New Lowell robotics teamster gets scholarship

Being a member of the Cybergnomes has paid off in more ways than one for Amanda Dixon.

The 17-year-old New Lowell resident has won a full scholarship to Nippissing University through FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics. Dixon, who is graduating from Stayner Collegiate Institute this month, is taking a bachelor of education at Nippissing, located in North Bay, in the fall. The scholarship covers the cost of her first year’s tuition with the opportunity to carry forward in the years to come.

“This essentially pays for half of my schooling,” said Dixon. “This will really help.”

Eligible recipients must have an admission average of at least 80 per cent and must have participated in a FIRST Robotics Competition team during high school. The scholarship may not be held in addition to any other entrance scholarship or award and is renewable for the value of tuition for up to three additional years if an 85-per-cent-average is maintained on a minimum 30 credits.   

Dixon was part of the behind-the-scenes crew for Clearview’s robotics team during this year’s competitive season as it advanced to the worlds.

Dixon worked on public relations, awards submissions, team apparel and made other artistic contributions to the team.

In the fall, Dixon was among youth recognized by the Collingwood Optimist Club for leadership in the school and the broader community and in April, she received the youth ambassador award from the Southern Georgian Bay Youth Engagement Network in recognition of commitment to volunteerism, positivity and an active, healthy lifestyle.