A-State Student Named Finalist for McCall MacBain Scholarship

JONESBORO – An Arkansas State University (A-State) student, Natan Gomez of Irapuato, Mexico, is a finalist for the McCall MacBain Scholarship, Canada's largest leadership-based scholarship for master's and professional studies.

The scholarship is the result of a landmark $200 million gift in 2019 from John & Marcy McCall MacBain, which at the time was the largest donation in Canadian history.

Designed to encourage purposeful leadership, the scholarship allows students to pursue a fully funded master's degree or professional degree at McGill University while participating in mentorship, coaching and a leadership development program. McGill is ranked among the top 30 universities in the world according to the QS World University Rankings 2024.

Gomez is among 37 international finalists, one of only five finalists from U.S. institutions. Students and graduates from more than 2,250 universities applied, and 277 institutions advanced to the first round of regional interviews.

He will travel to Canada for the first time to attend the final interviews in March, with travel expenses covered by the scholarship program. Gomez said, "I'm excited to see the diverse nature and experience the international aspect of Montréal. I'm someone who loves exploring cultures, so I want to learn and meet as many people as possible."

Each finalist is selected based on character, community engagement, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength and intellectual curiosity.

A biotechnology student at A-State, Gomez leads the peer mentorship program for Hispanic and Latina/o/x students, volunteers as a student ambassador and works three part-time jobs. He also oversees cultural and arts events for the Student Activities Board, volunteers at the Hispanic Center in Jonesboro, and serves on two university leadership search committees.

Gomez said, "Being named a finalist for the McCall MacBain Scholarship is one of the highest honors I have received, and it reflects the dedication and work that led to this moment. Arkansas State University has provided the experience, friendships, work and skills to achieve this important milestone. I can't thank my professors, friends and staff enough."

He has worked as a research assistant for the past three years and has applied to the master's program in biological and biomedical engineering at McGill.

Dr. Marcy McCall MacBain, chair of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill, said, "Integrity, kindness, curiosity and courage are the traits we want to see in the next generation of leaders."

A cohort of up to 30 McCall MacBain Scholars will be selected following the final interview. International finalists who are not selected for the cohort will be eligible for a final award of $20,000.