Johnson-Shoyama students awarded $20,000 scholarships
Posted: May 20, 2015 6:00 a.m.
Olena Kapral, studying at the Johnson-Shoyama School of Public Policy at the U of R, is 'honoured and humbled' to receive a Queen Elizabeth II Centennial Scholarship. (Photo courtesy of Olena Kapral)
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Two doctoral students from the Johnson-Shoyama School of Public Policy are the recipients of scholarships of $20,000 each.
University of Regina student Olena Kapral has received the Queen Elizabeth II Scholarship.
Danette Starblanket of the University of Saskatchewan has received the Queen Elizabeth II Centennial Aboriginal Scholarship. Both scholarships have been awarded by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Advanced Education.
“We’re delighted and proud that both Olena and Danette have been awarded these prestigious scholarships,” says Michael Atkinson, Executive Director of the Johnson-Shoyama School of Public Policy (JSGS), which is located on both the U of R and U of S campuses. “Their success exemplifies the top-quality research talent within the school and the lasting impact that their work can have on the community.”
Kapral is currently enrolled in the JSGS’ Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy program at the U of R. Her area of research is a comparative case study of the health policy processes in Saskatchewan and Ontario.
“There is exceptional research being conducted across Saskatchewan so I feel very honoured and humbled to receive this award,” says Kapral. “It is amazing to be recognized for my hard work but I have to credit the faculty, staff and students at JSGS and the University of Regina for all I’ve achieved. They’re a constant source of motivation, inspiration and support that gives me the drive to continue my own research. For that, and so much more, I owe them a debt of gratitude and thanks.”
Starblanket is also enrolled in the school’s Doctorate in Philosophy in Public Policy program, but on the U of S campus. Her research is an analysis of government response to the ‘Idle No More’ movement.
The Queen Elizabeth II Scholarship is intended to encourage advance studies and research in Saskatchewan’s government and politics. The Queen Elizabeth II Centennial Aboriginal Scholarship is awarded to a First Nations/Metis student and preference given to students who have attended or are graduating from the First Nations University of Canada.
Student success is one of the pillars of the U of R's Strategic Plan. The U of R has enhanced its scholarship funding. 35 per cent of tuition fees now go into student aid – the second highest percentage in Canada.