BRANDON, MB – Together with their families, student recipients of the 2013 and 2014 Enbridge Dakota Language Scholarship celebrated their achievements with members of Brandon University’s senior administration and representatives from Enbridge Pipelines Inc. at a luncheon held on campus in November, 2014.
In attendance was the Enbridge Dakota Language Scholarship recipient for 2013, Jillian Chalmers, currently in her second year at BU, as well as the two recipients for 2014; Shannen Wombdiska and Matthew Pratt, both in their first year at Brandon University. These students, all from Sioux Valley, were welcomed and congratulated by Enbridge’s Roshan Kastrinos, Senior Aboriginal Community Investment and Training Advisor, and Karl Zadnik, Aboriginal Relations Advisor, Manitoba Region.
“We were very pleased to host this event on campus in celebration of our Dakota Language students,” said Dr. Michael Kim, Acting Associate Vice-President (External). “I think it’s important to take advantage of opportunities to connect donors and students so that both understand what positive outcomes can occur through partnerships in support of scholarships and programming at Brandon University.”
This celebration marks another milestone in the partnership between Enbridge and Brandon University, which began in 2012 with a $60,000 commitment to the Faculty of Arts in support of the Dakota Language Program. Enbridge directly funds the Dakota Language Program in the Department of Native Studies, and supports two annual scholarships of $2,500 each for first year students enrolled in the Introduction to Dakota Language course.
“We understand that life takes energy and we’re proud to bring it to communities in many small but meaningful ways, in particular through our investment in education,” said Roshan Kastrinos, Senior Aboriginal Community Investment and Training Advisor at Enbridge Pipelines, Inc. “We recognize that education is one of the most powerful gifts, and we’re proud to assist with initiatives that helps students in all stages of life get ahead.”
Dr. Gervan Fearon, President and Vice-Chancellor at Brandon University, welcomed and congratulated the students on their achievement, and commented on the importance of collaboration and engagement to enhance opportunities for BU students. “Brandon University is known for its commitment to students and student success,” said Dr. Fearon. “This partnership with Enbridge Pipelines Inc. is an example of how the University and an external partner can collaborate and work together to address a demonstrated common goal – the preservation and renewal of the Dakota language. I extend my warmest thanks and appreciation to Enbridge for this outstanding support.”
Brandon University, founded in 1899, promotes excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship, and educates students so that they can make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders.
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