A proud Métis woman and Manitoba Métis Federation citizen, Chloe came to law school after completing her Bachelor of Arts in Criminology. She is currently working with a sole practitioner to provide free wills and estate services in Nunavut and will be spending her summer with the Legal Help Centre, continuing her focus on accessible justice. 

“While I am currently in my sixth year of University and did not become a member until my fifth year, I wish I would have been aware of these services earlier because I see how beneficial they are not only in academic success, but also in getting the most out of the entirety of your university experience.”

Although she didn’t attend any events herself, Chloe expressed appreciation for the College’s efforts in hosting social gatherings, like the Welcome Back BBQ and SJC Holiday Party, as well as various workshops. 

“Becoming a member of St John’s College has been extremely beneficial. It is extremely comforting knowing there are so many opportunities and support available, especially for students just starting their university journeys.” 

Chloe was also the recipient of the William E. Harrison Bursary, a source of support that she says made a significant difference in her law school experience. 

“The financial support helped eliminate some of the stress that comes with having to pay tuition and other academic expenses which enabled me to focus more on my studies and extracurriculars. I ended up having one of my best terms yet in law school.” 

The bursary also gave Chloe more time and space to focus on her mental health—something that’s often overlooked in rigorous programs. “I was able to spend more time with friends and family, which is an important aspect of maintaining an overall sense of well-being”. 

It’s never too late to become a St John’s College member 

Whether you’re in your first year of undergrad or well into graduate school, St John’s College welcomes students at any stage of their academic journey. Like Chloe, you can still experience the benefits of community, connection, and support—no matter when you join. 

• Register to become a member
• Explore scholarships and bursaries

Growing up in an unsafe environment shaped by historical and generational trauma, Angela faced adversity that could have easily derailed her dreams. She later experienced a health care crisis and a violent assault—both stemming from institutional systems that have long dehumanized Indigenous Peoples. Rather than let these experiences hold her back, Angela found purpose in them. 

Angela shared with the Canadian Nurses Foundation, “I set my sights on nursing school and challenged myself to learn what it takes to make fundamental changes that will elevate the lives of Indigenous people out of the toxic stress, and destructive physical impacts of Colonial trauma and violence, thus relieving many from chronic diseases.” 

At St John’s College, Angela found her safe space while pursuing her dreams of becoming a Nurse. 

“SJC provided a place of community and acceptance for me. Regardless of background, I often found gentle spirits with welcoming smiles. It was a safe place to join other students who were also degree-driven and striving to better ourselves and our communities.” 

The support from St John’s College became even more critical during challenging moments. When experiencing lateral violence during one school year, Angela found refuge in an SJC study carrel. “It became my safe haven and helped ensure my grades didn’t slip from the added stress.” 

Through it all, Angela remained a serious, committed student. But it was the approachability and accessibility of SJC’s support staff that helped her push through the most difficult times. Daily Bread Café, she recalls, became a comforting place to recharge during summer research at the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation or between classes. “SJC took care of its students by providing a discount at Daily Bread,” she adds with appreciation. 

Angela was also a recipient of the Alfred H. Shephard Bursary, which played a pivotal role in helping her balance school, life, and motherhood. 

“I did my senior practicum in isolated communities up north. I couldn’t come home for three months. The bursary allowed me to afford expensive groceries, access streaming services since outdoor activities were unsafe, and take care of my financial responsibilities back home where my young adult son lived. It relieved financial stress, so I could focus on meeting my degree requirements.” 

But perhaps the most lasting impact was the way SJC helped Angela see her own value. 

“Being a SJC member and scholarship recipient helped me to see my worth and value as a student and human being,” she says. “Growing up, I did not have a support network. I lacked confidence growing up—I had to be strong which can be isolating. But at SJC, I was around people who were also doing good work and supporting one another. It felt really good to fit in.” 

Today, Angela stands as a powerful testament to the life-changing impact of community. 

“SJC helped me to believe I was good enough to deserve good things like my Nursing degree. My goals, hopes, and dreams are coming to fruition”  

Want to follow in Angela’s footsteps? 

• St John’s College Scholarships are now open! Applications are due June 1st. Learn more and apply here. 

• Become a St John’s College member 

Why apply?

St. John’s College provides financial awards to recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. Whether you’re a current student or planning to start your journey at the University of Manitoba, these opportunities can help you focus on your studies without financial stress.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible, you must be registered as a St. John’s College member by the application deadline. Membership is open to all undergraduate and graduate students of the University of Manitoba.

Learn how to declare membership at St John’s College. 

Application Deadlines

• Current students: June 1, 2025 at 4:30pm (Central Standard Time)
• Incoming students: July 15, 2025 at 4:30pm (Central Standard Time)
• If the deadline falls on a weekend or public holiday, the online application system will remain open until 4:30pm on the next business day

Award Notification & Disbursement

Our Awards Clerk, Sherry Peters, will notify all award winners by early October. To ensure you receive your notification, please keep your contact information updated on Aurora. 

With the exception of a few, awards will be distributed at the St John’s College Convocation on November 2, 2025.

Learn More & Apply

• General eligibility details
• Scholarships for current students with a June 1 deadline
• Scholarships for incoming students with a July 15 deadline

Sign up for our “How to Apply for SJC Scholarships” Workshop

Sherry Peters will walk through every step of the application process, answer all of your burning questions about the application and criteria, and provide tips to ensure your application is the best it can possibly be.

