TORONTO, October 28, 2004 -- For the second year in a row, York University student Tamara Gordon will be a recipient of the prestigious Harry Jerome Scholarship. 

 

“We are very proud of Tamara,” said Robert Tiffin, Assist Vice-President, Enrollment Management and Registrar at York University, “She has overcome many challenges in her life and her dedication and perseverance are an inspiration to us.”

 

Photo: Tamara Gordon

 

Tamara was an outstanding athlete and an excellent student who suffered a spinal cord injury in February 2002, while on her high school downhill skiing trip.  As a result of the incident she sustained spinal cord and brachial plexus injuries.  She is paralyzed from the waist down and has lost the use of her dominant hand.  In December 2002, she developed a very serious case of diabetes, which affected her eyesight.

 

While in the rehabilitation centre, Tamara continued her high school studies and graduated with an over 90% average.  She has received several certificates of acknowledgement, awards and scholarships for academic excellence and community involvement, including an entrance scholarship to York University.  She is presently pursuing her degree in Bachelor of Administrative Studies Honours degree.  In spite of many obstacles and challenges in attending university, Tamara has still been able to maintain a high average in her academic studies. 

 

Tamara is involved in a variety of community activities.  She is a peer support volunteer with the Canadian Paraplegic Association, Ontario; spending much time with children and youth who have suffered spinal cord injuries, especially those in rehab facilities.  She is engaged in motivational speaking in an effort to reach out to as many people as possible to encourage them to strive for success despite their circumstances.  Some of her speaking events include the Harry Jerome fundraising, Jennifer Ashleigh foundation fundraising, churches, schools, and community awards ceremonies.

 

The Harry Jerome Scholarships are awarded annually to students of Black African ancestry who are enrolled in a post-secondary program.  The scholarships are awarded for academic excellence, demonstrated financial need and recognized contribution to the community. The scholarships are administered through a trust fund established by the Black Business and Professional Association (Registered Charity No.108073503).

 

The ceremony will be held on October 29, 2004, at TD Bank Financial Group, TD Towers, 54th Floor, 66 Wellington Street West, Toronto, starting at 5:30 p.m.  Accompanying her will be Robert Tiffin, along with her mother. Marcia Gordon and her former high school teacher, Joanne Abeles.

 

-30-

For further information, the media should contact:

George McNeillie, Assistant Director, Media Relations, York University, 416-736-2100 ext. 22091/ gmcneil@yorku.ca