Each year, the Neil Muth Memorial Scholarship recognizes Columbia Basin students who have overcome adversity to pursue their educational and career goals.
This year, Gorvansh Kapoor of Trail, Alysha Jones and Alexis Robillard of Castlegar, and Caleb Speedie of Salmo will each receive $2,500 to support their post-secondary studies or training as they take their next step toward their chosen path.
Established in 2017, the scholarship honours Neil Muth, the Trust’s President and Chief Executive Officer from 2005 to 2016, who passed away in November 2016. It is awarded by the Muth family, administered by Columbia Basin Trust, and made possible through generous donations from family, friends, local governments and organizations.
“It’s not ever easy to share personal experiences of struggle, grief and loss—especially in a time when so much of our lives are lived online and we may feel pressured to present only our happiest, most polished selves,” said Cathy Muth, Neil’s wife. “Our family deeply appreciates the courage of these students in sharing their stories and dreams. We’re proud to support Gorvansh, Alysha, Alexis and Caleb and wish them the very best as they pursue their educational journeys.”
Neil valued perseverance and lifelong learning. He encouraged his children, staff and others to stay curious, find their own path, and never give up. The Neil Muth Memorial Scholarship recognizes that life’s challenges can be met with resilience, integrity, compassion and a strong commitment to self, family and community.
Alysha Jones – Castlegar
“Do the hard thing—you’ll never know until you try. That mindset has helped me push through profound loss and life experiences that changed how I see the world. Tomorrow isn’t guaranteed, and dreams are worth pursuing.
After 15 years as a care aide in this community, I’m ready to pursue my dream of becoming a registered nurse. I’m deeply grateful to receive the Neil Muth Memorial Scholarship. It eases the financial burden on my family and affirms the strength, resilience and perseverance that have brought me here. I’m honoured and committed to making the most of this opportunity.”
Gorvansh Kapoor – Trail
“I am deeply honoured and grateful to receive the Neil Muth Memorial Scholarship. This support is more than financial—it’s a powerful vote of confidence in my potential and strengthens my resolve to pursue a meaningful career in science.
It allows me to focus more on my studies and less on the financial challenges of higher education. The legacy of Neil Muth inspires me to stay curious, act with integrity and work toward discoveries that make a difference. I’m committed to making the most of this opportunity and contributing to the scientific community in a way that honours his memory.”
Alexis Robillard – Castlegar
“Being on my own at 16 after a difficult upbringing and struggling with my mental and physical health was a challenge I wouldn’t wish on anyone. As a former youth in care, transitioning to adulthood without parental love and support was especially hard. I’m incredibly grateful to the Malinowski family and the social worker who helped me through it.
Receiving the Neil Muth Memorial Scholarship gives me the freedom to focus on my studies in the Rural Pre-Medicine program at Selkirk College and pursue my dream of becoming a doctor. As a teenager, I never imagined I’d make it to post-secondary education—this award makes it possible.”
Caleb Speedie – Salmo
“Thank you to the Muth family and Columbia Basin Trust for this incredible honour. Over the past two and a half years, I’ve faced some very tough moments after unexpectedly losing my father—experiences that could’ve broken me but instead shaped who I am today.
One quote I live by is: ‘The past can hurt. But the way I see it, I can either run from it or learn from it.’ I chose to learn. I’ve become a certified lifeguard and am now in the Youth in Trades program, working toward my first-year Millwright Apprenticeship. I’m proud of how far I’ve come and excited for what’s next. Thank you for being a part of that journey.”
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