BAC Announces 2024 US and Canadian Bates Scholarship Recipients
Thanks to the 2024 US and Canadian Bates scholarship programs, six college-bound students from BAC families will receive financial assistance to continue their education.
Each year BAC awards three US Bates scholarships to graduating seniors whose parents or stepparents are BAC members in the United States. Complete information and the application form for the 2025 US Bates scholarship will be available in early 2025 in the Education & Training section of bacweb.org, or by texting BATES to 50607.
Each year BAC awards three Canadian Bates scholarships to graduating seniors whose parents or stepparents are BAC members in Canada. Complete information and the application form for the 2025 Canadian Bates scholarship will be available in early 2025 in the Education & Training section of bacweb.org.
US BATES SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
PAUL KACZOR
Attending: University of Wisconsin
Major: Architectural Engineering
Family/IU Info: Piotr Kaczor, BAC Local 21 Illinois
What does this recognition and the union mean to you?
This recognition means a lot to me. It signifies hard work, dedication, and achievement. It’s a validation of my efforts and a reminder to keep pushing forward. The union represents solidarity, collective strength, and shared goals. It’s a support system that ensures fair treatment, better working conditions, and a sense of belonging. For my family, it symbolizes protection and advocacy.
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
“Be kind to yourself.” We often set high standards and criticize our mistakes. Remember, it’s okay to stumble; what matters is how you rise and learn from it.
Who would you like to give a shout-out to?
A shout-out to my amazing teachers, mentors, and friends who’ve shaped my journey. Their guidance and encouragement have been invaluable.
OLIVIA SHAMPO
Attending: University of Michigan
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Family/IU Info: Paul Shampo, BAC Local 2 Michigan
What does this recognition and the union mean to you?
This recognition is a validation of not only my hard work but my dad’s as well. It encourages me to keep pushing towards what I want and serves as a reminder that perseverance and passion can lead to meaningful achievements. The union has allowed me and my family to live our lives comfortably and happily. When I was younger, my family was in a terrible car accident. Fortunately for us, my dad wasn’t involved in the accident, so he was able to keep working to support us. The accident left us with a ton of medical bills, but with the help of the union we had health insurance.
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
My grandfather, Carl Feathers, told me to “Never, never give up.” It is with this advice that I gained my drive and determination.
Who would you like to give a shout-out to?
I would like to give a shout out to my mom, dad, older brother, and grandparents. Without them I would have never achieved as much as I have. They were great role models of what it’s like to work hard and they supported me in everything I have done.
JASON CUSHING
Attending: University of Pittsburgh
Major: Engineering
Family/IU Info: Craig Cushing, BAC Local 9 Pennsylvania
What does this recognition and the union mean to you?
It’s a huge honor to me that the BAC has awarded me this scholarship. Unions negotiate higher wages for their members compared to non-union workers, which provides better financial stability for my family. Membership includes access to benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave, which ensures that my family has access to necessary healthcare and financial security for the future.
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Treat others with respect until they show they don’t deserve it.
Who would you like to give a shout-out to?
My father, 100%.
CANADIAN BATES SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
LEAH WHERRY
Attending: University of Manitoba
Major: Science
Family/IU Info: Simon Wherry, BAC Local 1 Manitoba
What does this recognition and the union mean to you?
This scholarship is such an honour, and recognizes the hard work and time I dedicated towards my studies and passions throughout high school. This is an amazing start to the journey towards my career and allows me to pursue my studies and ease the financial burden of my continued education. The union is a support system for my family and I, and provides stability and a sense of security. The union prioritizes family values, which is demonstrated by awards like this.
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Mindset is everything. If you pursue things with a positive mindset and that you can succeed, you will. This mindset also allows you to enjoy the process and improves your outlook on life.
Who would you like to give a shout-out to?
I would like to give a shout-out to my dad. He continuously shows me the importance of hard work and supporting your family. He shares my excitement for my future ambitions and has always encouraged me to pursue them.
KEAGEN SLANEY-BOLAND
Attending: Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador
Major: Computer Science
Family/IU Info: Jennifer Boland, BAC Local 1 Newfoundland and Labrador
What does this recognition and the union mean to you?
Receiving the Bates Scholarship is a tremendous honour and a crucial step in my academic journey. This recognition not only validates my dedication and hard work but also provides essential financial support, which will allow me to focus on my studies and future career. The union represents a community committed to the highest standards of craftsmanship, professional development, and mutual support, which resonates with my own values and goals. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and excited about the ways it will help support my academic and professional growth.
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
The best piece of advice I have ever received was never give up. Life will put many obstacles in your path but there is absolutely nothing you can’t overcome. Leave yesterday in the past, embrace the present, and strive for the future. You’ve got this.
Who would you like to give a shout-out to?
I would like to give a big shout-out to my family. I wouldn’t have accomplished what I have if it wasn’t for their love, support, encouragement and guidance.
EROS BAZAN
Attending: University of Manitoba
Major: Business Commerce
Family/IU Info: Darrell Bazan, BAC Local 1 Manitoba
What does this recognition and the union mean to you?
Receiving this scholarship from my dad’s and grandpa’s union holds a special significance for me. Not only is it an incredible honor that validates my hard work, but it also feels deeply personal as it reflects a legacy within my family. This recognition is a meaningful connection to the values and contributions of those who came before me. The scholarship eases the financial burden of my studies, allowing me to focus on my academic and extracurricular passions. It motivates me to continue striving for excellence and to honor my family’s legacy by giving back to my community.
What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?
The best advice I’ve been given is to stay true to myself. In high school, it’s easy to worry about what others think, but this advice helped me focus on what makes me happy and to stick to my own values. It has taught me not to be afraid to make my own decisions or face new challenges, and trust myself, which has really boosted my confidence.
Who would you like to give a shout-out to?
I want to give a huge shout-out to my grandpa (60-year Local 1 MB member Luciano Toppazzini) for taking a big risk when he decided to come to Canada and become part of Local 1 MB. His bravery in leaving behind everything familiar and starting a new life has shaped my family into what it is today. Joining the union and working hard to build a stable life for our family wasn’t easy, but his determination and sacrifices paved the way for the opportunities I now have. His story is a constant reminder to me of the importance of perseverance, hard work, and taking risks when it matters most. I’m incredibly proud of what he achieved, and his efforts have truly made a lasting difference in our lives.