The Calgarians Improving Society Award was founded in 2021 by the Cooke Family to help exceptional, community-minded young people choosing to study in Calgary enter careers that will make a positive contribution to Canadian society.

DONOR(S): The Cooke Family

WHERE TENABLE: Calgary Board of Education

FIELD OF STUDY: Unrestricted

VALUE: At least $2,500 per year up to $10,000 in total

NUMBER: One (1)

TENURE (TERM): Renewable up to three consecutive years

ELIGIBILITY:

Open to students registered in grade 12 that are completing the requirements of a high school diploma.  Applicants must have marks sufficient for entrance to their chosen course of study at a Calgary institution and must submit proof of financial need.

Applicants are required to submit a written essay of no more than 500 words or video of no longer than 2 minutes on how their chosen career will help improve Canadian society.

Two letters of reference outlining the applicant’s community involvement and future plans are required. Letters may be provided from a school official, employer, or a community leader representing a community-based organization. Active community involvement is mandatory.

International fee-paying students are not eligible to apply for this award.

APPLY: Online application available at www.educationmatters.ca. Applicants should check with their guidance office for more information and are encouraged to discuss their application with the Scholarship Coordinator at their high school.

SELECTION & PAYMENT: Selection will be made by the donors with support from EducationMatters. The recipient must be registered in a program of study at a Calgary institution that will help the individual establish a career that will make a positive contribution to Canadian society. The award must be claimed within fifteen (15) months from the date of high school graduation. In order to receive continued funding, award holders must maintain sufficient academic standing to continue in post-secondary based on a full-time course load (as determined by the institution) for the previous semester and provide proof of enrollment. An Official Transcript must also accompany each subsequent semester Payment Activation Form which must be received no later than three (3) months after the beginning of the semester.

DEADLINE: May 1