On May 20, 2026, Bow Valley College marked a milestone evening on campus—20 years of Celebrating Student Futures and the launch of its inaugural Alumni Awards.
The special event brought together students, alumni and donors to recognize the power of education to change lives—from first steps in the classroom to leadership in careers.
First held in 2006, Celebrating Student Futures began as a small gathering inspired by a donor who wished to personally present an award to a recipient. It has since grown into a meaningful tradition where donors meet the students they support and hear about their experiences.
Student award recipient Gawhartaj Ali, a Practical Nursing student in the School of Health and Wellness who received the Jeam Dream Bursary, shared how the award supported her education during the evening’s program, which was held in the Esmail and Safana Bharwani Theatre on North Campus.
“This award helped me in a meaningful and practical way,” she says. “Like many newcomers, I did not have referrals or connections, but I still had expenses. I used the award to help with my family’s household expenses for several months. It was a huge relief and helped reduce stress, so I could focus more on my studies.”
Her story reflects the impact of donor generosity—not only easing financial barriers but helping students build stronger futures. Gawhartaj also took the opportunity to personally thank her donors.
“Receiving this student award from Carmen Jeam and Jim Robinson means so much to me,” she says. “It is not just financial support—it is encouragement. It shows me that there are kind-hearted people who value my efforts.”
The Jeam Dream Bursary, established by Carmen Jeam and Jim Robinson in memory of Carmen’s parents, supports immigrants pursuing further education and certification in Canada so that they can practice their chosen professions.
Speaking after Ali, Carmen reflected on the intention behind the bursary.
“Hardworking people sometimes need just a little bit of help to succeed, improve their lives and move closer to their dreams,” she says. “We are thrilled that this fund can make the path a little easier for students and professionals as they pursue their education at Bow Valley College.”
Moments like this are at the heart of Celebrating Student Futures, giving donors the opportunity to see the impact of their support firsthand. The evening also included an update on the Open Doors Open Minds campaign, which is now at 94 per cent of its $35-million goal—supporting priorities that help students succeed.
Building on this celebration of student success, the evening also launched the College’s Alumni Awards, recognizing graduates for their professional achievements.
This year’s Alumni Excellence Award recipients include Liz Nandee, founder of Basic Black Designs Inc. and an internationally recognized set designer, and Shona Reilly, director of trade at Calgary Economic Development. Karamjeet Karam, a police officer with the Regina Police Service, received the Emerging Leader Alumni Award.
Their stories demonstrate how Bow Valley College graduates carry their learning forward, building successful careers and making a difference in their communities. Together, they reflect an education that helps launch, advance and evolve careers.
“My time at Bow Valley College shaped me in many ways,” says Karamjeet Karam. “I built meaningful connections, gained valuable knowledge and found mentors who believed in me.”
Karam was recognized for her rapid early-career progression in policing, from completing her Justice Studies Diploma in the School of Community Studies in 2024 to serving with the Regina Police Service in 2025 after completing intensive training at the Saskatchewan Police College.
Together, the stories shared throughout the evening—from current students to accomplished alumni—captured the full journey of a Bow Valley College education.
Celebrating Student Futures and the Alumni Awards serve as a powerful reminder that behind every success story is a community of support—one that helps students begin, persist and ultimately thrive.