Single parents who have the responsibility of supporting dependant children while they attend college now have access to a significant new bursary at Holland College, thanks to the generosity of Jamie and Tracy Hill.
Invested as an endowment at the Holland College Foundation, the Hill family’s $100,000 gift celebrates a shared recognition by Jamie, Tracy, and their family of the importance of a post-secondary education. Jamie also has a first-hand appreciation for Holland College as a proud alumnus, having graduated from the Programmer/Analyst program in 1984 before going on to establish and lead a number of successful technology companies.
“I got my start at Holland College,” he said. “It’s where I launched my career, and I see daily the positive impact it had on my life and work. I’m glad to give back.”
The Hills established their award to benefit single parents who have the responsibility to support dependant children while they attend Holland College. Recipients must be entering first year as a full-time student in any of Holland College’s post-secondary programs. Ultimately, the Hill’s hope is to ease the financial burden for single parents.
“The financial pressures students face during their college or university years, coupled with the added responsibility to provide for children, must simply be overwhelming,” said Tracy. “We really applaud those who take that step.”
Dr. Brian McMillan, President of Holland College, thanked the Hill family for their generous support.
“The Hill Family Entrance Award will make access to post-secondary education possible in cases where it might not have been possible otherwise,” said Dr. McMillan. “We are very grateful to Tracy and Jamie for this generous gift.”
An award of approximately $5,000 will be available annually starting this year. The award’s first recipient is Amy Smits, a student in the Wood Manufacturing Cabinetmaking program, who grew up watching her father build furniture, which fostered her own passion for woodworking.
“I want to continue to feel strong and happy, and show my children that no matter what happens, there is always a solution,” said Amy. “Receiving this award has changed my life.”
For more information on the Hill Family Award and other scholarships, bursaries, and awards available to Holland College students, visit Student Awards at hollandcollege.com.
For more information about this release, please contact:
Jo-Ann Campbell-Boutilier, Executive Director - College Advancement and the Holland College Foundation
Tel: 902-629-4273
Date: Wednesday, November 01, 2017
