For more than a decade, The Best School Year Ever® contest has invited remarkable youth from across North America to share their stories, ambitions, and visions for what they hope to achieve at St. Michaels University School (SMUS). Each year, many students demonstrate extraordinary talent, compassion, and character, and each year our judges face the challenge of selecting only a small group whose applications truly shine.
This year, that challenge felt greater than ever. The 2026 contest drew an exceptional group of applicants who represented diverse backgrounds, wide-ranging interests, and a shared commitment to making a difference in their communities. Their creativity and passion elevated the competition to new heights.
In response to this outstanding cohort, and for the first time in the history of the contest, we are proud to award four grand prize winners! This means that all four of the chosen students will receive a full boarding scholarship worth up to $80,000. Each winner represents one of the eligible grade levels, as well as a different region of Canada or the United States. These students embody curiosity, leadership, and the spirit of joyful learning that defines our school community.
We are delighted to introduce the four students who will begin their SMUS journey in September 2026 as the newest recipients of The Best School Year Ever® scholarship.
Melina Burgener: A Multi-Talented Scholar and Community Leader
Entering Grade 11 from Nelson, British Columbia
Melina Burgener stands out as an exceptional all-around student whose academic strength is matched by creativity, leadership, and service. A proven scholar and school valedictorian, Melina maintains a high standard of excellence across her coursework, including strong performance in Pre-Calculus and other advanced subjects.
Her talents extend far beyond the classroom. Melina is deeply involved in the arts through choir, theatre, and multiple forms of dance. She is also an accomplished athlete and has contributed to rowing, volleyball, and soccer teams with the same commitment and positivity she brings to her academic life.
Melina is a confident communicator and a natural leader who elevates every community she joins. Her application reflected maturity, reflection, and an unwavering enthusiasm for learning.
Chloe Feng-Logan: A Creative and Driven Academic Achiever
Entering Grade 10 from Calgary, Alberta
Chloe Feng-Logan is a highly accomplished student whose breadth of interests and academic depth make her a standout winner. She demonstrates particular strength in science and mathematics while balancing advanced coursework, including AP-level studies, with impressive writing and literacy skills.
Outside the classroom, Chloe thrives as both an athlete and an artist. She participates in tennis, figure skating, volleyball, and dance, while also pursuing piano, modelling, and acting. This combination of discipline, creative expression, and athletic dedication reflects a student who strives for excellence in every area of her life.
Chloe’s global awareness, maturity, and strong sense of personal identity were evident throughout her application. Her curiosity and energy promise to enrich classroom discussions, school culture, and the broader boarding community.
Daniel Ham: A Resilient and Globally Minded Student
Entering Grade 12 from Lethbridge, Alberta
Daniel Ham brings thoughtful perspective and life experience shaped by time spent living in multiple countries. This background has given him adaptability, cultural awareness, and a reflective approach to academics and personal growth.
Daniel excels through consistency in his studies. He demonstrates strong academic performance, genuine leadership potential, and a calm and grounded presence that strengthens the communities he joins. His perseverance is notable. After applying to The Best School Year Ever® contest previously, Daniel returned this year with deeper insight, personal growth, and a clear vision for how he hopes to contribute to SMUS.
His application highlighted resilience, focus, and a strong moral compass. Daniel is well-suited to the rigours and opportunities of Grade 12 at SMUS, and we are pleased to welcome him as a full scholarship recipient.
Joeli McLeod: A Confident Learner with Exceptional Promise
Entering Grade 9 from Bellevue, Washington
As the youngest winner of the 2026 contest, Joeli McLeod brings impressive academic strength, leadership experience, and joyful enthusiasm for learning. She excels in tennis and badminton, participates actively in service initiatives, and is a dedicated member of the honours society.
Joeli also enjoys music and plays both the guitar and the viola. She demonstrates particular interest in science and has already shown responsibility and leadership as a summer camp counsellor, where she supported younger students with confidence and compassion.
With her balanced profile and strong character, Joeli represents the next generation of engaged and resilient learners. She will bring curiosity, empathy, and a collaborative spirit to the Grade 9 cohort and the wider SMUS community.
The Best School Year Ever® contest continues to highlight the incredible talent and potential of young people across North America. Melina, Chloe, Daniel, and Joeli represent the very best qualities of future leaders. Each brings a unique perspective, a strong sense of purpose, and an eagerness to contribute to the SMUS community. We look forward to welcoming them to campus in September and to supporting them as they make the most of every opportunity in the year ahead.
