KTEI alumni awarded Maplegrove Scholarship

By Kelly Crawford

SUDBURY – Cyndil Corbiere, M’Chigeeng First Nation, is the first recipient of the Maplegrove United Church $7500.00 scholarship.

“I strived; I conquered by facing my fears and following my dreams and goals. I couldn’t have done it without my family, friends, teachers and mentors,” explained Corbiere.

Kenjgewin Teg Educational Institute’s Director of Business and Training, Beverly Roy-Carter spoke on behalf of KTEI.

“Cyndil’s dedication and perseverance toward her education and personal goals have made her not only a role model in our KTEI family, but certainly in her own family, and her home community of M’Chigeeng First Nation on Mnidoo Mnising,” said Roy-Carter.  “She is an exemplary example of what can happen when attitude and belief in oneself does not waiver.”

Corbiere was an Azhiitaawin (Transitions) Program student at Kenjgewin Teg Educational Institute last year. Dr. Pierre Zundel, President and Vice-Chancellor, has been a strong advocate for the Azhiitaawin (Transitions) Program. Zundel is credited for sharing the successes of the program with educational partners. Dr. Zundel expressed great support toward Corbiere at the award press conference.

“Congratulations on your great work!” said Dr. Zundel.

Celina Mantler, Director of Advancement, University of Sudbury, brought a message of support from the church.

“Maplegrove United Church is thrilled that the University of Sudbury has chosen Cyndil Corbiere as this year’s recipient,” said Mantler.

The Maple Grove United Church Scholarship was established to assist Indigenous students in meeting their financial needs during the course of their full-time studies. Cyndil Corbiere, transitioning to the University of Sudbury’s Indigenous Studies program from Kenjgewin Teg Education Institute (KTEI) located in M’Chigeeng First Nation on Manitoulin Island, is the first student to be awarded this scholarship.

Roy-Carter had some inspiring words for Corbiere.

“Cyndil, you have officially flown the KTEI nest and you will be soon going out to share your special gifts with the world!” said Roy-Carter.   “That is all we ask of all our student and graduates of KTEI – that we each find our own special gifts to share with the world to make it a better place.  So behalf of Stephanie and everyone else back at the KTEI team – congratulations, Cyndil – shta–taa–haa– you have so very much to be proud of!”