The generosity of donors who support scholarships and bursaries for University of Aberdeen students will be marked when the fourth annual Scholars’ Reception is held on March 15, from 6.00-7.30pm at the Baird Atrium, within the University’s Institute of Medical Sciences.
Over a hundred guests will hear how the continuing growth of the University’s scholarship programme is helping to attract and retain promising students, and ensure that financial hardship does not deter talented individuals from fulfilling their educational potential.
Each year, critical support is gifted to the University of Aberdeen Development Trust to provide student scholarships and bursaries. Over 200 undergraduate students at the University are currently benefiting from scholarships and bursaries. Support is also available to postgraduate students.
The annual reception gives donors who have contributed towards scholarships - and those who are considering making this valuable gift - the opportunity to meet students who are receiving scholarships and bursaries, and senior University staff who are seeing at first hand the benefits of the programme.
Senior Vice-Principal, Professor Stephen Logan, said: “In addition to bringing benefactors and beneficiaries together, the Scholars’ Reception is also an opportunity for the University to express its gratitude to the increasing number of corporate bodies and private individuals who support scholarships and bursaries, as well as thanking academics and other members of staff who have been involved in the scholarship programme throughout the year.
“We hope that it also raises awareness of the programme, and encourages more companies and individuals to help open up the world of higher education to new generations of students of all backgrounds and personal circumstances.”
Martin Cole, Vice-President and Managing Director of CNR International Limited, which funds two Bill Stiles undergraduate scholarships for students studying for an accountancy degree, and who will speak at the event added: “These scholarships will provide the opportunity for young people to obtain degrees in accountancy which in turn will hopefully make them more interested in joining the oil industry, as we are in desperate need of new graduates with qualifications in Accountancy and all areas of the business”.
Another speaker will be Catherine O’Byrne, who receives the Donald Withrington scholarship, funded by Paul and Winifred Hauser for postgraduate students undertaking studies in modern Scottish history.
Catherine believes her scholarship has given her many advantages and skills, saying: “When I heard that I had received the scholarship I was ecstatic. This has not only allowed me the finances to pursue my PhD on the effects of the North Sea oil industry on women – it has also given me the confidence to tackle such a large piece of work, and helped me develop a variety of skills that I will need in my future career.”
Companies, trusts and foundations as well as alumni and friends have gifted millions of pounds for the support of students. Most of the scholarships are in support of undergraduate students. They are based on need as well as merit and the personal stories of the scholars inspire everyone who comes into contact with them.
The Sixth Century Campaign is one of the most ambitious campaigns by any Higher Education institutions in the UK and aims to raise £150m by the end of the decade.
ENDS