Published on September 23, 2025
Hear from students as they share their personal journeys, and how donors have given them a boost through student awards.
Hannah Prinsen
Ted Ondrus Memorial Scholarship; Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation Awards
“I look forward to building my career. Eventually I’d like to train new people coming into the field and help them have good experiences like I’ve had.
Thank you so much. From the bottom of my heart. I can’t even express how much you’ve helped with this student award. It was such a relief to have some of the financial burden taken off not just my shoulders, but it is also helping my whole family.”
Lewis Biamonte
NAIT Family Endowment Award
“I chose NAIT because it is the next step for my career path with Alberta Wildfire. I’m taking Forest Technology, and I am most proud of the work I’ve put into the first year. My dreams for the future are to continue progressing with the Government of Alberta and own a small hobby farm or acreage.
It was very exciting and helpful to receive a student award. Going back to school at 31 was a bit daunting, but having the extra financial support really took some of the pressure off me and allowed me to focus on the most important things.”
Madison Dodds
Heather & Georg J.P. Wowk Award; Gregory Siver Memorial Award
“One day I want to work for STARS. It all started when I took my first aid course at 18 and I fell in love with the subject. I took my Emergency Medical Responder and Primary Care Paramedic training, worked for about two and a half years and then came back to NAIT.
When I heard I received a student award, I was ecstatic. It impacted me financially because that’s money I didn’t have before. I’m 25 and have my own house. Going through school and paying a mortgage was not the easiest. Your support means the world to me. I wish you could see how the awards you’ve given make a big impact. It’s made all the difference.”
Maria Claris Samios Uy
The Future of Alberta Food Prize; Clayton Folkers Prize
“During my time at NAIT, I’ve been proud to participate in competitions and been an active member of the Baking Club. I participated in two competitions, which helped me build my confidence and acquire a lot of experience.
Your unwavering support and commitment to the students who display their passion and skills are highly appreciated. I appreciate you inspiring so many others. My goal is become a chef and manage my own business. One day, I hope and pray, I will be able to pay respect to every one of you and serve as an inspiration to others.”
Nicole Dombroski
Universal Dental Entrance Award
“Both my parents went to NAIT and really liked it, so when I was looking into post-secondary, NAIT was my first choice. I look forward to pursuing a rewarding career where I get to help people. Their smiles are so important.
I want to say a huge thank you for having the heart and generosity to help students on their post-secondary paths. Especially with the state of the economy right now it’s hard to balance work and school, so you’ve made things much easier.”
Student voices: how awards shape futures
Hear from students as they share their personal journeys, aspirations, and the positive boosts of donor-supported student awards
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