The BCMA has two annual scholarship award programs, the first offering one $1000 scholarship and the second offering three $500 scholarships.

The Cathy Isobe Scholarship was founded in memory of the BCMA’s longtime receptionist, who passed away from cancer in 2007. Cathy was a well-known and much-loved figure at the BCMA, and staff members have kept her memory alive by raising scholarship funds through auctions and raffles throughout the year. The $1000 scholarship is administered by Ms Isobe’s family, and is awarded to a student who achieves scholastic excellence and is enrolled in highland dance—one of her passions.

The BCMA Scholarship awards $500 scholarships to children of BCMA members who display outstanding scholastic achievement, remarkable volunteer contributions, and well-rounded extracurricular interests. Winners are selected by BCMA committee members through an anonymous process.

Cathy Isobe Scholarship: Madison Koniuk 
Ms Koniuk is a graduate of the individually directed program at Frances Kelsey Secondary in Mill Bay, and plans on pursuing a career in the health care field. She has volunteered with her local food bank and hospital and with her school’s Students Against Drunk Driving program. She has competed in the British Association of Teachers of Dance Scholarship event as one of the top 100 highland dancers in North America.

BCMA Scholarship: Lauren Carr
Ms Carr is a graduate of York House School in Vancouver, with interests in musical theatre and outdoor sports. Her volunteer experience includes constructing a house in Paraguay with Habitat for Humanity and educating children in Peru about basic hygiene through the Peru’s Challenge Program. She is entering the faculty of science at McGill University.

BCMA Scholarship: Quinn Blunderfield
Mr Blunderfield is a graduate of West Vancouver Secondary School and has been accepted to the Sauder School of Business at UBC. In addition to his impressive academic achievements, he has a great deal of volunteer experience, including providing pool strength training to children with disabilities at the Sunnyhill Health Centre for Children. He also served on his student council for 4 years, including 2 years as president.

BCMA Scholarship: Zoe Walter
Ms Walter is a graduate of Sa-Hali Secondary in Kamloops and will be attending Queen’s University this fall to do an undergraduate degree in both arts and sciences. She enjoys singing, acting, and playing soccer. Her community involvement has included volunteering as a candystriper at Royal Inland Hospital, coaching, and working as a camp counselor at EUReKA! Kids Science Camp. 
Congratulations to all the winners!
—Tara Lyon