John West Memorial Scholarship

We believe in recognizing our leaders of tomorrow, who've made a positive impact in our community, inspire and give us hope for the future.

We encourage students in our community entering their first year of full-time post-secondary study to apply for the John West Memorial "Leaders of Tomorrow" Scholarship.

The award will honour the achievements of senior students who are entering their first year of full-time post-secondary study at college, university or equivalent.

The awards, valued at $1,000 each, will be distributed to two (2) applicants per year.

Applicants must be a resident of Aurora or attend secondary school in Aurora.

This award would not have been possible without the donation of funds from former Mayor John West, who passed away in December 2013. The former Mayor and long-serving Councillor provided more than two decades of public service to The Town of Aurora between 1979 and 2006.

Application forms for the John West Memorial "Leaders of Tomorrow" Scholarship Award must be accompanied by supporting documentation, including an Individual Contribution Letter, Proof of Post Secondary Acceptance and two Letters of Support. All supporting documentation must be submitted by June 15 of each year.

The Individual Contribution Letter is an opportunity for the student to explain, in their own words, the contributions they’ve made to Aurora over the last four years. The letter can include details of their education, fundraising opportunities, charitable and volunteer services. It can also detail their involvement in local businesses, sports teams, arts or impact on the environment. Students should share any area they’ve been involved in that contributes to the advancement and well-being of our community.

Proof of Post Secondary Acceptance can include letters of acceptance from any post-secondary institution. Students are only required to submit one acceptance.

The two Letters of Support must include one from a teacher or school staff and one from a member of the community. Students should select and request a letter from someone who has supervised or supported them in their contributions to the community.

Students will be evaluated on their contributions and engagement in a range of areas. Students are not required to submit for consideration of all criteria.

• Demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities
• Involvement in worthwhile community service
• Volunteer commitment, giving back to our community
• Acting as an inspirational role model for the Aurora community
• Demonstrated excellence in personal achievements 
• Individuals who are committed to making life better for others
• Have performed an act of heroism or bravery
• Contributed while living with a disability

To be eligible, students must meet the following criteria:

• Graduating secondary student (in this calendar year);
• Acceptance in Post-Secondary Education or equivalent in September; and
• Aurora Resident or attend secondary school in Aurora.

John West Memorial "Leaders of Tomorrow" Scholarship Award - Application Form

We accept applications for the John West Memorial "Leaders of Tomorrow" Scholarship Award until May 1 of each calendar year.

Supporting documents are due no later than June 15 of each calendar year.

Scholarships will be presented after July 1 of each calendar year (the exact date to be announced on an annual basis.)

Please return completed application form no later than May 1 of each calendar year by mail, fax or email. 

Town of Aurora
Community Services Department
c/o John West Memorial "Leaders of Tomorrow" Scholarship Award
Attention: Youth Services
100 John West Way, Box 1000
Aurora, ON L4G 6J1

Fax: 905-726-4734

Email: youth@aurora.ca

If you have any questions, please contact Youth Services at 905-726-4760 or email the Youth Division