship?
- The Scholarship is open to any child of a Alberta credit union employee or Board Director.
- The student can be entering any year of study at a post-secondary institution, including undergraduate and post-graduate degrees.
- What type of post-secondary program is eligible for the Credit Union Future Leader Scholarship?
- Any post-secondary degree, diploma, certificate or trade program is eligible.
- Programs can be based anywhere in the world (not just Alberta or Canada), as international programs are accepted.
- What are the application requirements for the Alberta Central Future Leader Scholarship?
- To be considered as an applicant, you must:
- Complete the application form linked below and consent to the collection of personal data and the sharing of your name, photo and biography on Alberta Central/Credit Unions of Alberta digital properties and/or social media channels if you are selected as the recipient;
- Submit proof of acceptance to a post-secondary institution;
- Complete and submit an essay on a topic outlined above; and
- Submit a reference letter from a community member or mentor (not a family member).
- To be considered as an applicant, you must:
- Who is not eligible for the Credit Union Future Leader Scholarship?
- Anyone who is not the child of a current Alberta credit union employee or board member is not eligible to apply.
- Children of Alberta Central, CUPS or PPJV employees are invited to apply for the Alberta Central Future Leader Scholarship.
- Applicants with a criminal record and/or who are listed on any Canadian or United Nations sanction list are not eligible.
- Students that have previously won an Alberta Central Grant or Scholarship are not eligible.
- Anyone who is not the child of a current Alberta credit union employee or board member is not eligible to apply.
If you have any questions about the Credit Union Future Leader Scholarship, please reach out to communications@albertacentral.com.