When Bachelor of Management (BMgt) student, Nathan Crow first started his academic journey at the University of Lethbridge in 2019, he made a promise that he would push himself toward his full potential in anything he did. So far, the Dhillon School of Business student has stayed true to his promise and as a result has been awarded a $10,000 scholarship though Canada’s Outstanding CEO of the Year, Futures Funds Scholarship program.
Canada’s Outstanding CEO of the Year Award was established in 1990 to give recognition to outstanding chief executives in Canadian business. This year, the Dhillon School of Business was chosen as one of 10 business schools at universities across Canada to select its most deserving student to receive the award. To be considered, the student must be a Canadian citizen; be enrolled as a full-time undergraduate or graduate student in a business degree program; and must demonstrate exemplary leadership in both academics and extracurricular initiatives.
Checking all these boxes, along with an impressive resume and a consecutive spot on the dean’s list, Nathan, who majors in Indigenous governance and business management, was this year’s obvious choice. “I am extremely honoured and appreciative to be chosen as one of 10 students across the country to win such a prestigious award like the Futures Fund award,” says Nathan, “I believe it signifies my dedication and commitment toward academics, advocacy and workforce experience.”
Nathan and his fellow recipients were flown to Toronto earlier this May, where a special reception was held in their honor. The award winners also received special recognition in the National Post newspaper and were invited as special guests to Canada’s Outstanding CEO of the Year Award Gala. “My time at the Futures Fund event was such an insightful and inspiring experience,” says Nathan. “I had the opportunity to hear firsthand from amazing business leaders and CEO’s like, Dave McKay, chief executive officer of Royal Bank of Canada and 2022 CEO of the Year." Nathan says it was also an opportunity to get to know the other scholarship winners, each of whom inspired him in their own way.
As an Indigenous person and proud Blackfoot member of the Kainai First Nation, it's very imporant for me to fill spaces within the western world and its institutions."
Nathan says his family, elders and professors have played a major role in his academic success. He's hoping this award can be an inspiration to those who share his roots. “As an Indigenous person and proud Blackfoot member of the Kainai First Nation, it’s very important for me to fill spaces within the western world and its institutions, so that current and future generations can feel a sense of belonging and acceptance, and also see themselves in similar roles."
The Dhillon School of Business at the University of Lethbridge is known for its immersive experiential learning opportunities, connecting learners with industry, its supportive, personalized approach and for exposing students to emerging technology. Study options available in both Lethbridge and Calgary.