Kate McLeod is a graduate of Simonds High School in Saint John, where she was a member of the students’ council and played volleyball and field hockey. Her wide-ranging volunteer experience in her community has seen her assisting with preschoolers, nursing home residents and individuals experiencing homelessness.
Kate is enrolled in the bachelor of business administration degree program, and signed with the UNB Saint John Seawolves women’s volleyball team for the 2023-24 varsity season.
Avery Thomas of Hampton comes to UNB from Hampton High School, where she won numerous academic awards and participated in extracurricular activities including the school’s climate action team and greenhouse and gardening club. Among her extensive volunteer experience is time creating and coordinating her school’s recycling maintenance education program and assisting with local elementary school events. She is passionate about teaching and has spent many hours, both within and outside of school, pursuing her passion and enriching her skills through a school co-op education opportunity.
Avery is enrolled in the bachelor of arts degree program.
Kiersten Hamilton of Boom Road is a graduate of Miramichi Valley High School. An avid athlete, Hamilton played high school hockey, volleyball, field hockey, and track and field. Among her volunteer endeavours are coaching minor hockey and working at a local senior’s complex.
She is enrolled in the bachelor of health program at UNB Saint John.
Morgan Haslett of Saint John is a graduate of Centre scolaire Samuel-de-Champlain, where she was a member of the student council and the grad class committee. Outside of school, Haslett has represented Team NB in speed skating, sailing, and triathlon. She volunteers as an instructor with the Saint John Amateur Speed Skating Club.
She is enrolled in the bachelor of health program at UNB Saint John.
Katelyn LeBlanc of West Quaco graduated as valedictorian of Simonds High School, where she was co-president of the student council. In addition to various clubs and activities, LeBlanc played high school volleyball, softball and hockey. She volunteers as a caretaker of the West Quaco Cemetery.
She is enrolled in UNB Saint John’s bachelor of health program.
Fredericton’s Ava Yerxa is a graduate of Fredericton High School, where she was involved with numerous clubs, including the positive action committee. She has volunteered with the Fredericton Botanic Garden and Greener Village and participated for several years in competitive dance.
She is enrolled in UNB Saint John's bachelor of health program.
Ruhamma Zaheeb of Saint John graduated from Harbour View High School, where she was vice-president of the grad class executive and editor of the yearbook. Leader of her school’s climate action club, she was also co-president of the school’s chapter of Best Buddies, an international organization promoting friendships and inclusion. Among her numerous volunteer organizations are the NB Youth Voice Committee, Hillcrest Village seniors’ centre, and the Imagine NB advisory committee.
Ruhamma is enrolled in the bachelor of health program at UNB Saint John.
Colby Arsenault of Saint John is a graduate of Simonds High School, where he was captain of the swim team, a member of the grad class executive and the school’s 2021 recipient of the Governor General’s Academic Medal. He tutors younger students in math and teaches children’s karate lessons. A young entrepreneur, Colby started his own lawn care business in 2018 and has since grown his clientele substantially.
He is enrolled in the bachelor of science in engineering program at UNB Saint John.
Benjamin Talbot of Quispamsis graduated from Saint John’s Centre scolaire Samuel-de-Champlain. Benjamin plays piano and is an elite gymnast, competing nationally at the Canadian Gymnastics Championships and the Canada Games. In March 2021, he placed first in the Concours de mathématiques Poincaré, a provincial mathematics competition. Along with strong academics, Benjamin volunteers at the Fundy Gymnastics Club, where he also works as a recreational gymnastics coach.
Benjamin is enrolled in the bachelor of computer science program.
Patrick Talbot is a graduate of Centre scolaire Samuel-de-Champlain. As an elite gymnast, Patrick has competed at the Canada Games and represented Canada internationally as part of the Canadian Men’s Artistic Gymnastics Junior National Team. He has played piano for over a decade and works part-time at the Fundy Gymnastics Club. Patrick was his high school’s 2021 recipient of the Governor General’s Academic Medal.
Patrick is enrolled in UNB Saint John’s bachelor of science program.
