“This year’s incoming scholars really impressed the panelists in their interviews, showing incredible potential to lead, inspire, and make a difference — both here at UM and wherever their paths take them,” says Jane Lastra, Associate Registrar and Director, Financial Aid & Awards.

“We are proud to support each and every one of these deserving scholars and future leaders.”

This year, the Indigenous scholarship program celebrates 10 years. UM is committed, with the help of partners like BMO Financial Group, to fostering the development of the next generation of Indigenous leaders.

“This program has been empowering Indigenous students for a decade now,” notes Desiree Morrisseau-Keesick, Director of Indigenous Student Recruitment and Community Relations.

“It’s been very exciting and rewarding to see these new scholars coming into the program each year and as they move through their studies and on to careers. The ongoing success of Indigenous students is key to the strength and vitality of our province and the world,” she says.

These three deserving students are recipients of a BMO Financial Group Indigenous Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship: Presley Barnbrook (Westwood Collegiate); Brandt Cochrane (Fisher Branch Collegiate); and Sophie Piché (Gray Academy of Jewish Education).

Six deserving students also have been awarded a BMO Financial Group Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship: Talia Kagan (Gray Academy of Jewish Education); Nathan Jay de Guzman (École Secondaire Sisler High School); Fareedah Folakemi Ibitoye (Dakota Collegiate); Sabrina Mehmood Batla (St. Mary’s Academy); Verina Ibrahim (St. Maurice High School); Mark Nashed (St. Paul’s High School).

Meet four of the recipients, the next generation of scholars who will shape our world’s future.

Brandt Cochrane.

Brandt Cochrane (BMO Financial Group Indigenous Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship), a proud Cree student from Fisher Branch, Manitoba, is graduating from Fisher Branch Collegiate and will be pursuing Civil Engineering at UM. He is eager to use engineering to address real challenges in Indigenous communities, such as clean water access, housing and sustainable infrastructure. “I want to design solutions that improve lives while respecting the land and our traditions,” he says.

Cochrane embraces both his Cree identity and the Ukrainian heritage of his community, participating in Ukrainian folk dancing as a celebration of both cultures. He is deeply committed to community, having served as a youth director in the provincial government and as president of his high school where he led food hamper drives and fundraisers. He also has a passion for athletics, coaching various youth teams and playing for the Peguis Juniors, a Junior B team. “Hockey has taught me resilience,” he says, reflecting on overcoming racism on the ice with dignity and determination. “Coaching gave me the chance to mentor young players and encourage teamwork and provides a healthy outlet for their energy,” he adds. His experiences have taught him that “leadership is not just about taking charge but about listening, understanding and acting with compassion.”

Inspired by his great-grandmother, who taught him piano, Cochrane developed a love for music and the arts. He credits his mother and grandmother as the strongest influences in his life, guiding him through personal hardships with strength and love. He says that his biggest goal is to make them proud.

Cochrane looks forward to joining a university that values inclusivity and Indigenous success. He says, “I want to be part of a place that respects everyone and helps students like me return home and lift up our communities.”

Presley Barnbrook.

Presley Barnbrook (BMO Financial Group Indigenous Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship) is a proud Métis student graduating from Westwood Collegiate in Winnipeg, who previously attended Abbotsford Senior Secondary School in BC. Having lived in both provinces, she says Manitoba’s warmth and sense of community drew her to the University of Manitoba, where she plans to pursue a Bachelor of Health Sciences.

Barnbrook is an enthusiastic leader and advocate. As a member of the Indigenous Youth Council for her school division, she collaborated with peers to strengthen cultural programming and increase student engagement. “We aimed to improve access to Indigenous support and increase involvement in Indigenous traditions,” she says. She also led her school’s Youth in Philanthropy committee, helping direct grants to local charities, and served on student council, where she organized events that build school spirit and supported various causes. These experiences have shown her the power of community and the importance of giving back.

Barnbrook has a passion for dance and the arts and has been a competitive dancer for over 11 years, participating in advanced ensembles and mentoring younger dancers. Dance has taught her discipline, teamwork and how to express emotion through movement — and the “importance of challenging myself in order to see growth.”

