Stories

Allan Gaumond – Geritol Follies Bursary Fund

Allan Gaumond PHOTOI went to Westmount Secondary School in Hamilton, and following graduation I went to Mohawk College and completed a three-year Applied Music Diploma. After Mohawk, I attended the University of Toronto earning a Bachelor degree in Jazz Performance, followed by OISE where I completed my Bachelor of Education.

My grandfather was a member of the Geritol Follies at the time and he informed me that there may be a bursary opportunity through Hamilton Community Foundation. At a time when I wasn’t eligible for many financial assistance options, the bursary was critical in my ability to attend the University of Toronto.

I currently teach music to middle school and high school students at Hillfield Strathallan College in Hamilton. I also direct the Rising Stars Jazz Band, which is a member of the Hamilton All Star Jazz Bands.

I would thank the Geritol Follies Committee for giving me the opportunity to attend such a prestigious and exclusive program as the one offered at the University of Toronto. Being a part of that program opened up many professional doors to me, both educational and performance based. Without assistance from HCF, it may not have been possible for me to attend that program.