$3M award program offers help for Waterloo Region post secondary school students

An undated stock image of students. (Stanley Morales/Pexels)

Some incoming college and university students in Waterloo Region will get financial help thanks to a newly announced award program.

In a release on Wednesday, The Lyle S. Hallman Foundation announced a $3 million program that will be split between students at Wilfrid Laurier University, University of Waterloo, and Conestoga College.

Through the pledge, the foundation plans to create the Hallman Foundation Scholars Awards, which will go toward students from Waterloo Region who demonstrate financial need.

Local students studying any program at these three schools will be eligible for the award for five years, beginning in the fall of 2025.

The release said the awards will “support them from registration to graduation.”

Laurier President and Vice-Chancellor Deborah MacLatchy stated in the release, in part, that the school is committed to keeping education accessible.

"We are grateful for the support of the Lyle S. Hallman Foundation. Together, we are creating opportunities for students from Waterloo Region to reach their aspirational educational goals," said MacLatchy.

“I’m truly grateful for this commitment by the Lyle S. Hallman Foundation, who have generously supported the University of Waterloo for 20 years,” President and Vice-Chancellor of Waterloo Vivek Goel stated in part.

“This support will have an impact on our students as well as our community, ensuring learners gain access to the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers that will drive local prosperity,” stated Conestoga College President John Tibbits in part.

According to their website, the Lyle S.Hallman Foundation was founded in 2003, with their mission being to support health, education and children’s initiatives that inspire and grow a child’s individual and community potential.

“We see how much young people are struggling to access the education vital to their future health and wellness,” stated Chair of the Hallman Foundation’s board of trustees, Jim Hallman. “With this gift, we will help break down barriers and ensure equitable access to postsecondary education in Waterloo Region now and in the years to come.”

“The Hallman Foundation has been supporting the three higher education institutions in Waterloo Region since its inception in 2003. It is part of our Deed of Trust which outlines the purpose of the Foundation. These new awards support a student in any program at each institution for the entire duration of their education. We really hope it reduces financial barriers and improves access,” the foundation said in an email to CTV News.