At university, Barnbrook looks forward to participating in ceremonies like the Sweat Lodge and continuing to grow in her Métis identity. Her goals include completing a degree in four years, tutoring fellow students and helping others feel empowered in their academic journeys. “I’m excited to see what I can achieve by continuing to push myself every day,” she says.

Fareedah Ibitoye.

Fareedah Folakemi Ibitoye (BMO Financial Group Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship) is an accomplished, driven graduate of Winnipeg’s Dakota Collegiate with a long-term goal of becoming a gynecologist. To start, she will major in biological sciences at UM,  inspired by Professor Ayush Kumar’s research on Gram-negative bacteria and their antibiotic resistance. “His work made me want to embark on my own research journey with a focus on the female body,” she says.

She chose UM because of its flexibility and available resources, and, she adds, “I’m eager to be a part of a community that understands the importance of diversity.”

As vice-president of the Healthy Muslim Families Youth Club, she has helped lead initiatives such as publishing a simplified Islamic history book, curating a halal map of Winnipeg and organizing cultural events for Muslim youth. She also hosts a community-focused show in collaboration with U-Multicultural Studios and hopes to expand it independently.

In her spare time, Ibitoye enjoys baking and researching the science behind it, and a future goal is to create a cookbook that’s a fusion of Western and Nigerian baked goods. Inspired by her love of baking and her own childhood experience, where cake was a luxury, she also volunteers with Cakes for Kids. “It lets me make an impact on other people’s lives so they can have happier birthdays like everyone deserves,” she says. Ibitoye is involved in other volunteer work as well, including working as a gift shop attendant and way finder at Victoria Hospital.

“I want to be someone other people like me can look up to,” says Ibitoye. “And I will continue to break stereotypes of being a black Muslim girl by trying my best to make groundbreaking achievements and continuing my passion for public speaking, for equity and for a world free of stereotyping and discrimination.”

Nathan de Guzman.

Nathan de Guzman (BMO Financial Group Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship) graduated this June from École Secondaire Sisler High School and plans to pursue studies in dentistry. As an accomplished and high-achieving student in academics and athletics, de Guzman has a passion for the mysteries of science — but his pursuit of a medical career is rooted in his desire to help people. “Out of all its uses, my favourite use of science is its ability to help people both physically and mentally,” he says.

Previously enrolled in a dual-credit course with the university, de Guzman has already experienced campus life and values the opportunity to meet more like-minded people in a community that helps him grow in both character and knowledge. He sees UM as the best combination of the necessary academics and an encouraging student environment that will feed his strong desire to improve, learn and explore.

Art has been a lifelong pursuit for de Guzman, leading him to enhance and expand his skills with different tools and new mediums. He especially appreciates the flexibility and self-healing aspect of art. As an extension of his creativity and interest in art, he volunteers with St. Boniface Hospital’s Art at the Bedside Program, offering patients the same creative outlet.

de Guzman enjoys opportunities to give back to community. He has been a co-leader of INSPIRE, a student group focused on literacy and educational equity, and a volunteer with Harvest Manitoba, preparing food for families in need.

For him, leadership goes beyond the ability to give instructions. Rather, it is based in service: “Leadership is one’s ability to thrive under pressure, remain calm in the face of conflict and guide others in a way that tends to their individual needs and brings about the best in each person,” he says.

He looks forward to continuing his academic and creative journey at the University of Manitoba.

Become a BMO Financial Group Leader of Tomorrow

Visit Financial Aid and Awards for more information on the BMO Financial Group Leader of Tomorrow scholarships and the BMO Financial Group Indigenous Leader of Tomorrow scholarships.

Established with a historic $200 million gift in 2019, the McCall MacBain Scholarships are Canada’s largest leadership-based scholarships for master’s and professional studies. Nearly 700 Canadian students applied for the opportunity, and the top 150 participated in the first round of interviews across the country and online. Afterwards, 88 finalists were invited to attend final interviews in Montreal in March.

