Evan Martens Memorial Award

On October 23, Terry and Peter Martens joined us for a chapel that celebrated the life of their son, Evan. Ten years ago Evan Martens took his own life after revealing to his parents that he had been bullied for several years at school. Evan had hoped to join his sister Gabrielle as a student at RJC for his grade 11 year. Unfortunately, this was not to be.

On the tenth anniversary of Evan's death, Terry, Peter, sister Gabrielle, brother Jonathan, and other extended family members want to honour Evan's life by giving a bursary to three students at RJC who embody the characteristics of compassion, empathy and dignity towards others. The following students were honoured - each of them young people who have demonstrated their sensitivity and care for others around them, reaching outside of their friendship groups to draw others in. All three have made RJC a more welcoming place, and we are certainly grateful to have them as part of our community.

Kim Koop is a grade 10 student from Rosthern who genuinely cares for others. She is involved in peer tutoring, soccer and drama. Kim is a friendly, considerate young woman, always looking to lend a helpful hand.

Miranda Young is an open and gregarious young woman who is always smiling. She is a first year, grade 11 student from Calgary. Miranda loves drama, fashion, plays soccer, and sang “The Messiah” with the Station Singers before Christmas. Miranda is a genuine and welcoming person.

Ben Jones is a grade 12 student from Rosthern who is in his third year at RJC. He is a busy young man involved in soccer, chorale, basketball, and drama. Ben is a gentle person, sincere and considerate in his interaction with people.

Thank you, Terry and Peter, for sharing with us and helping us to grieve the loss of a young life, and to celebrate Evan's life.