A student from Maskwacis Cultural College has been awarded one of the nine 2025 Alberta Blue Cross Indigenous Scholarships. Jolene Gopher, a student in the Bachelor of Arts in Cree Language program, was selected for her dedication to preserving and promoting Indigenous languages and culture.
The Alberta Blue Cross Indigenous Scholarship program, which has supported Indigenous students in Alberta for over 25 years, awards $1,500 scholarships based on personal goals, financial need, and community involvement. This year, the program received a record 120 applications, marking a significant increase from the 73 submissions in 2024.
Jolene Gopher has demonstrated a strong commitment to her community through her work as a water keeper and her involvement in making traditional attire, including skirts. With her studies, she aims to reclaim and protect her language, which plays a vital role in her identity and community. Her long-term goal is to develop workshops and resources that will help her community maintain and revitalize the Cree language.
The Alberta Blue Cross® Indigenous Scholarship program provides vital support to Indigenous students pursuing a wide range of academic programs. The program has become a cornerstone of Alberta Blue Cross®'s commitment to supporting education and fostering community engagement.
For more information about the Indigenous Scholarship program and future application dates, visit community.ab.bluecross.ca/programs/indigenous-scholarships.php.
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