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Giving to UNB

The Arthur and Sandra Irving Primrose Scholarship

Former and current Primrose Scholars gathered at the home of Arthur and Sandra Irving (front row, far left) for the 2019 annual luncheon.

"University of New Brunswick Saint John Primrose Scholars continue to make the world a better place."
- Sandra Irving

The Arthur and Sandra Irving Primrose Scholars at the University of New Brunswick (UNB) have gone on to become outstanding doctors, engineers, nurses, scientists, business leaders, entrepreneurs and artists in New Brunswick and across the country. They are a community of scholars who serve as important mentors and inspire others.

UNB in Saint John welcomes high school students to apply for the Arthur and Sandra Irving Primrose Scholarship. The four-year renewable scholarship is valued at $40,000 ($10,000 annually) in support of students attending UNB Saint John for their undergraduate education.

The scholarship, designed to support students entering their first year at UNB Saint John, recognizes academic achievement, community involvement and athletic leadership. It was established by UNB Saint John alumna Sandra Irving (BA'95), who spearheaded the initial fundraising activities to first award the scholarship in 2000.

Arthur and Sandra Irving renewed their commitment to the Arthur and Sandra Irving Primrose Scholarship in 2016 with a $2 million gift. Arthur and Sandra are involved in the selection of the recipients and develop long lasting relationships with the scholars who they invite to the Primrose Scholars Luncheon at their home each summer. The Primrose Scholars have a strong networking community and stay in touch with each other long after their time at UNB Saint John.

2025 recipients

Gabrielle Barrieau

Gabrielle Barrieau is a graduate of Saint John High School. Barrieau played hockey, soccer and field hockey for her high school, and in her final year she received the Principal’s Choice sportsmanship award.

In addition to volunteering with several school initiatives, she has also volunteered at Shannex Parkland long-term care facility and worked as a lifeguard at the Canada Games Aquatic Centre.

She is enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in the Engineering Degree program at UNB Saint John.


Jacob Fyffe

Jacob Fyffe is a graduate of Hampton High School, where he excelled at volleyball and basketball. He has volunteered as a volleyball coach and referee, and assisted with physical education programs in local elementary and middle schools.

Beyond school, he represented his province as a member of the Team New Brunswick U16 volleyball team.

He is enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in the Engineering Degree program at UNB Saint John.



How to apply

To apply for this scholarship, please submit:

  • A cover letter requesting consideration
  • A resume emphasizing extracurricular activities
  • Your latest high school transcript
  • A 500-word essay on "How would this scholarship make a difference in your life?"

Submit your application by March 1, either by mail or email. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, emailing your application is preferred.

By mail: The Arthur and Sandra Irving Primrose Scholarship, c/o Student Recruitment, UNB Saint John, PO Box 5050, Saint John NB, E2L 4L5

By email: tellmemore@unb.ca

Contact us

For questions about The Arthur and Sandra Irving Primrose Scholarship, contact us at 1-877-SJFORME (753-6763) or tellmemore@unb.ca.

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