New Minas Teen Wins Prestigious Scholarship

A New Minas teenager, who is a top student and active volunteer, is this year's winner of a prestigious provincial government scholarship.

John Thomson, 18, will accept the $6,000 Dr. P. Anthony (Tony) Johnstone Memorial Fund Entrance Scholarship at Horton High School's graduation ceremony today, June 28.

"John is an outstanding student, leader and role model," said Education Minister Marilyn More. "He is also working hard to make a difference for families at home and around the globe. I am pleased to congratulate John for this award and wish him the best in the future."

Mr. Thomson has maintained an outstanding academic record while being involved in many areas of student life and volunteerism. He has been part of student government and athletics and also volunteered in many ways to help children, whether in war-ravaged Uganda or closer to home.

"I have been drawn to things that involve human rights and the welfare of the individual, both in my community and around the world," said Mr. Thomson. "These experiences have fuelled my desire to pursue a helping profession, such as medicine."

Mr. Thomson will attend Dalhousie University in Halifax this fall.

To be eligible for the scholarship, a student must live in Nova Scotia, be graduating from high school and beginning an undergraduate degree program at a Maritime university. The applicant must also have demonstrated an interest in multiculturalism and human rights.

This year, 51 eligible applications were reviewed by the selection committee.

Nova Scotia established the scholarship in 1991 to honour the life and work of the late Tony Johnstone, a long-time educator and human rights advocate who devoted his life to promoting multicultural understanding and social equality.