 Grady Raga |
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 Soon Kim |
 Stephanie Trenholm |
 Erica Benson |
 Deana Phillips |
 Kaleigh Hanuse |
 Shay Phillips |
 Tchadas Leo |
 Jess Shead |
 Amanda Cook |
 Mary Otter |
 Celeste Lessard-Kragen |
 Gordon Bowbrick |
 Jacob Erickson |
 Trina Chalmers |
 Brianna Dyck |
 Matt Ness |
Go to scholarship recipients
Student of the month
JUNE - Stephanie Trenholm, Each June, Daybreak Rotary honours a student who represents a larger group of students from throughout the entire School District. This year in recognition of our recent School District 72 Aboriginal graduation ceremony, the club paid tribute to a student who exemplifies excellence in every respect. Described by Aboriginal support worker Freda McLean as “absolutely amazing”, Stephanie Trenholm is a citizen, an athlete, and a scholar who brings honour to her family, school, and community. Stephanie, a grade 12 student at Timberline secondary is about to embark upon a full ride scholarship at the University of Alaska. A straight ‘A’ student, she has always used her academic gifts wisely. Stephanie has been winning races since she was 8 years old. As a member of the Comets Track Club coached by her dutiful and proud father, Dale, she has a long string of accomplishments. In 2004 Stephanie was the B.C. Champion in the 800 m and 1500 metres and was named Top Female Junior Development Distance Runner. She was a medallist at the Royal Canadian Legion Championships and a silver medallist at the B.C. High School Championships. Stephanie signed a national letter of intent with the University of Alaska to pursue a Bachelor of Science and ultimately become a P.E. teacher. This summer she competed at the National Junior Championships.. A proud member of the Homalco band, a member of a very close and caring family Stephanie has a remarkable future ahead. Daybreak Rotary is honoured to acknowledge Stephanie Trenholm as the June Student of the Month. She brings so much pride to her family, friends and community.
MAY - Erica Benson, is a grade 12 student at Carihi who combines a remarkable set of talents and a focus that enables her to achieve on many levels. She is a star on the senior girls’ soccer team that qualified for the Island Championships. As a devoted member of the Metro soccer team she spends many hours on the road in order to train in Nanaimo. Erica is an impressive student. As a member of the scholarship club she has earned a prestigious 20 000 Scholarship to attend Quest University in September. Erica has the voice of an angel. She loves to sing and to write music. Modest about her talent, she shares a musical gift that honours the memory of her mother, Francis Keen, a long time musical director of Island Voices who lost her courageous battle with cancer in July of 2006. Erica’s leadership has been demonstrated in many ways as a member of the Graduation Executive and a member of the Peer Support Class. Erica has been a key member of the school’s grief and loss group facilitated by a counsellor. Last year she organized a special Carihi mother/daughter cancer awareness breakfast. In the words of her school counsellor, Jane Kolmatycki, “Erica is a naturally compassionate young woman who believes in caring for others and celebrating diversity. Her kind heart, gentle spirit, and genuine empathy are her greatest attributes. When she smiles at you, it is sincere, and when you are in her space you are not judged. She is a gift.” Erica shares a special bond with her sister, Holly. It was wonderful to see Holly in attendance when Erica Benson was acknowledged as the Daybreak Rotary Student of the Month.
APRIL - Kala Aitkin, Daybreak Rotary celebrated a truly international student during the month of April. Kala Atkin is a grade 12 Timberline Secondary student who goes about quietly doing things for others without much fanfare or thought of praise. When selected as Rotary Student by the Timberline staff, in her unassuming way, she asked, “What for? I haven’t done anything special.” Kala is an excellent student with a unique perspective of the world having spent two years in Central America. As she became bilingual, adopting the Spanish language, she learned that in many parts of the world poverty and lack of material comforts are a way of life for most. It is her perspective that has enabled her to set out to make a difference. During the past two years she has become a very active participant in the Timberline Global Issues Club and Youth 4 Diversity. In each instance she has assisted with fundraising and more importantly, has raised awareness of issues faced by people around the world. Environmental awareness, racism awareness, AIDS awareness have all drawn her energy and efforts. She worked with the 30 hour famine to raise funds for students of poverty in African countries. A participant in community theatre and a volunteer tutor for students facing academic difficulties, Kala brings a cheerful attitude and a willing heart to any task she takes on. She has indicated that teaching may be in her future, a profession that would be a natural fit for her generous spirit and eagerness to contribute to her community. She is a thinker and a doer. Daybreak Rotary is proud to honour this remarkable citizen and scholar.
