2016 Johnstone Scholarship Awarded

LABOUR/ADVANCED EDUCATION--2016 Johnstone Scholarship Awarded

• ------------------------------------------------------------A Shelburne Regional High School student is the 2016 recipient of the Dr. P. Anthony Johnstone Memorial Entrance Scholarship.

Jessica Jurgenliemk received the $6,000 award recognizing leadership in multiculturalism and human rights today, June 28, at her graduation ceremony.

Ms. Jurgenliemk said that if you can do even the smallest thing for one person, you can change their world.

"In September, I'll begin my studies in music therapy, a field that encompasses my two passions – music and humanity. That foundation will allow me to help and support people every single day, and help change the worlds of people and families."

In her spare time, Ms. Jurgenliemk volunteers as a music teacher to youth with disabilities, board member with the Osprey Arts Centre, her school's gay-straight alliance and healthy relationships for youth program and as an ambassador with the Nova Scotia International Student Program.

"Jessica Jurgenliemk is passionate about helping others and serving her community, and that commitment will position her well for her future studies and career," said Labour and Advanced Education Minister Kelly Regan. "She's a wonderful role model for young people across Nova Scotia."

Ms. Jurgenliemk will attend Acadia University in the fall, working toward a bachelor of music therapy.

The scholarship is a tribute to the late Tony Johnstone, a long-time educator and human rights advocate who devoted his life to promoting multicultural understanding and social equality. He was executive director of the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission from 1985 to 1989.

Applicants must be a Nova Scotian graduating from high school who is pursuing an undergraduate degree program at a Maritime university in the fall. Students considered must also demonstrate interest in multiculturalism and human rights.

This year, 53 eligible applications were reviewed.