University of Saskatchewan finalists named for McCall MacBain Scholarship
The University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) Austen Zentner (BSc’25) and Greta Mader Stevens (BSA’26) will soon head to Montreal as national finalists for the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill University.
Established with a $200-million gift in 2019, the McCall MacBain Scholarships are Canada’s largest leadership-based scholarships for master’s and professional studies. More than 700 Canadians applied, and 151 advanced to a first round of interviews in November. The top 53 Canadians will attend the final round of interviews in Montreal, joined by 38 finalists from other countries.
“It is inspiring to make it this far. I’m thankful to know that my hard work in and out of university has led me to this point, and I have to credit the people who have helped me along the way,” said Zentner. “I feel a little bit lucky, and blessed beyond measure.”
Zentner is a graduate of the College of Kinesiology. He is the executive director of the Kinesiology Association of Saskatchewan, leading efforts to advance the field of kinesiology across the province. He was promoted to executive director after first volunteering with the association for a year.
“More than anything, university taught me to believe in myself. My undergrad taught me that I am worthy of what I worked for. I learned about time management, perseverance, collaboration, and how to dig deep and push myself toward the goals I’ve set,” he added.
Stevens is majoring in Agricultural Biology at USask. On campus, she provides peer support at the Women’s Centre and has served as a peer mentor, helping first-year students adjust to university life. Throughout her studies, she has held several research roles and worked part-time as a lead swimming instructor and teaching assistant.
Applicants are endorsed by universities from which they hold degrees and assessed based on evidence of character, community engagement, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength, and intellectual curiosity. Up to 30 McCall MacBain Scholars will be selected after final interviews.
“Through their student leadership and community engagement efforts, Austen and Greta exemplify the characteristics the McCall MacBain scholarship uplifts,” said Dr. Patti McDougall, USask interim provost and vice-president academic. “Their extraordinary achievements in academic pursuits and their success thus far in the scholarship selection process are evidence that USask is producing graduates who are changing the world for the better.”
Successful McCall MacBain Scholars receive funding to pursue an eligible degree at McGill University, including full tuition coverage, a $2,300 monthly living stipend during academic terms, and summer funding options. Scholars are paired with mentors and coaches, participate in an interdisciplinary leadership program, and have access to the McCall MacBain House on campus. A relocation grant is also available for those moving to Montreal.
“We aim to support emerging leaders who demonstrate integrity, kindness, curiosity, and courage,” said Dr. Marcy McCall MacBain, chair of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill University. “These students have already shown remarkable promise in their communities, and we’re grateful to the universities that encouraged and supported them in pursuing this opportunity.”
Canadian finalists not selected for the cohort will be eligible to receive $10,000 towards their studies at McGill University. Travel and accommodation costs are covered for the final interviews.
Applications will open in June 2026 for the 2027 cohort. More information about the McCall MacBain Scholarships can be found at mccallmacbainscholars.org.
