Islay Health Centre Auxiliary Society Recognizes Dedication With Newly Renamed Mary McPherson Memorial Bursary

The Islay Health Centre Auxiliary Society has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting future healthcare professionals with the awarding of its annual $1,000 bursary in October; now newly renamed the Mary McPherson Memorial Bursary.

Formerly known as the Islay Health Centre Auxiliary Society Bursary, the award was renamed in honour of longtime auxiliary member Mary McPherson, who passed away earlier this year. McPherson’s legacy of compassion and unwavering service left a profound impact on the organization and the community it serves.

“Mary’s generosity, kindness, and matter-of-fact attitude will always be fondly remembered by those who had the privilege to know and work with her,” the Auxiliary shared. “Her passion for helping others was truly inspiring. The name change recognizes Mary’s years of dedication to the auxiliary and honours our dear friend.”

This year, three students from the region were selected as recipients, each pursuing careers in the healthcare field.

Emily Fluney, originally from the Dewberry/Islay area, is enrolled in NAIT’s Medical Radiological Technology program. Fluney said she was grateful to be chosen.

“The program isn’t horribly expensive, but it is over $5,000 per semester, so it gets costly,” she explained. “Having the bursary is helpful in case I need new materials or textbooks. I would like to thank the Islay Health Centre Auxiliary for choosing me.”

Laney Younghans, from the Kitscoty area, is studying in the Doctor of Pharmacy program at the University of Saskatchewan. Now in her third year of university and first year of pharmacy studies, she emphasized how meaningful the support is.

“I think it is a blessing to be able to focus on my studies instead of having to pick up extra shifts at work,” she said. “It will help with the cost of living. I would like to thank the Auxiliary for choosing me—it truly is a blessing.”

Also from the Kitscoty area, Katelyn Popowich is in her first year of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Alberta. Popowich noted that the bursary is helping her stay on track as she plans to continue on to a master’s degree after completing her undergraduate studies.

“I’m very grateful to be chosen for this bursary,” she said. “It is really nice to be recognized by the Mary McPherson Memorial Bursary committee.”

The Auxiliary requires proof of enrollment from each recipient to ensure that funds directly support their educational pursuits.

The Islay Health Centre Auxiliary Society extends its heartfelt congratulations to Emily, Laney, and Katelyn, and wishes them continued success in their studies and future contributions to the healthcare community.