Whitewater honours students with Outstanding Youth bursaries

COBDEN — Six young people from Whitewater Region (WWR) have received Outstanding Youth bursaries from their home municipality. The winners, Maxime Gagnon, Brooklyn Regier, Ally McLaren, Connor Reist, Charlie McCarrol, and Kiera Barter, were recognized at the June 17 meeting of council and presented with certificates as mementos of their achievements. “This is always a [...]

Article content COBDEN — Six young people from Whitewater Region (WWR) have received Outstanding Youth bursaries from their home municipality. The winners, Maxime Gagnon, Brooklyn Regier, Ally McLaren, Connor Reist, Charlie McCarrol, and Kiera Barter, were recognized at the June 17 meeting of council and presented with certificates as mementos of their achievements. Recommended Videos “This is always a special time of the year in our community, as we recognize the accomplishments of our graduating students in Whitewater Region,” Mayor Neil Nicholson said.

“We are fortunate to have young people who not only work hard in the classroom, but also who contribute to our schools, our teams and our community in so many meaningful ways. “These bursaries are a reflection of that effort, that dedication and the bright future ahead for each of these students. Today, we’re proud to recognize this group of graduates who have been selected by their schools for this municipal bursary; students who represent the values of commitment, leadership, and community involvement that we hold so highly.”

Maxime Gagnon is a student at Jeanne Lajoie High School in Pembroke. “Maxime has demonstrated exceptional leadership and community involvement as a hockey referee, student government leader, coach, athlete and volunteer,” Deputy-Mayor Regier said. “His participation in leadership programs, competitive sports, and community service, reflects his strong commitment to helping others and making a positive impact.”

This fall, Maxime will be attending the University of Sherbrooke to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Brooklyn is a student at Fellowes High School in Pembroke. “Brooklyn has shown outstanding leadership through her roles as president of the prom committee, member of student and athletic council, mentor, community volunteer and competitive athlete,” Deputy-mayor Cathy Regier shared.

“Her involvement with the Beachburg Recreation Association, the Beachburg Fair, and youth sports demonstrates her dedication to serving others and building communitmy.” Brooklyn plans to attend university and pursue a Bachelor of Science degree. Ally McLaren is a student at Opeongo High School.

“Ally has made an extraordinary impact through her leadership, volunteerism and commitment to strengthening her community, as co-Prime Minister of Student Council, a LinkCrew mentor, competitive dance, dance instructor, and longtime volunteer with the Cobden Civitan Club,” the deputy-mayor said. “She has inspired others through service and leadership.” This fall, Ally will be attending the University of Ottawa as she pursues her dream of becoming a medical doctor.

Connor Reist comes from Bishop Smith Catholic High School. “Connor has dedicated more than 600 hours to volunteer service and throughout his high school years, supporting schools, recreation programs, church camps, and youth activities,” said Regier. “Known for his kindness, humility, and strong character, Connor leads by example and is respected by his peers and community.”

Connor plans to continue his education and training in the skills trades with the goal of becoming an electrician. Charlie McCarroll is a student at St. Joseph’s High School in Renfrew. “Charlie has demonstrated dedication, leadership, and school spirit through his involvement in athletics, student activities, and volunteer service,” said Regier.

“As a basketball and volleyball athlete, tournament official, and mentor to younger students during orientation activities, he has consistently contributed to a positive school environment.” Charlie will attend Carleton University this fall to study engineering. Kiera Barter is from Renfrew Collegiate Institute.

“Kiera has shown an exceptional commitment to her community through volunteer work supporting the Town of Renfrew for events, festivals, and recreation programs,” the deputy-mayor said. “A positive role model known for her respect, responsibility, and willingness to help others, she has also been actively involved in school activities and athletics. Her leadership and dedication to creating meaningful experiences for others make her a deserving recipient of this award.”

Kiera will be attending Algonquin College in the fall. Marie Zettler is a Local Journalism Initiative (LJI) reporter working out of the Eganville Leader. LJI is funded by the Government of Canada.