Recognizing an unstoppable spirit
NorQuest President’s Medal recipient is a leader in the classroom and beyond
Shannon Whitlow knows that life is not a spectator sport; she prefers to participate. Not only is she a loving mother of three children, but a lifelong learner and dedicated volunteer.
Whitlow earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Alberta in 1998, and then focused on having a family. In 2017, she had the desire to boost her education and enrolled in NorQuest College’s Physical Therapy Assistant program. Even after years away from the classroom, Whitlow earned an impressive 3.81 GPA and completed both of her practicums with the highest scores in all competencies. Although she took classes online, she was also a positive presence on the NorQuest campus, mentoring her fellow students and becoming a natural leader. Alongside the demands of full-time classes and family life, she also served as an enthusiastic volunteer with several student groups and committees, including the RBC Indigenous Mentorship Program and the Student Judicial Affairs Committee.
Whitlow is currently enjoying casual employment with Alberta Health Services that allows her to balance a new career and family life.
"To be nominated for a President’s Medal is a great honour in itself,” says Whitlow. “But to be chosen for the award at this stage in my life is a real thrill. NorQuest was a great experience and I’m very proud of what I was able to accomplish. And I’m looking forward to accomplishing more in the future!”
NorQuest was a great experience and I’m very proud of what I was able to accomplish. And I’m looking forward to accomplishing more in the future!