Thomas Rylan Adams, a Rothesay Netherwood School graduate, played a number of sports at school, including hockey where he also volunteered as a coach. He participated in the chess club, math competitions and served as a prefect at his school. His work experience includes Higgins General Insurance.
Rylan is enrolled in the bachelor of science program.
Abbey Alexander, a graduate of Rothesay High School, was a member of the Reach for the Top Team, editor of her school yearbook, participated in the National Student Leadership Conference, and was active on the ski team and in Pony Club testing. She served as a volunteer greeter and escort at Horizon Health, and devoted time to the Canadian Pony Club and the Sweet Caroline Foundation. She worked part-time as a doctor’s office assistant.
Abbey is enrolled in the bachelor of health program.
Emma Harper, a graduate of Rothesay High School, was a member of the Grad Class Committee and played varsity volleyball for her school. She volunteered for the Hope Centre and the local hospital. Her work experience includes employment with Kennebecasis Drugs.
Emma is enrolled in the bachelor of science program.
Julianne MacCallum, a graduate of James M. Hill Memorial High School, was co-president of the Student Council and co-captain of the varsity girls’ soccer team. She was active in track and field and a member of the New Brunswick Provincial Soccer Team. Her volunteer work included coaching soccer, highway cleanups, and Free the Children. She worked as a cashier at Sport Chek.
Julianne is enrolled in the bachelor of science program.
Kate Reevey, a graduate of Rothesay High School, was a member of the swim and ski teams, a figure skater and in the cast of High School Musical. She volunteered at both a local nursing home and the homeless shelter. She worked part-time at the Riverside Country Club.
Kate is enrolled the bachelor of science program.
Jayme Glaspy, a Rothesay High School student, is an active volunteer and leader, having travelled on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic and served on the executive of the New Brunswick Student Representative Council and her school’s student council. Athletically, she plays volleyball with numerous teams.
Jayme is currently enrolled in the bachelor of science program at UNB Saint John.
Payton Gonzalez, a St. Malachy’s Memorial High School student, is an avid community volunteer through her involvement with Horizon Health, the Salvation Army and Diabetes Canada. She also performed with the school’s choir and participated in the school’s musical.
Payton is currently enrolled in the bachelor of nursing program at UNB Saint John.
Madelyn O'Hara, a Harbour View High School student, volunteers for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada, serving as a mentor. She was a flautist for the high school band and as an athlete, she was a goalie in field hockey. She is also a strong rugby player.
Madelyn is currently enrolled in the bachelor of science program at UNB Saint John.
Dominic Rocca, another Harbour View High School student, is a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada and a member of youth organizations including MeToWe and Best Buddies. Athletically, he plays midget AAA hockey and is also a member of the rowing team.
Dominic is currently enrolled in the bachelor of science program at UNB Saint John.
Emily Derrah, a Harbour View High School graduate, is an active community volunteer having travelled to Kenya to work with high school students affected by HIV or AIDS.
Emily completed a bachelor of science degree in 2022 and is currently enrolled in the bachelor of nursing (advanced standing) program.
Alicia Killam, a graduate of Kennebecasis Valley High School, is an avid community volunteer through her involvement with outreach initiatives, as well as with local shelters and food banks.
Alicia completed the bachelor of nursing degree at UNB Saint John in 2022.
Amelia McCavour, a graduate of Kennebecasis Valley High School, was a volunteer for organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and the Heart & Stroke Foundation. She was also a soccer, volleyball and basketball player.
Amelia completed the bachelor of business administration program at UNB Saint John in 2022.
Taylor Lee, a former Fundy High School student, is the 2011 McCain Literacy Award winner, 2015 District French Oratorical Competition Gold Medalist, and Open Junior Champion at the 2013 Sunrise Summer Classic Horse Show.
She completed a bachelor of business administration in 2021 and is currently a research analyst at Irving Oil.
Brianna Forbes, a former Bonar Law Memorial High School student, was the president of the St. Nicholas 4-H Club and Eastern District, a national finalist at indoor track and field, and a participant in the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Level Award.