“I’m speechless. The amount of gratitude I have for this scholarship and this opportunity is just so inexplicable that I really struggle to find my words,” said Rachel. “Receiving the McCall MacBain Scholarship means the freedom to fully engage in my master’s studies. It allows me to focus on learning, growing, and meaningfully contributing to my new community.”

Recipients were chosen based on exceptional character, community engagement, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength, and intellectual curiosity.

Rachel has worked for and volunteered for several years with the University of Manitoba’s Hearts and Minds Lab. She coordinated projects, determined eligibility for a clinical mental health trial, and contributed to a manuscript on challenges and service barriers for immigrant families. Rachel has also volunteered at Survivor’s Hope Crisis Centre, advocating and supporting survivors of sexual violence. She is developing her photography skills as a volunteer for local events, and she has gained management experience by working at a restaurant.

“My honours degree in Psychology at the University of Manitoba provided strong research, leadership, and communication skills,” Rachel said. “As a lab coordinator and research assistant, I led teams, conducted impactful research, and presented at national conferences. These experiences have prepared me to lead, collaborate, and contribute to the McCall MacBain community.”

Rachel will pursue a Master of Arts in School/Applied Child Psychology at McGill.

“During my master’s studies, I hope to further explore the intersection of mental health, neurophysiology, and community-based interventions,” she said. “I aim to deepen my understanding of how evidence-based programs can address mental health disparities, particularly in underserved rural populations, and develop innovative solutions to improve access to care and outcomes.”

“These scholarships were created out of a belief that our world needs people who aspire to lead with purpose, empathy, integrity, and courage,” said Dr. Marcy McCall MacBain, Chair of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill. “We want to create opportunities for students to dream big, cultivate leadership, and contribute to something greater than themselves.”

“Every McCall MacBain Scholar has participated in six different interviews to earn this opportunity,” said Natasha Sawh, CEO of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill. “They have already demonstrated extraordinary potential for impact, and they’ll join a community of entrepreneurial change-makers from varied fields and walks of life.”

During finalist interviews in montreal, Rachel had an opportunity to share her experience in this video interview.

Applications will open in June 2025 for the 2026 cohort. More information about the McCall MacBain Scholarships can be found at mccallmacbainscholars.org and follow McCall MacBain Sholarships on Instagram and LinkedIn for up-to-date information, bios and more!

For the 2024 convocation on November 3, SJC is proud to recognize Rt Rev. Helen Kennedy, Dr. Evelyn Forget, and Mr. Jim Ripley. Each of these individuals has had a significant impact on our community, whether as students, on the Council, or in our chapel.

Dr. Evelyn Forget – Honorary Doctor of Canon Law (honoris causa) 

The Professor of Economics and Community Health Sciences is grateful for the recognition of the research she has conducted throughout her UM career. As a researcher examining the health and social implications of poverty and inequality, and as a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada and an Officer of the Order of Canada, Dr. Forget is being recognized for her efforts and petitions to the Federal Government in favor of Guaranteed Basic Income for all Canadians.

In talking with her about what this recognition means, she notes how significant SJC has been in her career. 

“It’s always nice for people to recognize the work that you are doing. I’m also very conscious that the work we do as researchers is very collaborative and being recognized for my work and for having worked with many St John’s fellows is special.”

Evelyn would like to thank SJC Chancellor, Bishop Geoffrey Woodcroft for his support throughout the years on many projects. More generally, she is grateful for the colleagues and students she’s had the pleasure of working with.

Rt. Rev. Helen Kennedy – Honorary Doctor of Divinity (jure Dignitatis)

From UM student to former Council member, Helen Kennedy, Bishop of Qu’Appelle, has made her impact on the College in many ways.

As a Council member who participated in St John’s residence renewal and is committed to the well-being, support, and theological education of young people in managing ministries at the diocesan level, Helen is honoured to receive this recognition. 

“I’m very flattered and grateful for the College. This honour is more than just an award to me; a College is a place of learning, and it’s helped me become the Bishop I am today.”

In her work to become a Bishop, Helen expresses her thanks to former Bishop of Rupert’s Land Don Phillips, former SJC Warden Chris Trott, and her husband for their constant support throughout the years, which helped get her where she is today. 

