This bursary is awarded annually to outstanding undergraduate students entering the Bachelor of Commerce program at Carleton University from high schools in the Ottawa region, with preference given to students from St. Pius X High School. Established in 2025 by the family of Tim Garant, this award honours Tim’s life, his aspirations, and his generous spirit.

Remembering Timothy Andrew Garant (Tim)

Tim was born in March 1974 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, to Robert (Bob) and Dianne (née McGloin) Garant. The youngest of three siblings, he grew up alongside his sister Donna and brother Steven. As a proud member of a Canadian Forces family, Tim experienced life across various locations, including Bermuda, northern Quebec, and finally Ottawa, where the family settled in 1979.

In Ottawa, Tim was always active in sports, whether it was playing Glens Eagles Mosquito Soccer, Pinecrest Little League baseball, or excelling in football and basketball at St. Pius X High School. He had a natural drive and love for learning, constantly taking on new hobbies and skills. From mastering sports like skateboarding and snowboarding to fixing things with tools or perfecting the art of pizza-making, Tim approached everything with enthusiasm and curiosity.

Tim had a gift for making meaningful connections. His warm personality, quick sense of humour, and infectious energy had a way of making everyone feel seen and appreciated. Whether deep in conversation or lighting up the dance floor, Tim brought people together and turned everyday moments into cherished memories.

From a young age, Tim’s drive and dedication were clear. At just 12, he began his first job as a dishwasher at a local pizza place. But Tim was never one to stop at the basics—he threw himself into learning every aspect of the business, earning a promotion to manager by the time he was just 20 years old.

What truly set Tim apart, though, was his kind and generous spirit. He had an unwavering love for his family, a deep loyalty to his friends, and a dependable nature that made him someone everyone could count on.

Tim’s impact went far beyond his achievements—he left a mark on the hearts of everyone he met through his kindness, his love, and the way he lived with such warmth and openness. As a son, brother, friend, and boyfriend, he brought light into the lives of those around him, and his legacy continues to inspire everyone who knew him.

Tim graduated from St. Pius X in 1993 and was accepted into the Bachelor of Commerce program at Carleton University. Tragically, his bright future was cut short when he passed away in a car accident on February 8, 1995, during his second year of studies. He now rests in Pinecrest Cemetery in Ottawa.

Supporting Future Generations of Leaders

This bursary is dedicated to supporting promising young business students as they embark on their journey in the Bachelor of Commerce program. Tim’s family hopes that this award will inspire and encourage aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders to achieve their dreams, just as Tim would have done.