MARCH - Deana Phillips, is in her first year as a student of Elm Alternate Program at the Robron Centre. After a time away from school, Deanna decided the best re-entry to school was to begin fresh at the Elm where in a short time she has established herself as a student who is dedicated and determined. Her grade ten marks in Math and English have been in the 80’s and 90’s. She has also completed Service Plus and the Food Safe certification at the top of her classes. Most recently she completed a very successful work experience and is now ready to embark on yet another placement. Described by those who know her best as curious, studious, keen, determined, and friendly, she is committed to completing a regular Dogwood graduation. Deanna sets high standards and achievable goals. She seems to be one of those individuals who has flourished in a setting that allows flexibility and individuality. Her teacher Shelly Hollingshead introduced her to the club with such pride and emotion. Campbell River Daybreak Rotary is indeed proud to acknowledge this talented young woman as she strives to reach such important educational goals!
FEBRUARY - Kaleigh Hanuse, is currently a grade nine of Southgate Middle School who is very proud of her First Nations heritage. She is an example of a student who works quietly and modestly to support others in the school. Introduced by teacher-librarian, Ruth Kine, Kaleigh was praised for her initiative and her dedication to working with others. Whether it is helping to develop displays, organizing library resources, or assisting others with projects, Kaleigh is an eager library assistant. As a teacher assistant she is always keen to learn and willing to take on jobs and responsibilities that others might not always realize need attention. An aspiring artist she demonstrates wonderful natural talent. Her knowledge of technology has been able to support students who need assistance. Her impressive grades and wonderful attitude have made her a most valued Southgate student.The Campbell River Daybreak Rotary is indeed proud to honour Kaleigh as the February Student of the Month.
JANUARY - Shay Phillips, has been a student of Campbell River Christian School for most of her educational years. As a captain of her volleyball team and a member of the first ever Christian School team to qualify for the B.C. Championships last year, she is a proven athlete, scholar, and citizen. Shay is an accomplished grade twelve student with a tremendous passion for contributing to the larger world. Recognized by her principal Neil Steinke as an awesome student leader, she was instrumental in implementing a foster child program through World Vision. Her efforts and those of many in the school have truly made the difference to the life of a child in a foreign country. Shay is comfortable in front of a large group and often leads the announcements at school assemblies. Most recently she participated in an outreach program in the downtown east side of Vancouver. She and several school friends worked with the Gospel Mission and Salvation Army to provide supports and comforts for many of the homeless. Shay’s compassion for others and determination to contribute time and energy to changing the world speak volumes about the path she will take as an adult.The Campbell River Daybreak Rotary is indeed proud to honour Shay as the January Student of the Month.
DECEMBER - Tchadas Leo, Tchadas Leo is an accomplished grade eleven student of Carihi Secondary. Enrolled in the French Immersion program since kindergarten he has
distinguished himself through his musical and media talents. In the words of Carihi Media teacher and mentor, Joe Shields, “Tchadas has always
been willing to support teachers, peers, and the greater community with his abundant skills. He is a terrific person!”
Tchadas is well known to the Carihi community serving as lead producer of the Carihi Secondary morning announcements TV program and contributing
to cultural events in school. As a gifted musician, he plays classical guitar, piano, saxophone and is the drummer for Blue Moon Jazz Combo.
Tchadas has already produced his first CD, “Dream Catcher Charms. Last year, he made his professional acting debut in a speaking role in the
CTV movie, “Luna: Spirit of the Whale”. In October Tchadas benefited from a full scholarship for a week long Aboriginal Film Camp at the
Gulf Island Film School on Galiano Island. Tchadas is also a valued employee at CRTV where is first rate technical expertise enables him to be
involved a wide range of production opportunities.
