LAKELAND - A global oil company with community ties has. made a large donation to Northern Lights Public Schools (NLPS) to help schools during difficult times. Chris Best, the local stakeholder relations business development advisor for Canadian Natural Resources Ltd, made the announcement that the company has made a $43,400 donation to NLPS.
“Canadian Natural is committed to lifelong education and training, and particularly in the communities where we operate,” said Best. “This year we are very proud to support Northern Lights Public Schools with a donation of $43,400, in order to assist 27 schools within the division with a donation they can put towards their unique education and training needs.”
Best says the company always has a special focus on progressing and bettering communities, especially through education.
“A commitment to developing people will always be a priority with Canadian Natural and we do hope this donation will support schools and students through these difficult times,” said Best.
Arlene Hrynyk, the board chair for NLPS, showed her appreciation for the donation especially during a time that has seen the negative impacts from the pandemic,
“This is some great news in a time where that’s not the norm for us,” said Hrynyk. “We thank Canadian Natural for all that they do for us, and in particular, the relationship they have developed with Northern Lights over the years, and so we appreciate the support they provide for our students.”
Congratulations Cordelia
Best made the funding presentation virtually at a recent NLPS board meeting. The same meeting was recognizing Lac La Biche’s J. A. Williams High School student Cordelia Lyons, the recently selected Junior Citizen of the Year in Lac La Biche County. Canadian Natural is one of the main sponsors of the annual award.
Also appearing virtually on the Zoom meeting, Lyons told NLPS trustees that her schooling and the school environment has helped with her continuing goals of helping others.
“I feel very thankful for all the opportunities that have been given to me throughout the years in high school, and they have definitely helped me become a better leader, become more comfortable in myself, and with interacting with others. So, thank you so much for this opportunity,” said Lyons.
The Junior Citizen of the Year winner was able to see her award over Zoom as Best held it up to the camera with the promises of getting it to her as soon as possible.
