Karen Hudson, Nova Scotian educator and leader, to be recognized with an honorary degree

Karen Hudson

Saint Mary’s University will recognize Karen Hudson, a noted leader in the field of education, by awarding her an honorary degree at the Spring Convocation in May 2024.

Hudson’s commitment to post-secondary learning for African Nova Scotians has been exceptional over several decades. As Principal of Auburn Drive High School in Dartmouth, NS, she demonstrates visionary leadership. With a BA in International Development, BEd and multiple Master’s degrees, Hudson brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role.

In 2018, she pioneered the first Africentric Cohort in math and literacy within a public school. This groundbreaking initiative aimed to empower students by infusing Afrocentric concepts into the curriculum. In 2019, the Learning Partnership recognized Karen Hudson as one of Canada’s Outstanding Principals for her innovative work. She has actively assisted in expanding Africentric Cohorts to other Nova Scotia institutions, including Horton High, Woodlawn High, and Citadel High.

Outstanding Community Service

Beyond her educational leadership, Hudson is deeply involved in community service. She has received the Nova Scotia Teacher’s Award, the Provincial Family Award and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal. Her passion for social justice, youth leadership, and international development drives her active participation in various organizations. Notably, she is Interim President of the Black Educators Association (BEA) and volunteers with the Africentric Learning Institute (ALI), Black History Month Committee, Indigenous and Mi’kmaq Initiative (IBM), and Cherry Brook United Baptist Church. She is the former African Nova Scotian representative for the Public School Administrators Association of Nova Scotia (PSAANS).

Hudson’s groundbreaking work in Afrocentric math programming has positively impacted African Nova Scotian students, including those at Saint Mary’s. Her commitment to addressing inequality, social justice, historical erasure, and educational disparity demonstrates her leadership and integrity.

Hudson will receive a Doctor of Civil Law, honoris causa, on Wednesday, May 15. See the convocation program for full details.

President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray expresses admiration for Hudson, stating, “Ms. Hudson’s long record of professional accomplishment reflects her commitment to academic growth, intercultural learning, and diversity excellence. Her dedication to educational equity and community service exemplifies the values of Saint Mary’s University, and her impact on students’ lives is immeasurable.”

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Spring Convocation takes place May 15-17, 2024. Ceremonies will be live-streamed via www.smu.ca/graduation.

Kevin Murphy, trailblazer in advocacy and inclusion, to receive honorary degree

Kevin Murphy BComm’92

Kevin Murphy BComm’92, a distinguished advocate for people with disabilities, will be awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Saint Mary’s University during the upcoming Spring Convocation. His significant contributions to public policy and community development have left a lasting impact.

Murphy describes himself as a “serial entrepreneur,” having ventured into diverse fields such as entertainment, publishing, advertising, restaurants, junior hockey, motor coach operations, and disability consulting. His time at Saint Mary’s University opened his eyes to a world of possibilities, inspiring him to become an advocate for accessibility improvements on campus, ensuring that the needs of students with disabilities were met.

Beyond business ventures, Murphy has held management positions with the Canadian Paraplegic Association and the Rick Hansen Foundation. His commitment extends to volunteer work, including executive board positions with organizations like the HRM Advisory Committee for Persons with Disabilities, Metro Transit Access-A-Bus Advisory Committee and Independent Living Nova Scotia. In 2012, he received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal in recognition of his dedicated community service.

Murphy’s impact reached new heights when he became the elected Member of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly for Eastern Shore from 2013 to 2021. Serving eight consecutive years as the Speaker, he made history as the first Speaker in the Commonwealth to have a significant disability. His tenure was marked by a commitment to ensuring that the voices of persons with disabilities were heard and represented in elected parliaments.

His gravitas, combined with a delightful sense of humour, allowed him to excel in his role. As the Senior Parliamentary Speaker in Canada, Murphy founded and served as the first Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities Network in 2019. This network aims to support and inspire people with disabilities worldwide to seek elected office.

Advocacy on a Global Scale

Since 2022, Murphy has been the Senior Policy Advisor to Canada’s Federal Minister responsible for persons with disabilities. His work spans critical files such as the Accessible Canada Act, the Disability Inclusion Action Plan, the Canada Disability Benefit and Medical Assistance in Dying. Through these roles, he amplifies the voices of persons with disabilities globally, advocating for policies that empower and uplift. Murphy’s commitment extends beyond political office—in 2003, he co-founded The James McGregor Stewart Society, a beacon of advocacy for public policy respecting people with disabilities. The society’s impactful work has touched countless lives, advocating for equal rights, accessibility, and inclusion.

Murphy will receive a Doctor of Civil Law, honoris causa, on Wednesday, May 15. See the convocation program for full details.

