The Al Shypth Scholarship for Environmental Excellence
The Al Shypth Scholarship for Environmental Excellence has been created to honor Al Shypth’s long and impactful service to Saskatchewan’s minerals industry, particularly through his eight years as Executive Director of the International Minerals Innovation Institute (IMII), concluding with his retirement in 2025.
A graduate of the University of Saskatchewan (in 1986), he obtained his master’s degrees in environmental studies from York University (in 1991) and in environmental law and policy from the Vermont Law School, where he graduated with highest honours, in 2014. This led to a distinguished career spanning the private sector, public service, and non-profit organizations. His work took him across Canada and internationally to Kazakhstan. Some of his most significant contributions made in northern Saskatchewan including helping to set the public policy framework for approvals of 3 major uranium projects and creating the Northern Mines Monitoring Secretariat and Environmental Quality Committees to facilitate community involvement in the uranium industry.
In recognition of his commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation in the minerals sector, this $1,000 scholarship will be awarded annually for three years, beginning in 2025. It is intended for students enrolled in post-secondary programs in Saskatchewan who are either studying environmental disciplines or demonstrate a strong environmental conscience and interest, especially as it relates to a career in the minerals industry.
Who does it help
The scholarship is open to students enrolled in environmental studies or a closely related discipline at IMII member post-secondary institutions, including:
- Carlton Trail College – carltontrailcollege.com
- North West College – northwestcollege.ca
- Northlands College – northlandscollege.ca
- Suncrest College – suncrestcollege.ca
- Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies – siit.ca
- Saskatchewan Polytechnic – saskpolytech.ca
- University of Regina – uregina.ca
- University of Saskatchewan – usask.ca
How to apply
To apply for the scholarship, you will need to complete an application form and submit a personal essay. You must also include a copy of your acceptance letter (or proof of current enrollment) and an official transcript of your most recent academic program.
Enrollment must be maintained throughout the academic year.
The application form will consist of four sections:
- Personal Information
- Academic information
- Career commitment
- Personal statement – environmental excellence
Demonstrated commitment to pursuing a career in Saskatchewan’s minerals industry will be considered in the selection process, including consideration of completed co-op placements, internships, or other relevant work experience within the sector.
The deadline to apply is October 3, 2025. Scholarship winners will receive notification November 3, 2025.
If you have any questions regarding the scholarship, please contact us at [email protected].
