Special Initiatives
PVR Scholarship for Civic Engagement
The Scholarship
This initiative, launched by the 2022-2026 PVR Board of Trustees,
Julianne Duern Bankley, Stephanie MacMillan, and Alison Brown, marked its inaugural year in 2024.
This scholarship supports graduates of Russell High School and St. Thomas Aquinas CHS who plan to pursue post-secondary education.
Designed to recognize political involvement, community service, civic skills development, and social justice engagement,
it prioritizes inclusivity over academic performance or volunteer hours.
Nominations include students enrolled in trade schools or part-time studies, those who have participated in student council elections, and individuals who balance academics with part-time employment.
Criteria
To qualify for this scholarship, candidates must be nominated by three teachers.
Eligible students intending to pursue post-secondary education in any field must have demonstrated civic engagement, defined as actively participating in school or community activities to enhance conditions for others or to help shape the community’s future.
RECIPIENTS
St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic High School
2024 Sidney MacNeil
2025 Nemesha DeSilva
Russell High School
2024 Jada Smirle
2025 Gianna-Lynn Favilla
Russell 125 Celebrations
2023: Celebrating 125 Years of Russell’s Vibrant Legacy!
In 2023, Russell joyously commemorated the 125th anniversary of the Police Village of Russell (PVR). Established in 1898 by the United Counties of Prescott and Russell, our community thrived through shared participation and volunteerism.
Russell celebrated its enduring spirit and collective achievements throughout this milestone year, reflecting on a legacy of community strength and unity. Several special initiatives for these celebrations received partial funding from the PVR Trust, such as the new Russell street blades, the electrification of MacDougall Park, the Autumn in the Country festival, and the installation of the new “Welcome to Russell” signage greeting residents and visitors as they enter our village.
For more information on the history of the Trust, see PVR History, The Story of a Police Village.