This bursary is given to a student in financial need entering or proceeding from one year to the next in the Bachelor of Humanities (Great Books) program.

In this program students read the world’s most influential books and they explore ideas in art, philosophy, history, literature, classics, music, religion and science.

In addition to being a Carleton University graduate (BA ‘95) and a dedicated employee for 28 years (Library Archives and Special Collections, Carleton University), Colin was personally an avid reader, lover of history and literature, a collector of rare books and he enjoyed sharing ideas with others.  Colin also loved music, art, cooking and travel. His family welcomed people from a variety of countries as foreign students and visitors when he was growing up. He also spent time living in India and Ghana as a young boy all of which gave him an appreciation of diverse cultures that endured throughout his life. As an adult, he and his own family developed a strong connection with Cuba travelling and forming close personal ties there.

This bursary was established in 2025 by his siblings Christine, Heather and Andrew Harkness in memory of their dear brother Colin along with the gracious contributions of many friends and family members who also appreciated his love and friendship.

Our family cheers on the recipient(s) of this award supporting ongoing learning and experience of the vibrant campus life of Carleton University.