QI of Barrie, Ontario, Canada, shared the uplifting story of their club's scholarship recipient, Rose Gunther. The Gallaudet University student receives an annual club bursary, matched by a We Share Foundation Fellowship Partners grant.

  Rose signing.

Rose lost her hearing to meningitis at age two and a half. About six months later, the Barrie club met Rose, but lost touch soon after, when the family moved away.

In 1999, the club caught up with Rose, who needed a computer for her studies. Barrie Quotarians bought her a computer as well as a gift from each club member for Christmas. Since then, the club hasn't missed a Christmas or birthday for Rose.

Rose with club members.

Past club president Anne Ollikainen says, "Rose is an exceptional young woman. She is well adjusted and friendly."

Rose with mom and boyfriend.

Rose spent a year in East Germany on a Rotary exchange scholarship. She was stunned to discover that eastern Europeans do not use sign language, but managed to communicate anyhow. She not only studied, but also taught English to hearing students! "We're not sure how she did it," laughs Anne, "but she is an amazing young woman. We expect her to do great things with her life."