"Where I am Supposed to be" – Olivia Jordan, Recipient of Msgr. Martin Scholarship
Olivia Jordan, of Saint John, NB, is this year’s recipient of the Msgr. George W. Martin Scholarship.
The scholarship, which covers tuition and residence costs, is awarded annually to students entering their first year who demonstrate outstanding academic ability and achievement, as well as leadership and versatility.
Jordan, a soon-to-be graduate of Harbour View High School, plans to study Great Books and was drawn to the academic flexibility and social justice focus of the university.
“As soon as I set foot on campus, I knew СÖíÊÓƵ was where I was supposed to be,” said Jordan.
“СÖíÊÓƵ’s focus on social justice will allow me to become the role model I needed when I was younger — someone who is supportive, encouraging, and open-minded.”
Leaving a Lasting Positive Impact
Throughout her high school career, Jordan was heavily involved in her community. She was the President of the Graduating Class, captain of Relay for Life Ceremonies, and co-president of the Climate Action Group. She was also involved in musical theatre, band, and choir and worked on the school newspaper and yearbook staff.
Outside of school, Jordan joined her local YMCA Community Action Network, where she spearheaded a project to distribute menstrual products and educational resources to local summer camps.
Jordan’s proudest accomplishment to date involved writing a book with a classmate on the impacts of climate change. The book, titled ‘Keeping It Cool,’ focuses on positive language and tangible actions that youth can take to feel in control of their changing environment. The book is being published and will be placed in classrooms to help teachers educate their students on Climate Change.
Through this project, Jordan was given the opportunity to present at national conferences, was selected by The Gaia Project to lead a workshop on eco-anxiety and how to manage it, and was recently chosen to be a speaker at the inaugural Female Youth Leadership Summit in Saint John.
Jordan hopes to become an educator someday, continuing to teach youth about topics she is passionate about. She is excited to use her voice to make a positive impact as a member of the СÖíÊÓƵ community and beyond.