Vanessa Krohn was valedictorian of Chateauguay Valley Regional High School’s graduating class of 2019. She still remembers the atmosphere of excitement and nostalgia that filled the gymnasium. “It was a day of celebration, reflection, and anticipation for the future,” she says. It was also a day that set her on a solid academic path, thanks to the support of the CVR Educational Foundation.
Since graduating from the Ormstown-based high school, Krohn has attended Marianopolis College in Montreal and McGill University, where she completed an honours degree in psychology with a minor in neuroscience. “Without the foundation’s support, I would have had to take on a part-time job to manage my tuition and living expenses, which might have limited my opportunities,” she says. “Instead, I was able to dedicate my time to research, a critical component of my academic journey,” she adds, noting the that the chance to focus on her studies ultimately paved the way for her recent acceptance into medicine, dentistry, and a master’s degree program at McGill University.
Krohn says the fact that CVR families continue to support the Education Foundation fills her with an immense sense of inspiration, hope, and pride. “This ongoing support is not just a financial lifeline; it is a powerful affirmation that our achievements and potential are valued and nurtured,” she shares, while noting how important it is that future students may continue to chase their passions with the backing of their community.
The Foundation awarded its millionth dollar during the 2022 graduation ceremony. Now in its 39th year, the Foundation continues to rely on the Valley’s generosity. “The donations are our backbone,” says the foundation’s long-time chair, Gregg Edwards. “If we don’t have the good will of our supporters, this foundation would not exist,” he says. “And everything goes to those students,” he confirms, noting members of this year’s graduating class will benefit from over $100,000 in scholarships, bursaries, and prizes.
One of the academic prizes to be awarded is the Bruce Adams Memorial Prize, which has traditionally been awarded for outstanding achievement in chemistry. Retired science and chemistry teacher Randy Rennie has been contributing to this prize for as long as he can remember.
A graduate of the class of 1971, Rennie says he wants to give something back. He suggests this prize was given out prior to the creation of the Education Foundation, and he wants to ensure the tradition continues. He acknowledges that while it may not be as significant as some of the scholarships now being awarded, all the prizes have value.
“I think it is really good that so many different students are being recognized for their academic achievement and their effort,” he says. “So many kids now walk across that stage, and that’s a good thing,” he adds, while attributing this to the exceptional work of those behind the foundation and its generous donors. Together, they ensure CVR graduates can continue to dream big.