President and Vice-Chancellor of Saint Mary’s University, Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, commends Murphy’s work: “Kevin Murphy’s journey inspires us all. His leadership, advocacy and dedication to disability rights transcend borders, making our world more inclusive and compassionate.”

Currently, Murphy serves as the Federal Director of Disability and Inclusion, where he continues to champion positive change. His legacy reminds us that barriers can be overcome and that every voice matters.

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Spring Convocation takes place May 15-17, 2024. Ceremonies will be live-streamed via www.smu.ca/graduation.

Distinguished diplomat Donica Pottie to receive honorary degree

Donica Pottie BA’85

Saint Mary’s University will proudly bestow an honorary degree upon Donica Pottie BA’85, a trailblazing diplomat and advocate for human rights, at Spring Convocation this May. Her remarkable journey from a Saint Mary’s graduate to a Canadian ambassador exemplifies resilience, dedication and global citizenship.

In 1985, Pottie became one of the first Asian Studies Honours graduates from Saint Mary’s University. As one of the early students in the Asian Studies program, she embarked on a journey to China in 1983, where her passion for international affairs and cultural exchange led her to explore new horizons.

Pottie’s career with External Affairs and International Trade Canada began in 1991. Her contributions spanned various critical roles, including:

• Director of Human Security Policy (2007–2010)

• Director of Development Policy and International Financial Institutions (2012–2013)

• Director of Peace Support Operations and Fragile States Policy (2013–2015)

• Director General of Consular Operations (2015–2016)

Overseas, she served as a diplomat in China, Jordan, Cambodia and Thailand, where her tenure as ambassador to these countries showcased her commitment to diplomacy, peacekeeping and human rights. Her advocacy extends beyond borders in her support of human security, women’s rights and the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community, which she has publicly defended in countries where these rights are restricted.

In 2021, Pottie managed the Canadian contribution to a US$1.6 million UNESCO education fund for Jordan, as well as helped to negotiate a $120 million Canadian Sovereign Loan for education in Jordan. Her commitment to educational investment aligns with Saint Mary’s values.

As a Saint Mary’s graduate, she embodies the theme of modern global citizenship highlighted in the university’s Strategic Research Plan (2021–2026). Her distinguished record of achievement is complemented by personal moral integrity, and her dedication to diplomacy and human rights is truly commendable. 

Pottie will receive a Doctor of Civil Law, honoris causa, on Friday, May 17. See the convocation program for full details.

President and Vice-Chancellor of Saint Mary’s University, Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, commends Ms. Pottie’s unwavering commitment. “Donica Pottie is very deserving of this honorary degree. Her exemplary service as a diplomat and advocate has made a lasting impact on the world, championing human rights and equality.”

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Spring Convocation takes place May 15-17, 2024. Ceremonies will be live-streamed via www.smu.ca/graduation.

Larry Freeman, K.C. to be recognized with honorary degree for significant community involvement

Larry Freeman

Saint Mary’s University will confer an honorary degree upon Lawrence (Larry) Freeman, K.C., recognizing his exceptional contributions to the legal profession, community and public service. As a well-known Halifax lawyer, Freeman’s dedication has left an indelible mark on Nova Scotia.

Freeman’s commitment to community and public service spans decades. His tireless efforts have improved the lives of countless Nova Scotians. As a partner at Stewart McKelvey, Atlantic Canada’s first and largest regional law firm, Freeman has provided counsel to clients for over 40 years. His expertise in banking, financing, commercial lending and corporate law has made a significant impact.

Freeman has been deeply involved in the community and Canadian culture. His memberships in the Canadian Bar Association, the Community Leadership Advisory Council, and the Heart & Stroke Foundation demonstrate his commitment to well-being.

Notably, Larry joined the Saint Mary’s University Board of Governors in 2008 and served as the board Chair from 2019-2022. His role provided invaluable insights into the university’s strengths, challenges and opportunities.

Freeman’s journey in higher education began at Dalhousie University, where he earned his Bachelor of Commerce in 1970 and his Bachelor of Laws in 1973.

Freeman will receive a Doctor of Civil Law, honoris causa, on Friday, May 17. See the convocation program for full details.

President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray said, “Larry Freeman’s passion for addressing issues of inequity, social justice, and building strong relationships has left an indelible mark. As we celebrate his achievements, we recognize the profound influence he has had on our students and Nova Scotia.”

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Spring Convocation takes place May 15-17, 2024. Ceremonies will be live-streamed via www.smu.ca/graduation.

President’s Award for Excellence in Research: Dr. Luigi Gallo

Dr. Luigi Gallo with Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray at Winter Convocation

Dr. Luigi Gallo was honoured at Winter Convocation with the President’s Award for Excellence in Research for his contributions to astrophysics.

As an astrophysicist in high-profile international research projects, Dr. Luigi Gallo has been involved in major missions with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), NASA, and the Canadian Space Agency, and has received more than $10-million in funding for projects such as the Astro-H Metrology System.

