The BC and Yukon Community Newspapers Association (BCYCNA) has been handing out thousands of dollars in scholarships for many years, and 2011 was no exception. With a total of $27,000 going out to high school, college and university students around BC and Yukon in 2011 alone, the BCYCNA is really investing in the future.
The BCYCNA is happy to give back to our members, too, by reserving some of that money exclusively for employees of member papers and their children. With a first prize of $2,000 and a second prize of $1,000, the Employee and Child-of-Employee Scholarship asked entrants to write a 500-word essay answering the question, ""How does social media impact your local community newspapers and how can your newspaper utilize or capitalize on social media?"
In addition to the essay, students must submit a letter outlining their career goals and community involvement, a transcript of grades, and two reference letters from employers or school principals, teachers, or counselors.
The first place award went to Dylan Cornell, who entered through the Kamloops Daily News. Judges selected Dylan as the winner because of his all round experience as an athlete and student. Dylan's plan is to focus on Mechatronic Systems Engineering at SFU, which forced judges to look up the subject -it is a combination of computer, software, electrical and mechanical engineering in case readers are wondering.
Second place goes to Carl Kvarnstrom, whose entry came via the Coast Reporter in Sechelt. Carl's outstanding grades and success as an athlete, Scout, and local volunteer impressed our judges. With a plan to attend UBC in the fall and end his studies with a Law degree, judges wish Carl the best and congratulate him on this scholarship.
The BCYCNA is a non-profit membership organization representing 123 community newspapers throughout British Columbia and Yukon, with a combined readership of 2.6 million.
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