Briefs: $110K hospice gift; Vet student scholarship; Pork conference

The contribution, one the last from the foundation, was made recently in memory of longtime Beattie Foundation president Jack Morrison, who died Oct. 26, the hospice foundation said in a release.

The family has opted to donate remaining Beattie Foundation funds to local initiatives close to their hearts, with donations also going to the Chatham-Kent Children’s Treatment Centre and Chatham-Kent Health Alliance foundations, the release said.

“Jack was determined to ensure that all arrangements and donations were taken care of before his passing,” his daughter-in law, Jill Morrison, said. “He was deeply passionate about the James A. Beattie Foundation, and I know he would be smiling, likely with tears in his eyes.”

The Beattie Foundation, which has contributed $240,000 to the hospice over the years, “has long exemplified the power of quiet generosity, making a significant and meaningful difference throughout Chatham-Kent,” hospice foundation executive director Brock McGregor said.

Erica Robertson is one of nine Ontario veterinary medicine and veterinary technology students who are first to receive a new scholarship created to support the next generation of animal health professionals.

Robertson, of Kent Bridge, is the Veal Farmers of Ontario-sponsored recipient. She is the sixth generation on her family farm near Ridgetown, gaining early experience with cattle and poultry on her grandfather’s feedlot and pullet operation.