She completed the bachelor of science program in 2021 and is studying veterinary medicine at the Atlantic Veterinary College in PEI.
Dayna is a member of Woodstock High School's class of 2016 where she was captain of the Woodstock High School Varsity Volleyball team and was involved in various charity activities, including, Safe Grad, and Teens Against Drunk Driving.
Dayna completed the bachelor of business administration program in 2020 and was a member of the UNB Saint John Seawolves Varsity Volleyball team. She currently works as an accountant in Hartland, NB.
Chloe is a member of Simonds High School's class of 2016. While there, Chloe maintained high honours as a French Immersion student and played field hockey, badminton and rugby, and volunteered for Simonds' TADD club, and Outflow Ministry.
Chloe completed the bachelor of science program at UNB Saint John in 2021.
“The Arthur and Sandra Irving Primrose Scholarship has not only helped me to fund my education at UNB, but has also given me the confidence to reach for my goals. The Primrose community is like a big family."
Justin is a member of Bathurst High School's class of 2015. Justin's love of music, volunteering leadership, and strong academics made him an excellent Primrose Scholar. During his time at Bathurst High School, he maintained honours while being involved in student politics, participated in math and science competitions, and performed in a local band for charity. Justincompleted the bachelor of science in engineering at UNB and a master of science in mathematics at the University of British Columbia.
Ainsley is a member of Kennebecasis Valley High School’s class of 2015. Ainsley has balanced academics, music and volunteering throughout her education. Ainsley began “Ainsley’s Pillow Project” in 2012. Through this initiative she has made and donated over 150 pillows to pediatric patients at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Ainsley graduated from the bachelor of nursing program in 2019.
Kayla is a member of the Harbour View High School class of 2015. Her academics, participation in athletics, volunteer work, and contributions to student life at Harbour View, made her a natural choice as a Primrose Scholar. Kayla was enrolled in the bachelor of science program and completed a bachelor of pharmacy at Dalhousie University. She is currently working as a pharmacy student at Medicine Shoppe Canada.
Taylor is a member of Harbour View High School's class of 2014. While maintaining her high academic standing at the school, she was involved in softball, volleyball, hockey, and football, and competed at the Canada Games in the summer of 2017 for Team NB Softball. She also volunteered for Relay for Life and RBC's Learn to Play project. In 2018, Taylor graduated with her bachelor of business administration with a double major in accounting and economics. Following graduation, she worked for Irving Oil in their Chartered Professional Accountants Rotational Program. She is currently a commercial finance manager at Moosehead Breweries in Saint John.
“The Arthur and Sandra Irving Primrose Scholarship is a prestigious award that has added so much value to my resume, helping open many doors for me professionally. It has helped me obtain co-op employment while in university, which ultimately led to me accepting a full-time position with Irving Oil in their CPA Rotational Program after graduation.”
Kersti is a member of Kennebecasis Valley High School's class of 2014. She is an avid volunteer with the Outflow Ministry, and volunteered with the Soup Kitchen and Children's Program. She is also an accomplished pianist. Kersti graduated from the bachelor of science in engineering program in 2018 and is currently working as a civil engineer in Saint John.
Andrew is a member of Rothesay High School's class of 2014. Andrew successfully balanced his education with volunteering and athletics throughout his time at Rothesay High School. He was Captain of the Engineering Club, Children's Ward Fundraiser volunteer, and played on Team NB basketball in the Canada Games. Andrew completed the bachelor of science in engineering program and is currently a medical student at Memorial University in St. John's, NL.
Joshua is a member of Saint John High School's 2014 graduating class. In addition to the time Joshua spent volunteering, he was an officiant at the North American, Central American, and Caribbean World Masters Athletics Championships, a National level track champion, a Grad Class Treasurer and a Duke of Edinburgh participant. Joshua completed the bachelor of science program and is currently a medical student at Dalhousie University.
"The Primrose Scholarship provided me with financial support and personal encouragement to pursue an undergraduate degree at UNB. My educational experience at UNB has been both enriching and enjoyable academically and has provided me the foundation to hopefully pursue a career in medicine. The Primrose community is a supportive group and has opened doors to many novel opportunities."