Dr. Luigi Gallo

Dr. Gallo’s research interests include supermassive black holes, or active galactic nuclei, and X-rays emitted from the innermost regions of black hole environments; accretion-powered systems of all scales (e.g. cataclysmic variables, X-ray binaries, AGN); and the definition and realization of future X-ray missions. His work has led to discoveries that have altered scientists’ understanding of black holes, their formation, growth, behaviour and their influence on the evolution of galaxies.

After a stint in industry, Dr. Gallo returned to academia and completed his PhD at the prestigious Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics in Germany, and then joined JAXA before becoming a faculty member at Saint Mary’s University in 2007.

A prolific publisher, Dr. Gallo is credited with more than 80 successful observing proposals and more than 150 refereed publications written as part of his research on black holes and instrumentation, work with peers, and as a supervisor to many of his students and postdocs. He has also published work with large collaborations, including papers by the Hitomi Collaboration, which he made significant contributions to, as well as other publications on future missions.

As a professor, Dr. Gallo is focused on supporting the next generation of researchers, co-writing papers with undergraduate and graduate students who have gone on to higher-level studies and research of their own. He contributes significant time and knowledge to the advancement of his field through committee work and outreach initiatives and as a member of the Canadian Astronomical Society.

The President's Award for Excellence in Research honours continued exceptional contributions to research and scholarship conducted by a full-time Saint Mary's University faculty member. More information can be found at smu.ca/fgsr/presidents-award.

Congratulations Dr. Luigi Gallo!

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Recordings of the convocation ceremonies and a PDF of the convocation program are available at smu.ca/graduation. See the photo album on the SMU Halifax Facebook page.

Educators and collaborators celebrated with honorary degrees

Saint Mary’s University will bestow honorary doctorates on three educators with connections to the university community—Mingyuan Zhang, Ailan Fu and David Lane—at the 2024 Winter Convocation.

Mingyuan Zhang

Dr. Mingyuan Zhang

Dr. Zhang has an exceptional record as a scholar of Chinese language culture and folklore. Holding a Doctorate in Chinese folklore from Beijing Normal University, Beijing, Dr. Zhang has had a distinguished academic career as a Professor of Chinese Language and Literature at Renmin University, as Dean of Arts at Hong Kong Shue Yan University and most recently, and since 2004, as Dean of the School of Chinese at BNUZ.

Particularly in his role as Dean of the School of Chinese, Dr. Zhang has established the study of Chinese language and culture, including in partnership with Saint Mary’s University. His quiet, behind-the-scenes leadership has provided a supportive environment for many Saint Mary’s students, staff and faculty participating in the partnership between SMU and BNUZ. His service to the values of Saint Mary’s, and particularly to intercultural learning, makes him worthy of an honorary degree.

Dr. Zhang will receive a Doctor of Letters, honoris causa, on January 27, 2024.

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Ailan Fu

Dr. Ailan Fu

Dr. Fu is a notable academic leader and administrator. In addition to her academic appointments as Professor of Linguistics at Central University for Nationalities, and then at BNUZ, Dr. Fu has led global engagement for BNUZ and the partnership with Saint Mary’s University. This has resulted in the exchange of students, faculty and staff between our universities over the past two decades. Dr. Fu is a well-recognized scholar in linguistics and has held visiting appointments at SMU, Hong Kong Baptist University, and the University of Texas.

Dr. Fu’s service to the community includes her work as a scholar and academic administrator at BNUZ but extends also locally to her work as counsellor on the city of Zhuhai Municipal Council. Her work for the city of Zhuhai led to the creation of the sister-city relationship between Zhuhai and the Halifax Regional Municipality. Her focus on international education and connection demonstrates Dr. Fu’s commitment to intercultural learning, a key value for Saint Mary’s University. 

Dr. Fu will receive a Doctor of Letters, honoris causa, on January 27, 2024.

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David Lane

David Lane

Tens of thousands of Saint Mary’s University students and members of the public have experienced the wonders of the night sky at the Burke-Gaffney Observatory due to the efforts of one man, David Lane, who, for nearly thirty years, has been quietly inspiring generations of children, parents, students, and teachers.

From 1992 until his retirement, Mr. Lane was employed as the Astronomy Technician and System Administrator in the Astronomy and Physics Department. Later, as Director of the Burke-Gaffney Observatory, David single-handedly automated the Observatory and made it available to the world through Twitter and Facebook. He has made significant contributions to teaching and learning at Saint Mary’s and created The Earth Centered Universe (ECU), an easy-to-use planetarium and telescope-control program, allowing institutes the ability to operate their own educational astronomy platforms for teaching astronomy.

