Providing access to regional post-secondary requires community connection, and the Selkirk College Foundation is encouraging people across the region to get actively involved.
Selkirk College offers outcomes for in-demand employment, credit transfer to a multitude of universities and enhanced training to further career opportunities. Almost six decades of graduates are integral contributors to daily life across the region, the province and the world.
The Selkirk College Foundation is a registered charity committed to supporting equal and accessible higher education. After celebrating a transition to becoming a BC society, the foundation is embarking on a new chapter of its work. The foundation is looking for more direct involvement from locals who believe in the power of post-secondary.
“The foundation is looking to increase our impact in the region and provide more support to learners,” says Andrew Jupp, Manager of Advancement & Alumni Relations. “To do this, we are looking for ambassadors who are community leaders, business professionals or strategic thinkers with a passion for education.”
Support for students through scholarships and bursaries has always been part of the backbone of Selkirk College. Last year, a total of 483 students were supported with $502,672 distributed through a variety of financial awards.
Reaching a Milestone
The Selkirk College Foundation was first formed in 1985, partially in response to decreased funding from government. It operated independently from the college’s Board of Governors, focusing on efforts to raise funds and support students. Shifting trends in fundraising and the overall structure of operations saw the foundation merge with the college in 2006.
In 2019, work began on a process to re-establish the foundation as a separate entity. The first meeting of the refreshed Selkirk College Foundation took place in December 2020, and it is now officially a BC society.
“It has taken a lot of dedicated work to get to this point, but we are pleased to celebrate this milestone and move forward with this vital work,” says Jupp. “There are many unfunded needs across the college, which we hope we can address with the extra support from the community, including updating learning equipment, enhancing facilities and continuing to provide support for students. The foundation board and its members will help advance post-secondary in our region by building regional partnerships and promoting the programs and activities at the college.”
Supporting Students
Nursing Program student Madi Bradford spoke to the foundation board, college leadership and long-time supporters at an event to celebrate the new society status. A third-year student who grew up in the Kootenays, she talked about her choice to stay closer to home and the excellent education she is receiving.
“A big part of my journey here has been the incredible support I’ve received through bursaries and scholarships,” Bradford said. “These awards have made a huge difference in my life, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress. I am so grateful for the support that has allowed me to pursue my dreams without the added worry. I am deeply appreciative.”
The foundation is now looking to expand its membership in the college region with ambassadors from different backgrounds, industry and experience. Members will help advocate for education and support the 1,000-plus students who graduate each year.
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Selkirk College Foundation, please contact Andrew Jupp.