On October 3, 2023, Bow Valley College was proud to announce the official naming of the John and Bobbie Currie Executive Boardroom on the seventh floor of our South Campus in honour of Bow Valley College’s inaugural chair of our Board of Governors, the late John Currie. John’s support, determination and vision led to the successful transition of Alberta Vocational College to a Board-Governed institution, the Bow Valley College we know today. John Currie served as board chair from 1998 to 2004.

John’s vision was to ensure that education was accessible for all, and thanks to an anonymous $1 million gift, Bow Valley College has established the John and Bobbie Currie Finish Line Fund in honour of John and his wife Bobbie. This fund will provide 10 awards annually at $2000 each to deserving students who require emergency financial support to continue their education. In recognition of this generous gift, we are thrilled to name the boardroom in our executive offices in honour of John’s legacy and his commitment to college education in our city.

“John's unwavering dedication and unyielding belief in the power of education laid the foundation for the Bow Valley College we know today. We are supporting our commitment to making education accessible to all, regardless of age, background, or financial situation,” shared Bow Valley College President and CEO Dr. Misheck Mwaba at an intimate naming celebration. “John was a remarkable individual whose vision and leadership have left an indelible mark on our institution.”

President Emerita Sharon Carry also shared important and inspirational stories about the College’s origins and spoke to John’s dedication to the institution.

The funding made possible by this gift makes a real difference in the lives of students – students like Beenish Azmat, one of the first recipients of the John and Bobbie Currie Finish Line Award.

“This scholarship helps me focus on my studies instead of my financial difficulties, and to pursue my academic and career goals,” notes Beenish, a graduate of the Early Childhood Education and Development program in 2022. “I feel so supported.”

Support like this is made possible thanks to the generosity of our donors, who believe in the power of education to change lives. To learn more about how you can be a champion for a student’s education, visit www.bowvalleycollege.ca/giving. Help us inspire a brighter future for all our students.