Jyllian Jenkins 

Jyllian's dedication to her academics is exceptional; her approach is one of mature diligence.  She will be studying at the University of Guelph this fall pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry. Jillian says “school work has always come first for me and my drive to work harder and do better is never-ending.”  Her course load is extremely challenging with many math and science courses studied at the academic/university level and she has maintained an average of over 92%. 

Jyllian is actively involved in the school's Special High Skills Major in Arts & Culture, focusing on enhancing leadership skills and developing a deeper appreciation in our community and around the world.  She also dedicates time to the senior band and the jazz band as a sectional lead. Jyllian has mentored members of the junior bands and conducted a piece for them at last year's Christmas concert. 

For the past 5 years, Jyllian has volunteered at the Mariposa Folk Festival; Scottish Festival and her family's Farmfest, a Canada Day event.  As president of Patrick Fogarty CSS's Social Activism club, she involved the school community in raising awareness about poverty locally, and raised over $2000 for the Lighthouse through the Coldest Night of the Year Walk. 

Jyllian is a person of integrity, compassion, perseverance and dependability, and is reluctant to disclose any accolades about herself.  No doubt, Jyllian will be a driving force and will continue to work for a better world today and for future generations. 

 

Molly Hazel 

Molly has maintained Honor Roll with Distinction throughout all four years of high school. She demonstrates resilience and perseverance, commitment to growth and proactive leadership at school and in her community.  Her volunteer hours exceed 250 so far, and include Learn-to-Row Days, summer camps, fundraising  and welcoming newcomers to the sport of rowing. 

Having overcome the challenges of bilateral club feet and multiple surgeries, adapting to fixed ankle positions, Molly transitioned from competitive swimming to high-level rowing, demonstrating the ability to adapt, learn and thrive in a new sport. 

Here are a few of the school and community areas where Molly has shown her mentoring and leadership skills: 

School:  LINK Leader; PEAC Program; French Immersion; Athletic Council 

School sports: XC running; Flag Football; Nordic Skiing; Hockey; Track & Field, Rowing 

Community: Orillia Hawks Hockey; Orillia Rowing Club; Lifeguard  & Swim Instructor; Learn-to-Skate coach. 

Molly writes: “I am a competitive lightweight rower who has overcome significant challenges to pursue excellence in both sport and academics…These experiences taught me resilience, discipline,  and a strong worth ethic – qualities that I apply to both academics and athletics. 

As a senior athlete, I mentor younger teammates and foster a supportive environment where perseverance and teamwork are valued. Next year, I plan to pursue Health Sciences or Arts and Science... I am determined to balance academics, athletics and community involvement while continuing to inspire others to strive for their goals.” 



Rebecca Matthews 

Rebecca has maintained a 93% average in her Grade 12 University level courses allowing her  for career choices that include teaching, practicing law, diplomacy or another area that helps people to the best of her ability. She has completed the Diplome d'Etudes en Langue Francaise at a B1 level, and continues to study French. 

Volunteering opportunities to share her passions and support those in need include: Titanium Arts Lab; Students for Change and Link Crew; fundraising for OSMH, Green Haven Women's Shelter and the Lighthouse.  Rebecca has participated in choirs, plays and musicals in her Church by choreographing numbers for their fundraising musicals. She considers the approximately 283 hours she has volunteered (she stopped counting about then) time well spent impacting many children's lives,  especially those with special needs, or needing extra support in the dance classes. 

Rebecca has been employed, balanced these activities, maintained social activities and academic excellence for four years.  She has a quiet but powerful impact in her school, community and clubs and this differentiates her from other young women and proves her dedication to hard work.  

“I will continue to advocate for those in need and try my hardest to help others.  It is my dream to travel to learn more about the world as well as supporting human rights in Canada and developing nations.” she says.  

Rebecca is thankful for the opportunity to attend university, and accomplish her goals of having a deeper knowledge of world issues and dynamics enabling her to help others.