Mr. Jim Ripley – Honorary Fellowship 

The highly respected lawyer with TDS is being honoured for his more than 25 years of service to the College on Council, and his many contributions to the College.

The College graduate from 1976 was an exceptional Council member, offering critical guidance on many issues. His contributions allowed Mr. Ripley to make a difference in the College community to what it is today.

In catching up with Jim to hear his excitement for November 3, he thanks a few people for helping him get involved.

“I want to thank Bernie Beare for asking me to be involved. He’s a wonderful person.“

“Thank you to St John’s for this award and recognition, and the people currently involved in the College for designating me as an honorary fellow.”

 

In addition to these honorary guests who will be recognized on Sunday, November 3, we also recognize St John’s College student members who will receive various scholarships and bursaries supported by our SJC alumni and community.

These scholarships and bursary recipients include UM students from faculties across campus, including science, art, and engineering. As part of the College membership, these scholarships are one of many opportunities available to students on campus.

On behalf of St John’s College, congratulations to all the 2024 recipients!

Last year, the college was proud to present $200,000 worth of scholarships to students from faculties including, Science, Arts, Engineering, Asper School of Business, Nursing, Health Sciences, Graduate Studies, Law, Indigenous engagement, and University 1 students.

Our recipients go through their own academic journeys to receive these awards every year. Today we are proud to highlight two student stories about what these scholarships mean to them. 

Doris Goubran, who joined the college from high school, is studying in the Faculty of Health Sciences. She is working towards her bachelor’s, hoping to get into the College of Nursing. In a competitive field like Health Sciences, Doris not only received gratification from her scholarship this year but also proved to her that she has what it takes to follow her nursing dreams.   

“It encouraged me to keep doing and to pursue my medicine dreams that I hope to accomplish one day. Being in a competitive faculty is super nerve-racking and intimidating, but my hard work has paid off, and this scholarship proves that to me.”

Like Doris, Catherine van Reenan, a Ph.D. student in the religion department, received not only gratification from her scholarship recognition but also the opportunity to travel abroad. After hearing the news of her scholarship, Catherine can now attend one of her bucket list conferences in Copenhagen, Denmark, where she will have the opportunity to meet professionals whom she has looked up to since beginning her post-secondary education. 

“People who have written for me for this scholarship gave me validation that I’m meant to be pursuing my Ph.D. and will now help me in attending a conference that I’ve always dreamed of attending. It’s a niche to my field, and I’m excited to learn from inspiring people.”

The college would like to thank its generous donors for their continued support towards these scholarships and bursaries.   

Apply for our final round of scholarships closing July 31. 

UM students must be a college member to apply.   

Nine remarkable and well-rounded students who demonstrate strong leadership, community involvement and high academic achievement have been selected as BMO Financial Group Leaders of Tomorrow and BMO Financial Group Indigenous Leaders of Tomorrow. Each scholarship is valued at $16,000 over four years of study.

“Incoming scholars impressed our interview panels with their potential to inspire and lead both in academia and beyond, promising to be influential role models at UM and in their future endeavors,” says Jane Lastra, Associate Registrar and Director, Financial Aid & Awards.

2024 BMO FINANCIAL GROUP LEADER OF TOMORROW SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Feliciaa Baldner (École Secondaire Kelvin High School), Celina Casiano, (Fort Richmond Collegiate), Larry Denisiuk (Springfield Collegiate), Kultaj Kaur (Miles Macdonell Collegiate), Aliyah Ogunfowora (Kildonan East Collegiate), Hargun Uppal (Maples Collegiate Institute)

Larry Denisiuk

Larry Denisiuk is graduating from Springfield Collegiate in Oakbank, MB, where his natural curiosity led him to an interest in Morse code and microscopes. While Morse code is more of a hobby, his interest in microscopy is leading him to pursue a career in the field of medical microbiology and infectious diseases, with the first step working towards his Bachelor of Science (Honours) with the Co-op option in Microbiology.

He’s excited to come to UM and grateful for receiving the scholarship.

“The Leader of Tomorrow Scholarship provides major support for me financially… allowing me to focus more on my studies,” says Denisiuk. “In addition, it serves as an inspiration for me to challenge myself and dream big.”

