On Tuesday, Feb. 28, a ceremony was held in Lac La Biche for the Metis Education Foundation where Portage College students were recognized with Metis Scholar Awards.

Tralynn Ganter, Jada Houle, Stacy Lafleur, Dara Mahowich, Austin McConnell, Kaylee Weigelt, and Caitlin White were this year’s recipients. 

This scholarship provides financial assistance and encourages achievements of Metis in academic, artistic, and athletic excellence.

“It’s a long time coming, we have always strived to be successful in education for Metis students. We have been waiting for this for a long time,” said James Cardinal, President of Metis Nation Region 1.

The application process asks for proof of Metis verification, must not already receive funding, and write a letter explaining why this financial support is important to them.

“Scholarships are important to all students. Students struggle financially and many of our students work part-time,” said Nancy Broadbent, CEO and President of Portage College. 

“It’s expensive to go to school, any support we can get for students in the form of scholarships of course helps them with their success.” 

Students who have been accepted and are enrolling in a post-secondary program are eligible to 

apply for this scholarship as well as students who are currently enrolled in a post-secondary program.

“For us at the Metis Nation of Alberta and our affiliate, Rupertsland Institute, the Metis education foundation still has a lot of work to do to bridge the gap that Metis people face in educational attainment,” said Daniel Cardinal, Vice president of Metis Nation of Alberta. 

“We are making significant progress and we know that more and more Metis people are graduating from post secondary programs each year.” 

Portage College has given out $388,500 to 176 students since 2009. 

“There will be a lot of struggles and I hope students see these struggles and go around and do all the right things to make sure they get a proper education and promote their families that are upcoming,” said James Cardinal.

All images provided by Jaime Davies and Portage College.