Students and donors connect during virtual awards social

Nipissing University celebrated the generosity of donors in March by hosting its annual Student and Donor Awards Social virtually. The annual event gives student award recipients the opportunity to connect with and thank the donors who supported their awards.

Hosted by the Advancement department, this year’s virtual event included a series of Zoom calls where students had the opportunity to express their thanks, tell the donors about themselves and how the award has impacted them. In turn, donors were able share the story behind the establishment of their awards, whether it be to honour a loved one who had a deep connection to Nipissing or North Bay, a devotion to education or an interest in supporting the community by helping students.

Haley Gignac, Nursing recipient for the Dr. Herb and Mrs. Geetie Brown Award, expressed her thanks to the donors of her award: “I would like to express my sincere thanks for this award. I have used the money from this award to help offset the cost of my tuition this semester. During this time of increased stress and anxiety brought on by Covid-19, this generous gift was received with an even greater appreciation,” said Gignac. “As I work toward preparing myself to become a part of the medical community, I aspire to one day become as committed and deeply involved as our front line workers during this unprecedented time.”

"I hold a special place in my heart for Nipissing as a graduate and a former board member. Throughout all of my experiences with Nipissing, I have found everyone there to be like family members,” said donor and alumnus, Marty Brown. “I can't imagine a better place to call home than North Bay nor a friendlier alma mater than Nipissing University and it is always a pleasure spending time with our student recipients." 

Nipissing University would like to thank all award donors for their support and investment in student success and congratulate the student award recipients. More information on how to become a student award donor can be found here.

* Top (L-R) Andrea Parolin, Senior Development Officer, Jillian Redmond, Corporate Events Coordinator; Middle (L-R) John Follis, donor representing the Rotary Club of Nipissing Award, Amanda Genah, recipient of the Rotary Club of Nipissing Award, Haley Gignac, recipient of the Dr. Herbert and Mrs. Geetie Brown Award in Nursing; Bottom (L-R) Marty and Helena Brown, donors representing the Dr. Herbert and Mrs. Geetie Brown Award in Nursing & the Brown Family Bursary.