News

Ontario Tech University Launches Black Youth Visionary Program with Scotiabank Funding

Justin Barber

01 Apr 2025 — 1 min read

Ontario Tech University in Oshawa announced it launched the Black Youth Visionary Program in January 2025, supported by a $500,000 contribution from Scotiabank's ScotiaRISE initiative.

Ontario Tech states that the program is intended to support Black students by providing academic, professional, and personal development activities. The university reports that students in the program have access to student awards, financial aid resources, experiential learning and career development opportunities, mentorship, networking, leadership experiences, and support for navigating academic services.

According to the university, enrolment in the program has increased since its launch; no specific numbers were provided. Breanne McAlpin, a fourth-year Biological Science student at Ontario Tech, said in the university's announcement, “This program is a bridge to opportunity and community for Black students. It creates an avenue for mentorship, fostering relationships among peers and alumni who can guide us in excelling academically, professionally and personally.”

Jason Charlebois, Regional Senior Vice-President at Scotiabank, stated that the ScotiaRISE collaboration with Ontario Tech University aims to ensure students have access to opportunities that will help them reach their potential. No further details on the program’s long-term impact or future plans were included in the release.

Road Closures Planned in Bowmanville for Terry Fox Run on September 14

Several roads in Bowmanville will be closed on September 14, 2025, from 9 to 10 a.m. to accommodate the Terry Fox Run, according to the Municipality of Clarington. The Municipality advises drivers to use local alternative roads during the affected period. Emergency access will be maintained throughout the closure,

Accessibility Work Set for Two Intersections in Downtown Bowmanville This Fall

Work to improve accessibility at two intersections in downtown Bowmanville is scheduled to begin this fall, according to the Municipality of Clarington. The upgrades are planned for King Street at Temperance Street and King Street at Division Street and are expected to last approximately four to six weeks, though the

Shaikh Al Kar Plain Halva Recalled in Alberta and British Columbia Due to Salmonella Risk

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has recalled Shaikh Al Kar brand Plain Halva in Alberta and British Columbia due to possible Salmonella contamination. As of September 12, 2025, no illnesses have been reported in relation to this product, according to the CFIA. The CFIA first issued the recall on

Lane Restrictions on Rossland Road in Oshawa from September 12 to October 3

Lane restrictions are scheduled on Rossland Road in Oshawa from September 12 to October 3, according to Durham Region. The affected area runs from the Oshawa Creek Bridge to west of Carnegie Avenue, with daily restrictions planned during this period. Durham Region notes that inclement weather may affect the timing

Read more

Road Closures Planned in Bowmanville for Terry Fox Run on September 14

Accessibility Work Set for Two Intersections in Downtown Bowmanville This Fall

Shaikh Al Kar Plain Halva Recalled in Alberta and British Columbia Due to Salmonella Risk

Lane Restrictions on Rossland Road in Oshawa from September 12 to October 3