Ottawa students recognized for STEM innovation and community impact
June 02, 2026
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Recognizing four Ottawa students pursuing careers in STEM and creating positive impact through innovation, healthcare, and technology
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In our third year of recipients for the Stantec/Sens Community Foundation STEM Award, we are congratulating four outstanding students who demonstrated passion, purpose, and a drive to create change through science, technology, engineering, and math.
We’re Stantec proud to continue our partnership with the Ottawa Senators Community Foundation and the Education Foundation of Ottawa to support a remarkable group of students as they begin the next chapter of their academic journey. Each recipient will receive a $5,000 scholarship toward their post-secondary studies in STEM-related fields.
Our 2026 winners exemplify curiosity, compassion, and a bold vision for the future. Their stories highlight the power of investing in potential and how STEM can be deeply rooted in personal experience and a desire to help others.
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Meet Our 2026 Recipients
Misgana Biniam
Biomedical Sciences, University of Ottawa
Misgana’s passion for STEM began with curiosity and a passion for hands-on problem solving, from building a traffic light controller on a Raspberry Pi to exploring artificial intelligence and computational biochemistry.
After her grandmother suffered a severe heart attack, STEM became deeply personal and inspired her to pursue solutions that improve cardiovascular care and patient outcomes.
“I discovered how powerful it is to break complex problems into clear, logical steps.”
Looking ahead, Misgana hopes to help engineer the future of cardiovascular therapeutics while expanding STEM access for underrepresented students.
Jesse Morris
Biochemistry, University of Ottawa
As a neurodiverse student, Jesse overcame academic challenges with the support of accommodations that helped him discover a passion for science and math.
Now pursuing biochemistry in French immersion, Jesse is committed to helping create inclusive learning environments where students feel supported and capable of succeeding.
“I want every student—regardless of background or learning differences—to have the opportunity to discover their potential.”
Jesse hopes to help break down barriers in STEM education and inspire future generations to pursue science with confidence.
Sarah Lim-Baig
Software Engineering, University of Ottawa
Sarah is passionate about building technology that improves lives, from healthcare and clean water access to community support and workplace efficiency. Inspired by STEM opportunities she experienced growing up, she also hopes to expand access to STEM education for youth in underprivileged and international communities.
“I wanted to be someone who could improve lives through STEM.”
Through her studies, Sarah aims to use technology to create lasting, meaningful change.
Sophia Ren
Health Sciences, University of Ottawa or Queen’s University
Sophia’s goal of becoming a pediatrician was shaped by years spent in hospitals alongside family members, where she witnessed the impact compassionate healthcare can have during difficult moments.
Experiences at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario and supporting her younger brother during medical emergencies inspired her desire to provide both medical care and reassurance to families.
“Providing care is also about easing fear, not just treating illness.”
Sophia hopes to create the same sense of trust and compassion for future patients that once helped her own family feel supported.
Our recipients are driven to pay it forward, shaping the future through mentorship
Each bursary recipient will continue growing their skills, exploring new ideas, and leading with purpose. Together with past recipients, they represent the future of innovation and impact in Ottawa and beyond.
At Stantec, we’re proud to help remove barriers for students who are ready to make a difference. Through our continued partnership with the Sens Community Foundation, we’re investing in equity, opportunity, and the changemakers of tomorrow.
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