Photo of Elliott Rivard, Winner of Mark Pearce Memorial Scholarship Award

TORONTO — Choice Hotels Canada has announced the 2024 recipient of the Mark Pearce Memorial Scholarship. Elliot Rivard is currently enrolled at TELUQ University working towards earning his post-secondary Tourism Management certificate as well as the Hotel/Motel Administration certificate at Northern Lights College. In addition, he has spent the last two years working as the night auditor at the Quality Suites in Victoriaville, Que.

The scholarship was created in memory of Mark Pearce, who was senior vice-president, International Division for Choice Hotels International and former head of the Canadian office. Pearce embodied the spirit of hospitality and always went above and beyond to make sure everyone felt welcome, wanted and respected. The $2,500 legacy scholarship is designated for post-secondary education in the hospitality and tourism industries.

“I’m so grateful for this opportunity to further develop my hospitality skills. Pursuing a career in hospitality and tourism excites me because it combines my passion for human connection, cultural exploration and service excellence,” says Rivard.

Rivard’s commitment to hospitality is evident in both is educational pursuits as well as his workplace experience. Before joining the team at Quality Suites Victoriaville, he also held two roles at Hôtel Le Victorin, including front-desk attendant and night auditor.

“We are proud to support the future generation of hospitality leaders. Elliot embodies Mark Pearce’s passion for hospitality, and we are delighted to award him with this scholarship,” says Brian Leon, CEO of Choice Hotels Canada.

The Mark Pearce Memorial Scholarship is intended to help support careers in the hospitality-and-tourism industry and elevate the next generation of industry leaders with a focus on hotel or restaurant management. Jointly funded by Choice Hotels Canada and the Choice Canada Franchise Advisory Board (CCFAB), applications are open to franchise owners, hotel level associates, Choice Hotels Canada head office staff, as well as their dependent children.

“In this field of work, every interaction is an opportunity to create memorable experiences for people from all over the world and I love the idea of being part of someone’s journey. The hospitality industry offers a dynamic environment where no two days are the same. This fuels my desire for personal growth, challenges me to think creatively and pushes me to improve,” adds Rivard.

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