Holland College converts pandemic savings into new scholarships

Holland Collegeis diverting money saved during the pandemic to hundreds of new scholarships for students.

In a news release Monday morning, the college announced the Define What's Next Island Entrance Awards would be offered to P.E.I. students starting a new program.

There will be 250 $1,000 entrance awards, awarded by merit, as well as three $10,000 awards that will be selected by random draws.

"We know in our community that many families are struggling because of the pandemic, and we'd like to do something to help," said Holland College president Sandy MacDonald in the news release.

Travel allowances are one area where the college saved money in 2020.

MacDonald said the college wants to encourage more local students to attend.

"We've seen a bit of a dip in our local enrolments and that was one of the other reasons we thought this might be a good idea," he said.

School officials don't know if that dip was caused by the pandemic or if there is something else going on.

The draws for the $10,000 scholarships will be held Feb. 26, March 12, and March 26, and students enrolling before those dates will be automatically entered.

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