(SAULT STE. MARIE, ON – October 23, 2026) Algoma University’s 2026 John R. Rhodes Scholarship Dinner brought the community together for an evening celebrating student talent, community leadership, and philanthropy. The event supported the next generation of leaders while honouring the Stone family for their longstanding contributions to Sault Ste. Marie.
Presented by ApplyBoard, this year’s gala raised $200,000 in support of student scholarships and featured a live art auction of original works by Algoma University students, as well as musical performances by students.
Held at the Machine Shop on Thursday, October 22, 2026, the annual event celebrated the 2026 John R. Rhodes Scholarship recipients Jordyn Stadnisky and Rhaya Gagne, two exceptional Algoma University students whose leadership, academic achievement, and community involvement reflect the enduring legacy of John R. Rhodes.
“True legacy goes beyond what we leave behind. It is defined by what we build to support the generations that follow,” said Dr. Kofi Campbell, Algoma University’s President and Vice-Chancellor. “This is a value deeply woven into the fabric of Algoma University. While every student arrives with a unique story and their own set of challenges, all of them carry the potential to make a lasting impact. The John R. Rhodes dinner is about celebrating and empowering that potential, while embracing our responsibility to create the conditions for students to succeed.”
This year’s honouree was the Stone family, which for nearly a century has helped shape the social, cultural, philanthropic, and business landscape of Sault Ste. Marie. Across four generations, their unwavering commitment to entrepreneurship, volunteerism, and community leadership reflects the very values the John R. Rhodes Scholarship was established to celebrate: service, leadership, and investing in future generations.
“Our family has been incredibly fortunate to call Sault Ste. Marie home for generations,” said Marnie Stone. “As we approach the 100th anniversary of our family business, we are reminded that a legacy is about so much more than the years in business. It is about the relationships we build, the community we support, and the opportunities we help create for future generations.
“My father, Peter Stone, was a true gentleman who represented the values of kindness, integrity, and community that have always been important to our family. Having our family recognized at this particular time, so soon after his passing, makes this honour especially meaningful. I know he would have been very proud.
“We believe a strong community is one where people support one another, where the arts are valued and supported, and where everyone has an opportunity to contribute and thrive. We are deeply grateful for this recognition and share it with the many people who have been part of our journey. It is a privilege to carry our family’s legacy forward and continue giving back to the community that has given us so much.”
The evening featured an art auction showcasing original pieces created live by Algoma University students, with proceeds supporting student awards and scholarships. Algoma University music students also presented live musical performances, highlighting the talent and creativity of the University’s student community.
John R. Rhodes
To learn more about John R. Rhodes’ legacy, this year’s honouree, and sponsors, please visit the John R. Rhodes website. To support student awards at Algoma University, please visit algomau.ca/giving.
Sponsorship Recognition
A very special thank you to the many local businesses and partners whose generous support makes the John R. Rhodes Scholarship Dinner possible. Algoma University is grateful to our Presenting Sponsor, ApplyBoard, along with all of our sponsors.
Click here for the official event photo.
Share Article
