(St. John’s, NL: 28 Mar. 2014) Some of the Marine Institute’s brightest and most dedicated students were honoured at the institute’s annual Spring Presentation of Scholarships and Awards today.

One award and thirty-seven scholarships were awarded to thirty-five students who have distinguished themselves in their respective programs through academic achievement, strong leadership skills, extra-curricular activities and community involvement.

“It’s a challenging road for our students to get to this point and we welcome any opportunity to show our appreciation and acknowledge their accomplishments,” said Glenn Blackwood, vice-president, Memorial University (Marine Institute). “MI’s generous donors provide our students a means of supporting their education and bestows them confidence in their studies.”

A new award and two new scholarships were presented during the ceremony.

The Pikalujak Fisheries Partnership Limited Scholarship was developed over the course of MI’s work in Labrador. The scholarship was established by Pikalujak Fisheries Limited, Government of Nunatsiavut and MI. It was awarded to students Deanna Jones, first year nautical science and Brittany Keough, first year water quality.

Also awarded for the first time was the Harbour Grace Shrimp Company Scholarship. This privately owned company’s involvement in the commercial fishery includes the ownership of a Northern Shrimp offshore fishing license for operation on the east coast and more northern waters of Atlantic Canada. The scholarship was awarded to students Alan Drew, first year marine engineering systems design and Adam Streichsbier, second year naval architecture.

The newly established Ian Reid Award, was presented during the ceremony to recipient Peng Sun, advanced diploma in food safety student. The award was developed in memory of Ian Reid, an individual who contributed greatly to his community. He was a World War II veteran, maintained an active naval connection and served his community in a volunteer capacity with numerous organizations.

“Mr. Reid was a smart business leader and the first chair of the Canadian Centre for Fisheries Innovation,” said Blackwood. “He was passionate about industry and change. This award has been established as a way for us to acknowledge his significant career in fisheries.”

The ceremony was held in Hampton Hall, at the institute’s Ridge Road campus and was presided over by Blackwood and Doctor Captain Sidney Hynes, chair of MI’s Industry Advisory Committee and executive chairman of Oceanex Inc.

MI Scholarships and awards are provided by an assortment of organizations, companies, individuals and MI industry partners. The funding helps MI reward hard working students and plays a role in the institute’s ability to attract new students from across Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada.

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