The fourth annual Alice Patricia Buckingham Scholarship was awarded this past week to another pair of very deserving students of W.P. Sandin High School in Shellbrook, SK: Maddison Nelson and Taylor Henderson. 

Rod Buckingham, founder and CEO of Buckingham Security Services Ltd. created and named the scholarship in honour of his late mother. “She believed that education makes a positive difference in people’s lives,” said Buckingham. “My brothers and I attended W.P. Sandin Public High School, and this school has a special significance to me. Because of these connections, I’m happy to make this scholarship available to two amazing students again this year.” 

Lou-anne Stefankiw, Vice-Principal of W.P. Sandin, presented the award last week on behalf of Rod Buckingham. “Having the Alice Patricia Buckingham scholarship to offer exceptional students not only supports the students in their future goals, but also expands what is possible,” she said. 

 Both Maddison and Taylor have undoubtedly shown the qualities that this award represents: 

“I work to exemplify what it means to be a kind person, an active member of my school community, and working towards making my school a safe and welcoming place for everyone,” said Nelson in her submission. “I believe that I showcase a level of responsibility in my day to day life, both in and out of school. I try my best to treat everyone with kindness and compassion, as a student, a family member, a friend, an umpire and a member of the community.” 

“Through my experiences in lifeguarding, working with children, and leadership in my school, I believe I have developed the skills that are important in a safe environment,” Henderson stated in her submission. “These are skills that I will take with me in both my personal and professional life.” 

The scholarship consists of a one-time monetary gift and a celebratory weekend in Regina with the Buckingham team. It is awarded annually to two Grade 11 W.P. Sandin Public High School students who have displayed leadership in protecting and demonstrating kindness and compassion for fellow students and school faculty. Students interested in advanced security, policing or other forms of public safety will be given a preference.