Linda Hoy
Recipients of the Lampe Foundation’s spring 2025 scholarships and awards gather for a group photo following the May 21 ceremony in Sherbrooke, where $40,200 was distributed to students across the Eastern Townships
Lampe Foundation expands its legacy with new scholarships and heartfelt tributes
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
The Lampe Foundation marked another milestone on May 21 with the presentation of 28 scholarships and awards, totalling $40,200, to students across the Eastern Townships. The spring awards ceremony, held in Lennoxville, also paid special tribute to longtime supporter and renowned broadcaster Dian Cohen, who passed away a few weeks ago. “She was instrumental in growing the reach of the Lampe Foundation,” said Sharon Priest, a volunteer leader with Lampe. “She will be sorely missed by Lampe and all who knew her.”
Founded over 30 years ago, the Lampe Foundation operates as the charitable arm of Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) Sherbrooke & District. Entirely volunteer-run and funded without government support, the Foundation focuses on providing financial and mentorship support to students pursuing post-secondary education. Since 1993, Lampe has distributed more than $650,000 in awards, with funds raised through donations, partnerships, and community support.
Three new scholarships were unveiled this year, each representing unique partnerships and personal legacies.
The Golden Rule Chapter #1 Royal Arch Masons Scholarship was established to mark the Masons’ 200th anniversary. It is earmarked for a Bishop’s University student with aspirations in architecture or engineering. Originally set at $1,200, the award was increased to $1,500 just before the ceremony. “The student didn’t know the amount had been raised,” said Priest. “It was quite exciting to make that surprise announcement thanks to the continued fundraising efforts of the Masons.”
Another new award is the Melissa Bowman-Pieters Athletic Scholarship, created in memory of Bowman-Pieters, a passionate athlete who excelled in varsity soccer at both the CEGEP and university levels. The scholarship is awarded to a student-athlete from the Eastern Townships enrolled in CEGEP or university and playing varsity sports. “She was the daughter of our president and someone many of us remember fondly,” said Priest. “It means a great deal to see her memory honoured this way.”
The third is the Lampe-Tillotson Champlain Science Scholarship, created in collaboration with the Tillotson Coaticook Region Fund. It supports a graduating student from Champlain College Lennoxville who is pursuing university studies in science. The scholarship reflects Lampe’s continued investment in students from rural areas and its commitment to supporting youth in STEM fields.
In addition to these new offerings, Lampe continues to fund dozens of long-standing awards. In 2024 alone, the Foundation gave out 52 awards totalling $61,250 across vocational training centres, CEGEPs, universities, and high schools. Financial support was bolstered by $61,373 in investment revenue and $41,221 in donations, according to Lampe’s Fast Facts financial summary.
Award winners were previously featured in local media in both May and November, highlighting the stories and aspirations of students from across the region. This spring’s ceremony continued that tradition while celebrating Lampe’s evolving legacy.
“Over the past 30 years, we’ve grown from a modest fund of $20,000 to more than $1.1 million,” said Priest. “We’ve seen hard times—COVID was tough—but the community continues to step up. These new endowed scholarships are a testament to that.”
Lampe’s impact extends beyond dollars and cents. As the charitable foundation for CFUW Sherbrooke & District, it provides a framework of support to students who demonstrate leadership potential and dedication to their communities. “It’s about more than funding,” said Priest. “It’s about encouraging students to become the future leaders and professionals our region needs.”
More information, including the full 2024 Report to Community, will be posted at www.lampefoundation.org when available.