(left to right) John Johnson, Monica Graves and Sandra Irving

June 9, 2009
UNB Saint John News Release: 09-099
Dan Tanaka, Communications & Public Affairs Manager (506) 648-5697

A high performer graduate from Kiersteadville, New Brunswick will begin classes at the University of New Brunswick in Saint John as a Primrose Scholar. Monica Graves, from Belleisle Regional High School caught the attention of the selection committee for her views on the importance of education to New Brunswick and Canada.

“Living in an eastern Canadian province, we are at an important crossroad looking into the future with the realization that well-informed leaders who possess integrity and vision are essential for our success,” writes Monica. “We need bright, honest, hard-working candidates to pursue political office or hold positions in the civil service so they can provide the necessary leadership for our province and country to advance.”

Her many hours of volunteer and extracurricular activities emphasize her belief in the importance of community. With aspirations to pursue education, there is every chance Monica will have the chance to inspire similar attitudes in others.

“The Primrose is designed for students entering UNB Saint John for the first time and I am always struck by the level of dedication and passion reflected in the applications,” said Dr. John Johnson, Chair of the Primrose selection committee. “I have every belief that Monica will make similar contributions when we welcome her to UNB Saint John in the fall.”

The Primrose Scholarship was created in 2000 by UNB Saint John alumna Sandra Irving. More information about supporting UNB is available online at www.unb.ca/donations, by phone at 1-877-UNB-GIVE or email giving@unbfutures.ca.

Established in 1785, UNB is one of the oldest public universities in North America. It’s also one of the top five comprehensive universities in Canada, according to Maclean’s magazine. UNB has more than 12,000 students from over 100 countries. As the largest research institution in New Brunswick, UNB conducts 80 per cent of the province’s university research. It has more than 3,500 faculty and staff, and an annual operating budget of more than $160 million. UNB’s two main campuses are located in Fredericton and Saint John, N.B.

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