Honing his diplomatic skills in his high school’s Youth Parliament, Denisiuk has learned it’s important to make all participants feel included when discussing the issues of the day.

Denisiuk spent a summer as an intern at the Experimental Lakes area, learning about the emerging issues affecting lakes and this summer he is interning at Selkirk Hospital.

He also tutors fellow students in math and science, teaches percussion at his high school band camp, takes part in his school’s “Halloween for Hunger” food drive and volunteers at the Oakbank Animal Hospital. He enjoys playing badminton and hockey.

Aliyah Ogunfowora

For Aliyah Ogunfowora, the University of Manitoba’s interdisciplinary health program from the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences and the Faculty of Arts seems like a natural fit. With an enthusiasm for the sciences and the humanities, she is confident this program will allow her to pursue both her interests. She is also excited about taking advantage of the research opportunities available at UM.

“This scholarship means a lot to me. It would not only alleviate financial barriers but also empower me to further contribute to my academic and community pursuits,” says Ogunfowora.

Graduating from Kildonan East Collegiate, Ogunfowora has been active in her high school as a grade representative for four years, a student organizer for the Black History Month committee, and as the leader of a delegation for the Model United Nations in her school.

She has a love of literature, language and theatre, and is intrigued by the way these can promote understanding between cultures.

She has participated in Youth for Community, fundraised for winter essentials for the Main Street Project, and raised money and wrote letters in support of Ukrainian families that were affected by the war. She also volunteers at Concordia Hospital.

“I look forward to using this opportunity to pursue my goals and contribute to my community,” she says.

2024 BMO FINANCIAL GROUP INDIGENOUS LEADER OF TOMORROW SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Mackaila Bruce-Tapley (Centre Scolaire Léo-Rémillard), Ava Kriskovic (Collège Garden City Collegiate), Ethan Temmerman (Collège Churchill)

Mackaila Bruce-Tapley

Mackaila Bruce-Tapley is a proud member of the Red River Métis from St. Laurent, Manitoba. She is graduating from Centre Scolaire Léo-Rémillard.

Bruce-Tapley says her involvement in the Sun Dance ceremony, as well as other sacred ceremonies, has inspired her to pursue a career in medicine. “My goal is to braid together Western medicine with my traditional teachings,” she says.

Bruce-Tapley has been active in her school community. She led the creation of an Indigenous student art gallery in her school, developed a presentation to educate elementary school children about the numbered treaties between Canada and Indigenous peoples, and led smudging and drumming ceremonies to support health and wellness.

An avid athlete, Bruce-Tapley plays box lacrosse, serving as assistant captain for Manitoba’s North American Indigenous Games U19 female team, as well as playing for Manitoba’s provincial U22 box lacrosse team. She also plays, and refs, hockey.

Outside of school, she is a youth representative in the Manitoba Métis Federation and participates in Manitoba’s Student Advisory Council.

“I am excited to meet many more Indigenous people like me who have the same goals and passions that I do,” she says. “I’m also excited to be able to celebrate my culture through the immense selection of ceremonies the University of Manitoba has to offer, such as sweat lodges, smudging ceremonies, as well as learning lessons from the elders and the aunties at Migizii Agamik.”

Ava Kriscovic

Ava Kriskovic plays clarinet in the Collège Garden City Collegiate Institute’s high school band. She is excited to come to UM to start her studies in biology and connect with members of the Indigenous community at UM.

“I am half Ojibway and half Croatian,” says Kriskovic, “both of my cultural identities are extremely crucial to me.”

Every summer, Kriskovic is involved in helping organize her home community of Skownan First Nation’s Treaty Days activities. She has also been learning how to bead and was asked to make a beaded set for someone’s regalia.

Kriskovic also participates in the Croatian pavilion in Folklorama and is a science, English and clarinet tutor to other students in her school.

“When I learned that I was selected for the award, I was extremely happy and proud of how far I have come,” says Kriskovic. “This scholarship will help with my future plans by allowing me to focus on my academics, instead of worrying about the costs of school.”

One of her goals is to become the first person in her family to complete university, while maintaining her cultural values.

