TORONTO – August 1, 2025 – Top Hat, the leader in student engagement solutions for higher education, is proud to announce the 2025 recipients of the Shannen’s Dream Scholarship, presented in partnership with the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society. As lead sponsor, Top Hat is funding two $10,000 and two $5,500 scholarships, awarded to First Nations students pursuing post-secondary education in recognition of their academic excellence and outstanding contributions to their communities.
Scholarship recipients were selected based on outstanding academic performance and a demonstrated track record of promoting health, wellbeing, and equity within their communities. Whether through mentorship, health advocacy, or cultural revitalization, these individuals are already acting as important agents of change.
“We are deeply inspired by all that these individuals have accomplished so early in their lives. They are community builders, advocates, and future leaders with enormous potential,” said Maggie Leen, CEO of Top Hat. “It’s an honor to play even a small part in helping them achieve their dreams of higher education and go even further.”
Named in honor of Shannen Koostachin, a courageous youth from Attawapiskat First Nation who led a national campaign for equitable education, the Shannen’s Dream Scholarship celebrates Indigenous students who exemplify resilience, leadership, and a commitment to social change.
What makes the scholarship unique is its “pay-it-forward” requirement. Each recipient is expected to make a fair and measurable contribution to the Shannen’s Dream campaign or a related First Nations initiative. Previous pay-it-forward campaigns have included creating a guide to help students navigate the medical school application process, hosting talks and workshops on Shannen’s Dreams, and establishing an online database of scholarships for Indigenous youth.
“Shannen believed in the power of education to change lives and communities. Each of this year’s recipients carries that vision forward, not only through their academic efforts, but through their leadership and service,” said Cindy Blackstock, Executive Director of the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society. “We are proud to celebrate these remarkable students and grateful to Top Hat for helping to make the Shannen’s Dream Scholarship a reality for more First Nations youth.”
Meet the 2025 Shannen’s Dream Scholarship Recipients
Zoe Quill, a member of Sapotaweyak Cree Nation with ties to Wuskwi Sipihk First Nation, holds a BSc in Genetics from the University of Manitoba and will be attending the Max Rady College of Medicine for Fall 2025. She is a published researcher and 2024 Manitoba Indigenous Youth Achievement Award recipient, and is committed to advancing Indigenous health and representation in care.
Mercedes Stemm, a proud Mi’kmaw woman from Natoaganeg First Nation, is a second-year medical student at the University of Manitoba. With a BSc in Neuroscience and minor in Indigenous Studies, she co-created Indigenous admissions pathways and launched a national mentorship program supporting future Indigenous medical students.
Syndel Thomas Kozar, from One Arrow First Nation, is completing a Double Honours in Indigenous Studies and Women’s and Gender Studies at the University of Saskatchewan. A community advocate, Kozar holds leadership roles in youth and arts organizations, with work focused on cultural reclamation, and empowering Indigenous youth through storytelling.
Ruby O’Tennadzahe, a Dene woman from Northlands Denesuline First Nation, will begin the Bachelor of Nursing program at Red River College Polytechnic in Fall 2025. A former Health Care Aide, she brings clinical experience and a strong focus on holistic, culturally grounded care for Indigenous youth.
About Shannen’s Dream Scholarship
The Shannen’s Dream Scholarship was established to assist First Nations youth with the financial burdens of post-secondary education. The scholarship honors Shannen Koostachin, whose advocacy for safe and comfortable schools for First Nations students ignited a nationwide movement. This scholarship aims to continue her legacy by empowering First Nations students to achieve their educational aspirations. To learn more, please visit www.fncaringsociety.com.
About Top Hat
As the leader in student engagement solutions for higher education, Top Hat enables educators to employ evidence-based teaching practices through interactive content, tools, and activities in in-person, online and hybrid classroom environments. Thousands of faculty at more than 900 North American colleges and universities use Top Hat to create meaningful, engaging and accessible learning experiences for students before, during, and after class. To learn more, please visit tophat.com.