Thompson Rivers University awarded close to half a million dollars to students at its Annual Foundation Awards Ceremony on November 24, 2011. The ceremony is unique because donors also attend, personally awarding the student recipients. President Dr. Alan Shaver spoke about what this announcement means for our University.

This Awards Ceremony is special for TRU because it speaks so clearly to what we aspire to achieve as a university namely: a learning community of students and supporters.

Danielle Thibault, left, was recognized as winner of the 2011 Lieutenant Governor's Silver Medal at the Foundation Awards event on Nov. 24. She is seen here with TRU President and Vice-Chancellor Alan Shaver.

Today we celebrate students who have invested in learning so as to improve their lives and to be able give back and make substantial contributions to their communities.

This ceremony also brings together businesses, organizations, individuals and volunteers who believe in the importance of learning and giving back. On behalf of Thompson Rivers University I extend sincerely appreciation and thanks for your support. Our students share your values and deeply appreciate your assistance. Our university is fortunate indeed to have such strong support from its community.

Today, our learning community of students and our caring community of donors and volunteers join together to build a better society. This clearly symbolizes what TRU stands for. We should all be very proud of what the people in this room represent for TRU, for Kamloops and for the world.

So, congratulations to the student award winners and, on behalf of the students, I thank the Donors, the Foundation and the many other volunteers who have made these award funds possible.

Everyone enjoy this moment you have earned it.