Scholarships for Correctional Workers' Program

Two African-Canadian students in the Correctional Workers' Program at Nova Scotia Community College will get two years of free tuition and books, along with a two-year employment contract, thanks to the new Morton Simmonds Scholarship.

The scholarship, valued at about $6,000, is named for North Preston community leader Morton Simmonds, a former correctional officer with the Nova Scotia Department of Justice.

"We hope these scholarships encourage qualified students to pursue an important career in correctional services," said Justice Minister Michael Baker. "We've made significant progress in encouraging diversity among our workforce. We are pleased to fund this educational initiative, and I want to thank the scholarship committee members for creating a valuable program."

Partners include the North Preston Gospel Technology Association, the Nova Scotia Community College and the correctional services division of the Nova Scotia Department of Justice.

"In an effort to enrich our workforce, correctional services and our partners are pleased to offer an exciting and challenging career opportunity to two individuals of African descent," added Larrie Wright, captain, correctional services.

Scholarship candidates must be 19 years of age, with proof of Grade 12 graduation or equivalency. They must also complete a 500-word essay explaining why they've chosen to pursue a career in this field, and agree to two years of employment with correctional services.

Application forms are available at two locations: the Watershed Association Development Enterprise (WADE) office at 1144 Main St., Dartmouth, which is located near the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia; and the Resource Employment Centre (satellite office) at 984 North Preston Rd., Dartmouth. Completed application forms are due by 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15.