Algoma U scholarship event raises record-breaking $60K

Hosted by Anthony Johnson and Dr. James Makokis, also known as the Amazing Two-Spirit Couple — winners of The Amazing Race Canada’s Season 7 — this year's John R. Rhodes Scholarship Dinner and Art Auction raised a record-breaking $60,000.

Algoma University biology student, Taya Shackleton, was awarded the 2023 John R. Rhodes Scholarship during the university's 21st annual event Thursday evening at the Machine Shop.

"I want to thank the family of the late John R. Rhodes for giving me and many others through the years an opportunity to become an Algoma Thunderbird," says Shackleton in a news release issued by Algoma University. "It’s a great honour to be a part of Mr. Rhodes’ legacy, and my gratitude for this scholarship will last a lifetime."

The evening also included a tribute to community builder and Algoma U alumnus, Brent Lewis.

“Brent was an individual of immense wisdom and character, and it is this legacy that continues to inspire us,” President and Vice-Chancellor Asima Vezina told the crowd. “The community — including our university — is greater for his influence.”

The John R. Rhodes Scholarship was established in 1979 thanks to generous contributions from friends and family of the late John R. Rhodes. To learn more about this prestigious scholarship, please visit the Algoma University website.