Celebrating Achievement: Meet the 2024 Longo Faculty of Business Special Award Recipients
HLOs: 
Alongside Humber awards and scholarships, the Longo Faculty of Business provides special awards to students who maintain a GPA above 80% and submit an academic achievement essay.
Learn more about our 2024 Special Award recipients below.
Dean’s Scholarship Winner
Presented to a returning student within the Longo Faculty of Business. The recipient must have achieved an 85 percent or higher grade point average and have displayed academic excellence within the classroom and demonstrate leadership in their program of study, the broader Humber community, and outside the college.
Polina Grudinina
1. How did you feel upon discovering that you had won?
I was incredibly excited, happy and grateful when I realized I won the scholarship. I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw the email that started with “Congratulations”. I felt unbelievably grateful that my efforts were noticed and rewarded. The feeling you get when you realize you're being recognized for all of the hard work that you've accomplished is unmatched!
2. In what ways do you anticipate these funds will impact you, your life, and your family?
Receiving these funds will gradually shape my future here in Canada, especially considering my roots in Ukraine and the financial burden my family faces supporting me from afar. This scholarship is a significant material aid, as I navigate life on my own in a new country. It not only eases the immediate financial pressure but also lays the foundation for my future aspirations.
3. What are your plans for utilizing the scholarship funds?
Living in Canada requires a lot of expenses and this scholarship will make life much easier for me and my parents. Part of the received scholarship will go towards necessities such as rent and food. But I also aim to save most of the funds for my future projects. I want to open my own business and these funds will serve as my starting capital. This scholarship has not only taken a burden off my parents and myself but also allowed me to get one step closer to my dream!
BMO Entrepreneurship Scholarship Winner
Presented to full-time students, in any program, with an 80 percent GPA, who are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or protected person, and demonstrate engagement with entrepreneurial activities, and/or to students who personify the spirit, passion, and drive necessary to become a successful entrepreneur. In addition students must currently be (or become) a member of Longo Centre for Entrepreneurship.
Cristen Jones
1. How did you feel upon discovering that you had won?
Discovering I won both the BMO Entrepreneurship and Longo Family Foundation in Small Business Scholarships was an overwhelming mix of emotions. I felt incredibly grateful for the recognition of my entrepreneurial pursuits. It validated the hard work and dedication I've put into my writing and teaching careers. Knowing that I would receive financial support to further my endeavours filled me with excitement and motivation for the future. Winning the scholarship was a moment of personal triumph and confirmation that my efforts were making a meaningful impact.
2. In what ways do you anticipate these funds will impact you, your life, and your family?
Receiving the entrepreneurship scholarship funds provides invaluable support. Financial stability allows me to dedicate more time to writing, honing my craft, and promoting my poetry book. Additionally, I intend to invest in further training as a swim instructor, enhancing my skills and expanding my client base. Ultimately, the impact would foster growth and opportunity.
3. What are your plans for utilizing the scholarship funds?
I plan to allocate them towards marketing efforts for my poetry book, such as book tours, advertising, and professional services. Since receiving the scholarship, I was able to host my second successful book reading. Additionally, I aim to invest in advanced swimming certifications, gear and equipment to elevate my teaching abilities and provide a better experience for my clients. By strategically allocating the funds, I hope to maximize the impact on my entrepreneurial endeavours.
Frank Franklin Scholarship Winners
Presented to a full-time International Student within the Longo Faculty of Business who has displayed an outstanding commitment to their academic studies, extracurricular activities and who has shown perseverance in overcoming a barrier or challenge. Frank Franklin, former Director of International Programs who retired in 2005, has supported the achievements of many international Business students.
Teffa González
1. How did you feel upon discovering that you had won?
I remember finishing one of my lectures, dealing with a bit of anxiety, second-guessing my choices, and feeling homesick and out of place. When I received the news, it felt like a reassuring sign that I was moving in the right direction. Although this experience has been one of my toughest, it has also been the most enriching in terms of learning and personal growth.
2. In what ways do you anticipate these funds will impact you, your life, and your family?
I decided to come to Canada after experiencing bankruptcy with my entrepreneurship ventures back in Mexico. I felt stuck and unsure how to move forward. Investing my savings to study Business - Marketing at Humber was a big decision. I funded all tuition and expenses myself, which made me keenly aware of my limited finances. It took me three months to secure a part-time job, and relying solely on my savings throughout the program was not sustainable. Receiving these funds was a relief and allowed me to complete my program without interruption. Looking ahead, I am determined to succeed and give back to others in similar situations. Once I achieve financial stability, I aspire to become a donor for Latin American girls who, like me, come to Canada seeking opportunities for a better future.
3. What are your plans for utilizing the scholarship funds?
I plan to use the scholarship funds to cover my education expenses, like tuition fees. This support will ease the financial pressure and allow me to concentrate on my studies.
Mark Kristopper Casuga
1. How did you feel upon discovering that you had won?
I feel blessed, happy and grateful. It provides me with the opportunity to achieve my goals in life, gives me hope and a feeling of relief, especially in my financial responsibilities.
2. In what ways do you anticipate these funds will impact you, your life, and your family?
It gives me inspiration to focus on my studies. I will be more confident and eager to be the best version of myself everyday.
3. What are your plans for utilizing the scholarship funds?
I will use the funds towards my tuition fees and books. This will give me the opportunity to focus more time on my education.
International Student Excellence Scholarship Winners
Presented to a returning International student within the Longo Faculty of Business who has achieved exceptionally high grades, has demonstrated a strong dedication to their studies, and commitment to Humber’s campus life and the wider community. Participation can be proven through activities as follows but not limited to: athletics, residence, peer mentoring, cultural activities, and event planning.
Muskaan Suthar
1. How did you feel upon discovering that you had won?
I felt incredibly happy and grateful when I found out I won the scholarship. It helped validate my hard work and involvement in campus activities.
2. In what ways do you anticipate these funds will impact you, your life, and your family?
Winning this scholarship made a big difference for me and my family. It helped ease the financial strain of college, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on worrying about money.
3. What are your plans for utilizing the scholarship funds?
I plan to use the scholarship money wisely, put it towards my tuition fees and buy any materials for my classes. I also want to invest in personal development opportunities that will help me grow academically and professionally. And of course, I'll use some of the funds to support my family and contribute to our overall well-being.
Amritjyot Gill
1. How did you feel upon discovering that you had won?
I was extremely delighted upon discovering that I had been the recipient of such a prestigious award.
2. In what ways do you anticipate these funds will impact you, your life, and your family?
Winning a scholarship like this alleviates some of the financial stress and improves my quality of work and information retained in school.
3. What are your plans for utilizing the scholarship funds?
I used the funds towards my education and focused on finishing my degree program with high academic standings.