The McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill today announced its fourth cohort of recipients, beneficiaries of a landmark $200 million gift made in 2019 by John and Marcy McCall MacBain. At the time, it was the largest single donation in Canadian history.
Thirty students, representing 11 countries and 25 universities, will pursue a funded master’s or professional degree at McGill while participating in mentorship, coaching, and a leadership development program. Designed to encourage purposeful leadership, the scholarship covers tuition and fees, living costs, a relocation grant, and summer funding options.
The scholars were selected based on evidence of exceptional character, community engagement, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength, and intellectual curiosity. Their profiles can be read here.
“These students inspire us with their compassion and drive,” said Dr. Marcy McCall MacBain, Chair of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill. “Our shared mission is to provide them with an unparalleled graduate education, leadership development opportunities, mentors and lifelong connections. We hope to accelerate their ability to make an impact in communities across Quebec, Canada, and around the world.”
More than 300 volunteers read applications, interviewed the top 277 candidates across Canada and online, and then invited 91 finalists to Montreal for a final round of in-person interviews. Every scholar participated in six different interviews over the course of seven months.
“The interview process is mutually enriching,” said Natasha Sawh, Chief Executive Officer of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill. “Our selection committees seek to understand a student’s long-term potential to lead with purpose. At the same time, the students meet experienced leaders who are genuinely excited about their journeys and aspirations for making the world a better place.”
The McCall MacBain Scholarships and McGill University also offered 117 entrance awards ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 each to top candidates who were not selected for the cohort. Altogether, this year’s 147 scholarships represent an estimated commitment of more than $3 million in tuition and living costs alone, which will be complemented by mentorship and leadership development programming.
Applications will open in June 2024 for September 2025 admission.