On November 22, more than 500 guests came together to celebrate the student recipients of BCIT’s 2019 entrance awards and scholarships. Students shared this special day with their proud family and friends, as they met with and thanked the generous donors who make it all possible.
“Enjoy this moment of pause and celebrate, students,” said BCIT President Kathy Kinloch, addressing the students. “You represent BCIT’s core values. Congratulations. We are so proud of you.”
In November 2019, BCIT distributed a total of 483 awards and scholarships, totalling $770,000.
“At the Foundation, one of our key mandates is to ensure that financial barriers don’t stand in the way of our students’ achievements,” said Jackie Jacob, executive director, BCIT Foundation. “These awards provide them with the financial support they need. But more than that, they show our students that we believe in them. They give them the encouragement they need to continue pursuing their dreams.”
Guest speaker Kenneth Lieblich, an Airport Operations alumnus and seven-time BCIT award and bursary recipient shared his inspiring journey of success with the guests.
“BCIT has laid the world at your feet,” said Kenneth, who credits BCIT with helping him achieve his dream job at Vancouver International Airport. “What is your dream job? It’s not just possible, it is waiting for you. I know this to be true because what you are, I once was, and what I am, you will be.”
The celebration was sponsored by the BCIT Alumni Association. In celebration of the association’s 40th anniversary year in 2019, it donated $40,000 to fund entrance awards that distributed $1,000 each to an additional 40 students.
A very special thanks to Cole Sorenson, BCIT Broadcast and Media Communications student, who emceed the event.
In closing, BCIT Foundation Executive Director Jackie Jacob said, “Our donors play a tremendous role in supporting the success of our students so they can become the leaders, innovators, and makers of tomorrow. Donors, your generosity is vital in making BCIT a world leader in transformative education. Seeing all of you here today is a testimony to what philanthropic leadership looks like. Thank you for your vision and commitment to BCIT.”