At Parkland at the Gardens, we are fortunate to be surrounded by dedicated team members who support residents, colleagues, and the broader community every day. Thanks to the generosity of the Joan Craig Bursary, nine team members are pursuing their educational goals while continuing to make a meaningful difference in others’ lives.
The Joan Craig Bursary is about more than financial assistance. It invests in the aspirations, education, and future success of Parkland team members. Each recipient reflects the determination, growth, and commitment that strengthen our community.
Thank you, Joan, for investing in our Great People’s personal and professional growth.
Learn more about the recipients
Alexander Gibson has been a valued member of the waitstaff team for seven years and received his fourth Joan Craig Bursary this year. He is entering the final year of his Business degree at Saint Mary’s University and is grateful for the financial support and encouragement the bursary program provides.
Samiuddin Syed has grown from working part-time to a full-time member of the waitstaff team. Alongside his work, he is completing online cybersecurity courses and building the skills needed for a future career in the field.
Sonal Sharma has worked in Memory Care for the past eight months, and is pursuing online studies toward her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification. The bursary is helping her continue her healthcare journey.
Amanda Saba has been an essential part of the Parkland at the Gardens family for 10 years as a Continuing Care Assistant (CCA). This year, she is beginning her Business Administration studies at Nova Scotia Community College while continuing her commitment to resident care.
Patrick Pelrine, a Wellness Coach for the past eight years, is completing the final year of his Therapeutic Recreation degree at Dalhousie University. As a mature student, he says the bursary’s support has provided valuable peace of mind throughout his studies.
Aneena Raji has worked as a Concierge for the past year and is studying Health Information Management. The bursary is helping her work toward a future healthcare career and strengthen her ability to make a positive impact.
Beatrize Dunn, a waitress at Parkland at the Gardens for the past year, has been inspired by her experiences with residents to pursue studies in geriatric health. She hopes to build a career dedicated to improving the quality of life of older adults.
Estefana Donis, a concierge for the past eight months, is pursuing a Bachelor of Science Combined Honours degree in Neuroscience and Microbiology at Dalhousie University. Her goal is to become a neurosurgeon, and she credits the bursary and the support of those around her for helping her pursue that dream.
Phoebe Donasco’s journey reflects the dedication and sacrifice of many newcomers to Canada. After moving from the Philippines to create new opportunities for her family, she is now using the bursary to continue pursuing her passion for singing through lessons and personal development. Stories like Phoebe’s helped inspire Joan’s vision for the bursary program and reinforced her belief in investing in the potential of hardworking team members.
Basic Cable Connection