Leadership, eloquence and drive.
Demonstrating an abundance of all three throughout her time at Bishop Reding, Lauren Goodwin now heads to the University of Guelph with a huge financial boost.
She was named this year’s recipient of the Chris Hadfield Bursary – a $5,000 scholarship given to one Milton graduating student each spring.
This comes on the heels of earning a $1,500 scholarship from the Canadian Federation of University Women Milton chapter.
“This means a lot to me,” said Goodwin, an aspiring veterinarian who heads to the University of Guelph this fall to study animal biology. “This allows me to cover a majority of my first-year tuition.”
Finishing Grade 12 with a 90 per cent average, Goodwin was voted salutatorian for her graduating class and has excelled in both the sciences and English.
Aptitude in these areas weighs heavily into selection for the Chris Hadfield Bursary, overseen by the family of the famed Milton astronaut turned author.
Goodwin served as captain for the Royals’ volleyball and softball teams this past year, and spent the past three seasons helping coach the Milton Bats ‘09 squad.
She’s also kept busy volunteering with Milton Transitional Housing and Bishop Reding’s ‘Best Buddies’ initiative in the Life Skills classes.
“Those weekly Friday hangouts became one of the favourite parts of my week,” said Goodwin.
The dual scholarship winner has become well-versed in animal care through years attending the Royal Winter Fair and Milton Fall Fair, as well as during a Grade 11 co-op at James Snow Animal Hospital.
“I really enjoyed witnessing the care that Dr. Judge and his team provided, to help the animals and see the impact it had on their families.”
In announcing the Chris Hadfield Bursary, Halton Catholic District School Board said “Lauren’s achievements and character embody the high standards set by this honour, which recognizes excellence in academics, sports and community involvement.”