Michael J. Burke Memorial Bursary in Millwork and Carpentry

Born in Bathurst, NSW, Australia, Mike Burke (1940 – 2008) played professional rugby before completing a two-year training program and becoming a teacher at the age of 20; he later completed his education degree part-time. In 1967, he and his young family emigrated to Canada, settling in Edmonton. Mike and his wife Frances became teachers with Edmonton Public Schools, where he spent many years in various roles—-teacher, coach, assistant principal, and principal—-in junior and senior high schools. Mike’s easy-going nature, infectious sense of humor, and remarkable empathy made him a much-loved mentor to students and staff alike. He believed in second chances, hard work, and going the extra mile for others. At the time of his retirement, he had spent 45 years teaching in Australia and Canada. In his leisure time, Mike was a remarkable woodworker, building everything from remote-controlled yachts to carving delicate pieces of sculpture from exotic and native woods. His nativity scenes, Christmas ornaments, and stingrays were much-cherished gifts to family and friends. This award is endowed in Mike’s honor in recognition of his deep humanity and great friendship by Carla Cumming Sojonky and the late Frank Sojonky.

Available to first-year students enrolled in the Millwork and Carpentry program. Awarded on the basis of
demonstrated financial need and satisfactory academic achievement. Students must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Preference given to Alberta residents.

Students must complete the application to be considered for this award.