Calgary AB. - AltaLink is pleased to announce that the recipients for the 2009 Aboriginal scholarships have been selected. Three students, one each from Treaty 6, 7 and 8, will receive some financial relief this year thanks to AltaLink’s $2,000 scholarships. Of the 120 applications received, Marilyn Sparklingeyes, Lowell Yellow Horn and Jamal Pariseau-Zrien stood out from the pack and were selected for the 2009 awards.

“Education is a core value at AltaLink,” explains Megan Wolfinger, Communications Advisor for AltaLink and coordinator of the scholarship program. “Being able to support students is by far one of the most valuable and rewarding parts of this job. Being able to contribute to the educational goals of Alberta’s Aboriginal students is something we take great pride in.” 

Treaty 8 recipient Jamal Pariseau-Zrien describes the award as a gift. “I am thankful for the award and also the underlying message of support and encouragement it provides. That alone is a gift.”

Started in 2007, the Aboriginal Scholarship Program is designed to recognize the Aboriginal community and offer financial assistance to Aboriginal students attending post-secondary institutions. AltaLink also offers six additional scholarships – the AltaLink Centennial Scholarships – which provide six $2,000 scholarships for post-secondary students across Alberta. To learn more about the Aboriginal Scholarships and to learn more about this year’s recipients please visit www.altalink.ca/aboriginalscholarships. Details for the 2010 Aboriginal Scholarships will be launched in the summer of 2010 with applications opening in the fall of 2010.