Global Site Navigation (use tab and down arrow)

Giving to UNB

The Arthur and Sandra Irving Primrose Scholarship

Former and current Primrose Scholars gathered at the home of Arthur and Sandra Irving (front row, far left) for the 2019 annual luncheon.

"University of New Brunswick Saint John Primrose Scholars continue to make the world a better place."
- Sandra Irving

The Arthur and Sandra Irving Primrose Scholars at the University of New Brunswick (UNB) have gone on to become outstanding doctors, engineers, nurses, scientists, business leaders, entrepreneurs and artists in New Brunswick and across the country. They are a community of scholars who serve as important mentors and inspire others.

UNB in Saint John welcomes high school students to apply for the Arthur and Sandra Irving Primrose Scholarship. The four-year renewable scholarship is valued at $40,000 ($10,000 annually) in support of students attending UNB Saint John for their undergraduate education.

The scholarship, designed to support students entering their first year at UNB Saint John, recognizes academic achievement, community involvement and athletic leadership. It was established by UNB Saint John alumna Sandra Irving (BA'95), who spearheaded the initial fundraising activities to first award the scholarship in 2000.

Arthur and Sandra Irving renewed their commitment to the Arthur and Sandra Irving Primrose Scholarship in 2016 with a $2 million gift. Arthur and Sandra are involved in the selection of the recipients and develop long lasting relationships with the scholars who they invite to the Primrose Scholars Luncheon at their home each summer. The Primrose Scholars have a strong networking community and stay in touch with each other long after their time at UNB Saint John.

2023 recipients

Kate McLeod is a graduate of Simonds High School in Saint John, where she was a member of the students’ council and played volleyball and field hockey. Her wide-ranging volunteer experience in her community has seen her assisting with preschoolers, nursing home residents and individuals experiencing homelessness.

Kate is enrolled in the bachelor of business administration degree program, and signed with the UNB Saint John Seawolves women’s volleyball team for the 2023-24 varsity season.


Avery Thomas of Hampton comes to UNB from Hampton High School, where she won numerous academic awards and participated in extracurricular activities including the school’s climate action team and greenhouse and gardening club. Among her extensive volunteer experience is time creating and coordinating her school’s recycling maintenance education program and assisting with local elementary school events. She is passionate about teaching and has spent many hours, both within and outside of school, pursuing her passion and enriching her skills through a school co-op education opportunity.

Avery is enrolled in the bachelor of arts degree program.



How to apply

To apply for this scholarship, please submit:

  • A cover letter requesting consideration
  • A resume emphasizing extracurricular activities
  • Your latest high school transcript
  • A 500-word essay on "How would this scholarship make a difference in your life?"

Submit your application by March 1, either by mail or email. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, emailing your application is preferred.

By mail: The Arthur and Sandra Irving Primrose Scholarship, c/o Student Recruitment, UNB Saint John, PO Box 5050, Saint John NB, E2L 4L5

By email: tellmemore@unb.ca

Contact us

For questions about The Arthur and Sandra Irving Primrose Scholarship, contact us at 1-877-SJFORME (753-6763) or tellmemore@unb.ca.

Other resources