December 22, 1999
(Municipal and Provincial Affairs)

The following is being distributed at the request of Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation:

Students win scholarships sponsored by Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

Gloria Williams of St. John's, Michael Edmunds of Roaches Line, and Leslie Penney of Mount Pearl are the recipients of $750 scholarships awarded by Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC) for the Avalon/East region. The winners were announced today by Lloyd Matthews, minister responsible for housing.

NLHC has awarded nine such scholarships to 1999 high school graduates and adults pursuing post-secondary education: three to children of clients; three to children of employees; and three to adult clients returning to school. Awards are offered on a regional basis � Avalon/East, Central and Western/Labrador.

Commenting on the scholarship program, Mr. Matthews said: "Providing scholarships to children and adults alike remain a priority for the corporation. NLHC recognizes that a good education is an important ingredient for achieving goals in today's competitive world. I commend each of the winners for their hard work and dedication and wish them much success in their future studies."

Gloria Williams, winner of the adult scholarship, is currently attending Memorial University in St. John's where she is working towards a Bachelor Degree in Social Work. Ms. Williams was chosen for the award based on an interview that assessed initiative, need, and community and work experience.

Michael Edmunds, son of Michael and Lois Edmunds, is the winner of an NLHC clients' children scholarship. He graduated from Bishop O'Neil Collegiate in Brigus with an average of 84.7 per cent in level III courses. Michael is currently attending Memorial University in St. John's where he is planning to pursue an education in Engineering.

Leslie Penney is the daughter of Don and Kay Penney. Don is a Hardware Support Specialist with NLHC's Information Systems Division. Leslie graduated from Mount Pearl Senior High School with an average of 82.54 per cent in level III courses. At present she is attending Acadia University in Nova Scotia where she is working towards a Fine Arts degree.

Winners of the adult client scholarships are selected based on an interview that assesses initiative, community and work experience, and need.

Winners of the clients' and employees' children scholarships are chosen based on their overall average in level III courses. Applicants must achieve a minimum average of 75 per cent in final year high school courses to be considered eligible.

Media contact: Jenny Bowring, NLHC, (709) 724-3055.

1999 12 22 12:10 p.m.