In Honour of Peggy Helstein

Created in 2026 in honour of Margaret (Peggy) Helstein as she celebrates her 85th birthday, this opportunity fund is awarded each year to a single parent pursuing a University of Lethbridge program.

As a single mom who had not completed high school, Peggy understood that further education would create better options for her and her daughter. She returned to school to complete her diploma while a mom to an infant, balancing single parenting, many hours on the city bus to and from school, and homework, all while trying to make a few dollars go a very long way. It took courage, sacrifice, resilience, and love, but she completed her program while being a fantastic mom to Michelle, and that further education created new opportunities for them both.

When Michelle was eight, Peggy married William (Bill) Helstein and the three of them built a life together. Together, Peggy and Bill made sure post-secondary education was a possibility for Michelle despite the challenges and not having had that opportunity themselves.

Peggy is a character – she’s smart, a word puzzler extraordinaire, a friend to many, an animal lover, and of course a committed fan (Go Oilers! Go Jays!). She is most happy and at home in the mountains. She makes the most of every opportunity and she is sure to have a whole lot of fun and adventure along the way.

Established by Peggy’s daughter Michelle Helstein, this scholarship not only celebrates 85 remarkable years of life and the adventures still to come, but also honors the enduring legacy of Peggy’s courage, resilience, and belief that education brings opportunity. May this scholarship carry her story forward by helping other single parents pursue an education and create new possibilities for their own future and the futures of those they love.