Ashley is a member of Harbour View High School's class of 2013. Ashley was a volunteer with The Children's Wish Foundation, Relay for Life, Big Brothers/Big Sisters as well as PROkids. She was very involved in the Harbour View High School Field Hockey Team, Senior Band, in addition to excelling in her academics. Ashley completed the bachelor of business administration program at UNB Fredericton and is currently working as a senior accountant in Fredericton.
Maria is a member of Ecole Samuel de Champlain’s class of 2013. During her time at Ecole Samuel de Champlain, Maria participated in student government, a number of committees, and school drama. Athletically she participated in judo, soccer and swimming. Maria was also a member of the Senior Orchestra playing violin. She is a strong student academically receiving many student awards and certificates.
Maria graduated from the bachelor of science program in 2017 and the masters of science program at UNB Saint John in 2020.
Ethan is a member of Saint John High School's class of 2012. As a student there, Ethan was involved in the Student Council, athletics, volunteered at St. Joseph's Hospital, and was a member of the Canadian Forces Reserves.
Ethan graduated from UNB Fredericton with a bachelor and master of science in 2016 and 2018. He is currently completed a PhD in civil engineering at UNB Fredericton.
Chelsey is a member of Belleisle Regional High School's class of 2011. Chelsey has spent most of her young life finding ways to have a positive impact on the community. Her leadership at school, in athletics and in the community made her a natural choice as a Primrose Scholar.
Chelsey is a graduate of the bachelor of science program.
Amanda Bishop is a member of Rothesay High School's class of 2010. Amanda has spent most of her young life finding ways to have a positive impact on the lives of others. Her leadership in the classroom, in varsity sports and in the community made her a natural choice as a Primrose Scholar.
Amanda graduated from UNB Saint John in 2014 with a bachelor of science degree.
Monica Graves is a member of Belle isle Regional High School's class of 2009. Monica's many hours of volunteer and extracurricular activities emphasize her belief in the importance of community. With aspirations to pursue education, there is every chance Monica will be able to inspire similar attitudes in others.
Monica graduated from UNB Saint John in 2013 with a bachelor of arts degree. She pursued a medical degree at Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick and completed her family medicine residency at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario.
“I was thrilled to receive the Primrose scholarship in 2009. To me it meant I could spend more time in extracurricular activities like the Best Buddies program and playing viola in Symphony New Brunswick. UNB Saint John was a wonderful experience, and I feel privileged to have completed both an undergraduate and medical degree in my home province. I am currently in Kingston, Ontario completing my family medicine residency at Queen's University, and look forward to returning home and working in New Brunswick as a family physician.”
Ryan LeBlanc, is a member of Kennebecasis Valley High School’s class of 2008. Ryan has a natural ability with numbers but math is just one of his many talents. He is also a talented pianist, performed in theatre productions, and was on his school’s rugby team.
Ryan graduated from UNB with a bachelor of science in mechanical engineering in 2012.
“The Primrose Scholarship helped to relieve the financial burden associated with a university degree – it afforded me the opportunity to graduate without debt. However, the Primrose Scholarship is unique and is more than just financial support: Arthur and Sandra’s generosity is surpassed only by their genuine hospitality and thoughtfulness.”
Vasiliki Papadopoulos is a graduate and valedictorian of Kennebecasis Valley High School's class of 2007. As a student she was involved in a wide range of musical pursuits including piano, voice and dance and volunteered in the community through activities that included the Empty Stocking Fund, Safe Grad and Tutoring.
Vasiliki graduated as valedictorian from UNB Saint John in 2011 with her bachelor of science degree. She studied medicine at the University of Ottawa and completed her medical residency at Western University. She works as a family physician in Saint John.
Emily Nelson is a graduate of Harbour View High School. She was a high-honours student who has shown leadership in the community through her volunteer activities and on the softball field as team MVP and Provincial Champion.
