Every year since 1967, the Almonte Lions Club honours the memory of R. Tait McKenzie, a distinguished alumnus of Almonte and District High School. A celebration event is held annually to celebrate his life and many accomplishments and also to honour the “best of the best” from the current graduating class. This year, there were 10 finalists, recognized for their exemplary contributions to the academic excellence of ADHS, their engagement and leadership within the school community, and for their community service outside of school. The “Joy of Effort” awards pay tribute to R. Tait McKenzie, the staff of ADHS, and to some very special young people.
Two scholarships are offered for $2000.00 each. This year the scholarship winners were Jackson Brown, and Cole Cochran.
All of the other finalists are bursary winners who will receive a $250.00 cheque in recognition of all their extraordinary efforts throughout their HS careers.
The entire community has every right to be proud of these fine young people and the potential they all represent. Bursary winners were Euan Bagshaw, Connor Besley, Will. Haining-Spriggs, Alyssa Lalonde, Tim Levi, Adam Lowe, Darren McManus, and Ella Wattie.
This year our award winners were joined by the 2025 award winners, who came to share their insights on “life after ADHS.” Huge thanks to Olivia Falco, Katelyn Hoang, Maeve Kerwin, Hailey Ladouceur, Sheldon Leonard, and Jack Lockhart.
We are so lucky to live in our precious community!