“I continue to reach these goals by recognizing that it requires more than having a willingness to complete things,” says Kriskovic. “You need practice and self-discipline which I have taught myself over the years.”

Ethan Temmerman

Ethan Temmerman is graduating from Collège Churchill in Winnipeg, where he was the captain of the football team, and played hockey and basketball. He will be pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree at the University of Manitoba.

“I want to attend the University of Manitoba for its science related research programs,” says Temmerman who has toured the Bannatyne and Fort Garry Campuses, learning more about Ongomiizwin – Education and Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge.

A band member of Ebb and Flow First Nation, one of Temmerman’s goals is to “learn more about my culture and heritage through learning, growing and connecting with my community and through Indigenous Teachings.”

In addition to his participation in sports, which he says has “helped me grow as an athlete and a person, teaching me work ethic, commitment, accountability and teamwork,” Temmerman has a keen interest in animals – especially reptiles and amphibians and has volunteered at a pet store and a veterinary office.

Temmerman has also volunteered at his local community centre and was part of a project that planted over a thousand trees along the riverbank in his community.

“I feel honoured to be chosen as an Indigenous Leader of Tomorrow and plan to continue to develop my leadership abilities at the University of Manitoba,” he says. “One of my goals is to one day mentor others to support and benefit them in accomplishing their goals.”

Become a BMO Financial Group Leader of Tomorrow

Visit Financial Aid and Awards for more information on the BMO Financial Group Leader of Tomorrow scholarships and the BMO Financial Group Indigenous Leader of Tomorrow scholarships.

“It felt rewarding to know that I did my own initiatives and leadership efforts justice,” says Thomas, a second-year student in the faculty of architecture, after learning that she was chosen as one of this year’s scholarship recipients. 

“Beyond just rewarding, it was motivating, as once you feel recognized, you want to keep working hard for your community and the people that you lead every day. Because I received it at the beginning of the year, it inspired me to keep going and to become a leader within the faculty of architecture, which I was starting that fall.”

Fellow scholarship recipient Devin Ann Habon can relate. She is currently completing her first year in the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, after graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology at UM last year.  

“I felt honoured to receive the scholarship. It was nice to be recognized for my leadership positions at UM,” says Habon. “Receiving this scholarship was a nice welcome gift into medicine.”

There are three distinct Alumni Association Scholarships available for students at every stage of their education and applications are now being accepted for the 2024-2025 academic year:

Entrance Scholarship – for students entering the university who have submitted the best essays on becoming future alumni. One or more scholarships, with a minimum value of $1,000 each.

Community Leadership Scholarship – for undergraduate students who have demonstrated extraordinary extracurricular involvement at UM. One or more scholarships, with a minimum value of $1,000 each.

Graduate Fellowship– for graduate students who are entering the first year of a research-based PhD program and have demonstrated intellectual ability and academic accomplishments. This scholarship can be renewed for up to three years. All inquiries should be directed to the Faculty of Graduate Studies Awards.

“To future recipients, remember that leadership isn’t something that is big or small,” encourages Thomas. “It is the positive impacts and the people that you will inspire on your journey as a leader.”

“I am forever grateful that the Alumni Association chose me as one of their scholarship recipients,” continues Habon. “I highly encourage anyone with leadership experience at UM to apply!”

The deadline to apply for the Alumni Association’s Entrance Scholarship, Community Leadership Scholarship and Graduate Fellowship is August 1, 2024. For more information, visit the Alumni Association webpage.

The scholarships are the result of a landmark $200 million gift in 2019 by John and Marcy McCall MacBain, then the largest single donation in Canadian history.

Designed to encourage purposeful leadership, the scholarships enable students to pursue a fully funded master’s or professional degree at McGill University while participating in mentorship, coaching, and a leadership development program.

Katherine Bazin and Matthew Band are among 91 finalists from around the world. More than 700 Canadians applied for the scholarships, and of those, 159 participated in a first round of regional interviews in November and December.

