NOVA Chemicals Donates $20,000 to RDP's Student Emergency Bursary Fund

In a significant show of support for Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) and its students, NOVA Chemicals has generously donated $20,000 to RDP’s Student Emergency Bursary Fund. This donation aims to help students who are experiencing financial hardship due to unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies, family crises, or other critical situations that could impact their ability to continue their education.  

This generous gift raises NOVA Chemicals' total lifetime contributions to RDP to over $3.7 million. On Friday, December 6, a group of NOVA Chemicals employees gathered at RDP to present the donation, along with additional food items to support the RDP Students' Association Food Bank. These NOVA employees are former RDP students and were excited to give back on behalf of NOVA. NOVA is one of the region’s largest employers, and as such, employs many RDP alumni, including graduates from Engineering, Nursing, Business, Continuing Education, and Trades programs. 

“NOVA Chemicals recognizes the importance of supporting Red Deer Polytechnic and its students to help us build a strong, thriving community in Central Alberta,” states Rob Thompson, Vice President, Manufacturing West, NOVA Chemicals. “Sometimes students can encounter unforeseen barriers that can get in the way of their studies. We are hopeful this donation will help alleviate some stress and allow them to focus on their education.”  

The Student Emergency Bursary Fund provides vital financial assistance to students who need immediate support to stay in school and complete their programs. NOVA’s donation comes at a critical time when many students are facing higher-than-usual costs due to inflation, rising living expenses, and other challenges. The company’s commitment to supporting education and fostering the success of students reflects its ongoing efforts to make a positive impact on the local community, and the central Alberta region. 

“NOVA Chemicals’ generous contribution to our Student Emergency Bursary Fund shows tremendous dedication to RDP students by allowing them to stay focused on their studies and persevere through difficult times,” states Patrick Machacek, Vice President, Development and Partnerships. “We are incredibly grateful for their continued commitment to our students’ success.” 

NOVA’s generous donation of $20,000 to Red Deer Polytechnic’s Student Emergency Bursary Fund is a powerful example of how each of us can play a role in supporting education and fostering community resilience. By helping students overcome financial challenges, NOVA Chemicals is leaving a lasting impact on both individual’s lives and the future of the region. 

You can learn more about donating to the Student Emergency Bursary Fund or supporting RDP students through scholarships on our Support & Donate page