It was a celebration of Niagara’s future.

For the fifth year in a row, but in a new format on campus, Brock University handed out more than $125,000 in entrance scholarships to graduating secondary school students from across the region Wednesday night.

Selected based on a combination of academic achievements, involvement in school and the community, as well as financial need, the Niagara Principal’s Awards were given to 58 students representing 29 public, Catholic and private schools.

Most of the recipients, along with their parents and school principals, were on hand at the University Wednesday to be presented their scholarships.

“We moved to a new format for recognizing the scholarship recipients this year, allowing us to celebrate these students and their achievements more fully and among their school and home supporters,” said Beth Natale, Director, Recruitment and Retention for Brock University. “Hosting the event in the new Goodman School of Business Atrium was the perfect setting to illustrate the value and prestige associated with this accomplishment, and to demonstrate Brock’s commitment to partnership and investment in Niagara.”

That commitment shows Brock is leading by example, said Westlane Secondary School principal Karen Simpson.

“It’s an opportunity that some of these students might not have otherwise had and Brock is presenting that opportunity,” she said. “I think it’s outstanding. It’s important to give back to our community and Brock is doing that for our students. It’s also showing them the importance of giving back.”

Since its inception in 2014, Brock has handed out the $2,500 entrance scholarships to nearly 300 students.