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Orangeville student wins prestigious Loran Award

April 28, 2022   ·   0 Comments

An Orangeville District Secondary School (ODSS) student has a big reason to celebrate.

Out of 5,174 applications, ODSS student Jack Gillies was named one of 35 Loran Scholars for 2022 for demonstrating a firm commitment to character, service and leadership potential; breadth in academic and extra-curricular interests; integrity; and a high level of personal autonomy. 

Although the past two years have been marked by unprecedented disruption, the 35 newly selected scholars have demonstrated resourcefulness and determination, finding ways to make the most of these extraordinary circumstances and meaningfully serve their communities across Canada. 

In his time at ODSS, Gillies has been involved in cross country, running, track & field, Student Senate, the Ontario Ethics Bowl, One Voice One Team, the Big Questions Club, DSA, and more.

Gillies said that each on his extracurricular involvements taught him important lessons about resilience, communication, leadership and community.

“These have been some of the experiences that helped shape how important community is in my life and decision making,” he said. 

“Being named as a 2022 Loran Scholar has been a great honour, and I can’t help but acknowledge the opportunities that allowed me to get here,” Gillies added.

“I have truly worked hard in each opportunity presented to me, but without the chance to work on a farm, coach ski racing, get involved in extracurriculars, or participate in the Believe Leadership Course, I can’t imagine I would be where I am now. I could not be more proud and grateful to take the lessons given to me by family, friends and role models and enter university with the financial stability and mentorship of the Loran Award. Having this support will allow me to get involved in enriching new ways and continue to learn from all those who I am able to meet.”

Loran believes that strong character and integrity are a better measure of a person’s long-term potential than standard academic measures. What makes this award unique is that it is not a reward for past accomplishments, but an investment in a potential future path of high impact. Loran poses a lifelong challenge to its scholars to live lives of service grounded in responding to community needs and taking on significant leadership roles, to create positive change.

As recipients of the Loran Award, scholars receive opportunities to explore, develop, and share their talents over four years of undergraduate study at one of our 25 partner universities. The Loran Award includes financial support in the form of a living stipend and tuition waiver; a comprehensive, four-year leadership enrichment program; and opportunities to build community with a diverse network of values-driven peers, mentors, alumni, and supporters.

“Congratulations Jack! We are so excited to see what the future holds, and we wish you all the best,” said the Upper Grand District School Board in a recent press release.

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