This year’s provincial multiculturalism and human rights scholarship is going to an Auburn Drive High School student.

Channing Wright will receive the $6,000 Dr. P. Anthony (Tony) Johnstone Memorial Entrance Scholarship today, June 26, at his graduation ceremony.

Mr. Wright said it is important to respond to gender identity, mental health and sexual orientation issues.

“I think this scholarship is a great opportunity for young people to be a part of what they believe in,” he said. “My vision is to one day improve the quality of life for people who have been pushed to the side. I am committed to working hard in university and taking advantage of opportunities to help improve my life as well as others.”

In his spare time, Mr. Wright volunteers with a number of community groups, including the Little Dribblers basketball program, Global Tours, the New Beginnings Ministry Youth group and church, and Youth on the Move.

“Channing Wright is an outstanding role model for today’s youth,” said Labour and Advanced Education Minister Kelly Regan. “Along with excelling in school, he spends his time coaching young children and teaching teenagers the importance of equality.”

Mr. Wright plans to attend Saint Mary’s University in the fall, before pursuing a degree in law.

The scholarship is awarded annually to a Nova Scotia student graduating from high school and beginning an undergraduate degree program at a Maritime university in the fall. The applicant must have demonstrated an interest in multiculturalism and human rights.

This year, 62 eligible applications were reviewed.

Nova Scotia established the scholarship in 1991 to honour the life and work of the late Tony Johnstone, a long-time educator and human rights advocate who devoted his life to promoting multicultural understanding and social equality.

Source: Release