The moment Kallen Velker’s (’22) name was announced as the winner of the Legacy Award at Calgary Academy’s Class of 2022 graduation ceremony, she was “shocked.” Greeted with cheers and claps from her peers and teachers as she made her way up to the stage, she knew all her hard work throughout her CA experience had come full circle.
Kallen, who started at CA in Grade 4, is currently studying at Mount Royal University with hopes to study Interior Design. Between a rigorous training schedule for competitive Irish dance and her school studies, Kallen credits winning the Legacy Award scholarship for easing the financial stress that comes with pursuing your passions and dreams—thanks in part to the Shaw Birdies for Kids presented by AltaLink fundraiser, running from now until August.
“Winning the Legacy Award was just a reminder that I can do anything and that I’m capable of balancing all the things that are on my plate, even when times get hard.” – Kallen Velker
Leaving a Legacy
The Legacy Award was created by Grade 12 students in 2020 to leave their mark on future graduating classes and is maintained through various fundraising initiatives throughout the year to recognize one deserving student at their graduation ceremony each May. Nominees must demonstrate how they have a positive impact on the CA community and how winning the award will impact them, wherever their path leads.
“It’s important to know that the Legacy Award is a community initiative. A lot of times, the students who win awards want to give back to the school community that’s given them so much. This award is valuable for current students to see how everyone can make an impact and think about the legacy they can leave behind here.” – Mike Ross, Senior School Assistant Principal
Your Support is Vital for the CA Community
Shaw Birdies for Kids presented by AltaLink is an important fundraiser to strengthen the CA community—and it looks different every year. Last year, the funds raised set Kallen up for success as she pursues her dreams. This year, funds raised will transform the current Junior Science Lab into an enhanced STEM hub.
This renovation will further incorporate modern technology into lessons to strengthen student learning and prepare them for a future in our rapidly changing and technology-driven world. The best part? Not only are 100% of donations given back to CA, but Birdies for Kids will match it by 50%.
“We at Calgary Academy are honoured to be chosen as one of the charities of choice by Shaw Birdies for Kids presented by AltaLink for the second year in a row. Their slogan ‘Helping Kids, Changing Lives’ is a powerful testament to the efforts of Shaw, AltaLink, and the original Patron Group who brought this vision to life.” – Debra Klippenstein, Director of Philanthropy
To donate to Shaw Birdies for Kids presented by AltaLink, click here.