Dec 13, 2011


Vancouver, BC, December 8, 2011 - Langara would like to extend its congratulations to seven students who have been recognized with BC Aboriginal Student Awards.

The awards, which are granted by the Irving K. Barber Scholarship Society, were given to Cara McKenna, from Langley, Dakota Payer and Katie Engelland, from Delta, and Mavis Benson, Shawnee Hummel, and Tracy Lynne Vernelli, from Vancouver. Alissa Derrick, a Langara student from Vancouver who recently moved to Simon Fraser University to continue her studies, was also honoured with an award.  

The awards, which are granted with scholarships from $1,000 to $3,500 in value, are given annually to Aboriginal students pursuing post-secondary education in BC.  

"We're proud of what these students have achieved, and the recognition they have been awarded is completely merited,” said Larry Railton, Langara’s Manager of Aboriginal Services. “The commitment these young people have to their studies is admirable, and they are outstanding role models in their student community."  

A total of $311,500 was awarded through the Irving K. Barber Scholarship Society to Aboriginal students for post-secondary study in BC this year. The Society was formed in 2004 after a $15 million contribution was made to UBC by philanthropist Irving K. Barber. The provincial Government matched the contribution and created an endowment fund for student scholarships. To date, the Society has awarded more than $3.8 million through its six scholarship programs.  

“Through the Irving K. Barber B.C. Scholarship Society, we are supporting Aboriginal learners to take post-secondary education and training so they’re ready to fill the jobs of tomorrow, which is an important part of the BC Jobs Plan,” said Naomi Yamamoto, Minister of Advanced Education. “Congratulations and best wishes to the recipients as they continue their studies.”  

Shirley Kamerling-Roberts, Langara’s Manager of Student Assistance Programs, said, “We promoted this generous award program to our Aboriginal students. Those with a strong history of community service were considered, and we are very pleased that seven very deserving students were awarded.”

About Langara College  
Langara College, located in beautiful Vancouver, BC, Canada, provides University, Career, and Continuing Studies programs and courses to more than 23,000 students annually. The College’s expansive academic breadth and depth allows students to choose their own educational path. 

Media Contact:
Annie Mullins
Communications Officer
Communications & Marketing
604.323.5058
amullins@langara.bc.ca