They will travel to Montreal to attend final interviews in March, with travel expenses covered by the scholarship program. “I am excited to see the beautiful architecture and landscapes of Montreal,” said Matthew. “On top of this as an NHL fan, if the timing works out, seeing a Canadians game and chanting ‘Ole, Ole, Ole!’ at the Bell Centre would be incredible.”

Each finalist was chosen based on their character, community engagement, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength, and intellectual curiosity.

Matthew Band, from Winnipeg, is a computer engineering student. He co-created a council of first-year students as part of the engineering society, and has continued to contribute to the society in various executive roles. Matthew also started a chess club, volunteered at the Winnipeg Folk Festival, and played on several intramural sports teams. He works for a baking business and is looking at ways to classify sleep apnea patients through sound transfer. Matthew is applying to master’s programs related to electrical and biomedical engineering.

“I was already thrilled to have made it to regional interviews, but then getting the call to come to finals raised my emotions to where I had no words,” said Matthew. “It’s an honour to get another opportunity to share my personal journey with the next set of interviewers, and possibly make it to the scholarship cohort.”

Katherine Bazin, also from Winnipeg, is completing her bachelor’s degree in chemistry. She co-leads communications for the Electrochemical Society student chapter, organizes educational and volunteering opportunities for her sorority, and sings alto in a community choir. Katherine also worked as a recreation support worker at a rehabilitation centre supporting teens with disabilities. In addition, she is a workshop instructor for a science outreach program. She spent a summer assisting with research on electrochemical detection of chemoresistance in cancer. For her master’s degree, Katherine hopes to pursue electrochemistry for environmental and women’s health applications.

“My university experience has allowed me to explore my abilities academically, discover what drives me, and rise as a leader on campus,” said Katherine. “The mentors and communities I have connected with have transformed my experience, constantly inspiring me with their support and wisdom.”

For fellow students, Katherine added, “The application process calls on you to share who you are, where you’ve been, where you’re headed, and why. It’s less daunting when you shift your focus away from the pressure of the outcome, and instead be present throughout the process. It’s a wonderful opportunity to reflect on yourself, personally and academically, and see how far you’ve come.”

“Integrity, kindness, curiosity, and courage are the characteristics we want to see in the next generation of leaders,” said Dr. Marcy McCall MacBain, Chair of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill. “By connecting emerging talent to an outstanding graduate education and a community of peers and mentors, we hope to encourage positive leadership for Montreal, Quebec, Canada, and the world.”

“More than 300 senior volunteer leaders were involved in selecting this year’s finalists,” said Natasha Sawh, Chief Executive Officer of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill. “Our team is very much looking forward to welcoming the finalists – who have already distinguished themselves as the top candidates globally – to Montreal in March. We extend our warmest thanks to the universities that nominated them for this opportunity.”

A cohort of up to 30 McCall MacBain Scholars will be selected after final interviews. Canadian finalists who are not selected for the cohort will be eligible to receive a $10,000 Finalist Award.

Applications will open in June 2024 for the 2025 cohort. In addition to the 30 fully funded McCall MacBain Scholarships each year, up to 100 additional awards, valued at $5,000 to $20,000, are offered to candidates. More information about the McCall MacBain Scholarships can be found at mccallmacbainscholars.org.

A one-hour information session including a short presentation, followed by time for Q&A for UM students will take place in-person on Thursday, Febraury 15 from 12 – 1 p.m. The 2024 finalists, Matthew Band and Katherine Bazin, along with the 2022 McCall MacBain Scholar Bryden Bukich will attend the session to share their experiences.
Learn more about the information session and register in advance.

Whether meeting new friends, having a refreshing meal and beverage at the Daily Bread Café, or student support through our study spaces and academic coaching, everything we do at the college is centered around our community.  

Here are five benefits college members receive when they sign up for only $10 per academic term. 

1.Eligibility to apply for scholarships and bursaries.

Each year, the college rewards $180,000 worth of scholarships and bursaries to students within UM. Students from all faculties, entrance, international, and graduate students can apply once they’ve become a college member.

To learn more about our scholarships, click here.

2. Study Space

In the college, we have three study spaces open to students. These spaces include two study carrels where students can house their textbooks and other school items throughout the academic term. We also have our library, which is open to members and non-members of the college.

