Gray Chartrand is turning to write the next page of their book as the Penticton Secondary School graduate heads off to study journalism in the fall.
The graduate, from Summerland, has been accepted into the four-year Bachelor of Journalism program at University of King’s College in Halifax.
“I wanted to help other people’s voices get out in the world,” Chartrand said of their choice of study.
Throughout high school, first at Summerland Secondary School and later at Penticton Secondary School, Chartrand has focused on writing.
In 2023, they received the Pat Minchin Major Award, which is given to a student with a strong love of languages and an exceptional ability to think, read and write critically and creatively.
During Grade 12, Chartrand entered a creative writing contest at Penticton Secondary School and was one of the finalists.
Chartrand also has skills in social media, photography and videography — traits that will be needed in reporting and journalism work.
While Chartrand attended school in Summerland from Grade 5 to Grade 11, they transferred to Penticton for Grade 12.
The transfer meant a larger school and a new learning environment.
“I wanted that fresh start,” Chartrand said. “I’m happy I was able to do well, even in a challenging environment.”
Chartrand is an Indigenous student and a member of the Samson Cree Nation in Alberta. During school, they were also enrolled in the Indigenous Education program through the school district.
