Daniel Fainstein, a current student in the Diploma in Public Relations (PR) program with Continuing Studies at UVic, was recently awarded the 2023 Denis Racine Bursary.

Each year, the Canadian Public Relations Society of Vancouver Island (CPRS-VI) awards this bursary to one recipient. Expressing his gratitude, Fainstein is honoured to receive the award and is enjoying his studies in the PR program.

Here’s what the award means to him:

Daniel Fainstein

I was so happy and felt honoured when I received the news that I was a recipient of the Denis Racine bursary. I am very grateful to the Racine family for providing this bursary and wish to extend my sincere thanks for their generosity. This bursary will be put toward my tuition as I proceed with the courses and work toward completing the Public Relations Diploma Program at the University of Victoria.

I am enjoying my studies in the program and find it suits my style of learning and allows me the flexibility to proceed at my own pace. I have learned a lot in all the courses and I look forward to being able to apply what I have learned in a professional setting.

I am a keen learner of all aspects of public relations and communications. It has been interesting to learn about how traditional media has evolved into new forms of communication and all the challenges that come with new media platforms. My communication skills have improved and I feel more confident in doing this work. 

I joined the Canadian Public Relations Society in 2022 to meet and learn from other professionals in the public relations field. It has been a terrific way to meet people with similar interests and learn from other members and the various speakers at the events. Since I attend the UVic program online, it is beneficial for me to have opportunities to attend in-person events and connect with others. I feel a part of a supportive organization and I want to continue my involvement in the years to come.

As a volunteer with Special Olympics BC, I was able to bring and apply my Special Olympics experience to my school work. Special Olympics has taught me about working together in groups (big or small) and how to coach and relate to athletes with challenges. 

It has been life-changing for me to enter this program and find out how much I enjoy the field of public relations and communications. I feel excited and motivated to continue my learning journey. I am grateful to the CPRS for their support and encouragement. 

According to the CPRS-VI’s website, Denis Racine was a prominent figure in Victoria's public relations community and a strong mentor for youth. He was president of both CPRS-VI and CPRS National, a tournament director for the Times Colonist Open and an advisor for the University of Victoria.

View the original post or learn more about the award on the CPRS-VI website.

  • Posted March 5, 2024

RELATED TOPICS: Communication and Public Relations