Taylean J., a graduating Grade 12 student from St. John Henry Newman Catholic High School, has been awarded a prestigious $120,000 Schulich Leader Scholarship to pursue studies in Mechatronics Engineering at York University this fall.
Taylean will enter the Lassonde School of Engineering's Bachelor of Engineering program, specializing in Engineering, and receive this life-changing scholarship after being nominated by St. John Newman educators Mr. N. Lacroce and Ms. L. Policelli for her outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Her selection marks a historic milestone for St. John Henry Newman Catholic High School, as she becomes the school's first nominee to receive a Schulich Leader Scholarship.
The Schulich Leader Scholarships are among Canada's most coveted undergraduate STEM awards. Each year, 100 scholarships are awarded nationwide, including 50 engineering scholarships valued at $120,000 each and 50 scholarships valued at $100,000 for students pursuing science, technology, or mathematics programs.
“We are proud to welcome Taylean as a Schulich Leader, joining a national community of exceptional students,” said Judy Schulich, President of The Schulich Foundation. “[Her] STEM dedication will support innovation and growth.”
For Taylean, the scholarship represents far more than financial assistance.
“It will change things tremendously,” she said. “This scholarship means my parents won't have to work overtime or worry about how they'll cover my tuition while also supporting my younger siblings. Knowing that takes a huge weight off both my family and me.”
Taylean explained that the award will allow her to focus fully on her education and future career goals without the burden of financial uncertainty.
“This opportunity has completely transformed how I envision my post-secondary journey, giving me the freedom to focus on my education and future with far less financial stress,” she said.
The moment she received the scholarship offer remains unforgettable.
“It was truly heart-stopping,” Taylean recalled. “I had to read the notice more than once because news like that doesn't feel real at first. Once it finally sank in, I was overwhelmed with excitement and happiness.”
She said the first person she shared the news with was her mother.
“The first thing I did was run to tell one of the people who made everything possible for me, my mom,” she said. “For so long, the idea of receiving a scholarship like this felt like a distant dream. Seeing that offer in front of me made that dream a reality and showed me that what once seemed impossible is actually within reach.”
According to Mr. Lacroce and Ms. Policelli, Taylean's accomplishments extend well beyond the classroom. Throughout high school, she maintained Honour Roll standing while completing the Extended French program and participating extensively in extracurricular activities.
Her athletic achievements earned her recognition as Junior Athlete of the Year and a nomination for Senior Athlete of the Year. She was named Most Valuable Player in basketball, ultimate frisbee, and soccer, while also competing on the school's volleyball team.
In addition to athletics, Taylean contributed to school life through the Concert Band, Chess Club, Woodworking Club, and Women in STEM Club. She also volunteers in her community and works in her family's business.
“This award is not only a remarkable achievement for Taylean, but also a source of pride for our entire school community,” said Mr. Lacroce and Ms. Policelli in a joint statement. “Her success inspires other students to pursue their goals, highlights the talent within our student body, and showcases the positive impact students can have both in and beyond the classroom.”
The educators noted that Taylean's ability to balance academic excellence with leadership, athletics, community service, and family responsibilities distinguished her among scholarship candidates.
“Taylean's achievements are impressive not only because of their breadth but because of the consistency with which she pursues excellence in every aspect of her life,” they said. “She is a well-rounded individual who exemplifies leadership, dedication, resilience, and service.”
As she prepares to begin her engineering studies at York University, Taylean says the scholarship provides both opportunity and motivation.
“Beyond the financial support, this scholarship serves as a foundation for my success,” she said. “It removes barriers that could have limited my opportunities and gives me the freedom to invest my time and energy into my education, personal growth, and career aspirations.”
For Taylean, the scholarship is more than an award. It is a stepping stone toward achieving her goals and contributing to the future of STEM innovation and breakthroughs in Canada.
