Summerland students looking to study at Okanagan College will get a bit of financial relief as a new bursary has been established.
On May 3, a $75,000 fund was announced for the new bursary.
The Summerland Rotary Club, the Sewell family and Penny Lane Bargain Outlet each contributed $25,000 for the fund.
Bob Van Balkom, president of the Summerland Rotary Club, said the money will go into a perpetual trust which can been increased.
Money from the fund will be used for any student who grew up in Summerland or who went to school in Summerland.
Ken Sewell said the fund, set up in honour of his father Art Swell, helps to show his father’s values.
“This would have been special to Dad,” he said, recalling how his father trained many students during his time at Summerland Builders’ Mart.
“In the changing work environment, we need our college in the Okanagan,” he added.
Orv Robson, president of the Penny Lane Society, said the bursary would have been important to Art Sewell.
“Art was the epitome of what Penny Lane stood for,” he said. “He was a very caring gentleman.”
Van Balkom said the fund is also part of the Rotary Club’s purpose.
“Supporting the youth of Summerland is foremost for the Rotary Club,” he said.
Allan Coyle of Okanagan College said the bursary is appreciated.
“This donation will transform lives for future students in Summerland,” he said. “The investment you are making is very important.”
Jim Henderson, president of Okanagan College fundraising, also values the contribution.
“This gift signifies deep understanding of how important it is to support students in the Okanagan,” he said.