NIC donors help record number of students in Port Alberni

NIC Bachelor of Science in Nursing student Carla Wagnor spoke about the impact of support from donors at the annual NIC Foundation donor recognition awards in Port Alberni.

Nearly 60 NIC students in Port Alberni received a record $56,000 in NIC scholarships and bursaries this year, thanks to generous NIC Foundation donors.

NIC Bachelor of Science in Nursing student Carla Wagnor spoke recently at the annual NIC Foundation donor recognition awards in Port Alberni.

“I am grateful to be here to sincerely thank you for making scholarships and bursaries possible,” said Wagnor. “I am honoured to receive a bursary this year.”

Wagnor returned to school after working as a paramedic for close to 15 years to further her education and start a new career as a registered nurse.

“As I complete my fourth year in the BSN program I feel an overwhelming amount of pride in my achievements,” she said. “I have not only completed 3.5 years of intense school and training with the help and support of my husband and family – myself and my 5 teenagers have been able to remain involved in community sports and events. The support from donors such as yourselves has helped to make this possible.” 

Wagnor also said she’s looking forward to graduating and being able to give back to her community.

“You can be assured your financial gift is invested in the community and will remain in the community,” she said. “I am currently working as an employed student nurse in the Emergency Department in WCGH - this is where my interest lies.”

This year, $534,000 in scholarships and bursaries were made available to NIC students.

“We would not be able to provide this record level of support without the generosity of our donors,” said Randall Heidt, Executive Director of the NIC Foundation. “The support our donors give to students like Carla isn’t just supporting her education, it’s an investment in the community.”

The NIC Foundation has been advancing student success, education and community growth through NIC for more than 26 years. It supports NIC students through scholarships and bursaries, equips classrooms with current technology and ensures the best possible learning facilities are accessible on the Central and North Island. It envisions a future where every student has the opportunity to pursue post‐secondary education, train for a new career or develop employable skills to support themselves and their families.

To support the NIC Foundation and make a difference in the lives of post‐secondary students, call 250-334-5074 or visit https://foundation.nic.bc.ca.

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