PEI student awarded prestigious scholarship to United World College

Colonel Gray High School senior Alexander MacKay of Charlottetown is this year's PEI recipient of the Pearson College Scholarship. The annual scholarship covers full tuition and residence for two years of pre-university study at the prestigious Lester B. Pearson College of the Pacific's United World College (UWC).

Named in honour of the late Canadian Prime Minister and Nobel Peace Laureate, Lester B. Pearson, the UWC 'of the Pacific' is an institution where students can learn to promote peace and understanding in the world. Each year, 200 students from over 80 countries attend Pearson College through donor-supported scholarships and take part in a challenging UWC life skills co-curricular program.

MacKay is the son of Karen Rose and Les MacKay and is described as an outstanding, intelligent, well-spoken, and devoted student and individual.

'Selecting a single candidate from a group of outstanding applicants is an enviable challenge, and the students who applied for the Pearson scholarship this year were an exceptional group to interview,' said Darcy McCardle, Assistant Registrar at UPEI and member of the PEI Selection Committee. 'Alex is a remarkable young man with a host of talents that will serve him very well as he embarks on this tremendous educational opportunity. The Selection Committee is very pleased to see Alex represent PEI at Pearson College, and we wish him all the best in this experience.' The PEI Selection Committee consisted of McCardle, Vickie Johnston, Director of Student Affairs at UPEI, and Miles Turnbull, UPEI Dean of Education.

'We look for promising students who show courage, leadership, and a sense of determination in their desire to make a difference, to help change the world,' emphasized Ms. Heather Gross, Admissions Director at Pearson College UWC.

MacKay noted on his application that he's considering studying sciences at the university level and has particular interests in engineering and political science. MacKay is heavily involved in sports and music, and recently represented Prince Edward Island in triathlon at the 2013 Canada Games in Sherbrooke, Quebec.

'Attending United World College will allow me to achieve my full potential. At Pearson, there will be no restraints on what my goals and dreams will be-no one to step in to say it cannot be done,' commented MacKay in his application. 'Pearson would be a step towards the life that I would like to lead, one that creates change and has an impact. I have a strong desire to constantly learn and fill my mind, but also to teach, and fill the minds of others.'

UPEI congratulates Alex on his well-earned scholarship!