Tchadas has always had a deep humanitarian spirit. He has been a volunteer performer for the Campbell River Hospital Telethon for three years.
Tchadas is a member of the Board of directors of the Host Ju Xwemalhkwu Society (a cultural educational non-profit organization) and the North
Vancouver Island Canadian Latin-American Society. In 2007, he was honoured as a youth nominee for the Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year
Awards.
It is no surprise that Tchadas forsees post secondary education and an eventual career in film production. It will be exciting to observe the
future of this talented young man unfold.The Daybreak Rotary Club is pleased to honour Tchadas Leo as the December
Student of the Month.
NOVEMBER - Jess Shead, Jess is an accomplished dancer whose talent and dedication have placed her on the Campbell River Dance Extreme show team; and this talent as a dancer, an actor and a singer have made her a key member of Timberline’s Musical Theatre program for the past three years. Last year, in the starring role of Annie, Jess held audiences transfixed with one of the best performances we’ve seen since our musical theatre tradition began. She is selfless, pursuing humanitarian causes with a passion that reveals her youth, and a compassion that belies it – a deep, mature compassion that has lead her to: - Organize an International Aids Day film festival to raise awareness about Aids. - Volunteer her time on a project to support Habitat for Humanity. - Take part in the 30 Hour Famine three years in a row to raise money for starving children. - Spearhead, through the Global Issues Club, the Laces for Life campaign to raise money to fight Aids in Richmond, South Africa. - Take a leading role in Timberline’s Wolves in Africa recycling program to support Aids orphans in Malawi. - Accept the role of President of Timberline’s Interact Club, an organization with which I am sure you are all familiar. Thank you, Jess, for making this world, our world, a better place. -- Patrick Lihou
OCTOBER - Amanda Cook, Amanda is a grade nine Ecole Phoenix Middle School student who has been enrolled in the French Immersion program since kindergarten. In the words of one of her teachers and leadership advisors, Sarah Austin, “her sincere curiosity, pursuit of knowledge and positive attitude eclipse her young age”. Her amazing smile and keen sense of humour are always welcome, especially on those dark and stormy Campbell River days that we have become accustomed to at this time of year. Amanda gives her full energy to every task; in fact, it is said that the word ‘no’ is not in her vocabulary. Her unselfish contribution of time, energy and talent contribute to so many successful Phoenix events. As a Leadership Student and Teacher Assistant she is already demonstrating responsibility, initiative and confidence to lead by example. Amanda’s leadership extends into the larger community. Her love of gymnastics and years of devotion to this sport have led her to a position as Junior Coach. Recently, she was asked to serve on the Campbell River Youth Advisory Committee. She also devotes hours to piano and is currently completing her grade six Royal Conservatory. Amanda is a true citizen of her community. In the words of Henry David Thoreau, “Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.” Amanda’s energy, passion, and unbridled curiosity will undoubtedly enable her to continue to enrich the lives of others.Campbell River Daybreak Rotary Club is indeed proud to honour Amanda Cook as the October Student of the Month.
SEPTEMBER - Mary Otter, Four years ago, Mary Otter and husband John ventured westward from Guelph Ontario. Once established in their new home, Campbell River, it
didn’t take Mary long to discover Robron Centre and the opportunity to complete her graduation credits as a student of Continuing Education.
Her remarkable work ethic and positive attitude to learning have enabled her to complete English 11, Accounting 11and Career and Personal
Planning 11. Once finished her English 12 and First Nations 12 courses this spring, Mary will realize a life-long dream, her Adult Graduation
Diploma in June 2008. Mary is quick to compliment her Continuing Education teachers for their positive and engaging approach to learning. She
openly praises their ability to restore her faith in herself as a learner. When she was an elementary school child, a teacher publicly
announced to the class that Mary would be going to the “other class.” Mary says it probably had a nice name, but everyone else knew what that
really meant – she felt that she had to go to the other program because she was a dummy. Today her work at Continuing Education has changed
the way she looks at herself discovering that she has real talent as a story teller and poet. English 12 teacher, Debbie Bell, is glowing in
her praise for Mary’s ability to write in a wonderfully descriptive way, creating vivid metaphors and similes that convey her ideas. Her work
as been published in Continuing Education’s journal of student writing, The Long and Short Of It.
