A long-term resident of Prince George, Elsie Osterberg, has donated $41,481.70 to create a new support fund at the College of New Caledonia that will assist students experiencing emergency hardship or need.
Osterberg was a talented and creative woman who loved to work with her hands. There’s a colourful rug on display at CNC’s library also known as the Learning Commons that Osterberg made.
Her two passions were being creative and helping others.
Thanks to her estate’s generous donation of $41,481.70, the new Elsie Osterberg Student Support Fund will ensure her legacy of helping those in need lives on for years to com as the fund will assist students who find themselves in a time of emergency hardship or need.
“With Elsie’s passing, she has left behind a legacy of support for students in need,” said Alison Akehurst, a close friend and the executor of the estate.
“Elsie truly believed in the teaching of young people. She said she could teach everybody something."
Her creativity also took a variety of forms, from panning gold to running her own upholstery business that specialized in helicopter interiors, seat slips, and blade covers.
In retirement, her interests shifted to hand-braided and sewn recycled fabric floor rugs, like the one on display in the Learning Commons. She would sit for hours taking apart all kinds of clothing and cutting and sewing into strips to make her rugs.
Although she lost count, there are a few hundred of her award-winning rugs scattered around communities with family and friends.
“We know students who work very hard through their studies can run into unexpected financial challenges," said Gail Little, CNC’s manager of student success and retention.
“We’re grateful for financial legacies like Elsie’s to make a difference in those times of need, and to enjoy the beautiful rug she created as a keepsake of her life.”
The shadow box containing Osterberg's story, her rug, and snapshots of her life will be on display in the Learning Commons for the next five years to honour her contribution to students of CNC.
“Elsie knew I loved working in the embroidery industry, and she encouraged me to open my own shop almost 23 years ago,” shared Akehurst. “We hope her donation will give students who are struggling that extra help and inspiration to fulfill their dreams too.”
Student can visit CNC’s financial aid and awards site to learn more about Elsie Osterberg Student Support Fund and how to apply.
