Oliver Batchilder and Chelsea Ansems have both earned McCall MacBain Regional Awards. They ranked among the top 93 of approximately 700 Canadian applicants this year and will each receive a $5,000 Regional Award. 

Batchilder is studying philosophy, politics, and economics and is a Bell Scholar. He is chairperson of the MASU and volunteers at an elementary school breakfast program. 

For two years, Batchilder contributed to the Community Engaged Learning Society as an executive member. Last summer, he worked for Meals on Wheels PEI, developing the administrative operations of a frozen meal delivery program, and conducted a research project assessing food insecurity in rural PEI communities.  Batchilder is applying for master's programs in public health and policy at McGill. 

“To me, this award represents the power of community and the impact we can create when we support and uplift one another. I look forward to continuing my work to strengthen my community and helping others do the same,” Batchilder says. 

Ansems is a recent Commerce graduate and is currently volunteering as a learning and communications advisor with the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) Malawi Office.  

Ansems says the experiences and connections she made at Mount Allison were invaluable.  

“Looking back on the past four years, I can now see more clearly the profound impact of choosing a small, close-knit school. Within 74 km², you may not put down roots widely, but you will find a home where they grow much deeper," Ansems says.

During her time at Mount Allison, Ansems served as VP finance for the WUSC Local Committee. She managed the varsity women's hockey team, earning a Team Manager of the Year Award, and volunteered with the Sackville Food Bank. She also assisted with health outreach activities on campus, supported first-year students as a START leader, and worked as a project manager. Ansems will be attending Dalhousie University in the fall for the master's programs in public policy and public administration. 

“I am immensely grateful for the extraordinary people who have guided, inspired, and encouraged me along the way, allowing me to share this journey with other incredible candidates and leaders,” says Ansems. “Thanks to their support and the generosity of McCall MacBain, I am excited to further my education and carry forward the lessons and friendships Mount Allison has afforded me as I begin the next chapter of this journey.” 
 
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 2025 for the 2026 cohort. More information about the McCall MacBain Scholarships can be found at mccallmacbainscholars.org.