He has also made many impressive contributions to professional astronomy, with more than 100 professional publications in the field of variable stars and telescope operations. He has been a member of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) since the 1980s and served as president of the National Chapter and the Halifax Chapter. He was recognized by the International Astronomy Union for the co-discovery of three supernovae and has an asteroid named after him!

David Lane will receive a Doctor of Science, honoris causa, on January 27, 2024.

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Convocation ceremonies will be live-streamed on smu.ca on January 26 and 27. Check our website for ceremony details.

Meet your Valedictorians for Winter 2024

Three valedictorians, selected for their leadership, campus involvement and academic success, will address their fellow graduates at the Winter Convocation ceremonies taking place on January 26 and 27, 2024. These students are the recipients of a John and Heather Fitzpatrick Valedictorian Award.

Learn more about the Winter 2024 valedictorians, and watch the ceremonies live at smu.ca/graduation.

Sheldon Bhawanie, Master of Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Sheldon Bhawanie, Valedictorian for the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research

Sheldon Bhawanie left his home in Trinidad and Tobago and arrived at Saint Mary’s after searching for the best business school in Atlantic Canada. Needless to say, the Sobey School of Business came out on top and Sheldon has never regretted his choice. His degree, a Master of Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation, has given him the foundation for a successful career and so much more.

Sheldon is currently employed at the Sobey School of Business as a Professional Development Project Manager in Graduate Career Services and volunteers as a soccer coach at the Halifax City Soccer Club. Working with students, helping them navigate their education journeys and enriching their lives has become a calling. “We are here not only to exist but also to make life better for others.”

Q&A with Sheldon

Why did you choose Saint Mary’s University?

I had attended St. Mary’s College in Port of Spain and had dedicated a significant part of my life to volunteering there. When I was looking for a good business school to attend in the Maritimes, it was no coincidence that SMU came up—I was sold! From one St. Mary’s to the next.

Tell us how you got involved in the SMU Community

I volunteer as a mentor for the Innovation Sprint events hosted at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre. I think the clarity with which I see problems can help others solve problems.

Looking back, what was your favourite Saint Mary’s memory?

I remember coming to SMU for the first time in August 2022 and just standing in the Atrium thinking that I did well to get into my program and that I had to make my mark here. I couldn’t believe I was going to be part of the tapestry of this university. That moment is etched in my memory forever.

How has the MTEI helped shape your success in Halifax?

I have made so many connections here, not only as a student but networking with other professionals in Halifax! I learned that networking is key to setting up your landing after graduation. Everyone knows someone and therefore, good connections position you for a fulfilling life.

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Funmilayo Chioma Adegoke, Bachelor of Commerce

Funmilayo Adegoke, Valedictorian for the Sobey School of Business

Funmilayo Chioma Adegoke, from Lagos, Nigeria, earned a Bachelor of Commerce with a double major in Accounting and Computing and Information Systems. Her keen interest in the intersection of technology and finance motivated her to pursue these fields, and she is enthusiastic about exploring how technology can transform the accounting world.

Q&A with Funmilayo

Why did you choose Saint Mary's University?

I chose Saint Mary’s because of the Sobeys School of Business and its esteemed reputation as one of the top business schools in Canada.

What was your experience coming to Halifax as an International student?

Transitioning to life away from my family was a new experience, but SMU made it smoother than I expected. The assistance I received encouraged me to get involved and support other students as they transition into the SMU community. I worked with the International Centre and Residence Programming Team to help organize holiday-themed events, offering students on campus during the Christmas break a 'home-away-from-home' experience.

What other ways did you get involved with campus life?

I had many opportunities to get involved on campus, including as a member of the Commerce Society and African Society. I volunteered with the SMU Community Food Room and as a Cultural Assistant for the Language Centre, which paved the way for a rewarding job opportunity.

My first job on campus was with the Patrick Power Library, where I gained invaluable experience. In my second year (during the pandemic), I served as a Resident Assistant, supporting students facing unprecedented challenges and was honoured with a Flexible Leadership Award for my contributions during that time.

Which instructor had the most significant impact on you?

I've been lucky to encounter a few exceptional professors during my academic journey. Professor Charles Baxter sparked my interest in accounting, while Professor Vasiliki Athanasakou helped me gain a new perspective on the subject. Both have been invaluable mentors to me.

What are your goals for the future? How did Saint Mary's help set you on this path?

I am working towards my CPA and have found the CPA prerequisite courses offered by Saint Mary’s to be very helpful in achieving my goal. The resources provided by SMU have enabled me to explore my diverse interests and pursue a second major in Computing and Information Systems.

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Celina C.J. Rolle, Bachelor of Arts

Celina Rolle, Valedictorian for the Faculty of Arts

Press on and persevere. This is the message Celina Rolle wants to emphasize in her valedictory words of wisdom to fellow graduates. “Though we stand on top of this hill, many more are waiting to be conquered,” Celina says in her address, which opens and closes with inspiring passages from the Matthias Barr poem “Persevere”.

