Scholarship renewal honours passionate colleague

Remembered for her free spirit and sense of adventure, Noela Costa always lived her life to the fullest and inspired many along the way. It is only fitting that after her sudden passing in 2019, Arrivals + Departures – the advertising agency in which she worked – created a scholarship in Costa’s honour to benefit future advertising professionals.

“She always went the extra mile and did it with a calm demeanor and a witty, unique sense of humour,” says Daniel Tolensky, Partner, Chief Financial and Operator Officer, Arrivals + Departures. Costa was a Group Account Director at Arrivals + Departures and believed in the value of meaningful client relationships. Having graduated from Humber’s post-graduate International Marketing program (with honours), it was only fitting that the Noela Costa Memorial Scholarship be presented to a student in the Advertising – Account Management program. The scholarship also asks for a written statement describing why the student is passionate about advertising and account management, and how their passion would align with their future career goals. The scholarship is offered in the winter term with preference given to students who demonstrate a financial need. After an annual three-year awarding cycle, Arrivals + Departures has recommitted their scholarship fund for another five years, valued at $3,000 per year, keeping Noela’s legacy vibrant.

“Scholarships are important because, oftentimes, the commitment and motivation are there, but the deciding factor depends on financial support,” says Janice Fung, Professor and Program Coordinator, Advertising – Art Direction Graduate Certificate Program. “Students can get their foot-in-the-door and build industry connections, while agencies have the chance to give back and mentor fresh talent.”

Recipients of the Noela Costa Memorial Scholarship are students who best exhibit the spirit and traits that made Costa stand out. “We know this will allow her story to be told and her legacy to continue for many years through the successes of the recipients,” says Tolensky.

Arrivals + Departures also offers a mentorship program that has included students enrolled in Humber’s Advertising Program. In addition, recipients of the Noela Costa Memorial Scholarship have the potential to obtain an internship at Arrivals + Departures.