Each of these spaces allows students to be productive, work with friends, and have a quiet place to themselves.

To apply for a study carrel, click here.

3. Monthly events provided by SJCSA

Two things at the heart of our community bring us together: events and food! Our active student council, St John’s College Student Association (SJCSA), works monthly to organize events for students to bring the college community together, have fun, and meet other students. These events include their annual Jumpstart at the start of the school year, themed game nights, and movie nights in the lounge.

To learn more about SJCSA or view upcoming events, click here.

To follow SJCSA on Instagram, click here. 

4. Discounts on food service at the Daily Bread Café and Soup4U

The college loves to bring together the college community over food. At our Daily Bread Café and Soup4U, college members receive 10% off all food services with their membership. From delicious sandwiches, a café atmosphere, and perogy Fridays, you can have a nice lunch while visiting with friends and taking a break from studying.  

To learn more about the Daily Bread Café and Soup4U, click here.

5. Student Support Services

UM students have a lot on their plates. From studying, building their careers, working, and extracurricular activities, the college provides students with academic and mental health support. Through our Chaplaincy services, students can visit our Chaplain for mental health support, spiritual care, and additional religious services. Through our academic advising, students can visit our Academic Advisor for help in registering for courses, course help, and career counselling. 

To learn more about our chaplain services, click here. 

To learn more about our academic coaching, click here. 

With 660 members rising, the college community is a place for everyone.

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Scholarship recipients will have their tuition and fees covered for the duration of their eligible program, along with a $2,000 monthly living stipend during academic terms. McCall MacBain Scholars also receive ongoing mentorship and leadership development opportunities, plus a one-time relocation grant for moving to Montreal if they so choose.

The McCall MacBain Scholarship was established in 2019 with a $200 million donation made by John and Marcy McCall MacBain—the single largest gift in Canadian history at the time. This leadership-driven scholarship awards candidates who demonstrate character, community engagement, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength and intellectual curiosity.

The application process involves an online application, submission of two reference letters and several interviews.

Three University of Manitoba students were finalists for the first global cohort of McCall MacBain Scholars, including Clèche Kokolo, who was awarded a full scholarship beginning in 2023.

The Sept. 27 deadline is approaching quickly—apply now so you don’t miss out!

Expressing their enthusiasm, Feener exclaimed:

“I’ve always known I wanted to walk a less traditional path career wise –  whether that be design, filmmaking, or photography. I am a creative through and through – and hopefully always will be. However, that path comes with a lot of uncertainty, trepidation, costs, confusion, hardships, and a need to ‘prove yourself’.

It’s moments like these that reassure me that this creative path is worth all those obstacles. Beyond simply providing validation to my skills and projects, receiving this scholarship lets me breathe a huge sigh of relief knowing that I can continue to pursue my post-secondary education.”

The judges were impressed by Feener’s portfolio, praising the fun, experimental, and interactive nature of their work. They appreciated the injection of personality, as well as their broad range of pieces that showcased not only an understanding of design but also production and illustration skills. They highlighted that the strength of their designs lies in their ability to tell a story, emphasizing the concept-driven approach.

The judging process for the National Scholarships took place remotely in May 2023, with the esteemed panel consisting of Andrew Boardman, Sarah Jackson, Jocelyne Saulnier CDP, Allan Lorde, Leticia Spence, and Shaun Vincent. The coordination of the judging was overseen by Aidan Rowe CDP, the DesCan Education Chair.

Recipients of the scholarship are awarded funds that are directly applied to their tuition fees, alleviating the financial burden associated with pursuing a degree or certificate in design and design communications.

The collaboration between the DesCan Foundation and the Manitoba Design Studios is a collective effort to support BIPOC students who have been historically marginalized. By establishing the Manitoba Studio Fund, they aim to foster diversity and inclusivity within the design field.

The DesCan National Scholarship Awards, funded by the DesCan Foundation, have been dedicated to promoting professional standards and supporting design practice in workplaces and educational institutions since 1956

Congratulations, Charli!

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE AWARD:

descan.ca/2023-national-descan-scholarships-winners-announced/