Awarded for the first time in 2007, this recognition of excellence is dedicated in the memory of Patricia Helliwell. As a volunteer tutor for fourteen years, Patricia's spirit, compassion and devotion to adult learners provided an enduring role model for all to emulate.

This year's recipient, Margie Spencer, is a resident of Centre Burlington who has tutored for the Hants Learning Network Association since 2004. She is a true life-long learner, returning to community college later in life, where she received her Human Services Diploma. Margie currently works for Hants Community Homes, supporting adults with a wide variety of challenges. She is a former board member of the Hants County Community Access Network - an employment support service for persons with disabilities. Margie's tutor training program was the last such session that Patricia Helliwell facilitated.

Margie's tutoring experiences have been very diverse – ranging from helping a young mother with reading and math, to helping a community services recipient get back on her feet. Currently, Margie tutors one man who is working on improving his speaking and reading, as well as teaching math and English to another who wants to complete his G.E.D. Margie is a tremendous source of support to the Hants Learning Network, her friends, family and community. Congratulations, Margie, on this well-deserved award!