Renowned Jeweler Designs UWinnipeg Necklace

Photo: Hilary Druxman designed necklace “Education is Key”.

WINNIPEG, MB – University of Winnipeg Collegiate grad and renowned Winnipeg jewelry designer Hilary Druxman has created a one-of-a-kind necklace in support of the Opportunity Fund.The design is a simple keyhole, signifying that “Education is Key”, and it will be launched at the third annual I Heart UWinnipeg dinner on May 23, 2012.

The cost of each sterling silver necklace is an affordable $35 and there is also a sterling silver oxidized version and one with a leather neck cord available at the same price. All net proceeds will go towards the Opportunity Fund, which was created in 2008 specifically to support students from inner-city neighbourhoods, Aboriginal students, new Canadians, refugees and war-affected youth.

“The UWinnipeg Opportunity Fund is a program that enhances our community by empowering individuals to make positive changes through university education,” said Druxman. “We believe that everyone should have the chance to embrace this opportunity.”

To date, 838 students have received Opportunity Fund Fast-Track Bursaries from UWinnipeg and approximately 100 of those students have now graduated.

In addition, six students this year attended classes at UWinnipeg as a result of the Opportunity Fund Tuition Credit Program, which allows elementary and high school students to “earn as they learn”. Approximately 150 inner-city students are now registered in the program. Students as early as Grade 4 participate in science and sustainability programs and can earn up to $4,000 in their own tuition credit account if they stay in school and graduate. These are, in effect, deferred scholarships.

The Education is Key necklace will be sold at The University of Winnipeg Bookstore (in the AnX at 471 Portage Ave.), on Druxman’s website and in her Exchange District store at 258 McDermot Ave in Winnipeg.

Everyone is invited to attend the I Heart UWinnipeg Dinner, which takes place on Wednesday, May 23, 2012 at Canad Inns Polo Park in the Main Ballroom. Tickets cost $95.00 and all proceeds benefit the Opportunity Fund program. To purchase dinner tickets or to find out about sponsorship opportunities please: