We are pleased to announce the most recent winner of the Bernie Hanlon Memorial Scholarship, Salome Barker, a fourth-year student at St. Francis Xavier University.   The Bernie Hanlon Memorial Scholarship was created to help an Education and Training client who is attending college or completing an undergraduate degree.  To win the $1000 scholarship prize, applicants write a short essay on how they embody the spirit of Bernie Hanlon.

Barker is a fancy shawl dancer and has participated in several Mi’kmaq language classes.  In her essay she commented on her pride in her Mi’kmaq identity, and her willingness to share and learn with others.  Her educational pursuits include Mi’kmaq language classes, and research in the area of Resilience within Indigenous Communities in Canada.

Barker said, “This program works with Indigenous women from all over Canada in providing them the skills to be leaders within their communities and being able to kick start projects to help benefit their community members.  After my degree, I would like to pursue a career in aboriginal law.”

Bernadette “Bernie” Hanlon dedicated her life to supporting and encouraging the aboriginal people of Newfoundland both culturally and in working with them to meet their educational dreams.   Bernie worked with students throughout her many years with the Federation of Newfoundland Indians and later with the Qalipu First Nation.  She worked tirelessly to help those around her develop personally as well as by supporting and encouraging cultural and spiritual growth.

Central Region Vice Chief Randy Drover was on hand to make the presentation which took place on January 3, 2019 in Grand Falls-Windsor.  Randy said he was proud to represent the nation for this presentation which honours the memory of his late friend, Bernie Hanlon.  He said, “It was my privilege to present Salome Barker with the Bernie Hanlon Memorial Scholarship.  Bernie was a very influential and strong Mi’kmaq women in my life, and I’ll never forget the moments we shared and the teachings she passed on.  She was a kind and gentle spirit, and she instilled in me, like she did with so many others, the importance of our culture and traditions.  Salome very much represents Bernie’s spirit, which is evident in her educational pursuits and her passion to learn and share the Mi’kmaq culture.  This young woman has a great future, and I’m honoured to see her receive the Bernie Hanlon Memorial Scholarship.”

 

Congratulations Salome and best of luck on your educational pursuits!