A school in Charlotte County is looking for some hope and motivation from Grade 11 and 12 students across Canada.
St. Stephen’s University has launched a campaign seeking Stories That Inspire to thank people who are mentors to high school students.
Dr. Matt Balcarras, director of operations and communications and a psychology professor, said they know the pandemic has meant many challenges for everyone including students, so why not share some positivity.
“We think storytelling is an important part of how we understand the world and how we make the world. We thought this was a natural fit for us as a humanities and liberal arts university to try and start some conversations with young people,” Balcarras said.
Balcarras reflected on his high school science teacher in Fergus, Ont., calling his passion an inspiration.
“Sometimes we call people who care a lot about little things, nerds. I think I realized through Mr. Lamble’s example that it was ok to be a nerd and to care passionately about learning the minutiae of something,” Balcarras said.
Balcarras said they want this campaign to stir up a general sense of gratitude.
“That is what we are really hoping for. For young people, when they take a minute to stop about and think of a teacher or a guidance counsellor that’s been really impactful in their life they will experience that positive energy that comes when you think about other people and how they help us,” Balcarras said.
The campaign comes with prizes including a two-night staycation for the three best nominations.
Stories can be submitted until March 7.
