Norma and William (Bill) Phelan Entrance Renewable Bursaries

The Norma and William (Bill) Phelan Entrance Renewable Bursaries are renewable scholarships awarded to students entering the first year of the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program at the Atlantic Veterinary College at the University of Prince Edward Island. The award recognizes students who demonstrate financial need and provides substantial financial support throughout their veterinary education. The scholarship provides $8,000 in the first year, $6,000 in the second year, $5,000 in the third year, and $4,000 in the fourth year, totaling $23,000 over the four-year program. This bursary was established through a substantial residual bequest from Norma May (Mason) Phelan, who grew up on a farm in Nova Scotia and developed a deep love for animals, particularly Siamese cats. Norma and her husband Bill volunteered with animal shelters and supported animal welfare through various fundraising activities. Based on her passion for animals and commitment to supporting future veterinarians, Norma left this bequest specifically to help students entering the veterinary medicine field who face financial challenges in completing their studies.