Georgia Institute of Technology’s Alexa Bowman Olay has earned a McCall MacBain Regional Award to pursue her next degree in Canada. This scholarship recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional character, community engagement, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength, and intellectual curiosity.
Bowman Olay ranked among the top 90 of more than 700 Canadian applicants this year, and she will receive a $5,000 Regional Award. The Regional Award can be applied to eligible master’s or professional studies at any public university in Canada.
Bowman Olay is a senior majoring in public policy at Georgia Tech. She is the founder and president of the Institute’s chapter of Voters of Tomorrow, which promotes youth civic engagement and voter turnout on campus. Bowman Olay also serves on the government relations committee of the student government, hosts two radio shows, and plays lacrosse. Previously, she served as vice president of her sorority.
Bowman Olay balances school with working multiple part-time jobs. One summer, she interned at the Prince Rupert Port Authority and and volunteered at a music festival in Haida Gwaii, British Columbia.
To other Georgia Tech students, she says: “Apply! The application can seem daunting, but throughout the entire process, you will learn so much about yourself. It provides you with the opportunity to reflect on yourself, your accomplishments, and what you want for your future. It was an incredible experience!”
The McCall MacBain Scholarships are the result of a landmark $200 million gift in 2019 — then the largest single donation in Canadian history — by John and Marcy McCall MacBain.
Applications will open in June 2026 for the 2027 cohort. Students interested in applying can visit the McCall MacBain Scholarships website, contact fellowshipadvising@gatech.edu, or visit Georgia Tech’s Prestigious Fellowships website.