The last week of May proved to be one of the pinnacles of Lukas Weese’s CDS career. As the Grade 12 CDS student prepared for his final exams, he not only received news of his selection as one of only 40 recipients of the very prestigious Canadian Schulich Leader Scholarship, but was asked by the Head of School to be Master of Ceremonies for CDS’ biggest fundraiser of the year – the 2014 Auction.
A familiar face throughout the hallways of CDS, Lukas arrived in the Junior School in 2004 joining his big brother RP ’09. Initially on the shy side, Lukas’ confidence has soared at CDS and his booming broadcast voice and comfort level in front of a crowd have served him well both in debating competitions across Canada, as well as on the stage starring in numerous school drama productions. A dedicated student, Lukas will finish his high school career as an Ontario Scholar with Distinction (for having a 90%+ average), as well as being the recipient of the Senior Chemistry Award. He has also enjoyed his role as Commissioner for intramural sports (ball hockey in particular) and dedicated countless volunteer hours to Safehaven, a group home in Aurora for physically and mentally challenged youth.
The Canadian Schulich Leader Scholarships are valued at $60,000 CAD with two awards allotted to each of 20 top universities in the country. The scholarships are designated to undergraduate students pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering or mathematics. It adds to the luster of his selection that Lukas was picked by the University of Toronto, a Canadian science and technology juggernaut. This relatively new scholarship is already considered one of the top scholarships in Canada. Individuals must possess at least two of three criteria: outstanding community, business or entrepreneurial leadership, academic excellence or financial need.
In September Lukas will be attending the University of Toronto’s Trinity College to study Life Sciences in their Faculty of Arts program. He looks forward to this new adventure, but is now focused on something more immediate. He just landed a job working for Rogers Cable TV this summer doing play-by-play commentary for the local rugby teams and covered his first game this past weekend for the Aurora Barbarians vs. the Oakville Crusaders. If this is any indication of Lukas’ next four years, we better fasten our seatbelts – as I’m sure it’s going to be quite a ride!
Lukas plans to remain in close contact with CDS as a proud new alumnus. We look forward to following his next four years at U of T as a Schulich Leader as we are sure he won’t disappoint!
The Country Day School wishes to recognize and acknowledge the land on which the school operates. Our nearest Indigenous Nations are now the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and the Chippewas of Georgina Island. The Dish with One Spoon Wampum covenant is often cited as an example of the shared responsibility for caring for these lands among the Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples who would call these their traditional territories. CDS respects the relationship with these lands and recognizes that our connection to this land can be strengthened by our continued relationship with all First Nations, by acknowledging our shared responsibility to respect and care for the land and waters for future generations.
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.