Krissa Donahue

When you take into account lectures, seminars and homework, a student’s life can be hectic enough, never mind the extracurricular activities in which they take part.

But Krissa Donahue was able to find time through it all to make a significant difference in her community.

The fourth year concurrent education student organized an event at Westmount Public School that kick-started the school’s Halloween for Hunger campaign, donating 471 cans of food to the drive for Community Care of St. Catharines and Thorold.

But it didn’t end with just a donation. She invited the school’s Me to We club to listen to a speech on the importance of volunteering by Adam Venning, the volunteer and charities co-ordinator with Brock University Students’ Union.

Students then kicked up their heels, learning new moves from Brock Dance instructors, did crafts and refueled on healthy snacks.

“Since my event, the school has collected a record amount of cans for Community Care,” a proud Donahue said.

Students have donated about 1,000 cans of food.

Aspiring to be a primary school teacher, Donahue said she’s passionate about instilling in children the idea of being the best you can be at an early age.

Donahue was recognized last week for her efforts by Samsung’s Mobile Canada team, who presented her with a $1,500-scholarship for placing fourth in Samsung’s National Leadership Program. Donahue also won a new Samsung Galaxy S3 for making it into the top-20 in Canada.

“I was stunned when I received the phone call from Samsung,” she said. “I never thought going about my daily life would have an impact on others.