A University of Manitoba student and graduate named finalists for the McCall MacBain Scholarships
Recognized for their leadership potential, University of Manitoba student Elora Cromarty (BA’25) and graduate Rachel Cluett (BA’24) are finalists for the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill. The two finalists will travel to Montreal to attend final interviews in March, with travel expenses covered by the scholarship program.
The result of a landmark $200-million gift, the McCall MacBain Scholarships are Canada’s largest leadership-based scholarships for master’s and professional studies. Each scholarship covers tuition and fees for an eligible degree, a living stipend of $2,300 per month during academic terms, summer funding options, mentorship, coaching, a leadership curriculum, and access to the McCall MacBain House. A relocation grant is provided for scholars originating from outside of Montreal.
Elora and Rachel are among 52 Canadian finalists chosen from approximately 700 applicants after a first round of interviews. The selection process emphasizes holistic criteria such as character, community engagement, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength, and intellectual curiosity.
Elora Cromarty, Bachelor of Arts (Linguistics) student and 2025 McCall MacBain Scholarship finalist
Elora Cromarty is completing a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics at the University of Manitoba. She has worked on several Cree language projects at the university and with Indigenous Languages of Manitoba, a non-profit organization.
Elora is a member of the Indigenous Circle of Empowerment leadership program and co-president of the Indigenous Students’ Association. She has volunteered for four years as a Neechiwaken Indigenous Peer Mentor and acted as an associate representative for Indigenous students in the Faculty of Arts student body council.
She is applying for master’s programs at McGill to pursue research on Indigenous language revitalization.
“The University of Manitoba has lots of programming for Indigenous students to develop leadership skills, mentorship skills, and to foster community involvement with other students, at the university,” said Elora. “Being involved with these opportunities and cultural events, offered through the university, has helped prepare me for this current opportunity.”
Rachel Cluett, Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) graduate and 2025 McCall MacBain Scholarship finalist
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology graduate Rachel Cluett has worked for and volunteered for several years with the 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.
Rachel is applying for master’s programs in psychology. She hopes to improve access to ADHD support and services, particularly in rural communities.
“Being named a finalist is an incredible honour and a deeply humbling experience,” said Rachel. “It’s both validating and inspiring to be part of a group of leaders and changemakers who can guide my passion for service and growth. This opportunity has reinforced my drive to contribute meaningfully to my community and pursue my psychology career.”
“We need more leaders who act with integrity, kindness, curiosity, and courage,” said Dr. Marcy McCall MacBain, Chair of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill. “We congratulate these students who have already distinguished themselves as the top candidates nationally and globally, and we thank the universities that endorsed them for this opportunity.”
During their visit to Montreal, they will participate in interviews with leaders from academia, business, government, and the social sector. Up to 30 McCall MacBain Scholars will be selected after final interviews. Finalists not selected for the cohort will be eligible to receive $10,000 or $20,000 for their studies at McGill.
“We are grateful to the more than 300 senior leaders who contribute their time to the decision-making process,” added Natasha Sawh, CEO of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill. “The interview process allows students to reflect on their experiences and motivations, and we hope each one comes away from the process with a better understanding of their capacity to lead and to strengthen communities.”
Applications will open in June 2025 for the 2026 cohort. Find information about the McCall MacBain Scholarships on their website.