UPEI student earns McCall MacBain Regional Award
Reilly Sullivan, an honours biology student at the University of Prince Edward Island, has been awarded a $5,000 McCall MacBain Regional Award. She placed among the top 95 of more than 700 Canadian applicants this year.
The scholarship recognizes engaged student leaders who have demonstrated exceptional character, community engagement, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength, and intellectual curiosity. It provides funding for a full-time master’s or professional program at any public university in Canada.
Originally from Quispamsis, New Brunswick, Sullivan is a student researcher at the UPEI Murphy Research Lab, led by Dr. Patrick Murphy, assistant professor of biology, where she investigates breast cancer metabolism. After she graduates this spring, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in public health and then a medical degree.
“It is an honour to be recognized as one of this year’s award recipients,” said Sullivan. “I am tremendously grateful to McCall MacBain Scholarships for the opportunity to continue my studies as well as to all those who have supported me along the way.”
In addition to achieving excellence in her studies and research, Sullivan is involved in her community. She started and leads the UPEI Global Brigades student club, organized two Terry Fox community runs, and played varsity basketball as a three-time Academic All-Canadian. She also volunteered in the emergency department at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. She works as a head server at a restaurant, training new staff.
“On behalf of UPEI, I congratulate Reilly on winning this prestigious award,” said Dr. Greg Naterer, vice-president academic and research at UPEI. “The McCall MacBain Regional Award is fitting recognition of her academic excellence, outstanding leadership, and dedication to her community. We are very proud of her achievement.”
The McCall MacBain Scholarships are the result of a landmark $200 million gift in 2019, then the largest single donation in Canadian history, by John and Marcy McCall MacBain. Applications will open in June 2024 for September 2025 admission. In addition to 30 fully funded scholarships, up to 100 awards of $5,000 to $20,000 will be offered. More information about the McCall MacBain Scholarships can be found at mccallmacbainscholars.org.
