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Wesley Finck and Min Ji Kim have been named the University of New Brunswick’s recipients of the prestigious Schulich Leader Scholarships worth $80,000 and $60,000 respectively.

Created in 2011 by Canadian business leader and philanthropist Seymour Schulich, this annual scholarship program encourages promising high school graduates to embrace science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in their future careers. This year, there were 1,250 Schulich Leader Nominees from across Canada vying for these 50 new scholarships. Now in its fourth year, 170 students from across the country are Schulich Leader Scholars, and have received $11 million in support.

Wesley Finck, 17, is the recipient of the award valued at $80,000. A graduate of Pemberton Secondary School in Pemberton, BC, Finck will be entering UNB’s bachelor of engineering program this fall. Finck was one of the top students at his high school, where he was a member of the graduation class committee, served on the Link Leader program and was an all-star receiver with his community’s football program. He also played several other sports, including volleyball and baseball and was a member of the community’s dragon boat team. Additionally, he is active in the Seed-to-Mentorship program, an initiative that helps promote development of the local agricultural sector.

Min Ji Kim, 20, is the recipient of the award valued at $60,000. A graduate of Simonds High School in Saint John, New Brunswick, Kim will be entering the Bachelor of Science program this fall. Kim was selected for her strong academic performance at high school, where she served as a student council treasurer and as a member of numerous student groups, including Teens Against Drunk Driving. She is also an accomplished musician, with an ability to play eight instruments. She volunteered extensively in the community, including with the Horizon Health Network and her Sea Cadet troop. Kim also participated in Shad Valley, a summer enrichment program for top high school students in Canada.

 “Fostering leadership in STEM fields is vital to Canada’s economic prosperity,” said Seymour Schulich. “It is immensely important to invest in the next generation of technology innovators as they develop and hone their minds and skills to contribute to our national and global community. This country has already produced exceptional Schulich Leaders since its founding in 2011. Every year, our mission is to support outstanding students in pursuit of their dreams.”  

About Schulich Leader Scholarships

Schulich Leader Scholarships are prestigious entrance scholarships awarded to high school graduates enrolling in a Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) undergraduate program at participating universities in Canada and Israel. Recognizing the increasing importance and impact that STEM disciplines will have on the prosperity of future generations, businessman and philanthropist Seymour Schulich established this $100 million scholarship fund in 2012 to encourage our best and brightest students to be the next pioneers of global scientific research and innovation. This program awards 100 scholarships annually, valued at more than $5 million. Schulich Leaders can devote their full time and attention to their studies, as all of their financial needs are covered over the course of their degree. As a result, many of our highest potential students are winning these scholarships and will make great contributions to society.

About University of New Brunswick

The University of New Brunswick (UNB) is Canada's oldest English-language university. Founded in 1785, the multi-campus institution has a rich history and a dynamic focus on innovation, experiential learning and entrepreneurship.  UNB has more than 10,500 students from nearly 100 countries while several thousand more take UNB courses online and at partner institutions around the world.

For more information visit www.schulichleaders.com

Media contact: Natasha Ashfield