www.insideHALTON.com · OAKVILLE BEAVER Friday, May 4, 2012 · 38 Teen wins a scholarship worth $80,000 By Brice Roy SPECIAL TO THE BEAVER There are few opportunities for a student in Canada that are as prestigious or as impactful as a Loran Scholarship. Consequently, only the hardest working, most dedicated and best students earn one. Enter the best. Simon Harmgardt, 18, and his extensive fundraising have been a huge part of the Oakville community for years, and when combined with his stellar academic record and great attitude, it's no surprise he was selected for a Loran Scholarship. At least not to anyone other than Simon. "It's a great honour. There are so many outstanding candidates out there," said Harmgardt. Each year, the four-year Loran Scholarship is offered to up to 30 students nationwide based on several criteria. "It's not just about your marks, we look at character, community service and leadership potential. That's why Simon was selected for those criteria not just his marks although those were good as well," said Jesse Helmer director, communications and development, Canadian Merit Scholarship Foundation. The scholarship includes a renewable $8,000 four-year scholarship from Loran as well as a matching tuition reimbursement by one of the 25 participating universities, a mentoring program that matches scholars up with someone in their field or an alumni at their chosen school and an annual week-long retreat at Algonquin Park with other scholars. All in, the scholarship could be worth up to $80,000. Despite the large sum, the monetary value wasn't the biggest motivator in Harmgardt's application. "Winning the scholarship is more than just the financial award. It's about being part of the Loran family. All the support that it brings in the way of mentorship, networking and personal growth." Harmgardt is no stranger to personal growth. He has started various charities in the community that showcase his talents as well as his dedication. An avid juggler, Harmgardt has taken his show on the road. Simon's Tour of Positivity (STOP) has performed 120 stunt-juggling shows with the proceeds going to various fundraisers. He also has coordinated Teens Organizing Local Entertainment for Seniors (TOLES), which has arranged 70 talent shows for their entertainment. In addition to his showcases, Harmgardt also repairs and redistributes bicycles. His Life Cycle campaign has, to date, refurbished and donated 320 bikes locally and abroad. Harmgardt said he does it just to make a difference. "I love putting a smile on people's face. It makes me happy knowing that I can make a positive difference in somebody's day or life." The application process for the scholarship is a grueling affair where students have to go through several one-on-one and panel interviews both within their region and nationwide as the candidates are whittled down from 3,600. Despite the crowded interview schedule, Harmgardt managed to avoid any nerves while also having a good time. "I love talking and I'm very passionate about my volunteer work. So it wasn't too bad, a little nerve-wracking," said Harmgardt. "It was cool meeting all these kids from across Canada. Everyone was very nice and welcoming. It was just a fun weekend overall." With the scholarship now in the bag Harmgardt is presently focusing on finishing up his last year at T.A. Blakelock High School and preparing to head to Queen's University in the fall for commerce. At Queen's, Harmgardt will be able to grow even further, an essential part of the Loran scholarship. "We're not really giving scholarships for CHANTAL AYOTTE / OAKVILLE BEAVER what you've done. It's more an investment in MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Simon their potential," said Helmer. Harmgardt volunteer entertainer and recipient of Make sure then to invest in Harmgardt The Loran Scholarship. because his stock is expected to skyrocket.