Student Support, SMU Community
Emily LeBlanc
Saint Mary’s supports the 16 Days of Activism ...
Athletics and Recreation, Campus Notes, Community, Indigenous Community, Student Success, Student Support, SMU Community
Rachelle Boudreau
SMU Huskies continue campus tradition with ...
Unique Education, Sobey School of Business, Campus Notes
Rachelle Boudreau
Data with heart: A new pathway for healthcare ...
Sobey School of Business, SMU Community, Sustainability, Media Release, David Sobey Retailing Centre
Emily LeBlanc
IKEA Canada CEO to headline Responsible ...
Faculty of Arts, Research, Convocation, SMU Community
Emily LeBlanc
President’s Award for Excellence in Research: ...
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Global co-operative partnership at the Sobey School of Business

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Representatives from Saint Mary’s University and the National Confederation of Cooperatives of the Philippines

NATCCO Philippine delegation arrives in Halifax for a week of collaboration, learning and a newly signed partnership with Saint Mary’s

Saint Mary’s University deepened its global ties this November, celebrating a new international partnership that connects co‑operative leaders from Canada and the Philippines.

On November 3, Saint Mary’s President Dr. Michael Khan, Sobey School of Business Dean Dr. Michel Delorme, and Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research Dean Dr. Adam Sarty joined the International Centre for Co‑operative Management (ICCM) for a special event marking the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the National Confederation of Cooperatives (NATCCO) of the Philippines.

With 2025 designated as the United Nations’ International Year of Cooperatives, the timing underscores a shared commitment to strengthening the co-operative movement worldwide.

According to the International Cooperative Alliance, cooperatives are people-centered enterprises owned, controlled and run by and for their members to realize their common economic, social and cultural needs and aspirations.

This ethos aligns closely with the UN theme for the year: Co‑operatives Build a Better World.

NATCCO, the Philippines’ national organization representing co‑operatives and credit unions, sent a delegation of 28 senior business leaders to Saint Mary’s for the first week of November. Hosted by the ICCM, the group explored the Canadian credit union system, engaged with the Centre’s specialized research on governance, strategy, and market differentiation, and visited co‑operative partners across Nova Scotia.

For the ICCM, the partnership reinforces a long-standing commitment to global co‑operative education and collaboration.

“It is always a pleasure to connect with our international network,” said Karen Miner, Managing Director of the International Centre for Co‑operative Management. “We have been offering education to co-operatives across the globe since 2003, and each new partnership is strengthening our collective knowledge and network. The NATCCO group was a very engaged group and we look forward to more collaborations.”

Saint Mary’s International Centre for Co‑operative Management (ICCM) and the National Confederation of Cooperatives (NATCCO) of the Philippines celebrated a new MOU in November 2025

The newly signed MOU promises to open doors to continued learning, shared research and joint initiatives that will support the advancement of cooperative systems in both countries. As the world approaches the International Year of Cooperatives, the partnership between Saint Mary’s University and NATCCO stands as an example of how global collaboration can help co‑operatives thrive.

More information about the International Centre for Co‑operative Management is available at www.smu.ca/iccm.

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Saint Mary’s supports the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

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#16Days: November 25-December 10, 2025

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence is an annual international campaign to call out and speak up against gender-based violence (GBV), and to commit to ending violence against women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ communities. Learn more about the 16 Days campaign, stats on GBV in Canada and how to help.

Saint Mary’s is hosting a number of events to learn, reflect and gather together with our community. See the list of events below, including a donation drive for personal care items.

Events

Perspectives on Gender-Based Violence: A Learning Display

November 25 - December 10 | Patrick Power Library

Stop by the Patrick Power Library to explore the Perspectives on Gender-Based Violence Learning Display. This collection highlights books and resources that deepen understanding of gender-based violence, its roots, and its impact.

Explore theory, perspectives, and lived experiences as we learn and reflect on the 16 Days of Activism to help build a more informed and compassionate campus community.

Study & Snacks

Tuesday, November 25
11 a.m.-2 p.m. | 5th floor Student Centre Lounge

Join the Sexual Violence Prevention Initiative (SVPI) team and SMUSA Women's Centre for a designated study session with coffee and cookies!

Bake Sale with Shelter Movers

Wednesday, November 26
9-11 a.m. | Loyola Colonnade

Stop by the Loyola Colonnade to purchase homemade baked treats from the SVPI team in support of Shelter Movers! Shelter Movers is a national, volunteer-powered, charitable organization that provides free moving and storage services to survivors of intimate partner violence and gender based abuse.

Re-Write the Script: Rethinking Masculinity - A Community Panel

Monday, December 1
4:30-6:30 p.m. | Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre

Please join the Sexual Violence Support Centre, the Counselling Centre, and the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre for a panel discussion and community conversation in commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Rewrite the Script: Rethinking Masculinity will explore the intersections of masculinity, mental health, and men’s critical role in preventing sexual and gender-based violence.

We will be joined by community advocates, academics, experts, and entrepreneurs and together we’ll unpack harmful norms, challenge online narratives, and imagine healthier, more connected versions of masculinity that foster safety, accountability, and care—on campus and beyond. All are welcome to be part of this important conversation.

PAWS for Wellness

Tuesday, December 2
1-3 p.m. | Patrick Power Library Classroom

PAWS for Wellness is part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Please join the Athletics Ambassadors and Flower the Therapy Dog for an afternoon of reflection, care and connection.

Enjoy crafts that inspire mindfulness and healing, and sip on hot drinks as you unwind! Caring for ourselves and one another is an essential part of creating safer, more compassionate communities.

