Cavallo Technologies has established the Cavallo Technologies Graduate Scholarship for Women in Tech in memory of Barb MacLean at Simon Fraser University (SFU), reaffirming its commitment to advancing equitable access to graduate education and honouring the enduring legacy of one of the industry’s most passionate advocates for women in technology.

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Created in 2025 through a generous gift from Cavallo Technologies, the scholarship will award at least one entrance scholarship annually, valued at a minimum of $5,000, to an incoming student who self-identifies as a woman and is enrolling in SFU’s Master of Professional Computer Science (MPCS) program.

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The scholarship supports Canadian citizens or permanent residents who demonstrate academic excellence and a strong commitment to community service or volunteer involvement - particularly activities that promote equity, diversity and inclusion in STEM or in the broader community.

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Barb MacLean was widely respected as a leader, mentor and champion for women in technology.

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Over the course of her career, she elevated those around her with generosity, conviction and vision. Eight months after her passing, her influence continues to shape the people and organisations she touched.

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“Barb was the fiercest advocate for Women in Tech,” said Rob Cavallo, President of Cavallo Technologies. “I was fortunate to spend five years in her aura - watching how selflessly she lifted others, especially women. We hope to continue Barb's legacy with this scholarship, supporting women in their continued education in Technology and Leadership, specifically a Master's in Professional Computer Science."

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The award will be adjudicated through SFU’s graduate awards system and granted by the Vice Provost and Dean of Graduate Studies on behalf of the Senate Graduate Awards Adjudication Committee, upon nomination from the School of Computing Science. Recipients may hold the scholarship in conjunction with other awards, where permitted.

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By supporting women entering one of Canada’s leading professional computer science programs, Cavallo Technologies aims to continue the work Barb championed — creating a technology sector where leadership, opportunity and recognition are defined by talent and impact.

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Applications will be administered through Simon Fraser University’s Faculty of Graduate Studies.

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