Celina works as a foreign service officer with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in The Bahamas. She came to Halifax from Nassau to pursue a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Global Development Studies, building on her previous studies in law and criminal justice at the University of The Bahamas.

Q&A with Celina

Why did you choose Saint Mary’s? After researching different universities, I found that Saint Mary’s stood out the most to me. Its commitment to ensuring that everyone feels welcome resonated with my values. It was also a plus to know several people who have either attended or are currently enrolled at SMU.

What was your favourite course? The Mind-Body Problem (PHIL 2328). After taking this class, I’m still grappling with the question of whether the mind is contained within the brain. It pushed me to think creatively and consider alternative possibilities.

Which instructor had the biggest impact on you? Jean-Blaise Samou, my instructor for Africa: Contemporary Development Issues (GDST 4462). The main responsibility of professors is to encourage students to think critically. However, he went beyond that by motivating us to explore the backgrounds of the authors whose readings we were required to study. This helped us understand how their personal experiences influenced their writing. I have since applied this approach to all my classes and even in my personal life, resulting in a significant impact on my way of thinking.

What will you miss most about Saint Mary’s? I am going to miss every one of my friends dearly. From the moments of pure joy and laughter that we shared to the deep conversations we had, I’m grateful for the time we spent together. I will always cherish those memories.

How has your experience at Saint Mary’s helped shape your future goals? Through interacting with a diverse range of people from different walks of life, I have learned how to communicate effectively, collaborate with others, and appreciate different perspectives. SMU's curriculum is designed to instil a strong work ethic. The rigorous coursework and deadlines taught me to manage my time wisely and work efficiently under pressure. These skills have been very useful in my career, where I am required to handle multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines. Next, I would like to obtain my master’s degree.

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Winter Convocation takes place on January 26 and 27, 2024. Watch the ceremonies live at smu.ca/graduation or on our Facebook page.

Re-cap: Fall Convocation 2023

The university community celebrated more than 300 graduates at Fall Convocation on September 22 and 23. Among the graduates were several award winners and an inspiring speech by the honorary degree recipient, Dr. Kim Thúy.

Thúy shared stories of her family’s arrival to Canada, and the kindness that has helped shape her success, to an auditorium of Arts and Science graduates on Saturday afternoon where she was awarded a Doctor of Letters, honoris causa. The Vietnamese author has made a significant impact on Canadian literature, earning the Governor General’s Literary Award in 2010 for her novel about her experience as a refugee.

Read more about Kim Thúy

Representing fall graduates were Valedictorians Myles Davidson, Ammar Shakoor and Stephanie Kansiime.

“Let us always continue to do the things we love, and fight for the things we believe in. Let us give back to our community by sowing seeds of kindess and compassion,” said Shakoor as he addressed an eager group of Bachelor of Commerce graduates. Each valedictorian received the John BA’81 DCL’17 and Heather Fitzpatrick Valedictorian Award.

Other award winners included Richard Abbass and Christopher Fanning, who received Master of Finance Gold Medals, and Stephen Gill, who received the Pobihuschy Medal for the Master of Management - Co-operatives and Credit Unions, a program which celebrated its’ 20th anniversary over the weekend. PhD graduates Abdlmutaleb Boshanna and Kerry Ann Watson were recognized with the Durland Family Doctoral Convocation Award.

Two faculty members, Dr. Bruce Anderson and Dr. Cathy Driscoll, were granted the status of Professor Emeritus at convocation.

Dr. Bruce Anderson began teaching at Saint Mary’s in 2001, during which time he taught political science courses and then business law to over 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students in the Sobey School of Business. He served as Chair of the Department of Accounting, the Bachelor of Commerce Program Coordinator and a member of Saint Mary’s Faculty Union’s Grievance Committee. He received the SMUSA Teaching Excellence Award in 2007. Bruce’s research is interdisciplinary and includes work in legal theory/legal philosophy, economics, ethics and visual art. He is one of the leaders in investigating legal reasoning. His scholarship includes three books, forty book chapters and scholarly articles, review articles, magazine articles, book reviews for publishers, conference and seminar presentations and sculpture installations.

Dr. Cathy Driscoll developed and taught the first business ethics courses in the BComm and MBA programs and has integrated community-based service learning into her MBA courses since 1994. Beginning in 1996, she initiated, developed, and managed the MBA Internal Case Competition, which later became the annual Bob Shaw Case Competition. In 2017, she received the Atlantic Schools of Business Award of Excellence for Outstanding Service to Business Scholarship. Cathy has an international reputation as a scholar who has bridged business studies with religion and spirituality. Her recent work has focused on institutional moral disengagement in the context of clergy sex abuse. Cathy has also been an active contributor to many university, school, and departmental committees over the past 30 years and has been committed to outreach in the business community through board memberships, speaking engagements, and training seminars.

