Scholarships in memory of an early Red Deerian who died in the First World War will be made possible through a $1 million endowment.
Post-secondary scholarships of $5,000, in memory of William Arthur Bower, will be available as of spring 2022. The scholarship was made possible through a $1 million donation from Arthur’s nieces, Ruth and Dorothy Bower.
“Ruth and Dorothy have created this scholarship in memory of their uncle Arthur,” said Rob Porkka, education consultant and spokesperson for the Bowers.
“Arthur Bower, a Red Deer High School graduate, was committed to advancing his own education before he left Canada as a member of the Canadian Expeditionary Forces during World War I. He passed away in combat at 22 years old and it is this ultimate sacrifice that Dorothy and Ruth intend to honour with the scholarship that bears his name.”
The William Arthur Bower Memorial Scholarship will ensure a minimum of five scholarships of $5,000 each will be awarded every year, with the opportunity for students to reapply for up to four years.
It’s open to students graduating from schools within the Red Deer Public School Division and Red Deer Regional Catholic School Division.
“The cost of post-secondary education continues to be a significant barrier for many of our residents, but with this scholarship, the door of opportunity has been opened,” said Erin Peden, executive director of the Red Deer and District Community Foundation.
“We are in awe of the thought and care that has been put into this legacy. This is a perfect example of what investing in our community looks like; through this scholarship our students will have the opportunity to learn, remember and respect the past while they confidently step into the future.”
The scholarship will not only support local students to further their education, but also perpetuate the memory of one of the many Canadians who died in the name of their country.
lmichelin@reddeeradvocate.com
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