$100,000 Scholarship Launches Tomorrow's Leaders

Thursday, Jun 26, 2025

Jack Gillespie and Judy Gao both recipients of Schulich Leader scholarships

From left: Jack Gillespie and Judy Gao.


Not one but two Grand Erie students are recipients of the prestigious Schulich Leader scholarship, valued at an incredible $100,000. Judy Gao, a Grade 12 student at McKinnon Park Secondary School, and Jack Gillespie, a Grade 12 student at North Park Collegiate and Vocational School, are two of just 100 students across the country to be awarded this scholarship, in recognition of outstanding achievement in science, technology, engineering and math courses and an entrepreneurial mindset, to empower the next generation of innovators. 

"There have been so many opportunities I've been able to explore at McKinnon Park that have led me here," said Gao, who credits her time on the student council, participation in the DECA business competition, membership in the math club, and leadership as part of Connect, the school's orientation program easing the transition for incoming Grade 9 students, with building her skills, confidence and charisma. "Teachers and team advisors were always there for guidance and encouraged me to think outside the box, and by joining clubs and trying new things, I've learned a lot about connecting with people and hearing everyone's voices."

Recognizing the increasing importance of STEM disciplines, the Schulich Leaders scholarship fund was established in 2012 to foster the next generation of entrepreneurial-minded, technology innovators. The entrance scholarships are awarded to students embarking on science, technology math or engineering post-secondary programs.

"I've always been focused on academics, but throughout high school, I've come out of my shell a bit more and discovered what I was passionate about," said Gillespie, who honed his work ethic and leadership skills through the STEAM club and the chance to further explore his interests in physics, thanks to encouraging educators at North Park. "My teachers have been a big part of helping me focus on my goals, and the students are really great here, too — a lot of smart people have helped me along the way." 

Gillespie is heading to McMaster University this fall, and through his studies, plans to eventually pursue a career in space exploration. 

"I want to help expand humanity's horizons and challenge what we think is possible," he said. 

For Gao, who will be studying math and business at Western University in September, the combination of these disciplines will allow her to continue problem-solving creatively from both quantitative and innovative perspectives.

"Where there are challenges, there are also a lot of opportunities, and I think we'll see this more and more with technology as a tool for achieving other goals," she said. 

Grand Erie has numerous scholarship and award winners this year from across the district who will be starting their post-secondary educational journeys with not only financial support, but also recognition of their talents, achievements and hard work. 

"We’re incredibly proud of our graduates for reaching this milestone," said JoAnna Roberto, Director of Education. "Receiving a scholarship is a testament to your commitment and potential, and signifies the faith that others have in your abilities to succeed."      

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