Learners of Today, Leaders of Tomorrow - 4th edition of scholarship program to deliver 37 scholarships to deserving CEGEP students for total of $152,000

MONTREAL, April 26, 2012 /CNW Telbec/ - In only four years, the Regroupement des fondations collégiales de Montréal (RFCM) has rewarded 148 college students who have achieved excellence in their programs of study with more than $152,000 in scholarships.

This year's edition, being held on May 1, 2012 at the Sheraton Centre Montreal, will see 36 scholarships valued at $1,000 each awarded to 36 students. The evening will also include the awarding of a 37^th scholarship, the jury's special Coup de coeur. The host for the evening is actor Macha Limonchik, a graduate of Cégep de Saint-Laurent.

The Regroupement of Montreal's 12 on-island college foundations was launched with the objective of showcasing the work of the CEGEPs in preparing students to become leaders for the next generation. They will become a dynamic force in both business and in society in general. The annual gala is the culmination of a competition that invites the CEGEPs' most accomplished and ambitious students to vie for the scholarships.

To illustrate the link between CEGEP studies and future economic strength, each award recipient is partnered with a representative from a company or organization who bestows the scholarship. Since its inception, the TD Bank has been on board as title sponsor of the annual gala, although this year, they have shared the honour with six other banks - BMO Financial, CIBC, RBC Royal Bank, ScotiaBank, Mouvement Desjardins and National Bank - in a show of support for the work of the Regroupement.

"Education is a key priority in TD Bank's support initiatives. We firmly believe that support for education will help build the next generation. We are proud to be a partner, for the fourth year running, of an event that rewards these students in their pursuit of excellence." said Sylvie Demers, President of the Affinity Market, TD Insurance, and president of the jury for selection of award recipients.

The 12 on-island CEGEPs educate more than 50,000 people each year in more than 60 programs of study in the pre-university, career and Continuing Education streams, most representing economic sectors within Quebec society. Over more than 40 years, some 415,000 students have received a College diploma from a Montreal CEGEP with the intent of going on to university or entering the workforce. CEGEPs play a large part in shaping the economic landscape.

Donna Varrica, President, RFCM
Director, Communications, Dawson College
[phone] ext. 1352