Lambton College students in the Personal Support Workers program. (Photo by Lambton College)Lambton College students in the Personal Support Workers program. (Photo by Lambton College)
Sarnia

Retired businessman donates $350K to college for PSW scholarship

Personal support workers are in high demand these days, and a retired Sarnia businessman is doing his part to help them through their journey at Lambton College.

James King has launched a $350,000 scholarship in memory of his late wife Catherine, and in recognition of the exceptional care she received from Lambton PSW graduates while at an area nursing home.

Mr. King said he was struck by how deeply her PSWs cared for her, going above and beyond their duties. He spoke fondly of how they got Catherine tapping her foot and even dancing by keying in on an old love for country music.

"In my experience with personal support workers I have seen that they are so dedicated," said King. "I hope this scholarship inspires its recipients to keep that dedication up. I hope they take excellent care of their clients. I think they will.  I wanted to do something in Cathy’s memory, I can’t think of anything better."

College Foundation Director Marc Guilbeault is thrilled with the contribution and said the money will be put into an endowed account.

"The anticipated goal is that will fund a minimum of one scholarship per year but, of course, depending on economic factors and how well the markets perform we may be able to issue more. It will cover full tuition for at least one student per year for many, many years to come."

Those interested can learn more about the one-year PSW program and Catherine King scholarship by visiting www.lambtoncollege.ca/pswp.

Applications are now open for the January 2021 and September 2021 terms.

There's a virtual open house taking place on Saturday, November 21, where prospective students can live-stream with faculty.

More information can be found at www.lambtoncollege.ca/openhouse.

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