Application deadline: July 31, 2024
The Fred Upshaw Scholarship was created in honour of Fred Upshaw, OPSEU/SEFPO’s President from 1990-1995. Upshaw was the first Black President of a major Canadian union. This scholarship will be offered annually, to commemorate his tireless advocacy on behalf of working people and social justice for all.
Upshaw was a registered nurse at the Whitby Psychiatric Hospital and a member of OPSEU/SEFPO Local 331. He rose through the union ranks as a steward and eventually local president. In 1980, he was elected to the OPSEU/SEFPO Executive Board and served for several years, then elected as First-Vice President/Treasurer in 1984, prior to being elected President. A fervent human rights activist to the core, Upshaw championed employment equity during his time as President.
Who can apply:
The $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to dependents of racialized OPSEU/SEFPO members in good standing who are pursuing studies in labour relations and/or social justice and human rights and are studying at a publicly-funded, publicly-run post-secondary institution in Ontario. The application deadline is July 31, 2024.
How to apply:
The following submissions together with your completed application form must be received by OPSEU/SEFPO by email or mail on or before the application deadline (see application form for mailing and email addresses).
- This application, completed fully
- 1,500 word essay responding to the following question. Your response may be a 1,500 word essay, or a photo series, short video, poem, audio file or visual art piece.
Why is worker activism and union involvement important to make meaningful health and safety improvements in the workplace?
- Summary of your recent community, union, or other volunteer work, which helps to build awareness of workplace, community or environmental health and safety.
The completed application form must be received by email at: www.scholarships@opseu.org by the deadline of July 31, 2024.
Applications to the 2024 scholarships are due by July 31, 2024. Applicants will be asked to provide confirmation of enrollment to a publicly-funded university, college or trades program on official letterhead, provided by the enrollment services division of your school. Proof of enrollment letters are due by September 30, 2024.
OPSEU/SEFPO Scholarships are administered by the Member Education Unit. Please contact scholarships@opseu.org with any questions.
Download the application form: