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HYC awards scholarships to recognize outstanding leaders

HYC awarded Hannah Shepherd and Celeste Reid, two of its exceptional leaders, with Nicky’s HYC Legacy Scholarship on Thursday, Aug. 11.
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Heartland Youth Center Chairperson Amanda Churchill (centre) presents Hannah Shepherd (left) and Celeste Reid with Nicky’s HYC Legacy Scholarship on Thursday

Heartland Youth Center (HYC) awarded Hannah Shepherd and Celeste Reid, two of its exceptional leaders, with Nicky’s HYC Legacy Scholarship on Thursday, Aug. 11.

The scholarships were presented by HYC Chairperson Amanda Churchill and are $250 each.

In memory of Nicole Blumhagen and funded by the Blumhagen family, the scholarships recognize outstanding leadership.

“The scholarship is awarded annually to a post-secondary student who has attended HYC or worked at HYC and has been involved in a leadership role,” said Winnie Bissett, HYC director.

“Since working at the Youth Center my leadership skills have grown far beyond those that I started with,” said Shepherd, who will be starting out her Forest Technology program at Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT).

“Every day I am taught or tested on qualities a good leader needs,” she added. “I have learned a lot about patience, being flexible, and thinking on your feet. I think that these are some of the most valuable skills a leader can possess and they will be really beneficial in my future.”

Reid, who has completed a diploma in Social Work and is entering her third year of a Bachelor of Arts Psychology degree at University of Calgary, said for her part, “I have been extremely fortunate to be given the opportunity to impact the lives of youth and other members associated with the Heartland Youth Center.”

“However, I truly believe that the environment of the Youth Center has taught me many leadership skills and interpersonal skills that will be an important part of my practice,” added Reid.