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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.

2026 recipients

Jack Fry

Jack Fry is a graduate of Hampton High School, where he was captain of the basketball team, played soccer and volleyball, and held a lead role in the school musical.

He is a prolific volunteer, having given time and skills to organizations including Hampton Fire-Rescue, the Dr. V.A. Snow Centre and Hampton Food Bank. Fry is also an entrepreneur, having established and built an auto detailing business in his community.

He is enrolled in the bachelor of science degree program at UNB Saint John.


Sarah Nesbitt

Sarah Nesbitt is a graduate of Kennebecasis Valley High School, where she supported her fellow students as a peer tutor and contributed to the creative design of the school yearbook.

Outside of school, she competes at the provincial and national levels in competitive cheerleading and works as a cheerleading coach for young children. Nesbitt’s volunteer experience includes assisting at a local nursing home and at Saint John Regional Hospital, and serving meals to community members in need through a local church.

She is enrolled in the bachelor of science degree program at UNB Saint John.



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.

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