Mary credits her husband John for much of her success. He drives her to and from school each day and is always encouraging. He helps her to
gain confidence and then shares her joy no matter how big or small the personal victory may be.Campbell River Daybreak
Rotary is proud to honour Mary as the September Student of the Month. Her friendly, positive nature, her willingness to help out with events
at Robron Centre, and her encouragement of other students makes her an inspiration to all learners. Bravo Mary!
JUNE - Celeste Lessard-Kragen, Céleste Lessard-Kragen, new to Ecole Des Deux Mondes, joined the Late French Immersion program for her grade six year. According to her principal, Louise Guevremont, Celeste quickly adapted to a new school and new routines and proved she is eager to contribute to school life and to have a positive impact on EDM. In class, Céleste is a highly motivated student who always gives her best. A model leader, she is eager to volunteer to help around the school as a lunch helper, an office monitor, or as a big buddy to her “petits amis” (little buddy) in grade one. This year, Celeste participated in special projects like the Talent Show and Ready Set Learn, planned and presented at EDM’s monthly assemblies, and played on the school volleyball and basketball teams. The highlight of the year was Celeste’s participation in the Concours d’art oratoire (Public Speaking Contest). She won first place at the Campbell River District level in her category, late immersion, and then went on to win the silver medal at the provincial competition.It is evident that whatever Céleste decides to do, she does well and with all of her heart. Daybreak Rotary is honored to acknowledge Celeste Lessard-Kragen as the June Student of the Month.
MAY - Gordon Bowbrick, Ask any student or staff member at Carihi to describe Gordon Bowbrick and they will undoubtedly mention his keen wit and gifted sense of humour. As a grade 11 Carihi student Gordon was born to lead. After a distinguished start in his home community of Sayward he has easily made the transition to Carihi as an individual who has that unique ability to be a part of all groups and to value the talents of all people. His grade 10 year was spent as an Ishikari, Japan senior exchange student. Now fully fluent in the Japanese language, his skills are often put to the test as a translator during for the Campbell River Twinning Society or the recent Kakamahara exchange with Carihi. Gordon’s record of academic excellence and his full contribution to his school make him an exemplary citizen. According to his counselor, Jane Kolmatycki who spoke on his behalf at the May meeting, he was a “brilliant emcee for the Grad Potluck Dinner”. Since that time he also acted as emcee for Caripalooza and those fortunate enough to catch the evening or daytime celebrations are still talking about his remarkable comedic talents. Gordon is also an active member of Youth for Diversity and models his commitment to celebrating differences in all people. Trained in inclusive leadership he has helped to facilitate workshops for people of all ages. It is indeed an honour to have the opportunity to acknowledge this current and future community leader, Gordon Bowbrick, as the May Daybreak Rotary Student of the Month.
APRIL - Jacob Erickson, Jacob Erickson is undoubtedly a citizen of his school and community who exemplifies so the Rotary ideal, “Service above self”. Currently in his grade twelve year, he generously contributes his leadership talents to a wide range of activities at Timberline. A well known media figure, he has been responsible for preparing and presenting the daily video announcements and recently created an emotion charged film as a tribute to now retired principal Kas Angelski. He was one of three student guides who provided a highly engaging tour for Education Minister Shirley Bond. Jacob also attended a special luncheon with her involving representatives from throughout the school district. Jacob is also known for his musical theatre talents. Last year he was featured in ‘Leader of the Pack’ and this year figured prominently in ‘Annie’ as Daddy Warbucks. His shaved head is a testimonial to his ability to truly immerse himself in a role. Jacob considers Adventures 10, an outdoor and service oriented program, as a course that contributed a great deal to his appreciation of the outdoors. An active cadet, he will soon complete his gold level Duke of Edinburgh Award. Undoubtedly, the future holds many possibilities for this enthusiastic young man, an eager participant in whatever activity captures his interest. Future plans include travel and potential work prospects in Alberta. Ultimately, we may see him return to our schools as a history teacher. Daybreak Rotary was proud to welcome Jacob, his mother Tina, and Timberline principal Sheila Johnsrude to acknowledge his selection as Rotary Student of the Month at the Maritime Heritage Centre!
