Before Luke Meloche began to study biochemistry within Trent’s one-of-a-kind Medical Professional Stream (MPS), the first-year student had already answered an inner calling to serve others.  With sights firmly set on a medical career, he is the newest recipient of the Board of Governors’ Leadership Scholarship. 

“Being awarded Trent’s Board of Governors’ Leadership Scholarship is the proudest accomplishment of my life,” explains Mr. Meloche. “I am so grateful to the Board for supporting my education and goals. It’s truly a cherry on top of getting into Trent’s Medical Professional Stream.”

With an overall value of $18,000, the scholarship is awarded to an entering student who has shown outstanding leadership and involvement in their community as well as high academic achievement.

Mr. Meloche coaches a Special Olympics Canada swim team in Peterborough. He has also volunteered in the pediatric department at a Windsor hospital and assisted families with sick children at Ronald McDonald House.

“These causes are important to me as they represent my passion for helping others, especially children and families,” he says. “These experiences inspired me to pursue medicine.”

At Trent, Mr. Meloche plans to work with Tessa Smith, last year’s scholarship recipient and creator of Chattability, an online forum enabling university students with disabilities across Canada to connect and champion their rights.

“I identify as an ally to the disabled community and wish to be an advocate for the rights of those with disabilities here at Trent for the years to come,” says Mr. Meloche.

To enhance his education at Trent and explore career options, Mr. Meloche has secured a volunteer placement in the emergency department at Peterborough Regional Health Centre.