The John R. Rhodes Scholarship Dinner honored the tremendous contribution Diane Marshall has made to our community while recognizing this year’s scholarship recipient, Abigail Hamilton.
The 20th anniversary Algoma University John R. Rhodes Scholarship Dinner honored the tremendous contribution Diane Marshall has made to our community while recognizing this year’s recipient of the John R. Rhodes Scholarship, Abigail Hamilton. The event has raised $50,000 to support the ongoing issuance of this annual scholarship award.
Diane’s genuine compassion has led her to very fulfilling careers as an educator and a community volunteer. She began her teaching career in 1963 and quickly became drawn to helping students with special education requirements. After nearly 20 years in the classroom, Diane would move into administration, leading opportunities to establish a gifted program, and introducing a new curriculum – a time that she refers to as “her career highlight”.
Throughout her career, Diane would serve on, and lead, many Ministry of Education committees at the regional, provincial, and international levels. Her expertise would also be used to help future educators as she accepted teaching and administrative roles with the Faculty of Education Departments both at Nipissing University and Lake Superior State University.
"Algoma University is pleased to honour Diane Marshall for her significant contributions to our community and her dedication to helping others,” said Donna Hilsinger, Chair of the John R. Rhodes Scholarship Dinner Committee. “Diane’s energy, passion and commitment to Sault Ste. Marie has made a difference for many of our residents. She is a role model who truly embodies the Rotary motto Service Above Self.”
This year’s scholarship recipient, Abigail Hamilton, is a first-year Sociology student from Kemptville, Ontario. Abigail has always been an active community volunteer and compassionate leader who focuses her volunteering efforts on uplifting others.
The John R. Rhodes Scholarship was established in 1979 thanks to generous contributions from friends and family of the late John R. Rhodes. The prestigious scholarship, valued at $3,000, is offered to a high school graduate who embodies the integrity, leadership, and commitment to community service demonstrated by Rhodes throughout his life as a broadcaster, community member, and politician. The scholarship is renewable for up to three additional years, providing the recipient maintains a minimum average of 80 percent each academic year.