Niagara College celebrated a world of achievement on April 2 at its Winter 2025 International Student Awards Ceremony.
Each term, NC recognizes international students who demonstrate academic excellence and contribute to the College community through its International Student Awards. Last winter, thanks to the generous contributions of NC’s supporters, 44 awards and over $78,000 CAD in scholarships were given. Four scholarships were new to the International Student Awards ceremony this term.
Niagara College President Sean Kennedy and Vice President, International, Sean Coote participated in the event held at The Core, on the Welland Campus. Shawna Luey, Senior Director of International Students, served as Master of Ceremonies for the evening, and Fernando Gama, Director of International Students, was also in attendance.
New scholarship opportunities
Originally from the Philippines, Electronics Engineering Technology program student Edward Abella, accepted the newly established Niagara College Student Administrative Council (NCSAC) International President’s Scholarship.
This scholarship is awarded to students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership skills and have excelled academically, achieving a term average of at least 90% in their most recent academic term.
“My NC journey has equipped me with the skills and confidence necessary to contribute meaningfully to the industry and address real-world challenges,” said Abella. “I am also grateful that this award will help support my mother’s visa application and airfare, allowing her to attend my graduation and share this important milestone with me.”
Among the new scholarships is also the NCSAC Director’s Scholarship Award, offered to ten students across NC’s schools of study who have demonstrated strong academic standing while actively contributing to the NC community through dedication, leadership, and engagement. Human Resources Management program student Esther Igwe, who is originally from Nigeria, was one of the awards recipients.
“My time at NC has been truly memorable, especially because of the incredible people and connections formed,” said Igwe. “Serving as an International Student Assistant gave me purpose, strengthened my communication skills, and created lasting connections. Looking ahead, I’m committed to replicating this inclusive, family-oriented culture in Human Resources.”
Additional newly established awards included: NCSAC International Students Memorial Scholarship, designed to recognize international students who actively engage in campus life, and Joseph Camilleri Memorial Scholarship, which celebrates those who embody the spirit of involvement and leadership.
Tradition of excellence
As part of a valued tradition, 12 students were recognized with Keith Segal – Guard.me scholarships for their outstanding academic achievements. Part of the group receiving the award, Police Foundations student Daniel Murta Soares described the experience as a milestone in his NC journey.
“Studying at NC has provided me with invaluable knowledge and skills that are shaping my path toward a career in law enforcement,” said Murta, who is originally from Brazil. “This recognition reinforces my commitment to excellence and my goal of serving and protecting the community as a police officer upon graduation.”
During the ceremony, 12 other international students were awarded by NC for earning the highest Grade Point Average (GPA) in their school of study. In addition, NC awarded the NCSAC International Student Award, which is offered to a student who displays academic excellence and who participates in extra-curricular and volunteer opportunities with NCSAC, enriching their student experience.
Business Administration – Supply Chain & Operations Management program student Jerahmeel Massiel Rodriguez Ancajima accepted the award.
“My time at NC has been incredibly rewarding, I am grateful of all the experiences I had in extracurricular activities, volunteering, and leadership”, said Ancajima, originally from Peru. “This award means so much to me! Special thanks to my boyfriend and mom for their love and support. I will hold NC always in my heart.”
Other awards included the Dr. Mary Kilmer Tchalekian Scholarship, which is given to a student with excellent academic performance who aims to make a difference upon returning to their country, and the Community Spirit Award in Memory of Isabel Hernandez Maltos, presented to an international student in any NC English as a Second Language (ESL) or postsecondary program who exemplifies leadership and volunteering qualities at the College or in the community.
Additionally, the Ontario Remembrance Scholarship and the Ontario-Ukraine Solidarity Scholarship, provided by the Ontario government, prioritize students impacted by international tragedies.
