The Trevor H Shirtliff Difference-Maker Scholarship is awarded to high-school students that have been identified by their high school counsellors to be activists advocating to make a difference. Whether it be within their school, their community or in the life of others, we commend these youth.
We thought you’d like to know what caught the attention of their counsellors and why we chose these individuals to award scholarships to. In the words of a counsellor, here are the nominations:
Student: Emma Leigh-Ann Cowie-Dyck, Grade 12
Nominating Counsellor: Melissa Cote
Hunting Hills High School, Red Deer, AB
I am in awe of Emma’s resiliency and commitment to improve her quality of life and strengthen those around her. She truly exemplifies integrity and leadership. Despite experiencing significant trauma and financial hardship, Emma continually demonstrates the “glass-half-full” approach to life. She’s always willing to lend a helping hand to others, seeking ways to help those less fortunate, and strengthen those around her, and remain positive and hopeful in light of hardship. Emma intends to pursue a diploma in Early Childhood Education and be a difference maker in the lives of young children. She’s a remarkable person. Emma regularly volunteers with our local community organization, The Mustard Seed. She volunteers her time during dinner service, serving food and interacting with our city’s homeless population with authentic kindness and gratitude.
Student: Deysha George-Pugliese, Grade 12
Nominating Counsellor: Karyn Walmark
Mentor College, Mississauga, ON
Deysha has made ongoing efforts to involve herself in the life of our school, local and international community. For example, she has volunteered as a Student Ambassador at several open houses and orientation sessions to help smooth the transition for our new students. In addition, she has offered her time to Sending Sunshine, a group that writes thoughtful cards to support seniors in retirement homes by alleviating the isolation they may experience. Finally, she is a member of our Take Action Group, which raises awareness and funds to build homes for countries in need, such as the Dominican Republic.
Deysha’s unwavering cheerful energy, her co-operative spirt, and her belief that there is always a way to bring people together, makes her a role model for her peers.
Deysha has also danced with the National Ballet of Canada for the past seven years. Her ability to balance her dedication to this discipline with the demands of academics and extra-curriculars is additional proof of her work ethic.
Student: Alana Meester, Grade 12
Nominating Counsellor: Elvira Beltrame-Presta
Blessed Trinity Catholic Secondary School, Grimsby, ON
Alana is a hard-working and diligent student who has been a 3 time recipient of the Principal’s Honour Roll. In fact, she had the highest overall average in her grade 9 year. She is tireless in her studies and works well both on individual tasks and team projects. And she consistently demonstrates a positive attitude, contributes to all class discussions and her teachers speak highly of her overall performance
Alana is also actively involved in student life at school. She is a member of our Link Crew, a group of senior students who are assigned a group of grade 9 students in order to act as their mentor and guide as they transition from elementary to high school. She is also actively involved as a member of several sports teams and clubs including the basketball team, flag football, badminton and the ski club. As a grade 10 student, Alana generously volunteered her time on the Rankin Rally. This organization helps to promote awareness of Cancer research and support within the Niagara region.
Alana generously volunteers her time with the West Lincoln Community Care outreach program within the donation department and shares her talents and skills teaching and fostering a love of basketball with the Grimsby Basketball Association.
Student: Kolby Renschler, Grade 12
Nominating Counsellor: Jen Kozma
Gus Wetter School, Castor, AB
It is a privilege to nominate Kolby Renschler for this award. He epitomizes integrity, leadership, and humanitarianism. He works diligently to improve and strengthen the quality of life for himself, in addition to that of his peers, his family and his community. He excels academically and demonstrates diligence and tenacity. He considers feedback carefully, and applies it to improve himself, not only in academics but in sports and community.
Kolby is a leader and an asset to any endeavour he considers. He is conscientious, self motivated and excels at whatever he puts his mind to. He is always willing to jump in and help: from concepts in chemistry to reffing volleyball to being a friend. He is adored by his peers and his community.
His work ethic is admirable, keeping an outstanding GPA while playing just about every sport throughout the school year, in addition to working on his family farm where he has many responsibilities ranging from machine maintenance and repair to caring for the animals. He has participated in school council and gets involved wherever he can. Kolby achieves excellence wherever he goes, and makes a difference.
Student: Madison George, Grade 12
Nominating Counsellor: Natalie Thompson
Collège Miles Macdonell Collegiate, Winnipeg, MB
I am nominating Madison George, a wonderful student who will be graduating this June 2025. Madison is making a difference in our school community, and does so in a way that is so completely authentic, warm, and inclusive. This year, Madison started a student group called the Social Encouragement Club. Below is the announcement she wrote to help recruit members: Social Encouragement Club – Feeling shy or lacking courage? Let’s step back into reality for real conversations and genuine connections! Join the Social Encouragement Club! The Social Encouragement Club is your hub for building confidence and social skills. Whether you’re a freshman or a senior, there’s a place for you here! What Is Offered: – Networking & Inspiration: Hear from local leaders and share stories. – Positive Habit Support: Join weekly check-ins and goal-setting sessions. – Creative Expression: Enjoy open mics, writing workshops, and game nights. Currently she is putting on a vision board workshop. Here is the announcement she wrote – her passion clearly shines through: Join the Social Encouragement Club for our first vision board workshop! It’s time to take a second to walk in the direction of making your dreams come true! Land a chance to showcase your goals and ambitions in a fun, creative way. Whether you’re aiming for academic wins, personal growth, or building awesome connections. What to Expect: – Creative Expression: Share your dreams, make new friends, and enjoy a chill space where all ideas matter. Madison is a true difference maker – she leads the group with compassion and care, comes prepared, and makes everyone feel welcome. Though the group is small/getting off the ground, the way that Madison interacts with the student participants truly warms the heart. For Madison’s post-secondary goals, she is hoping to become a life coach. This is her calling and she will continue to make a difference in the lives of others.
