Empowering the future: Hazel Smart-Patterson establishes scholarship to inspire women in STEM at Algonquin College. 

Posted on Monday, April 15th, 2024

OTTAWA — April 15, 2024 – Hazel Smart-Patterson, a distinguished alumna of Algonquin College, is paving the way for women pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) programs with the establishment of the Hazel Smart-Patterson Scholarship. 

With a visionary pledge of $100,000, Hazel Smart-Patterson aims to ease financial constraints and ignite the ambitions of female students entering their third or fourth year of full-time STEM studies at Algonquin College. 

Patterson, a woman of incredible insight and experience, sees education as a transformative force. With a nod to the evolving landscape in the world of business, Patterson shared her conviction that women deserved the spotlight in STEM fields, emphasizing the wide array of choices available. 

“The Hazel Smart-Patterson Scholarship is a testament to my belief in the transformative power of education. It is a commitment to providing women the opportunity to excel in STEM fields,” said Patterson. “Education opens doors, and my hope is that this scholarship will serve as a catalyst for success for those who might otherwise face financial barriers.” 

“Hazel’s generous gift is not just a financial contribution; it’s a powerful message of support and belief in our students’ potential,” said Mark Savenkoff, Vice President, Advancement and Strategy, Algonquin College. “Her dedication to nurturing female talent in STEM fields is inspiring. This scholarship will have a profound impact, breaking down barriers and opening new horizons for our students. It reflects a shared vision of empowering women to excel and innovate, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive future in these critical fields. We are immensely grateful to Mrs. Smart-Patterson for her visionary support and the opportunities it creates for our students.” 

A graduate of Algonquin College’s Business Management program, Patterson understands the challenges faced by students juggling work and education. Her personal journey, marked by perseverance and commitment, fuelled her desire to provide an advantage to women navigating similar paths.  

Her desire to support women through the scholarship stemmed from the positive experience she had following previous donations to the College – the gratitude expressed by recipients who might not have graduated without her support. “That makes me feel so good to get that feedback,” said Patterson. 

Patterson’s contributions extend beyond financial support; they represent an investment in the empowerment and encouragement of future generations of women. In a world where financial constraints pose challenges for many, Hazel Smart-Patterson’s commitment to supporting women in STEM stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity. 

For more information about the Hazel Smart-Patterson Scholarship, please contact advancement@algonquincollege.com .

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For media inquiries:  

Megan Fraser  
Communications Officer  
Algonquin College 

fraserm2@algonquincollege.com 
613-302-0138 

About Algonquin College   

The mission of Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology is to transform hopes and dreams into lifelong success. Algonquin College, an Ontario public sector community college, does this by offering hands-on, digitally connected, experiential learning in more than 250 programs. Algonquin College is the largest polytechnic institute in Eastern Ontario, with campuses in Ottawa, Perth, Pembroke and AC Online.  


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