One of the greatest honours for a Canadian high-school student is to win an $80,000 Loran Award. This prestigious university scholarship includes a tuition waiver for four years at 25 participating Canadian universities, an annual $9,000 stipend and mentorship from industry experts. For more than 20 years, this award has been a symbol of excellence.

In 2012, out of 3,600 applications, five of the 30 winners are Shad Valley alumni – a testament to the outstanding youth who participate in the Shad Valley program. Not only do Loran Award recipients maintain excellent grades, but they give back to their community and make their mark as young leaders. Identifying these qualities in exceptional youth is the hallmark of both Shad Valley and the Loran Awards.

Shad Valley Alumni 2012 Loran Award Winners:
Kaleem Hawa, 2011 Shad Valley Université Laval
Aanchal Ralhan, 2011 Shad Valley McMaster
Anamjit Sivia, 2011 Shad Valley Waterloo
Julie Van de Valk, 2010 Shad Valley UBC
Marshall Zhang, 2010 Shad Valley Memorial

The Loran Awards are defined by three pillars: personal character, community service and leadership potential. Like at Shad Valley, academic merit is only one of the characteristics considered when evaluating candidates. Commitment to diverse extracurricular activities, an entrepreneurial spirit and the drive to excel in non-academic pursuits are important factors. Loran Award winners are known for their dedication to making the world a better place.

Throughout undergraduate study, Loran Award recipients have access to other Loran scholars and mentors, gaining an important network during university and beyond. There is also a summer program that encourages the pursuit of leadership initiatives. Grants are available for self-generated private-, public- or voluntary-sector internships.

To read more about this year’s Loran Award recipients, click here.