The Pieter de Reuver Foundation’s investment in North Island College (NIC) students is going up in a big way.
This year, the foundation, run by Parksville residents Pieter de Reuver and Salud Espiritu, is upping its scholarships and bursaries available for NIC students in the Parksville Qualicum Beach area from $10,000 in 2017 to $70,000 this year, for a two-year investment of $80,000.
The new money is part of a record $375,000 in financial awards available to all NIC students who apply by April 25 this year, according to an NIC news release.
With one application, students can apply for more than 415 awards, valued at up to $5,000, for a total that is up from $290,000 last year.
“This is the second year in a row we have more funds available to students than ever before,” said Randell Heidt, NIC vice president of strategic initiatives. “We can’t thank our amazing donors enough for providing these life-changing awards.”
The awards are available to students coming directly from high school, students retraining for a new career as well as those who are in the middle of programs or graduating.
Students are eligible for hundreds of awards based on their academic performance, financial need, career interests or community involvement, the school stated in a written release.
Lisa Moyes, NIC Foundation board chair and donor knows the difference the awards can make to students and communities.
“When we support our students’ dreams, we give them a chance to build a solid future for themselves and their families,” Moyes said. “In turn, they become our nurses, accountants, teachers, electricians, artists and business owners, supporting the strength and growth of our communities.”
The money represents a significant investment in North Island students and communities and addresses a tangible need.
Since 1991, the NIC Foundation has provided almost $3 million to more than 4,000 students throughout the college region. For many students, attending college would not have been possible were it not for this generosity.
The award application deadline is April 25, 2018. Visit foundation.nic.bc.ca/students for an awards list and online application form.
For those interested in assisting NIC students, and for more info, contact the NIC Foundation at 250-334-5040 or 250-334-5249.
— NEWS Staff, submitted by NIC