2019 Athabasca Student Dinner

March 9, 2020 in Giving Back
Explorer: Spring 2020

The annual Athabasca Student Dinner has been running for many years, but the trend in the last few years is a very exciting one to see. The number of students has been steadily increasing, and this year was another record year: 65 students registered, and over 250 guests attended.

The Athabasca Student Dinner is an event that recognizes the efforts and celebrates the achievements of Athabasca residents who are studying in the south. This year’s event was held on December 10. Guest speaker Gabrielle Toutsaint from Fond du Lac spoke about her experiences as a student studying in the south and the challenges she faced. Grade 10 Youth speaker Thomas Boyd of Stony Rapids rose to the challenge of speaking in front of a huge crowd, and he too spoke about his experiences of studying in the south.

Entertainment was provided by artists from the Athabasca region. Black Lake First Nation member Rebecca Strong from Stony Rapids/Prince Albert sang covers with her soulful voice. Dylan Gazandlare of Wollaston Lake showed off his amazing guitar skills. Veteran performer Leonard Adam of Fond du Lac finished off the evening.

The most exciting moment was when all students in attendance were invited to the stage. Patty Hughes from Transwest Air announced that each of the students in attendance would receive a plane ticket home each, plus a half price ticket home for a companion. Their reaction was captured and can be seen on the Athabasca Basin Development Facebook page.

This event would not be possible without the assistance and contributions of all the sponsors. ABD and Points Athabasca organized the event and ABD covered the cost of the dinner and room rental. Prize contributors included Transwest Air, Athabasca Basin Security, Flyer Electric, Ya’thi Néné, Saskatchewan Research Council, QM Points, Arctic Beverages, Team Drilling, Graham Construction, ORANO, MWG Apparel, Tru-North Marine & Recreation, Points North, and Long Lake Insurance.