Niagara-on-the-Lake Horticutural Society Scholarships

Niagara-on-the-Lake Horticultural Society is proud to provide two scholarships each year for students enrolled in local horticultural programs. One student each year at Niagara Parks School of Horticulture and Niagara College School of Environment and Horticulture will be awarded a scholarship to assist in continued studies.  

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“With support, we as horticulturists can continue to change the world for the better." 

Alex Carrick, 2024 Niagara Parks School of Horticulture scholarship recipient.

 

In the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake, the Horticultural Society nurtures more than just gardens - we cultivate future horticultural talent. 

 

Each year, the Society provides two important scholarships: one for a student at the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture and another for a student in the Niagara College Horticulture Program.

 

These scholarships are funded through the Society's signature annual events, including the Gardener's Garden Tour and the Annual Plant Sale.

 

By supporting these young students, the Society ensures the continued growth and passion for horticulture in the community, helping budding gardeners and environmental stewards take root and flourish.

 

The scholarships represent more than just financial support—they are a testament to the Society’s commitment to education, community, and the future of gardening and environmental preservation.

 

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Niagara Parks - Scholarship recipient

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Horticulture: A Path to Hope and Change

 

In a heartwarming display of passion and determination, the NOTL Horticultural Society’s 2024 scholarship recipient Alex Carrick has shared her inspiring journey into the world of horticulture. This young visionary's story is a testament to the power of nature in shaping careers and fostering environmental stewardship.

 

The recipient's love for horticulture was first kindled during a middle school tour of Red River College's greenhouse. "The greenhouse immediately felt like a home to me," she recalls. This early experience, coupled with her participation in climate rallies during high school, solidified her commitment to making a positive impact on the environment.

 

"I felt then that I wanted to make some impact, no matter how small, to do my part in the fight against climate change," she explains. "Horticulture seemed like the most impactful way to achieve this goal."

 

Her time at the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture (SOH) proved transformative, particularly through a mentorship program led by instructor Kris Mahoney. This experience opened her eyes to the diverse applications of horticultural knowledge beyond traditional landscaping.

 

"The creation of accessible third spaces, the sharing of knowledge both practical and theoretical, and the healing properties of nature: these are our superpowers," she asserts. "It does us a disservice to pretend it's any less."

 

Looking ahead, Carrick envisions a unique business venture: a tropical plant bakery/cafe. This innovative concept aims to provide a space where people can "enjoy nature within the comfort of the indoors" while fostering community engagement.

 

Expressing gratitude for the NOTL Horticultural Society scholarship, she emphasizes its importance in supporting students and promoting the field. "With support, we as horticulturists can continue to change the world for the better, encouraging students to pursue the field in a world increasingly less aware of what horticulture has to offer," she concludes.

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Niagara College Horticultural and Environment Program

Recipient description to follow