Emily graduated with a bachelor of science degree in 2010 and a master of science in biology from UNB Saint John. Emily is currently working for Fisheries and Oceans Canada at Saint Andrews Biological Station.
"Being a recipient of the Primrose Scholarship was invaluable to my university career. I have now successfully completed both a Bachelors and Masters of Science from UNBSJ and have my dream career working as a marine biologist. I am incredibly grateful for the support that Arthur and Sandra have provided, not only through the scholarship, but also through their continued interest in my life."
Robert is a graduate of Saint John High School. Robert's community service has been diverse and far reaching. He has volunteered his time working with inner city kids in Saint John, Atlantic Canada, Toronto and Latin America, and has helped distribute needed supplies to families as near as Saint John and as far as Guatemala. Robert's love of sports is evident in his role as a certified lifeguard as well as his participation in soccer, volleyball and basketball.
Robert holds a bachelor of science in electrical engineering from UNB Fredericton and a master of business administration in project management from UNB Saint John. He currently works as an electrical engineer in Saint John, NB.
Kady graduated from the International Baccalaureate program at Saint John High School. She played on the school’s hockey, curling, archery and track and field teams. Kady sails and has achieved her black belt in Tae Kwon Do. She also plays piano and was involved in the school photography department, was grad class executive, and participated in various special events and fundraisers at the school and in the community.
Kady graduated from UNB Saint John in May of 2008 with a bachelor of science degree and was the class valedictorian. She has completed medical school at Memorial University of Newfoundland and is currently practicing medicine in Saint John, NB.
Sarah graduated from the International Baccalaureate program at Saint John High School. She was involved in Reach for the Top, yearbook, debate team, robotics team, math society, the art club and the Saint John Astronomy Club.
She competed on the school’s track and field and cross country teams. Sarah also plays and taught piano and was part of the school’s Wind Ensemble, and the school district’s senior band and senior orchestra. As a student at UNB Saint John, Sarah continued to teach and play the piano and was involved in the Saint John Arts Centre and the Night Train café.
Sarah graduated with a bachelor of arts with honours in history from UNB Saint John and was the class valedictorian. She also has a master of arts in art history from Queen's University. She is currently a working artist and owner of the Jones Gallery located on Prince William Street in Saint John, NB.
Brad is a graduate of St. Malachy’s Memorial High School where he was involved in varsity swimming, soccer, football and volleyball. He also competed in mountain biking, and worked as a swimming instructor and lifeguard in the community. Brad plays the trumpet, and continues to be involved in student life at UNB Saint John.
Brad graduated with a bachelor of arts in psychology from UNB Saint John in 2006 and received his MBA from Dalhousie University in 2018. He is currently working as a special advisor at the City of Saint John.
“The Arthur and Sandra Irving Primrose Scholarship was an excellent start to my post-secondary education. In addition to financial support, Mr. and Mrs. Irving have taken interest in each Primrose scholar and in connecting the group as a whole. It’s always a pleasure to welcome new recipients to the group and to see what fellow recipients have been up to.”
Brendan is a graduate of St. Malachy’s Memorial High School where he was a high academic achiever and participated in student government, a variety of school events and fundraisers. Brendan also coached, refereed, and played for the school’s ski, volleyball, baseball and swim teams.
Brendan was involved at UNB Saint John as the chair of the annual Shinerama fundraising campaign, student government, and the varsity volleyball team. Brendan graduated in May 2005 with a bachelor of science in biology-psychology and was named class valedictorian.
Brendan is an orthopaedic surgeon practicing in Saint John, NB.
A graduate of St. Stephen Regional High School, Krista was an active and accomplished student who was recognized with various awards. Krista was active in the St. Croix Figure Skating Club, was a Canskate coach and managed her high school’s men’s football team. She was also involved in the yearbook and Drama Club. Krista continued to be involved as a student at UNB Saint John, participating in various activities on campus.
Krista graduated with a bachelor of nursing degree in May 2004 and is now working as a registered nurse at the Charlotte County Hospital, St. Stephen, NB. She completed a specialty certification in nephrology nursing with the Canadian Nurse’s Association, all while raising three active children.
