Two Saskatchewan students win 2007 RBC Aboriginal Scholarships

Two of eight aboriginal students from across Canada to receive a scholarship this year from RBC hail from Saskatchewan.

Jerrett Lafontaine, a Treaty Indian from Yorkton and Robert Daniels, a Treaty Indian from Mistawasis band, are both winners of the 13th annual RBC Aboriginal Student Awards program. Each will receive $4,000 annually for their education expenses for a maximum of four years at university or two years at college.

“Investing in the bright future of these individuals is an investment in the future of their communities,” said Kay Lerat, manager, Aboriginal Markets. “Jerrett and Robert have both demonstrated a capacity for leadership, community involvement and creativity that RBC is proud to recognize.”

Jerrett Lafontaine, who will be in his second year at the University of Regina this fall, is studying Business Administration. He credits his participation in the Stay in School program and his cousin for inspiring him to achieve his dream of attending university. He hopes to be a positive role model for his younger siblings as well.

Robert Daniels has been accepted into the MBA Program at the University of Saskatchewan. He is a former social worker and the proud father of three children.

The RBC Aboriginal Student Awards Program is offered to students currently enrolled in post-secondary studies. Recipients who are interested in pursuing careers in the financial services industry are also considered for summer and post-graduate employment opportunities with RBC. Selections are made by an independent committee of academics from the aboriginal community, and are based on personal and academic achievements as well as individual financial need. To date, RBC has awarded 69 scholarships totalling $834,000 to Aboriginal students in Canada.

RBC has a long-standing relationship with Canada’s Aboriginal Peoples and in 2006 donated over $950,000 to support Aboriginal causes. In addition to the Aboriginal Student Awards Program, RBC also supports the Historica Foundation’s heritage programs for Aboriginal students and donated funds to the Dominion Institute to support its Aboriginal Youth Writing Challenge.