Lilly Boyce Awards
The recipients of this award will receive a scholarship towards their tuition for a class of their choice for the upcoming dance season.
This award means so much to Miss Alison and all her family. For those of you that are new to the RMAD family, the following explains what the Lily Boyce Award is and what it represents, as written by Miss Alison:
As many of you know, I have 2 beautiful, healthy, amazing daughters. I also had a daughter in 2010 named Lily. She was diagnosed with Spina Bifida and sadly she passed away after a very brief time here with us. As difficult as this time in our lives was, it also showed us gratefulness, gratitude, love and courage. I am grateful for the chance to not only dance every day, but to be able to share the gift and love of dance with so many awesome kids in Kirkland Lake.
Lily wasn’t with us long enough to experience the joy and liberation of movement. Had she lived a longer life, she still would never have walked, let alone dance due to the severity of her illness. So I dance for her every day. I dance in her honour.
This award is presented in Lily’s honour. It represents everything that is great about a dance student. It represents someone who always first and foremost has a positive and encouraging attitude.
These are dancers that come to class on time and are consistently ready to learn, have fun, work hard and to continue to grow as dancers. These are dancers that cheer on their fellow classmates and show respect towards teachers, parents and all dancers. A dancer that does not just focus on being the best dancer but being the best person they can be.
As difficult as the decision is every year since so many of our students are such remarkable young people, I selected a few students to receive this award. I and all of the RMAD family are so proud of the recipients and look forward to many more great years of dancing together.
Reece Fillion Scholarships
Miss Reece was an essential part of our studio for many years as a dancer, assistant, teacher and team member. On April 20th, 2021, at the young age of 18, she was taken from this earth. Although short, Reece lived a full life, and this gentle and kind soul left us with an abundance of wonderful memories which will be etched in our hearts forever. We will always remember her infectious smile, her giggle, and her caring personality.
Those who knew Reece, even just a little, lost a shining light in their lives.
To honour Miss Reece, her love of dance and to carry her memory through her love of dance, Miss Alison, along with Reece’s parents, Michelle and Tracy, have established this scholarship in her name.
The scholarships are meant to help promote dance in our small community and to keep the passion for dance alive and strong through our memories of Reece. The recipients of the scholarships will receive a monetary amount to help with finances associated with dance.
Each season, applications will be open to anyone to apply for assistance with dance costs. Applications will be reviewed, and funds allocated accordingly at the end of the season.
Please consider donating to the scholarships regularly to help us keep this program going for years to come. Donations can be made to rmadbyalison@gmail.com (please enter “Reece Scholarship” in the notes).
“When you think of Reece, celebrate the good memories you have of her. Remember that life is fragile and short and should be lived to the fullest. Hug your kids just a little harder today as tomorrow is never promised.”