Algoma University’s John R. Rhodes Scholarship Dinner and Art Auction raised a record $250,000 to support student scholarships.

This event, held at the Machine Shop, also celebrated Orlando M. Rosa as the 2024 honoree.

Rosa was recognized for her exceptional leadership, dedication to education and deep commitment to the Sault Ste. Marie, where his career as an attorney with the Wishart Law Firm spanned more than four decades.

“I am deeply humbled to be named this year’s winner,” Rosa said in a press release issued today.

“Algoma University holds a special place in my heart because of its commitment to education and empowering future generations, and I am truly grateful for this recognition. I am proud to be part of a community that values ​​learning and gives back to ensure students have the opportunities they need to thrive. I hope this event continues to pave the way for tomorrow’s leaders.

The evening also celebrated this year’s John R. Rhodes Scholarship winner, Lisa Brisson, a freshman biology major.

For more information, see the press release below.

Algoma University proudly celebrated Orlando M. Rosa as the 2024 recipient at the sold-out John R. Rhodes Scholarship Dinner and Art Auction at The Machine Shop. The event raised an astounding $250,000, making it the largest fundraiser in the event’s history and a huge success in supporting scholarships.

Rosa was recognized for her exceptional leadership, dedication to education and deep commitment to the Sault Ste. Marie, where his career as an attorney with the Wishart Law Firm spanned more than four decades.

“I am deeply honored to be named this year’s winner,” said Mr. Rosa. “Algoma University holds a special place in my heart because of its commitment to education and empowering future generations, and I am truly grateful for this recognition. I am proud to be part of a community that values ​​learning and gives back to ensure students have the opportunities they need to thrive. I hope this event continues to pave the way for tomorrow’s leaders.

The evening also celebrated this year’s John R. Rhodes Scholarship recipient, first-year biology student Lisa Brisson, reinforcing Algoma University’s commitment to fostering the next generation of community leaders.

“With sincere gratitude, we celebrate the record-breaking success of this year’s John Rhodes Scholarship Dinner and Fine Art Auction,” said President and Vice Chancellor Asima Vezina, PhD. “This incredible achievement would not have been possible without the dedication of our remarkable volunteers, whose passion and commitment brought this event to life. Our community and its unwavering support continue to remind us of the role community plays in the success of our students and our university. Special thanks to our awardee Orlando M. Rosa and his family for their generosity in creating the new Orlando & Rose Rosa Endowed Scholarship, announced last night; this new scholarship will support students in the Algoma district. Together, with the spirit of service embodied by Lisa Brisson, this year’s John Rhodes Scholarship recipient, we are keeping our youngest leaders in the making and our brightest minds locally. Thank you, Thank you, Chi-Miigwetch, to everyone who made this memorable evening possible.

The success of this year’s event is a testament to the dedication of the Rhodes Scholarship Committee, whose passion, hard work and unwavering commitment have played a central role in its unprecedented achievements. Through their efforts, they continue to honor the legacy of John Rhodes by creating life-changing opportunities for Algoma University’s future leaders.

Visit our website to explore the enduring legacy of John R. Rhodes and his namesake scholarship. Those motivated to contribute to this important cause can make donations to algomau.ca/donate/.

All photos from the event will be uploaded to our online site gallery.