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Donations accepted for the Christine Nieder Memorial Award

(June 2, 2015 - Ottawa)

In March, 2015 the National Educational Association of Disabled Students (NEADS) announced a new award for Canadian graduate students with disabilities: the NEADS Christine Nieder Memorial Award. The award will commemorate the life and contributions of Ms. Christine Nieder, NEADS Board member, who passed away in July 2014. The award will be offered to one student per year in the amount of $1,000 or more, depending upon donations to the program, starting in the 2015 cycle of the NEADS Student Awards/Scholarships Programs.

This Award has been established for deserving graduate students with disabilities who demonstrate a passion for and commitment to their research, to engagement in their local, regional and/or national communities, and to disability advocacy. These criteria are chosen to be reflective of Christine’s own passions and interests in her life.

Christine Nieder was a member of the National Educational Association of Disabled Students' (NEADS) board of directors and our National Graduate Experience Taskforce. When Christine passed way she had been a member of the NEADS Board since January 2012, was a key driver in the establishment of the Taskforce, and served on the Taskforce since its inception. She was instrumental in the final development of the National Graduate Student Experience Survey and other key elements of that project.

Christine Nieder presented the work of the Taskforce in several locations, most notably at the conference of the Canadian Association of College and University Student Services (CACUSS) in 2013. Her presence and contributions enriched the work of our organization on the national stage, particularly shown through her concerns and expertise for adaptive technologies and financial literacy. Christine was a dedicated advocate for the rights of post-secondary students and graduates with disabilities in British Columbia. The legacy that is her great work and passion will continue to be realized as the Graduate Experience project moves toward its completion.

Emily Duffett, NEADS' Chair/Nova Scotia Director said this about the Christine Nieder Memorial Award: “Christine was an important part of the NEADS family who worked tirelessly on behalf of persons with disabilities. I am glad we can honour her legacy through helping other students with disabilities achieve their dreams.”

Mahadeo Sukhai, Senior Advisor Leadership and Governance/NEADS Student Awards Chair added “Christine was a valued part of NEADS, and the National Graduate Experience Taskforce, as well as an important contributor to our work nationally and in British Columbia, and a good friend. We honour her legacy and her passion for research and volunteerism with this new award.”

Donations are now being accepted to the Christine Nieder Memorial Award through Canada Helps, a secure way to contribute to this important scholarship. Tax receipts will be issued for 100% of the value of your donation. Donate online here:
https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/national-educational-association-of-disabled-students-neads/national-educational-association-of-disabled-students-neads/

For more information contact:

Frank Smith, National Coordinator National Educational Association of Disabled Students (NEADS) Rm. 426 Unicentre, Carleton University Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5B6 tel. (613) 380-8065 ext. 201 www.neads.ca  "Supporting access to post-secondary education and employment for students with disabilities"