In an effort to bring young volunteers into the Canadian Hemophilia Society (CHS), and in recognition that a sound education is of utmost importance, particularly for those who might not be able to succeed in a vocation requiring strenuous physical labour, the CHS offers the opportunity for those who qualify to receive a scholarship (based on academic merit) or a bursary (based on financial need or for mature students over 30 years of age) in the amount of $5,000 each to attend a postsecondary institution of their choice.
James Kreppner
The CHS James Kreppner Memorial Scholarship and Bursary Program is a posthumous tribute to James Kreppner, a long-time volunteer and member of the CHS Board of Directors, and a highly respected and exemplary activist. He passed away in 2009 from complications related to HIV and hepatitis C. The CHS James Kreppner Scholarship and Bursary Program is an ongoing tribute to James’ dedication, intelligence and commitment to the CHS and community service.
In 2024, the CHS was pleased to award $5,000 scholarships/bursaries to two outstanding applicants. Additional information including the criteria and application forms for the CHS James Kreppner Memorial Scholarship and Bursary Program is available on the website at www.hemophilia.ca/james-kreppner-memorial-scholarship-and-bursary-program. The deadline to submit applications for next year is April 30, 2025.
Growing up with a bleeding disorder, I was originally trapped and confined by this idea of danger in daily activities. Playing outside on uneven ground and on wooden play structures always built frightening scenes of having to run home, bleeding, because I had cut myself or scraped my knees. These ideas struck down my interest for the outdoors but within them I found a love and passion in the science behind why the body produces such deficiencies. Using my own situation as motivation, I have decided to pursue an education in biochemistry as I want to understand what makes up such robust mechanisms within the human body.
In the future, I hope to pay back what was given to me and strive to help others overcome similar challenges. With this in mind, I’d like to thank the James Kreppner Scholarship Review Committee for its support in my endeavours. Without this financial help I would not be able to focus all of my energy into my studies.
Completing my Master’s degree in Intervention and Organizational Change is a major accomplishment, and I’m extremely grateful for the support I’ve received throughout my time at the University of Sherbrooke. My engagement with various community initiatives has enabled me to meet inspiring and dedicated people, ready to make a difference in the lives of others.
As I approach the end of my program in December, I’m determined to continue my active commitment in the community as a consultant. My goal is to contribute to projects aimed at promoting positive organizational change and improving the well-being of individuals within various organizations. Thanks to my training and experience, I’m ready to take on the challenges of the professional world and make a concrete, caring impact on the lives of others.
I would like to express my gratitude to all those who have encouraged and supported me, and to the Scholarship Review Committee who awarded me the James Kreppner bursary. This financial support will enable me to concentrate fully on my studies until the end of December, without the stress associated with tuition fees.
