On January 30th, 2020, the first-ever Andy Van Dolder Scholarship was awarded. The scholarship’s first deserving recipient was Leah Simon, who described receiving the award as a big help towards finishing her education.

“I can now focus solely on studying, and my school work instead of having to find a second job to help pay for all my bills with school and at home. This is a major help to me and my family.”

The Andy Van Dolder Scholarship was created in honour of our late founder, father and friend, Andy Van Dolder. Andy possessed an unrivalled passion for home improvement and was known around the region for his gregarious spirit. His scholarship is presented to a student in Georgian College’s Carpentry and Renovation Techniques Program who demonstrates academic merit (+75% average) as well as a commitment to the program and profession— something Andy did for over 56 years. The scholarship is valued at $1,000 and is awarded to a student from the Grey Bruce Simcoe region twice a year.

The entire Home Team family would like to congratulate, Leah Simon on being the first recipient of the Andy Van Dolder Scholarship. We wish her all the best as she finishes her studies and begins her career, and we know that Andy would be proud of the passion she displays for her chosen field.

Information about the Andy Van Dolder Scholarship will be available online in Fall 2020 on Georgian College’s website. If you’d like to learn more about the scholarship in the meantime, we ask that you contact Tim Van Dolder at our Collingwood location so that he can redirect you to the appropriate Georgian College contact.

Congratulations once again, Leah!