Nearly $20 million in awards were given out during Algoma University's 31st annual Student Awards Ceremony, held on Thursday at Quattro Hotel.
These awards, allocated for the 2024/25 academic year, include 745 awards supporting students in Sault Ste. Marie.
“This ceremony is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we work together,” said Dr. Donna Rogers, Interim President and Vice-Chancellor of Algoma University in a news release issued today.
“Our community inspires, donates, teaches, and encourages every step of the way. With an almost $2 million increase from the previous year in awards, it’s inspiring to witness the remarkable generosity of our community – empowering students to shine bright and pursue their dreams.”
"A key moment of the evening was the announcement of the Michael Cachagee Scholarship, which honours the legacy of a Survivor, an Elder, and a founding member of the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association," the release states. "As the first residential school Survivor to graduate from Algoma University, Michael's dedication to education, Indigenous culture, and justice continues through this scholarship, which supports Indigenous students who are committed to reconciliation. Michael was also the recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award, and was named an Honourary Member of Algoma University in 2017."
For more information, see the press release below.
Last night, Algoma University proudly hosted its 31st annual Student Awards Ceremony at Quattro in Sault Ste. Marie — celebrating the exceptional achievements of its students and recognizing the community of support that empowers their success.
The event, themed “Building a Community of Support,” brought together donors, students, faculty, staff, and community members, all of whom play an integral role in transforming students’ lives. The atmosphere was filled with inspiration and gratitude as attendees came together to reflect on the collective impact of their support.
In a year marked by extraordinary generosity, nearly $20 million in awards has been allocated for the 2024/25 academic year, including 745 awards supporting students in Sault Ste. Marie. This investment reflects our community’s ongoing commitment to creating meaningful opportunities, removing barriers, and helping students thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
“This ceremony is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we work together,” said Dr. Donna Rogers, Interim President and Vice-Chancellor of Algoma University. “Our community inspires, donates, teaches, and encourages every step of the way. With an almost $2 million increase from the previous year in awards, it’s inspiring to witness the remarkable generosity of our community – empowering students to shine bright and pursue their dreams.”
A key moment of the evening was the announcement of the Michael Cachagee Scholarship, which honours the legacy of a Survivor, an Elder, and a founding member of the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association. As the first residential school Survivor to graduate from Algoma University, Michael's dedication to education, Indigenous culture, and justice continues through this scholarship, which supports Indigenous students who are committed to reconciliation. Michael was also the recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award, and was named an Honourary Member of Algoma University in 2017.
The event featured emotional speeches, inspiring success stories from award recipients, and heartfelt moments of gratitude shared between students and their supporters. By weaving the words empower, transform, inspire, donate, encourage, and teach into the dialogue, the evening honoured the unique roles each person played in helping students achieve their goals.
Algoma University extends its deepest gratitude to all donors, supporters, and community members whose dedication and generosity have made these student achievements possible. Together, we continue to build a brighter, more empowered future for all.
For more information about the Annual Student Awards or how to support Algoma University students, please contact Logan Costa at 705-908-3566 or [email protected].