McKenna Family Announces Landmark Scholarship Program

Former New Brunswick Premier and Canadian Ambassador Frank McKenna and his family are donating $20 million to St. Francis Xavier University. This generous gift will establish the McKenna Scholars Program, providing scholarships for students over the next ten years.

A Family Legacy at St. Francis Xavier

Frank McKenna’s connection to St. Francis Xavier University began in 1966, when he became the first of eight siblings to attend the institution. Over generations, fifteen members of the McKenna family have attended StFX, demonstrating a deep and enduring connection to the university.

The McKenna Scholars Program Details

Program Goals and Funding

The McKenna Scholars Program aims to attract and support exceptional students, with a particular emphasis on international study. The program will allocate $2 million annually in scholarships for the next ten years, supporting a total of 192 students.

Scholarship Amounts and International Opportunities

Scholarships will range from $20,000 to $125,000 over four years. Top scholars will also receive a $5,000 grant to participate in international study abroad experiences during their third year.

A Transformative Gift for StFX

Mr. McKenna will announce the program on the day two of his grandchildren graduate from StFX, nearly six decades after he first stepped onto the Antigonish campus. StFX President Andrew Hakin praised the donation, stating it will “produce transformational change in the way we bring students to StFX.”

St. Francis Xavier University: A Cherished Institution

Founded in 1853, St. Francis Xavier University is a cornerstone of the Antigonish community. The university is known for its vibrant campus, strong traditions, and the many lifelong connections forged within its walls.

Commitment to Atlantic Canadian Universities

Mr. McKenna’s philanthropic efforts extend beyond StFX, with previous contributions to Mount Allison University, the University of New Brunswick, and St. Thomas University. He believes these institutions play a vital role in fostering personal and intellectual growth.