Northside Lethbridge Dodge has renewed its commitment to support post-secondary education at Lethbridge College with a $100,000 gift for the Rita Simons Memorial award.
Today’s announcement follows an initial pledge of $100,000 over five years, made in 2017, to establish the awards.
Rita Simons was the grandmother of Russell Gallant, general manager of Northside Lethbridge Dodge.
“We are so pleased to be able to continue our support of Lethbridge College students in my grandmother’s honour,” says Gallant. “Giving back to a community that has given us so much, while recognizing students for their academic achievement, collaborative attitude and community involvement, would have made her very proud.”
Rita was a child when she came to Canada from her native Holland. While education was important to her, she was only able to complete Grade 8 because of post-war family circumstances and the mindset of the time. At the age of 55, Rita returned to school to receive an education in health care. She graduated with honours.
“By supporting students, we are continuing a family tradition of giving,” says Diane Simons, Rita’s daughter. “We want to emphasize my mother’s belief in the importance of education, having a strong work ethic and giving back to those who have helped along the way.”
The Rita Simons Memorial award of $2,500 is given to eight students each year – four who are enrolled in the Automotive Service Technician, Carpenter, Electrician or Heavy Equipment Technician Apprenticeship training programs and one who is enrolled in the Automotive Systems program. The remaining three annual awards are open to students in any program, with a focus on students who are Indigenous, mature or single-custodial parents.
“We are grateful for the generosity shown by Northside Lethbridge Dodge as they continue to support our students through the Rita Simons Memorial award,” says Dr. Paula Burns, Lethbridge College President and CEO. “Today’s gift will help students further their education so they too, can give back to their community.”