Miriam Godziuk Scholarship Shines Bright at Walsh Field

Well, folks, it was one of those evenings at Ray Scott Park where you look around and think, “Yep… this is why we live here.” Sun’s out, grass is green, and if you listened close, you could almost hear the mosquitoes getting their game plan together.

I was out there with Lakeland Connect thanks to the fine folks at Kanata Hotels, Xtreme Oilfield, Caouette & Sons in St. Paul, and Avenir Energy, fueling us across the Lakeland. (Trust me, we need a lot of fuel.)

But the real reason for gathering wasn’t the sunshine or my charming commentary. It was something a whole lot more special: the Miriam Godziuk Memorial Scholarship.

Jennifer Godziuk—who somehow manages to be both the toughest and kindest person in the park at the same time, has been handing out this scholarship for three years now in memory of her daughter Miriam. And let me tell you, Miriam’s legacy is in good hands.

Meet the Recipients

Hayley from Bonnyville – She’s diving into her second year of the LPN program in St. Paul. She’s got travel nurse dreams. Jen said she picked Hayley because she’s caring, committed to the area, and reminds her of Miriam’s path. Hayley’s response? Grateful, humble, and you could tell it meant the world to her.

Ava from St. Paul – Third year nursing student over in Red Deer. She spent four years working at extended care in St. Paul, four years! If you’ve ever visited extended care, you know that’s a job that requires patience, heart, and maybe earplugs depending on who’s playing crib that day. Jen’s grandmother even received care there, so this one hits home. Ava admitted she never knew Miriam personally, but she’s proud to carry a piece of that legacy forward.

A Community That Shows Up

Now, here’s the kicker. This scholarship only exists because of the incredible support pouring in from the community. Jen said she’s still overwhelmed by the donations and love that keep this going year after year. And if you were standing there under that summer sky, you couldn’t help but feel Miriam shining a little light on us too.

So, thank you Lakeland. Thank you Hayley and Ava for stepping up. And thank you Jen for turning heartbreak into something that helps others chase their dreams.

And as always—because you know I can’t resist—thank you to Kanata Hotels, Xtreme Oilfield, Caouette & Sons Implements, and Avenir Energy for fueling my adventures (and occasionally my bad jokes).

I’m Husband Chad. This is Lakeland Connect. And you’ve been connected.