Engy Awad

PhD student Engy Awad is the first recipient of the Dr. Heather Carnahan Scholarship in Maritime Studies.

Dr. Carnahan’s career spanned over 30 years as a researcher - studying how people learn, develop, and become experts in the fine motor skills needed to be fishermen, mariners, and surgeons. To honour her memory, this scholarship is awarded annually to a graduate student involved in Ocean Safety Research in the School of Maritime Studies.

Ms. Awad also holds two Master of Science degrees and has worked as a Maritime Affairs Specialist with the Egyptian Maritime Transport Sector.

After completing her PhD, she hopes to continue advancing research and policy development relating to maritime safety and technology.

“I aim to collaborate with the International Maritime Organization and other industry stakeholders to shape policies that facilitate the use of autonomous technologies while maintaining safety standards in global shipping,” she said.

In addition to advancing research in the field, Ms. Awad plans to continue advocating for gender inclusivity within the industry.

“I want to continue working with the Women in Maritime Association and use my experience to empower other female maritime professionals.”

Kennisha Sylvester

Advanced Diploma in Food Safety student Kennisha Sylvester is this year’s recipient of the Bruce Wareham Memorial Award in Seafood Quality.

Created in honour of the founder of Icewater Seafoods, The Bruce Wareham Memorial Award in Seafood Quality recognizes a student who demonstrates characteristics Bruce valued and was known for.

“I related to the requirements listed for the Bruce Wareham Memorial Award. The qualities of tenacity, commitment to community, and adaptability that Bruce exemplified throughout his career resonated deeply with me. I recognized these same traits within myself,” said Ms. Sylvester.

She says one of the most exciting aspects of her program has been visiting various food processing facilities.

“It was truly eye-opening to witness raw materials being processed in plants and transformed into marketable products that we all enjoy regularly. I absolutely loved that experience.”

After completing her advanced diploma, Ms. Sylvester hopes to work in quality assurance or product development.

“The Marine Institute has provided me with a nurturing environment that has allowed me to grow not only in my career but also as an individual. It's more than just a community – it's a family.”

At this year’s ceremony, Ms. Sylvester also received the Kjell Henriksen Scholarship.

Jordan Baker

Jordan Baker, a second year Underwater Vehicles student, received the Public Service Credit Union Award in Leadership.

Awarded annually to two students, The Public Service Credit Union Award in Leadership recognizes students who have displayed leadership and dedication to a Marine Institute team related to a marine field of study.

Mr. Baker has displayed these qualities through extensive volunteering and involvement in sports and events in his hometown of Harbour Grace.

“I grew up in a very volunteer-orientated household. Both my parents were named volunteer of the year in Harbour Grace. I hope to continue in their footsteps and remain involved in my community,” he said.

A consistent pool of career opportunities was one of the inspirations behind Mr. Baker’s decision to enroll in the Underwater Vehicles program. The other inspiration was a little closer to home.

“My brother is currently employed with a major ROV employer. I visited his vessel a few times and talked to some of the crew members and the ROV room intrigued me,” he said.

This summer, he’ll be starting a work term with DOF Subsea.

“I’ve always wanted to be part of the marine industry, and the Marine Institute just seemed like the natural place for me to learn.”

Ernest G. Reid Family Bursary

Also awarded first time this year was the Ernest G. Reid Family Bursary. Established by a generous donation from Ernest G. Reid, the bursary honors members of the Reid family who: sailed and were lost as mariners; were entrepreneurs or professionals; were otherwise occupied in working endeavours.

Brendan Mercer was the first recipient of the bursary at this year’s ceremony.