MARCH - Trina Chalmers, Is another of those bright, talented and charming young people that we get to meet each month. Her principal Roy Brooks spoke very highly of her scholastic as well as her athletic abilities. Trina is a provincial class skater. While she is a student at Timberline she also participates in one of the interesting special programs being offered at Robron Center. As she spends considerable time training for skating she gets extra help with her studies from the Robron center. She also finds time to help others with their skating. Congratulations Trina!
FEBRUARY - Brianna Dyck, Especially her enormous heart after it was discovered that she made and donated blankets for the animals at the SPCA. As a student of Southgate Middle School she is a vital member of the leadership class and can be found co-ordinating events such as the Food Bank Drive. An honours student who plays both community softball and school basketball, she has the amazing ability of being able to organize her time in a way that enables her to achieve excellence in whatever task she takes on. Accompanied by her proud parents and her English teacher Chris Patterson, she clearly demonstrated why she has been selected as the Daybreak Rotary Student of the Month for February. Brianna hopes to some day become a marine biologist. It is evident that she loves animals. With her drive and determination and her generous spirit she will undoubtedly achieve her goals. We are proud to recognize such a deserving school and community volunteer.Congratulations Brianna!
JANUARY - Matt Ness, Is an accomplished grade twelve scholar, athlete, and citizen of the Campbell River Christian School. Accompanied by his teacher, Scott Fisk, a former Campbell River Rotary Student of the Month, Matt is described as a quiet leader who models through example. His 96% average reflects his natural ability combined with a dedication to his studies. A key member of his basketball, soccer, and volleyball teams he is particularly proud of a recent tournament win and the potential of the CRCS team to be the first basketball team to qualify for the provincial championships. Matt is also highly regarded for his eagerness as an international volunteer. Last summer he traveled to Africa to spend a month doing volunteer work with his father who is a local physician. Modest about his accomplishments yet eager to contribute time and energy to any initiative that benefits others, Matt is a remarkable example of the youthful energy and spirit that is making a difference in our world. He intends to attend post secondary at Queen’s University or perhaps Trinity Western to study sciences.We are proud to acknowledge his talents and potential as the January Daybreak Rotary Student of the Month.
DECEMBER - Samantha Iverson, Samantha Iverson is a remarkable young lady. Accompanied by counselor, Jane Kolmatycki, and her mother she graced the December Daybreak Rotary Meeting with her courage, her spirit, and her tremendous generosity. As a grade eleven Carihi student and as a member of the Peer Support class she helps to make Carihi a welcoming place for everyone. A solid "A" student who excels in English and Biology, she has a passion for cancer research. In June at the end of her Grade 9 year Sam was diagnosed with Acute Myloid Leukemia. It is difficult to truly capture how courageous her journey through cancer treatment was in the year following her diagnosis. Her determination and desire to succeed led to her return to school for her grade ten year in January of 2006, 5 months into the school year. Sam has not only gained strength physically, she has become an emotional superwoman who is passionate about making a difference, not just for Cancer patients, but for anyone who needs a voice. She is interested in helping other children struggling through Cancer treatments. When she returns to Vancouver for tests she often visits with other young Cancer patients to offer comfort and empathy. This year Samantha has a starring role in a Variety Club Video to be shown on Global TV in February. She just recently spent hours filming her thank you to Variety Club for their support during her medical treatment. When watching the Variety Club Telethon in February, remember that Samantha Iverson is the Daybreak Rotary December Student of the Month, a survivor extraordinaire and remarkable role model and ambassador of the Campbell River community. Congratulations Samantha.
Scholarshipsfor post secondary education |
2008 |
 |
| Jess Shead, Monica Culo, Julie Harris, Brittany Stewart & Kristen Climie |
2007 |
 |
| Taryn Deeble, Tribeste Nguyen & Leah Hughes |
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