Recordings of the convocation ceremonies are available to watch at smu.ca/graduation. See the full photo album on the SMU Halifax Facebook page.

Fall Valedictorian: Stephanie Kansiime, Bachelor of Science

Stephanie Kansiime, Valedictorian for the Faculty of Science

Quoting my mother’s wisdom, “Everything you do, do it well. Your work is the only thing that speaks of and for you when you're not in the room.”

These words have guided my journey from my birthplace in Uganda to my pursuit of a brighter future in Canada, which eventually led me to Saint Mary's University.

My lifelong aspiration, both personally and professionally, is to make a positive impact on people’s lives. To pursue this goal, I actively engaged with the international community throughout my academic career. These interactions have transformed me into a more open-minded and versatile individual, preparing me for a future where I intend to work on a global scale. The invaluable skills I have acquired, such as leadership and effective communication, have been nurtured here at Saint Mary’s, which I consider a cultural melting pot.

My defining traits include an insatiable curiosity and a deep commitment to serving my community. These qualities guided me toward a career in biology, with a specific focus on immunology research. Since high school, I have volunteered at hospitals in my home country and secured an internship studying biopolymers. Armed with the knowledge and skills gathered throughout my degree and work experiences, I am poised to innovate and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop efficient solutions, benefiting both my Canadian and Ugandan communities, with a long-term vision of global impact.

I owe my success not only to my dedication but also to the unwavering support of those around me. My mother’s sacrifices, my father’s steadfastness during challenging times, and the constant encouragement from my siblings Kristen and Andrew have been my pillars of strength. Additionally, the support of my parents’ friends and extended family has played a crucial role in my journey. Last, but not least, the faculty and friends I’ve encountered during my time at Saint Mary’s have been instrumental in my growth and success. To all of them, I express my deepest gratitude.

In the wise words of my mother, “It is not always the smartest people who achieve success, but the people who are organized and willing to put in the effort.” These words continue to motivate and inspire me on my path to greatness.

Q&A with Stephanie

Hometown: I grew up in Kampala Uganda, but my native village is in Hoima, Uganda.

Degree: Bachelor of Science majoring in Biology

Favourite class: Cell Biology. It still fascinates me today that cells as multiple single units work together in massive numbers to make me a functional human today typing this out and for you to read and comprehend it. The human body is remarkable!

Why did you choose Saint Mary’s?: Saint Mary’s offered me cultural diversity. So much as I was coming to Canada, I would experience a host of different cultures and nationalities while I pursued my education. I was also interested in the professor-student ratio, the professors would easily be accessible for help.

What are your future plans?: I intend to pursue a Masters in Immunology or Biomedical Engineering. Following that, I will pursue research in academia, focusing on immunology because of my interest in communicable diseases that still plague my home country. 

Favourite spot at Saint Mary’s: My first room at the Rice residence! I was a little timid when I first arrived in Halifax, but my room on the 17th floor gave me a great view of campus ongoings and games and I loved people-watching!

Advice for new students that you wish you knew when you started university: When choosing electives, be explorative. My second favorite class is Astronomy, which I have always been passionate about but did not necessarily want to pursue as a degree. There is a whole host of very interesting classes far from your main focus. Make room to have fun with your degree 🙂. Always ask for help—even when you think you know, there might be a different perspective that will enhance your work.

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Fall Convocation takes place on September 22 and 23, 2023. Watch the ceremonies live at smu.ca/graduation or on our Facebook page.

Fall Valedictorian: Myles Davidson, Master of Applied Psychology

Myles Davidson BA’21, Valedictorian for the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research

Myles is an emerging research professional who was raised in St. Peter’s on the island of Cape Breton. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Criminology (Honours) and Psychology from Saint Mary’s University in 2021. Having a strong passion for both research and academia, Myles chose to stay at Saint Mary’s and enroll in the Master of Applied Psychology program. In his seven years at Saint Mary’s, Myles has been involved in various research projects centered on the prevention of sexual abuse, child sexual abuse and substance abuse.

With ten publications to his credit, Myles’ research contributions have led to real-world changes, most notably as a member of the research team that informed the current vaping legislation in Nova Scotia.

Myles has participated in several academic conferences to date, with his presentation at the 2023 Canadian Psychological Association conference winning second place amongst all graduate presentations. In addition to his research, Myles has been a teaching assistant at Saint Mary’s for the last five years specializing in research methods and statistics. For this work, he was recognized with an excellence in teaching award from the Council of Canadian Departments of Psychology in 2022. During his master’s degree, Myles received research funding from several notable organizations including Research Nova Scotia and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.

