For students at Sir John A. Macdonald High School

Robert Sampson was a plumber by trade and an educator and humanitarian by nature. Robert worked in various roles at the Nova Scotia Community College where his greatest enjoyment and contribution was acting as a coach and mentor. His special talent was helping others recognize and nurture their own unappreciated potential. Robert loved to see those who were struggling go on to succeed, and he encouraged everyone around him to do this with his positive pep talks, infectious enthusiasm and good humour.

Robert knew his own success was not predicted by his academic scores, but resulted from the help he received from others and his own strong values. He was always keen to “pay forward” the help that he received.

Robert graduated from Sir John A. Macdonald High School in 1978 as the class co-president who continued to bind his class together for 30 years. At reunions, Robert repeatedly proposed that the group create a scholarship at SJA and so this Award is an attempt to capture Robert’s spirit by supporting an SJA student with his qualities.

Eligibility Criteria

Grade 12 students at Sir John A. Macdonald High School who plan to continue their studies after graduating and who embody the humanitarian and nurturing qualities of Robert Sampson are eligible for this Award. There is no application process; instead students must be nominated by an SJA teacher.

Selection Criteria

Candidates will be adjudicated on the extent to which they have demonstrated the following qualities: compassion, integrity, leadership ability, respect for the entire school community and overall positive impact on the world. Financial need will be a consideration, but not a requirement.

Award Frequency

Typically there will be one annual Award. However, the Donor reserves the right to give this Award on a more or less frequent basis as income levels and the Foundation permit.