‘I freaked out’: Tisdale teen sole Sask. recipient of prestigious Loran Scholarship in 2026

Emily Gustus, 18, said she 'freaked out' when she found out she was chosen out of 5,000 students to become one of 36 Loran Scholars.

A student from northeast Saskatchewan is being recognized on the national stage for leadership, service, and character.

Tisdale’s Emily Gustus has been named a 2026 Loran Scholar and her drive and volunteer spirit are rooted in a passion to inspire others in her community.

Gustus, 18, is being recognized not just for her academic success, but for her commitment to making a difference. She was selected as one of just 36 students across Canada, chosen from more than 5,000 applicants. She’s the only one from Saskatchewan.

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“I remember I told my mom first and I freaked out, and then she freaked out. We freaked out together. I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, this is so much.’ It’s been amazing, the whole month feels like Christmas every day right now,” Gustus told CTV News.

A Grade 12 student, Gustus volunteers with the Tisdale Fire Department, responding to emergencies, training with the team, and helping lead fire safety education in the community.

“Her actions are louder than her words, and she’s not afraid to take it by the horns,” Dylan White with the Tisdale Volunteer Fire Department says.

Gustus is currently the only female member of the fire department and has become an inspiration to her fellow firefighters.

“She motivates us old guys to be better as well,” White said. “When we see her succeeding and doing better, it gives us something extra within ourselves,” White added.

Beyond firefighting, Gustus is a licensed glider and private pilot, sharing her passion for aviation with youth across Saskatchewan.

She is also active in student council, cross-country running, and band, while working part-time, all while staying deeply committed to community service. She’s gotten inspiration mostly from her mom who has instilled this positive message in her.

“Be whatever you want. Don’t let anybody tell you that you can’t do something. Just do everything you want to.”

The Loran Award includes financial support for her post secondary education, mentorship, and a four-year leadership program — helping students like Gustus continue making an impact far beyond their hometown.

Gustus plans to study nuclear engineering at either the University of Saskatchewan or McMaster University and hopes to continue volunteering with a fire department wherever she goes.