The Embracing Responsibility Scholarship is dedicated to honoring Barb Hurlbut's exceptional contributions as the former Riverview Aquatic Center coordinator for over three decades.
Established by the Town of Riverview, this $2,000 scholarship aims to honor and support the commitment of lifeguards, swim instructors, and pool staff on and off the pool deck.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a Town of Riverview employee employed at the Pat Crossman Memorial Aquatic Centre and/or the Ken Gabbey Outdoor Community Pool.
- Open to Grade 12 students or those pursuing post-secondary education (Masters, Postdoctoral excluded).
- A Recipient must:
- Attend an Approved School on a full-time basis (as defined by the school);
- Be enrolled in a course of study leading to a first degree/diploma
- At the time of application, applicant must be on track to have worked a minimum of 400 hours of work (roughly 8 hours per week) by the time the scholarship is awarded.
- Applicants must submit an essay showcasing their responsibilities, impact, and leadership skills developed during their tenure.
- Applicants must submit a letter of reference from a senior official at your school (principal, guidance counselor, or teacher) with their contact information.
Application Process: Applicants must submit an online form with their personal details, work experience, and the required essay and reference letter. All applications and supporting documents must be submitted online by 4 p.m. AST on March 1, 2026.
How are recipients chosen?
The recipient of the Embracing Responsibility Scholarship will be announced in Spring 2026. All scholarship finalists will be evaluated and interviewed by a selection committee consisting of former and current Town of Riverview employees.
Key Dates:
- Apply online between now and March 1, 2026.
- Finalists will be notified in March.
- Between March and April, finalists will undergo interviews by the selection committee.
- Applicants will be notified of their status in April/May.
2026 Essay: In up to 500 words, reflect on your responsibilities, impact, and leadership roles at the pool, whether as a lifeguard, swim instructor, or front desk staff. Share how you have contributed to a safe, welcoming, and positive environment, and highlight specific examples of leadership—such as guiding a team, mentoring others, coaching, or supporting community programs.
Describe how these experiences have shaped your skills in communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and decision-making. You may also include leadership roles outside the aquatic environment, such as captaining a sports team, volunteering, or participating in school or community initiatives.
Finally, explain how these experiences have prepared you for the next steps in your post-secondary education and future academic or career pursuits, emphasizing the personal growth and skills you’ve gained through your work at the pool and beyond.
