The C.C. Thomas Student Award honours the memory of a founding member, C.C. Thomas, of the Saanich Peninsula Arts and Crafts Society. It was established in 1972 to encourage young people with creative interests and abilities to further their studies in the areas related to visual arts. Two $1,000 scholarships are awarded to assist with expenses related to the pursuit of visual arts after high school graduation. Award recipients are invited to exhibit their recent work in the SPAC Spring Show held near the end of April each year at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney, BC.

2025 Scholarship Winner

Camryn Waters, a graduate of Claremont Secondary School.  

Camryn completed 12 Fine Arts courses throughout her high school years, which has played a significant role in her high school experience.  She is enrolled at the University of Victoria as of September 2025, in their Visual Arts Program.  She is excited to be able to pursue her continuing passion for the arts and thanks SPAC for supporting her in this journey.

Maria Ghaly, a graduate of Parkland Secondary School.  

Maria will be entering Emily Carr University of Art & Design in the fall of 2025.  Maria was offered early admission in March to ECUAD, and immediately secured her place.  She has many interests in the creative world and is looking forward to expanding her own portfolio as she decides what path will take her further along her creative journey.  She thanks SPAC for helping and encouraging her with our support along this very exciting and fulfilling path.

2026 Eligibility Criteria

All applicants graduating in the current school term (June 2026) from a secondary school in Districts 61, 62 and 63 and who plan to continue their studies in visual arts or crafts will be considered for the scholarships.

All application requirements must be met by the deadline stated for this award. Previous winners are not eligible.

Application Requirements

All applications must be submitted to SPAC by the applicant’s Art Teacher to be considered for this award. The following is required for all submissions:

• Completed application form.
• 2 to 5 pieces of work produced within the last two years. Digital portfolios are acceptable.
• A written submission letter explaining why the applicant should receive this award.
• A brief description of their favourite piece.