Richard Bilkszto Award and Scholarship Announced Today In Toronto

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Toronto, ON – SOS TDSB and Friends of Richard Bilkszto are proud to honour the life and legacy of the esteemed educator at a public commemoration to be held today, 2- 4 pm, at Mel Lastman Square in Toronto.

Richard was a beloved educator, colleague and friend, who mentored thousands of students across the GTA, but tragically passed away in July of this year. This public event will feature testimonials and an announcement of an award and scholarship to honour Richard’s legacy for the next generation. 

“The Richard Bilkszto Award will recognize an educator who exemplifies the qualities that Richard embodied: a dedication to excellence in education, a commitment to equality of opportunity, and a devotion to his students and their well being,” said TDSB Trustee Weidong Pei.

In a similar vein, the Richard Bilkszto Scholarship will be awarded annually to an undergraduate who is accepted at Teachers’ College in Ontario, and who seeks to further the ideals that Richard embodied both as a teacher and human being.

“Richard was not just a great educator, but a great friend to so many people,” said teacher Natasha Mansouri. “He is greatly missed and his friends want to ensure that his spirit lives on through this scholarship.”

The award and scholarship will be presented annually by the Friends of Richard Bilkszto. The public will be able to nominate candidates online at www.richardbilkszto.com where there will be a full description of the award and process, as well as how to donate to support the scholarship fund.

Friends and colleagues of Richard will give testimonials at the event, including Anthony Furey, Columnist, Weidong Pei, Trustee TDSB, Dennis Hastings, Trustee TDSB, Mike Ramsay, Trustee WDRSB, Dr. Ragini Sharma, Toronto Asian Parents Association, Natasha Mansouri, Educator, Jon Roberts, Educator. Tasha Kheiriddin, Writer, will MC.

 For interviews or further information, please contact:

• Tasha Kheiriddin at tasha.kheiriddin@rogers.com or (289) 923-3682