Linda Brown & Vana Kirby Graduate Scholarship
Established by Dr. Sandra Kirby, in honour of her sisters, Linda Brown and Vana Kirby. This scholarship valued at $1,000 will be awarded to a student or students enrolled in Graduate Studies at the University of Winnipeg. Preference may be given to graduate students with a disability.
2020-2021 Award Recipient
Cassie Dong – Peace and Conflict Studies
I am grateful to be a recipient of the 2020–2021 Linda Brown & Vana Kirby Graduate Scholarship. As a student in the Joint M.A. in Peace and Conflict Studies, I have received tremendous supports from the University of Winnipeg. This award helped release my financial stress, particularly during this global pandemic. I am thankful to my supervisor, Dr. Adam Muller, and my program chair, Dr. Eliakim Sibanda, for supporting me in the application process.
I have to be honest that at the beginning, I was doubtful whether I would be eligible to apply for this scholarship, given that I am in a joint program. The financial office, my supervisor, and my department chair all helped me answer this question and encouraged me to apply for the scholarship. I know many students think they are not eligible for a scholarship and thus do not apply. My advice is to never be afraid to ask questions. It may simply take a few emails, but then being able to achieve a scholarship, particularly during the pandemic, is worth the effort. Additionally, I think whether it is for a scholarship application or in life in general, it is never enough to have good academic achievements; leadership and contributions to the community are absolutely important. For me personally, I believe in public scholarship, that my work and research should affect change and contribute to the larger society.
2021-22 Award Recipients
Elizabeth Redfern – Master in Marriage and Family Therapy
I am very grateful to be receiving the Linda Brown & Vana Kirby Graduate Scholarship. I have been pursing my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy degree part-time since 2013 while working as a Registered Psychiatric Nurse. I have had to take breaks from this program to manage my chronic health issues, and I am thrilled to finally be on the homestretch. I plan to use this education to continue my work as a helping professional in our community, with greater education and experience in understanding and working with systemic and relational effects on people’s lives and well-being.
When the Covid-19 pandemic hit, I was put on medical leave from work due to being immunocompromised and pregnant. As the pandemic has dragged on, I have extended this leave to complete my final practica and coursework for the program. This scholarship is a welcomed support for this last year of my graduate degree.
I would like to thank Dr. Sandra Kirby who established this award in honour of her sisters, as well as the MMFT faculty, associate professors and supervisors who have supported me throughout this journey. And of course, my incredible family and friends who have encouraged me year after year towards my goal of becoming a family therapist. Thank you.