An unexpected gift from a NOTL family will help more Niagara College students achieve their dreams this fall.

Niagara-on-the-Lake residents Lauren and Vaughn Goettler have established the Goettler Family Scholarship, which will provide $1,000 scholarships for 12 students.

This fall, scholarships will be given to returning students who demonstrate academic excellence (over 70 per cent average) and financial need.

The Goettler Family Scholarship will be the first in the college’s history from a private donor to assist one student from each main school of study: including academic, liberal and access studies; allied health; community services; justice and fitness; business and management; Canadian Food and Wine Institute; environment and horticulture; hospitality and tourism; media; nursing and personal support worker; technology; and trades.

“In these challenging pandemic times, we are honoured to provide this bursary to acknowledge and reward returning students who are achieving academic excellence, but struggling to meet the financial obligations of their programs, such that financial assistance is required,” the Goettlers said in a statement.

“We are committed to young people who have the vision and dedication to their futures to become all that they can be. While the road may not be easy, it is a worthwhile destination, full of a sense of accomplishment and a life of fulfillment.”

College president Sean Kennedy thanked the family for the donation. “Their gift recognizes the importance of supporting education in Niagara by providing much-needed financial support. It will truly make a difference to our students as they pursue their dreams.”

The Goettlers also said they hope their gift has an additional positive impact.

“It is our sincere hope that by this gesture we may inspire other members of the community to find it in their hearts to do the same,” they said.