The wait is over. St. Michaels University School (SMUS) is pleased to announce Anthony Kavalenka as the grand prize winner of the Best School Year ever contest. The Best School Year Ever contest is an opportunity for four students from across Canada and the USA to win a one-year boarding scholarship to attend SMUS.
A musically talented Grade 10 student from Qualicum, British Columbia, Kavalenka is awarded a full-year boarding scholarship, with a value up to $80,000, to attend SMUS for 2025-26. Fellow finalist Claire Dufresne, a dedicated dancer from Dawson Creek, will receive a scholarship valued up to $60,000 to attend SMUS for her Grade 10 year. In early March, both Kavalenka and Dufresne visited Victoria and the SMUS campus.
In addition to the finalists, three additional The Best School Year Ever contestants will also be stepping foot on the Richmond Road campus next year. SMUS is excited to welcome Marc Njenga from Kelowna, Jack Harris from Kelowna, and Jared Qin from Vancouver.
“It was such a pleasure to meet both Anthony and Claire in person and see just how remarkable they are,” said Alexis Lang Lunn, Director of Admissions. “This year’s group of contestants was truly exceptional, and the judges had an incredibly tough job selecting the finalists. We’re thrilled that five of these talented students will be joining the SMUS community. Anthony, Claire, Marc, Jack, and Jared each bring unique strengths and passions, and there’s no doubt they’ll enrich our school in meaningful and inspiring ways.”
Meet next year’s incoming The Best School Year Ever Class:
Anthony Kavalenka: A Musical Trailblazer
Entering Grade 11 from Qualicum, British Columbia
Anthony has charted an inspiring path as a musician. His journey began just four years ago when he joined the Royal Canadian Air Cadets, hoping to play in their military band. While that opportunity didn’t materialize, Anthony’s determination led him to join his elementary school band—a pivotal moment that sparked his passion for music.
Now a skilled alto saxophonist and singer, Anthony immerses himself in concert band, choir, and jazz band programs. His talent has been showcased at music festivals across Vancouver Island, including in Nanaimo, Port Alberni, and Victoria. Notably, Anthony earned an award for his saxophone improvisation at the West Coast Jazz Festival, a testament to his dedication and artistry.
Outside of music, Anthony is a well-rounded individual with a love for baking, skiing, swimming, drawing, and exploring languages and cultures. As a finalist, Anthony is eager to continue his musical and personal growth at SMUS, embracing a vibrant academic and artistic environment.
Claire Dufresne: A Graceful Artist
Entering Grade 10 from Dawson Creek, British Columbia
Claire has embraced her passions with determination and grace. At just two years old, she began dancing under the guidance of her mother, a dance teacher. Over the years, her dedication to dance has grown, and it has become her primary form of self-expression and personal growth.
In May 2023, Claire took a bold step by auditioning for a competitive dance team outside her hometown. Making the team was a proud moment, allowing her to refine her technical skills and build lasting friendships with her dance family. Recognized for her artistry and precision, Claire has won multiple awards for her performances.
Beyond dance, Claire is deeply connected to her Indigenous heritage and enjoys speaking French, reading, and expanding her knowledge of the world. As a finalist, she is eager to bring her passion for dance to SMUS, exploring new opportunities, and continuing her journey as a dancer and a scholar in an inspiring environment.
Marc Njenga: A Globally Minded Explorer
Entering Grade 9 from Kelowna, British Columbia
With a passport full of stamps and a mind full of questions, Marc brings a global perspective and an insatiable curiosity to every new experience. Having visited more than a dozen countries, he thrives in diverse environments and loves learning from people with different backgrounds. Marc is especially drawn to Social Studies and Biology, intrigued by both the world’s vast geography and the intricate systems within the human body.
In and out of the classroom, Marc is a natural connector—whether he’s playing basketball, volleyball, football, or jamming with his band on percussion. He’s also a budding linguist, working hard to strengthen his French, and a confident communicator who uplifts others through his energy and initiative. With a love of learning and a dream of becoming a pilot, Marc is ready to take flight at SMUS, embracing academic growth, meaningful friendships, and new adventures on and off campus.
Jack Harris: A Driven Leader On and Off the Field
Entering Grade 11 from Kelowna, British Columbia
Jack’s world revolves around movement—of ideas, of people, and of progress. A standout athlete and thoughtful scholar, Jack finds inspiration in both the physical demands of sport and the intellectual challenges of academic life. He has captained rugby teams, competed in the BC Summer Games, and even caught the attention of Bobsled Canada, accepting an invitation to a talent ID camp.
In the classroom, Jack is drawn to literature, science, and philosophy, always ready to engage in big questions and fresh perspectives. A natural leader with a generous spirit, he gives back by volunteering with younger athletes and spending time outdoors with his family. Jack also carries a deep connection to SMUS—his father is an alumnus and his grandparents taught at the Junior School. With an eye toward attending UVic, Jack sees SMUS as the next step in his journey to becoming a well-rounded, impactful leader.
Jared Qin: A Visionary in STEM and the Arts
Entering Grade 10 from Vancouver, British Columbia
Jared bridges the worlds of logic and creativity with rare ease. A passionate innovator and high-achieving student, he has already made his mark through published research, AI certifications, and by founding his school’s artificial intelligence club. His academic interests span computer science, mathematics, and astronomy, while his artistic pursuits include poetry, graphic design, and performance.
Bilingual in English and Mandarin, Jared is also an accomplished athlete, enjoying volleyball, rowing, fencing, and chess. Always seeking ways to lead and serve, he created a volleyball clinic to mentor younger students and foster community. His love of coding, competitive spirit, and commitment to excellence make him a perfect fit for the rigorous and dynamic learning environment at SMUS. As he steps into the next phase of his educational journey, Jared is eager to embrace the school’s holistic approach and global outlook.
