We are thrilled to announce a CAD $10 million investment to establish new scholarships aimed at bolstering Canada’s frontline healthcare workforce in partnership with Toronto Metropolitan University.
The McCall MacBain Community Health Awards at TMU will provide multi-year funding to students in nursing, midwifery, social work, public health and nutrition within TMU’s Faculty of Community Services, benefitting more than 300 students over 10 years.
This investment creates more opportunities for students to access and thrive in demanding healthcare fields. The scholarships will help build a pipeline of highly skilled professionals who can make a meaningful impact and meet the growing needs of their communities, especially at a time when healthcare staffing is strained across the country.
TMU’s Faculty of Community Services houses one of Canada’s largest nursing schools and one of only two accredited midwifery education programs in Ontario, along with excellent programs in social work, public health, and nutrition. Through these, TMU plays a significant role in adding high-quality talent to the sector.
The scholarships are available to students pursuing 4-year degree programs as well as 2-year fast-track programs designed for previous degree- or diploma-holders or those with healthcare experience. This allows the scholarships to support students who have come to community health via diverse pathways. TMU’s programs also reach a high proportion of students who are first-generation, newcomer, low-income, and non-traditional learners.
Through these scholarships, we hope to reduce financial barriers so that students can focus on pursuing clinical excellence and go on to build thriving careers as healthcare leaders within their communities. The scholarships will be awarded based on a combination of financial need, academic excellence, and community engagement.
The gift includes CAD $700,000 to help TMU raise up to CAD $1.4 million through a match component, and an endowed stream to fund 4 nursing awards annually across generations.
Read more about the gift here.