June 19, 2024 (Perth, ON) – Grade 12 Perth & District Collegiate Institute (PDCI) student Clara Misener is the proud recipient of a $70,000 scholarship towards her university education, part of the TD Scholarships for Community Leadership program.
These prestigious awards recognize student leaders in Canada for supporting change and nurturing progress in their communities. This year, 20 awards were given across Canada.
Since Grade 8, Clara has been involved in environmental initiatives in her school and community. She joined the Lanark Youth Climate Action Group and co-founded a chapter of the David Suzuki Foundation Butterflyway Project. At present, she’s helping citizens establish pollinator gardens and supporting the start-up of shared community gardens in the region.
“When I started, it was during the pandemic so there wasn't a lot to do,” says Clara. “Seeing how it was something safe for people to come out and do was really what motivated me. Just seeing smiles on people's faces and having a lot of people get involved. That was one of the biggest motivators for me.”
Clara was excited and a little surprised at the news of her award. “It still feels unreal. I applied thinking it's worth a shot. I didn't think I would get it, but it's incredible!”
She is also enthusiastic about the connections she’s made with her fellow recipients. “I'm one of 20 in Canada, so I got to meet all of the other scholars and hear about their stories. So, it's this giant network of people that I'll have through university. It’s really exciting too.”
PDCI Principal Dean Fournier said that Clara’s academic achievements, drive and positive attitude has made her a pillar of the school community. “She's one of our top students academically, but not only that she’s involved in student council, she spearheaded the student and parent led prom committee, she took the bull by the horns and organized the grad sweaters, and she plays sports at the school. Anything you want, anytime you want something done, you could ask Clara and it’ll get done.”
Clara is headed to McGill University in September to begin her studies in bioengineering, where she hopes to one day focus on making medical solutions more environmentally friendly.