Kaycie Brant is a mature, first-generation, student from Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, who recently graduated as the valedictorian of St Lawrence College Kingston in 2023. Kaycie has since started her journey at Royal Roads University in the Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies program with future plans of attending the Queen's University Law program. Kaycie continues to display her commitment to the community with volunteer positions at the Community Spirit Bingo on behalf of Ryandale Transitional Housing, and the Indigenous Education Committee with the Limestone District School Board. Kaycie was also the successful recipient of the Donald Larry Maracle Integrity Scholarship organized by the Maracle family in memory of their late father; "Larry is remembered as a loving husband and father who valued family, friends, community, hard work and education", and Kaycie is proud of this achievement as she shares the same values. Kaycie has shown resiliency, professionalism, academic ability, humanitarianism, and dedication to future career goals and community development.
A message from Kaycie: "When I began my educational path I was overwhelmed, intimidated, and fearful of failure; however, I did not realize how resilient I was, and how community involvement would provide me with a solid foundation to support my professional development. I encourage anyone considering post-secondary education to take that leap of faith regardless of the barriers you face because your community will provide you with the tools to support your growth. I am very grateful for community partners such as the Rotary Club who have believed in me and have invested in my education because they inspire me to keep going."
Kaycie received her award from the Cataraque-Kingston Rotary Club at a recent presentation.