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John Sweeney was the first Director of Education of the former Waterloo Region Roman Catholic Separate School Board from 1969 to 1975 and went on to become the Member of Provincial Parliament for Kitchener-Wilmot from 1975 to 1990. He served in the cabinet of the David Peterson government as the Minister of Community and Social Services and the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.
After retirement from provincial politics, John became Chancellor of St. Jerome's University, Waterloo in 1992 - a position he held until his death. John's service to the community, province and nation is an example for our youth. Former Premier Peterson has commented that John "was just one of the most Christ-like people I've ever met. He was driven by principle, faith and love - these three things governed his life." It is fitting, therefore, that the Board of Trustees established a scholarship in John's memory to award a student with $1000
In order to be eligible for the scholarship, the recipient must:
- Be a graduating student from one of the Waterloo Catholic District School Board's secondary schools or continuing education sites; and,
- Be registered in full-time attendance at St. Jerome's University, Waterloo in first year 1A term; and,
- Demonstrate qualities such as: perseverance, loyalty, integrity, commitment; and
- Demonstrate a balanced involvement in their school, church, and civic community.