Kitt Turney brought exceptional positivity and dedication to the UBC varsity rowing team. Her unwavering perseverance and energy not only motivated others, it also made her an indispensable teammate and friend. She was an integral part of the UBC Thunderbird Women’s crew winning their first national rowing championship in 2004. Her accolades beyond UBC include multiple Canada cup championships and a bronze medal in the U23 world championships.

Her coaches and teammates remember Kitt for leading by example and embodying passion for all of life’s experiences. Kitt’s dedication to her teammates extended off the water into the operating rooms where she was recognized as an outstanding anesthesiologist and caring physician, onto the dodgeball court, and to her fellow musicians on stage. She never wavered in her motivations, exhibited ceaseless perseverance and positivity towards the tasks at hand, and her explosive laugh was guaranteed to bring out a smile on even the coldest, wettest mornings or after the toughest race.

Kitt is treasured for always taking care of those around her. No matter the circumstance, she had a talent for making everyone feel important and welcome, especially those who needed it most. Kitt knew what it meant to struggle. She always pursued the most ambitious challenges and experienced a few fierce battles for her own mental health. Through her entire life, she reached out to protect others with uncommon strength and grace.

Even the strongest cannot succeed alone. This scholarship is to honour an exceptional athlete who stands behind their team and goals with dedication, enthusiasm, kindness and perseverance. The scholarship is also intended to recognize the ability to give, but also to accept, support when needed in order to inspire and pursue meaningful dreams.

To honour Kitt’s life and accomplishments, her friends and family will be establishing the Kitt Turney Memorial Fund. Your gift will pay tribute to Kitt’s life by supporting students following in her footsteps at UBC. Final decisions on the award description and student eligibility will be made in consultation with the family.