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Rhonda was quiet and unassuming with a profound passion for education. She earned a Bachelor of Education degree at the ³Ô¹ÏÍø in 1996 and went on to earn her Master of Education degree at the University of San Diego. A lifelong learner, Rhonda believed in the power of books to open minds and shape futures. As an elementary teacher, she gave everything to her students, treating each child as an individual with unique gifts. Her soft voice, encouraging words, and compassionate nature created a space where children felt seen, valued, and inspired.

Born in Penticton and raised in Osoyoos, Rhonda grew up in a large, loving family. She excelled academically and was known for her intelligence, kindness, and adventurous spirit. A cheerleader, saxophone player, skier, and farm girl, she embraced every challenge with determination.
Rhonda’s teaching career took her to Stewart, Victoria and Fort St John, with her final years teaching in the Surrey School District’s Special Education program. She had an extraordinary ability to match the right book to the right child, igniting a love of reading in her students. Even in retirement, she continued to share this passion, donating thousands of books to teachers, schools, and children.

Beyond the classroom, Rhonda contributed to her community as a Brown Owl leader for Brownies and a supporter of the Special Olympics. She lived by the words, “It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.” Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the lessons she imparted, and the joy of reading she instilled in countless children.

This scholarship honors Rhonda’s unwavering belief that education transforms lives—one book, one child, and one act of kindness at a time.