John R. Smyth Bursary

This bursary is to be awarded to a student enrolled in the Master of Marriage and Family Therapy Program and doing a practicum at Resilia Community Wellness Centre previously known as Aurora Family Therapy Centre. Recipients must demonstrate financial need. Preference will be given to new Canadians and Indigenous students.

The bursary was established in honour of John’s commitment to the Master of Marriage and Family Therapy Program, and to the Aurora Family Therapy Centre. As Executive Director of the Aurora Family Therapy Centre for just over a decade, John was Aurora’s most senior administrator, therapist, clinical supervisor, and supervisor mentor until his retirement. John demonstrated extraordinary determination in the growth and development of the Centre, especially in the creation of the Newcomer Community Development Program, his work to create relationships with many ethno-cultural communities and their leaders, and supporting communities through our Newcomer Summer Youth Enhancement Program and the SCREEN Program. He is most proud of Aurora Family Therapy Centre for successfully creating the Dove of Peace Program, and developing mental health services for new Canadians, especially refugees.