Aside from his education, Myles is an accomplished professional musician. To date, he has released two studio albums and has performed extensively throughout the Maritimes. Some of the highlights of his career include performing at the Celtic Colours International Festival and the East Coast Music Awards, as well as having one of his songs featured in a museum in Barra, Scotland. Despite the demands of school, Myles has ensured that music continues to be a central focus in his life. In the future, Myles intends to pursue a doctorate in forensic psychology and carve out his own path in academia by conducting impactful research.

Q&A with Myles

Hometown: St. Peter’s, N.S.

Thesis title: Consent in vanilla and BDSM sexual encounters: conceptualization, violations, and repercussions

Thesis description: This thesis sought to understand how consent is negotiated in BDSM encounters, whether practicing in an organized BDSM community is protective against consent violations, and whether having an interest in sexual sadism is a reliable predictor of consent violation perpetration.

Why did this type of research appeal to you? A lot of my undergraduate and graduate work was in sexual abuse prevention, specifically, the role that sexual sadism plays in sexual abuse perpetration. I believe it is critical to understand what causes sexual abuse and what researchers can do to prevent it. Additionally, since there has been very little research conducted on BDSM, I was motivated to contribute in this area.

Why did you choose Saint Mary’s for your graduate studies? I completed my undergraduate degree at SMU and loved every minute of it. The community at SMU is supportive, collaborative and welcoming no matter who you are and what your interests are. When I chose to pursue a master's degree in forensic psychology, I knew there was no better place for me.

Any other successes you’d like to share, or difficulties you were able to overcome? In terms of successes, SMU not only allowed me to conduct research that led to publications, but it also allowed me to work on projects that had a positive impact on the lives of others. In terms of difficulties, I spent the end of my undergraduate degree and the start of my graduate degree in the height of the pandemic. I commend SMU for how they went above and beyond to ensure that no student was left behind.

Future plans? I plan to pursue my PhD in forensic psychology, followed by a career in academia.

Any advice for new students?

• Build strong connections with your professors. A seemingly inconsequential conversation can lead to the opportunity of a lifetime.

• Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.

• Most importantly, have fun with your degree. If you do what you love, you'll love what you do.

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Fall Convocation takes place on September 22 and 23, 2023. Watch the ceremonies live at smu.ca/graduation or on our Facebook page.

Kim Thúy, renowned author, to receive Honorary Doctorate

Saint Mary’s University will bestow an honorary doctorate on award-winning author Kim Thúy at the 2023 Fall Convocation.

Kim Thúy

Kim Thúy’s story began when, at age ten, she fled post-war Vietnam with her parents and siblings. In 1978, the Thúy family joined the mass migration of more than a million Vietnamese known as Thuyền nhân Việt Nam, the “boat people”, who took to the sea in makeshift boats. After living in a refugee camp in Malaysia, Thúy and her family settled in Granby, Québec. 

Thúy held several careers over the years as a seamstress, interpreter, lawyer and restaurant owner before she decided to write about the refugee experience. Her debut novel, Ru, first published in French in 2009, tells the story of her family’s long journey from Vietnam to Québec and the discovery of their new home in Canada. Ru — which translates as "lullaby" in Vietnamese — won the 2010 Governor General’s Literary Award and was shortlisted for the New Academy Prize in Literature. Thúy’s published oeuvre includes her 2017 collection of cross-stories of exile titled À toi, with French-Slovakian-Swiss author Pascal Janovjak.

Thúy’s novel mãn in 2013 explored the power of cuisine and connection to family and identity. It was in 2016 that Vi was published, navigating the migratory experience from Thúy’s mother’s experience. Beyond her creative work, Thúy assumed the role of the Québec representative for Le Petit Robert and was a contributor to the book L’Autisme expliqué aux non-autistes. In October 2017, Thúy wrote Le secret des Vietnamiennes, a cookbook containing recipes from Vietnam. 

Thúy’s books have been distributed across 43 countries and territories and have been enjoyed in 31 languages. Thúy lives in Montréal where she devotes her time to writing. She holds a degree in linguistics and translation and a degree in law from the Université de Montréal. In 2015, she was a recipient of the Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards. Among the many honours she has received, Thúy was knighted Chevalière de l’Ordre national du Québec by the Government of Québec in 2015, and knighted Chevalière de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French Republic in 2023.

“Saint Mary’s University is honoured to recognize Kim Thúy,” says President Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray. “Her writing illuminates the immigrant experience and Canada is enriched by her contributions to literature and to society.”

Thúy will receive an Honorary Doctor of Letters at Fall Convocation on September 23, 2023. The convocation ceremonies will be live-streamed at www.smu.ca/graduation and on the SMU Halifax Facebook page.

Building confidence in chemistry: Dr. Mary Sheppard’s research supports how students learn in her lab

Dr. Mary Sheppard wins the Father William A. Stewart Medal for Excellence in Teaching. Her PhD research focused on how students learn chemistry.

