University of Calgary - case study

Supporting high performance students

The University of Calgary’s brightest, most-driven and highest-achieving students are now part of a new program launched in May 2011: the Scholars Academy.

The Scholars Academy provides talented students with the privilege of developmental opportunities that enhance their eligibility for prestigious scholarships and graduate/professional programs. In addition, the program finds and supports the many qualified individuals that may otherwise fall under the radar and provides them with academic guidance and mentoring to develop their confidence and cultivate potential. Through this program, high-level students can fully engage in their studies and in their community through mentorship and relevant volunteer and leadership opportunities.

“This program is the first of its kind in Canada.” says Program Coordinator Veronique Ram. “Although there are many programs that provide scholarships to top students, there aren’t any programs focused on developmental advising and the exclusive programming offered by the Scholars Academy. Too often, we omit high-achieving students from advising and learning support services because they are successful students; however, the research shows that advising, mentorship opportunities, and cohort programs for high-achievers go a long way in the pursuit of excellence. I’m excited to be a part of something that is going to increase the profile of our students and our university.”

The program coordinator supports students with their scholarship and post-graduate program applications, promotes a return to community and builds a network of equally ambitious peers. The inspiration behind this unique and timely program is University of Calgary Chancellor Emeritus, Joanne Cuthbertson.

“The Scholars Academy Program is the first program among Canadian universities to seek out and encourage extraordinarily hard-working, talented undergraduate students and to intentionally support these students in successfully pursuing internationally recognized awards and programs,” says Cuthbertson. “I am grateful for the support of friends in the community who have made it possible.”

Academically, students accepted into the program will be at or near the top of their class — but academics alone won’t guarantee admission. Scholars Academy students are bright, dynamic individuals and leaders in the community. They show enthusiasm toward learning, an avid interest in research, demonstrate compassion and integrity toward others, and inspire those around them.

“It is important that students who come to the University of Calgary are well supported so that they can achieve individual success and to maximize their future contributions to society,” says University of Calgary President Elizabeth Cannon. “The Scholars Academy Program provides our top students the enriched environment they require to thrive, driving success for all of our students, and propelling the University of Calgary toward our goal of becoming one of Canada’s top five research universities by our 50th anniversary in 2016.”

The first cohort comprises of 24 students from many faculties – Arts, Science, Engineering, Social Work, Nursing, Business and Medicine.

To learn more about the program and see our Scholars’ biographies, visit: www.ucalgary.ca/sap