Entrance scholarship recipients pursue sustainability-focused careers

Alinea Scholarship Recipients 2026

Ten Mohawk College students are pursuing education in sustainability and climate action thanks to the support of an Alinea Excellence in Achievement Entrance Scholarship.

The scholarships were established in 2025 through a $100,000 gift from Paul and Michael Paletta and Alinea Land Corporation to Mohawk College. Five $4,000 entrance scholarships will be awarded annually based on academic excellence and merit to students entering programs in the School of Climate Action.

“Thanks to the generosity of Paul and Michael Paletta and Alinea Land Corporation, these talented and determined students have the financial support to focus on their studies, while they train for careers to help address complex climate-related challenges,” said Mohawk College President Paul Armstrong.

The School of Climate Action reinforces Mohawk College's position as a leader in climate action education and workforce development. Through industry-led learning, applied research and strong employer partnerships, students gain the knowledge, experience and connections needed to make a meaningful impact. Scholarships like these help ensure that talented students can access the education, practical experience and professional connections needed to contribute to a more sustainable and climate-resilient future.

Ambitious futures

Environmental Technician student, Ashwin Thejus Justin enrolled at Mohawk College after being out of school for nearly ten years. Feeling both nervous and excited he was unsure how he would adjust to student life, particularly in a new country. “My professors have been supportive and understanding, and my classmates have been welcoming,” he said. “[This] has helped me feel more confident and comfortable in this new chapter of my life."

As a full-time student, Ashwin was also worried about managing expenses as a full-time student. Receiving this scholarship helped ease that stress significantly. The financial support will allow him to focus more on his coursework to develop the skills for a career in the environmental field.

Mariam Imran enrolled at Mohawk College earlier this year. The Biotechnology Advanced Diploma program student sees her future career focused on the agricultural industry, specifically food security. Receiving the Alinea Excellence in Achievement Scholarship provides Mariam with the financial support to not only focus on her education but also allows her more time to give back. “Currently, I volunteer at local food banks and it is thanks to [the scholarship] that I will be able to further these efforts in providing food security to our community,” she said.

For Urban and Regional Planning and GIS student, Alex Hallahan Mohawk College is the next step in her educational journey having recently graduated from McMaster University with a bachelor's in mathematical sciences. “I really valued my time at McMaster, but I always wanted a way to apply those analytical skills to the environment and communities around me through a more tangible and technical skill,” she said.

While considering her educational and career options, Alex was hesitant in pursuing further education after obtaining her degree. Receiving the Alinea Excellence in Achievement scholarship reaffirmed the value in pursuing this field of work. “It has reminded me that there are so many organizations, such as Alinea, that prioritise climate action within infrastructure and development as well as the young people who will be responsible for carrying out this objective,” she said.

After graduating from Mohawk, Alex hopes to combine her skill sets to address community challenges particularly related to environmental sustainability for future generations.

Through classroom learning and practical experience, students in programs such as Environmental Technician, Biotechnology, Architectural Technology, Urban and Regional Planning, and Civil Engineering Technology are preparing for careers that support sustainable development, green buildings, climate-resilient infrastructure and environmental stewardship. As communities continue to evolve in response to climate change, these graduates will help plan, design and construct a more sustainable built environment. The Alinea Excellence in Achievement Entrance Scholarship supports them as they begin that work and provides tangible hope as they pursue their futures.