Written By Jan Sims
ILDERTON - An act of generosity from a long-time member of the Ilderton Lions Club will help to ensure the continuation of a scholarship to a deserving Medway High School student.
Lloyd McNaughton recently contributed $50,000 to fund a scholarship that bears his name as well as that of his late wife, Julia.
The scholarship was established by the Lions Club with the Thames Valley Education Foundation. The first recipient was awarded a cheque for $300 in 1986. That amount was increased to $500 in 2017. Since 2022, McNaughton has been providing additional funds to keep the scholarship going. “Without question, the club is very pleased and thankful for Lloyd’s thoughtful generosity. The club’s concern has been the continuity of the scholarship in future. Lloyd has now ensured the continued viability of the scholarship,” says Murray McDonald with the Ilderton Lions Club.
Both the Lions Club and education are close to McNaughton’s heart. He has been a member of the Lions Club for 36 years, and his wife Julia was a former teacher.
McNaughton also has strong ties to the Ilderton community. His family started farming in the area in 1829. “This is my contribution to Medway for the people who have children and need help with their education,” says McNaughton.
The wording of the scholarship states: “Awarded to the graduating student who shows betterment of the school and/or community in which they reside, achieves excellence in good citizenship, community involvement, contributes to their school community, and resides in Middlesex County”.
The annual amount of the Lloyd and Julia McNaughton Scholarship has been increased to $1,500 starting this year. For the Lions Club, it’s part of an ongoing commitment to civic improvement. “Many members of the Ilderton club and the community of Ilderton have, and continue to attend Medway High School,” says McDonald.
