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Vernon's Blake Varga was named of the recipients of a Cmolik Foundation scholarship (Image Credit: Cmolik Foundation)
By Liam Verster
$60K Scholarship

Local student wins scholarship from provincial foundation

Jul 27, 2026 | 1:03 PM

A local highschooler will be getting some financial aide in his post-secondary education.

The Cmolik Foundation announced that Blake Varga, a graduate of Vernon Secondary School, will receive a $60,000 scholarship to support him in pursuing an education in electrical engineering.

The foundation, which supports students in B.C. that have overcome overwhelming adversity, impressed the Selection Committee with his application, academic goals, and future career aspirations. 

“Blake has consistently demonstrated a genuine commitment to his learning,” Karen Bedard, Math Department Head at Vernon Secondary, said in a release from the Cmolik Foundation.

“He approaches his work with focus and persistence, takes responsibility for his learning, and shows a strong willingness to engage with challenging material. He does not shy away from challenges and is willing to put in the extra effort required to improve and meet high expectations. He is dependable, respectful, and motivated to improve, qualities that are essential for success in rigorous post-secondary programs such as Electrical Engineering.”

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In the release, Varga said he plans to major in electrical engineering with a Bachelor of Applied Science at UBCO.

“I am choosing this area of study as math has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember as it is what I am best at.”

Varga was one of 20 students across B.C. to receive a scholarship from the Cmolik Foundation. The funds will be distributed over five years to help cover his post-secondary education.

by Liam Verster
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