Register for the workshop.

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!

The third-year Faculty of Science student, she recently travelled to South Africa over the summer as the recipient of the Undergraduate Student Research Award.

During her time in South Africa, she applied her skills to real-life situations and reflected on the importance of healthcare and the difference she wants to make.

“I’ve always seen myself working in healthcare. I wasn’t sure what kind of care specifically, but I knew I wanted to make a difference with the people I work with.”

As a current St John’s student ambassador and SJCSA council member, she credits the college with helping her grow as a person and student throughout her degree.

“The community here and the friendly people have allowed me to be myself and help me grow.”

With her passion for healthcare ahead of her, Sabrina is excited to continue her studies in science and apply what’s she learning. 

To learn more about the benefits of college student membership, visit our website. 

From needing a place to study, meet new people, or have somewhere to go on campus, SJC is a small community that helps students succeed at UM.

The benefits students receive for the $10 membership include the following:

Eligibility for scholarships and bursaries

As part of being a member of St John’s College, students will become eligible to apply for SJC scholarships and bursaries, which offer approximately $200,000 worth of awards. Our scholarships are available each year and are open to all UM students of all faculties, including opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students.

Learn more about our scholarship opportunities on our website.

Study carrels and library

Our study carrels on the first floor and library on the third floor of SJC provide students with a space to focus, house their school items, and have a dedicated place to study for the academic year.

Applications for study carrels can be found on our website.

Food discounts at the Daily Bread Cafe

From a quick snack, grab-and-go sandwich, or study session with friends, the Daily Bread Cafe and Soup4U are places where students can catch up over a delicious meal. Students will receive 10% off all purchases as part of the college membership.

View the Daily Bread Cafe and Soup4U menus for the fall semester.

Monthly student-led events by SJCSA

Every month, our student association organizes events for students to gather, get to know each other and enjoy games and activities together. Take it from our students when they say they found their place on campus. St John’s College is here to support students throughout their academic journey in every way we can.

“St John’s has provided me with a community to meet new friends and a place to belong. I can come here, visit the student lounge, study, and know I have a place to go outside class.”

Sign up for your college student membership on our website. Visit the General Office at 214 SJC to pick up your sticker for your ID card.

The psychology student studying in the Faculty of Arts joined St John’s college as part of the college student membership, where she hoped to find people to connect with, scholarship opportunities, and a place to study on campus.

In her roles throughout campus, including university one student council, let’s talk science, and art student body council, to name a few, Kezia is proud of her involvement around SJC and UM.

“I’ve enjoyed the opportunities St John’s has offered me. Meeting other students, staff, and alumni at various events has helped me connect on campus.”

The former SJC scholarship recipient acknowledges her gratitude for the financial support she received during her undergraduate studies as a college member.

“The scholarship opportunities with the student membership are helpful. They supported my studies throughout the years.”

Stepping into a new chapter following her undergraduate studies, Kezia looks forward to continuing her studies in the fall.

To learn more about the St John’s college student membership, visit our website. To sign up for college student membership, visit the steps on our membership page.

The postdoctoral student is currently conducting a two-year project studying metal(loid) sequestration by soil mineral-organic matter associations. His interest is understanding how to stabilize metal(loid) and carbon in the soil environment under global climate change, with a specific focus on the interaction between contaminated soils in Cobalt, Ontario, and Trail, British Columbia. 

Upon moving into St John’s residence nearly nine months ago, Xinyang was excited about this new journey, which has opened him up to new experiences and friendships along the way. His supervisor referred him to the residence, and Xinyang shares his experience about the welcoming environment he felt upon arrival.

“I felt the friendliness of the residents the moment I walked in. It’s a diverse culture. I love it here; it’s comfortable.”

With the friendly atmosphere and a short walk to everything on campus, Xinyang benefits from the flexibility the residence provides, allowing him to balance his studies, work, and personal life.

“Staying in residence, a short walk to my office and around campus, provides me flexibility. I can eat and study all in the same place while enjoying the community around me, which has allowed me to relieve the research pressure.”

As Xinyang continues working on his post-doctoral studies, he hopes to continue challenging himself through deepening his research in global environmental issues.

To learn more about the benefits of staying in St John’s residence, visit our website.

Fall 2024 applications are open; apply today.

As she completes her first year at the Max Rady College of Medicine at the Bannatyne campus, she reflects on the journey that has gotten her to where she is today. 

From the beginning of her journey at UM, Grace was introduced to St John’s college by her older sister who was also involved at the college. She explored the benefits of the student membership, academic support, scholarship opportunities, and the sense of community she felt while studying for her undergraduate degrees. 

“St John’s has been helpful throughout my academics. I studied at St John’s when I was on the Fort Garry campus, and now, even at the Bannatyne campus, I can still be involved with SJC and their scholarship opportunities.”

As a 2023 SJC scholarship recipient, Grace remains connected to SJC, regardless of being on the Bannatyne campus. 

She adds, “It’s been a very unifying and community-building environment. I made new friends during my undergraduate degree at St John’s, with whom I’m still connected today.”

As she moves forward into her second year of medicine coming up, Grace looks to pass on the lesson she has learned to fellow students to never give up after the first try. “If you don’t succeed the first time, it doesn’t mean it won’t happen.”

To learn more about our student membership and upcoming scholarship opportunities, visit our website.

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.