Brock business student Jennifer Philpott’s day turned around after learning she’d won a $5,500 Futures Fund Scholarship for Outstanding Leadership.

Jennifer Philpott was having a miserable day when the phone rang.

The 20-year-old from Niagara Falls – in the middle of working her co-op at Canadian Tire – knew it was Brock University calling, but she assumed it was the co-op office.

Instead, it was Deborah McPhee, associate dean in the Goodman School of Business.

Philpott’s day turned around after learning she’d won a $5,500 Futures Fund Scholarship for Outstanding Leadership as part of Canada’s Outstanding CEO of the Year award gala.

“It was incredible. I wasn’t expecting to win,” the third-year Honours Bachelor of Business Administration, Co-op Option student said. “We have so many great students in the (business school), and the competition I’m pretty sure was stiff.

“Needless to say it turned my entire day around and it was incredible. Since then it’s been a whirlwind.”

Philpott spent two days in Toronto for the award gala, which included national business leaders and nine other scholarship winners from universities across Canada.

“It was an opportunity for students, 10 of us from across Canada … to network,” Philpott said. “It was nicer to do that in a more intimate setting and also meet the other students.”

Philpott didn’t anticipate winning when she applied for the award, which is chosen by the dean and associate dean.

In addition to being a solid student, Philpott credits her roles with the Business Students Association and Brock Leaders Citizenship Society, as well as volunteer work with charities, for giving her an edge over other applicants.

“Getting involved was a huge thing and getting involved early,” she said. “It’s allowed me to establish a base for myself now that I’m continuing to grow upon.”

When she graduates in 2016, Philpott would like to work in corporate law or marketing, as well as remaining a community volunteer.

“There’s been so many people who’ve been supportive,” within the school, she said. “It’s been great to have.”