Announcing the 2026 David M. Bayne Legacy Bursary Recipients
The Banff & Lake Louise Hospitality Association (BLLHA), in partnership with the Banff Canmore Foundation, is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 David M. Bayne Legacy Bursaries.
This year, three outstanding students have been awarded $5,000 bursaries in recognition of their commitment to hospitality, tourism, and community leadership. The David M. Bayne Legacy Bursary was established to honour the remarkable career and lasting impact of David M. Bayne, a respected hospitality leader whose dedication to mentorship, professionalism, and the Banff and Lake Louise community helped shape generations of industry professionals.
The bursary supports post-secondary students who have a connection to Banff and Lake Louise and are pursuing studies that will contribute to the future of the tourism and hospitality industry. By investing in emerging leaders, the program continues David’s legacy of opening doors, encouraging excellence, and strengthening the talent pipeline that is so vital to our destination.
Congratulations to the 2026 recipients:
Alicia Elizabeth Frick
Bachelor of Arts Communication & Media Studies, University of Calgary
“I am beyond grateful to the David M Bayne Bursary for selecting me as one of their recipients. I am very thankful for the opportunities this bursary has provided for me to start my journey in communications and tourism.”
Colden Lewis
Culinary Management, Georgian College
“I am incredibly grateful for the David M. Bayne Scholarship and the opportunity it provides to continue my culinary education. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and this support brings me one step closer to building a successful career in the culinary industry and sharing that passion with others.“
Georgia 'Goodge' Eracleous
Graduate Diploma in Immigration and Citizenship Law (GDipICL), Queens University
“I am beyond grateful to receive this bursary, and to be so supported by the amazing community in Banff National Park! This scholarship will give me the opportunity to focus on completing my studies, setting up my career, and hopefully allow me to pay it forward one day to the people of the Bow Valley.”
These recipients represent the future of our industry, bringing creativity, leadership, and a strong connection to the Banff and Lake Louise community. Their educational journeys and career ambitions reflect the same values David Bayne championed throughout his life: hard work, professionalism, generosity, and a deep commitment to helping others succeed.
We extend our sincere congratulations to Alicia, Colden, and Georgia, and wish them every success as they continue their educational and professional journeys.
We also thank the Bayne family, the Banff Canmore Foundation, and everyone who has supported the David M. Bayne Legacy Bursary Fund. Together, we are ensuring that David’s legacy continues to inspire the next generation of hospitality and tourism leaders in Banff and Lake Louise.
For more information about the David M. Bayne Legacy Bursary Fund, visit bllha.ca or banffcanmorefoundation.org.