The 2016 Algoma University John R. Rhodes Scholarship Dinner will take place on Thursday, October 20th at Algoma’s Water Tower Inn and Suites at 6:00 p.m. This year’s dinner will honour Jack Purvis.
Born in Gore Bay, Ontario, Jack Purvis has spent the breadth of his life on the water. From an early age, he had a passion for steam engines and the marine environment. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Western University. In 1967, he purchased his first tugboat, Rocket, which he initially used for salvage and diving expeditions. ‘Rocket’ was later used for the birth of his company, Purvis Marine, which today has grown into the largest and most versatile marine contracting firm on the Great Lakes. Purvis Marine provides towing, salvage, barging, dredging, and marine construction. Purvis has received many awards and accolades, including the Chamber of Commerce’s Outstanding Business Achievement Award, Marine Man of the Year, and the Skipper Manzzutti Award for Business Achievement. In 2015, Purvis was inducted into the Great Lakes Marine Hall of Fame.
“Algoma University is pleased to honour Jack Purvis for all of his accomplishments, both personally and professionally. Jack turned a hobby into a very successful marine and transportation business, benefiting and linking our community to the international market. His contributions to the community are numerous and he has generously supported many causes and organizations in an effort to build and strengthen our community,” said Les Dunbar, Chair of the John Rhodes Dinner Committee.
The John R. Rhodes Scholarship was established in 1979 thanks to generous contributions from friends and family of the late John Rhodes. The prestigious scholarship, valued at $3,000, is offered to a local high school graduate who best embodies the integrity, leadership, and commitment to community service demonstrated by Rhodes throughout his life as a broadcaster, community member, and politician. The scholarship is renewable for up to three additional years providing the recipient maintains a minimum average of 80.0 percent each academic year.
Tickets for the John R. Rhodes Scholarship Dinner are $150.00 per person and are selling fast.
To purchase tickets, please contact Bev Teller, CFRE, Alumni & Development Officer, at 705-949-2301, Ext. 4125, or by emailing [email protected].
About Algoma University
Algoma University was established in 1965 and is located in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Algoma University is a small, undergraduate, teaching-focused university that places an emphasis on serving the needs of Northern Ontario. Algoma University offers a wide range of degrees spanning the liberal arts, sciences, and professional disciplines. As a partner with Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, Algoma University has a special mission to cultivate cross-cultural learning between Aboriginal populations and other communities. Algoma University also offers satellite programming in Brampton and Timmins. For more information, please visit www.algomau.ca.
