Lockerby student awarded prestigious Schulich Leader Scholarship

A Grade 12 student in the Science Technology Education Program (STEP) at Lockerby Composite School has earned a prestigious scholarship to pursue her post-secondary education. Alana Sorgini has received a $60,000 Schulich Leader Scholarship as well as an entrance scholarship to study biomedical sciences at the University of Ottawa.

Philanthropist Seymour Schulich established the scholarship in 2012 to recognize outstanding young Canadian leaders seeking an undergraduate degree in a STEM field of study: science, technology, engineering or mathematics. Alana Sorgini is one of 50 recipients from across Canada to receive the scholarship this year, and the first Rainbow District School Board student ever.

“On behalf of Rainbow District School Board, I would like to congratulate Alana Sorgini for her outstanding achievement,” said Board Chair Doreen Dewar. “An all-round student, Alana has excelled in the arts, athletics and academics. She has also made an immense contribution to humanitarian efforts.”

“Alana Sorgini is most deserving of this honour and we are very proud of her,” said Lockerby Composite School Principal Heather Gaffney. “We wish her continued success, knowing that she will be an exemplary ambassador for her school and her community as a Schulich Leader.”

Alana has maintained high grades at Lockerby Composite School, where she writes for the Viking Voice and provides tutoring in math. A natural leader, she facilitates a mental health awareness committee to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and provide resources to students in need.  She also spearheaded the G-Force committee to improve the self-esteem of girls and raise funds for the Genevra House.

Alana captured top honours in the 2011 Sudbury Regional Science Fair in the physical sciences category, earning the privilege of participating in the Canada-Wide Science Fair. Following a Math, Science and Technology Olympics event at Science North, Alana was invited to volunteer in the science centre’s Space Place where she engaged the public and delivered workshops. Alana has also served on a committee with a mandate to get students interested in mathematics and science.

As a young athlete, Alana has won several gold medals for cross-country running and track and field at the local and Northern Ontario levels. She is also a certified lifeguard accredited by the National Lifeguard Society.

In the area of the arts, Alana is an accomplished pianist and dancer. She has completed Level 8 of the Royal Conservatory of Music series and has earned several gold medals at the Kiwanis music festival. She learned to play the classical guitar at Lockerby Composite School and has performed for the public.  After seven years of dance training, she achieved her Level 5 in the Society of Russian Ballet.

Alana is active in her church, supporting numerous community minded activities for the homeless and the elderly. She has also been a champion of Lockerby Composite School’s efforts to give back to the community, including the annual Laura Cotesta Kids Caring For Kids Cancer Drive.

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Media Contact:

Heather Gaffney, Principal, Lockerby Composite School
Rainbow District School Board, 705-522-1750