Markham District Energy Presents Sustainability Bursary to Markham Youth

MARKHAM, ON – May 9, 2014 – During a special Council meeting for community recognition held last evening, Markham District Energy (MDE) and Markham Council formally acknowledged the 14 recipients of the 2014 Markham District Energy Sustainability Bursary.

“Each year, Markham District Energy looks forward to delivering its bursary program. We are pleased to recognize the environmental contributions of Markham’s youth and this year is no exception,” said MDE president Bruce Ander. “The 14 recipients here tonight have all demonstrated a strong commitment to the environment and it is reassuring to know the future of our environment is in their hands.”

Launched in celebration of MDE’s 10th anniversary, the bursary encourages and rewards students who have distinguished themselves through academic excellence and participation in environmental extracurricular, volunteer and community service activities. MDE grants 14 bursaries annually (one for each of Markham’s high schools) of $1,000 each, which are to be applied towards post-secondary studies in a field related to sciences and the environment.

“Markham is proud to have the opportunity to recognize the environmental achievements of our youth,” said Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “With our commitment to be one of the most sustainable cities in North America and the owner of Markham District Energy, it is only right we celebrate the youth who are supporting our environmental goals.”

“Every year I am pleased to meet and honour the impressive graduating students who make up our group of bursary recipients,” said Deputy Mayor and MDE Chair Jack Heath. “As a leader in District Energy in Canada, Markham District Energy feels it is essential to acknowledge and support our next generation of environmental leaders as they move on to their post-secondary studies.

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About Markham District Energy

MDE, an energy company owned by the City of Markham, is committed to continuing as a leading developer of municipally owned district energy systems providing strategic foundations for Markham’s Greenprint Sustainability Plan and economic development objectives. MDE owns and operates award-winning community energy systems serving buildings in the developing urban centres of Markham Centre and Cornell Centre.

Media Contact: Emily Turney 905-752-3368 eturney@mdei.ca