L-R: Alumni Association member Fiona King BComm’93, SMU President Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, and Dr. Mary Sheppard at Spring Convocation.

First-year chemistry classes introduce students to an exciting field of science—with new terminology and research methods, and the opportunity to study in a university laboratory setting for the first time.

Arriving at Saint Mary’s from Halifax or homes around the world, students’ first university classes can be an exciting, eye-opening experience—and a big adjustment.

Luckily, these new students at Saint Mary’s have an award-winning professor who understands the challenges they face. As a first-generation university graduate from Taylor’s Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador, Dr. Mary Sheppard still remembers leaving her small community for Memorial University.

“Leaving my family behind and going to the ‘big city’ of St. John’s was huge for me, and I understand what our rural students, and those from close-knit communities, are missing,” said Dr. Sheppard.

Finding the right path in her academic career meant being flexible and open to new paths.

“At first I wanted to be a pharmacist,” explained Dr. Sheppard. “When I was growing up in rural Newfoundland there was no access to career counseling. If you got good grades you were told you should be a pharmacist, nurse or doctor…I didn’t want to be a nurse or doctor—too much blood.”

It was her first-year chemistry professor who suggested that pharmacy might not be the best fit for her, and offered a chance to do a summer project that led to more than two decades studying and teaching chemistry.

“Growing up, I didn’t even know that a career in chemistry was a possibility,” said Dr. Sheppard. “I tell my students to keep an open mind. You don’t have to stick with what you first thought you wanted to be—I wouldn’t have been happy as a pharmacist.” 

Along with teaching first-year classes as a senior lecturer, for the past five years, Dr. Sheppard was also a student, pursuing a PhD at the University of New Hampshire.

Dr. Mary Sheppard

Dr. Sheppard’s PhD research has made her uniquely qualified for her role teaching at the university level. Her interest in how students learn led her to pursue the topic of chemistry education research for her doctoral degree. She explains that during the first few weeks of classes, she intentionally slows the pace to let students adjust to the environment.

“For some students, the lab can be very daunting because they didn't have a lab in high school—coming from a big city high school is not the same as any rural area in the world,” she says. “As part of our student success program, their first experience in that room isn’t an experiment—they go into the space as part of a scavenger hunt around campus…it helps them get oriented first.”

Once the term is underway, students will look forward to performing guided inquiry experiments along with a more traditional curriculum of procedural experiments. Guided inquiry prepares students for real-world work by challenging them to design an experiment to tackle a problem, tweaking it in the lab and submitting their group’s finalized experiment.

“Learning how to approach a problem teaches creative thinking— if the procedures don’t all work out perfectly, they learn more from that,” she says.

In her PhD research, Dr. Sheppard looked at how students learn about pH buffers, a chemistry topic that many find difficult to grasp. “I was trying to figure out why is this so tough for students—what are the roadblocks,” she explained. First, she interviewed students at the University of New Hampshire using a “think out loud” approach, recording them as they worked through problems. A qualitative analysis followed, allowing her to design teaching strategies that matched students’ successes and challenges.

“It was interesting to see that while the American students might have different backgrounds, they have the same or similar challenges that our students have.”

Her last goal for her PhD was to design a teaching strategy that addresses those challenges, setting students up for success. After many years of teaching, the instinct to help students is strong.

“You have to separate yourself from the student, you can’t help them because you want to see what they’re thinking and what the issues are,” she explained. “I think I ground the enamel off my teeth because I kept wanting to jump in and help.”

This research is beneficial to students in the classroom and lab and may lead to changes in how the topic is introduced in textbooks.

“Textbooks come from an expert point of view, but if you’re not an expert yet, that approach can be frustrating,” she explained. “One of the tenets of teaching pedagogy is that it’s not about knowing the topic, it’s about knowing how to teach it.”

Dr. Sheppard explained that like most PhD topics, hers was very narrow in focus. But she says it also exposed her to literature and people at conferences who are talking about different ways to teach.

“Understanding better how students learn at a higher level, it’s easier to transfer that knowledge to other areas of chemistry,” explained Dr. Sheppard.

Dr. Sheppard’s history of successful teaching and her drive to continuously build on that success have been recognized. This spring she won the Father William A. Stewart. S.J. Medal for Excellence in Teaching, the top teaching award at Saint Mary’s. The award is determined by nominations from alumni, students and colleagues and is awarded to a professor who has made significant contributions to the education of Saint Mary's students through excellence in teaching and service.

Father Stewart was known for his strong beliefs in promoting accessible education to marginalized communities and was also very much involved in promoting teaching innovation and excellence on campus. The award honours this legacy.

After receiving the award at the May convocation ceremony, Dr. Sheppard travelled to the U.S. where she received her PhD at the University of New Hampshire.

Congratulations Dr. Sheppard!