Ribbons of Remembrance: Tied Together with Hope

Friday, December 5
11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Outdoor Quad

Join members of the Saint Mary's community in the Quad to commemorate the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in advance of the National Day of Remembrance and Action Memorial on Monday, December 8, 2025.

We will be gathering outside the library to commemorate the lives of the fourteen women who were killed in the mass shooting at École Polytechnique on December 6, 1989, and all victims and survivors of Gender-Based Violence. Warm beverages will be served.

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women Ceremony

Monday, December 8
10:30 a.m.-noon | CLARI (Atrium 340)

Please join us to commemorate the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, the lives of the 14 women who were murdered at École Polytechnique Montréal on December 6, 1989, and others who have experienced gender-based violence.

Refreshments will be served.

Personal Care Drive

November 25 – December 10

Help women and children impacted by gender-based violence by donating much-needed personal care products. Donations will be sent to a local women’s shelter and shared with the Saint Mary’s Women Centre and the Sexual Violence Support Centre.

Drop off items in purple boxes around campus until December 10.

    • baby shampoo, baby soap, teething rings

    • deodorant/antiperspirant

    • facial wash

    • hairbrushes, hair elastics

    • hand cream, chap stick

    • journals

    • large bottles of shampoo, conditioner, body wash

    • manicure kits

    • menstrual products

    • puzzles, children’s books

    • toothbrushes, toothpaste

    • Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre

    • Faculty of Arts - Dean’s Office (MM218)

    • Faculty of Science - Dean’s Office (S221)     

    • Homburg Centre for Health & Wellness    

    • Human Resources (MS111)

    • Patrick Power Library

    • SAAS Reception (3rd Floor Student Centre)    

    • Sobey School of Business - Dean’s Office (SB212)

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From experience to employable: new Experiential Badges recognize student achievements

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Tom Brophy, Associate Vice President, Student Affairs and Services; Lyra Telles; Emily Fisher; Christy Starkey, Co-Curricular & Career360° Lead

Saint Mary’s University’s Career & Experiential Learning (CEL) team recently launched the Experiential Badge Program, a new initiative that helps students showcase their learning and leadership experiences gained outside the classroom.

These digital badges recognize students for the meaningful skills and competencies gained through campus involvement, community engagement, co-op placements, micro-experiential learning, and more. The badges appear directly on a student’s Experience Record and can easily be shared on LinkedIn or with future employers, helping to demonstrate their professional growth and employability.

“The Experiential Badges are a bridge between what students learn through applied experiences and what employers are looking for,” says Christy Starkey, Co-Curricular & Career360° Lead. “They help make the transferable skills gained at Saint Mary’s visible and credible, giving students a competitive edge on the path towards their career goals.”

What are Experiential Badges?

The Experiential Badge Program enables students to earn recognition in five distinct experience categories, each with four different levels of achievement.

  • Community Leader: Demonstrate exceptional leadership and personal growth while contributing to the Saint Mary’s campus or broader community.

  • Career Explorer: Learn to identify, articulate and communicate the professional skills and experiences developed throughout their degree in résumés, cover letters and interviews.

  • Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility (EDIA) Champion: Engage in practices that promote inclusion, challenge inequity and advocate for social justice.

  • Sport Leader: Build teamwork, organization and communication skills through sport and community engagement (open to all students, not just varsity athletes).

  • Entrepreneurship: Explore how to create, evaluate and pitch innovative business ideas through experiential learning opportunities.

To start earning a badge, students can log into Career360° and track their experiences through the Experience Record, which includes Co-Curricular Recognition, Community Service Learning, Co-op, Micro Experiential Learning, and the Student Employment Initiative program.

“Keeping my record updated has been incredibly helpful when requesting reference letters,” explains Melissa Maria Alvarez, Experiential Badge recipient. “It provides supervisors with a clear, detailed overview of my roles and responsibilities, making it easier for them to write a letter on my behalf.”

Meet the First Badge Recipients

The CEL team recently awarded the first Platinum Experiential Badges to Lyra Telles and Emily Fisher at a recognition lunch with Tom Brophy, Associate Vice President, Student Affairs and Services. These inaugural recipients – along with another early badge earner, Melissa Maria Alvarez Del Angel – are setting an inspiring example for how students can use the Experiential Badge Program to reflect on their learning and tell their stories in meaningful ways.

Melissa Maria Alvarez Del Angel
Badge: Bronze Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, & Accessibility (EDIA)

A fourth-year Psychology Honours student from Mexico, Melissa is passionate about mental health, belonging, and community care. Through her research on post-traumatic growth among newcomers and her leadership as a Senior Residence Assistant, she’s committed to supporting others through advocacy and research.

Her advice for building experiences: “Start small, follow your curiosity, and say yes to opportunities that feel meaningful, even if they scare you a little. Every role teaches you something new about yourself.”

Lyra Telles
Badge: Platinum Community Leader

A fourth-year Environmental Science student, Lyra’s roles as a Residence Assistant, Pack Leader, and Peer Success Coach have helped him build essential leadership and teamwork skills. He is also involved in other societies such as Saint Mary’s University Astrophysics and Ancient Studies Society.

“The CCR is such a valuable tool,” Lyra says. “It lets you record everything you’ve done in one place – your hours, skills, and references – so you’re ready for whatever comes next!”

Emily Fisher
Badge: Platinum Community Leader

A fourth-year Honours Astrophysics student, Emily has held roles such as President of the SMU Astronomy and Physics Society, Contributor for the SMU Journal, Residence Assistant, and Executive with the Ancient Studies Society. She has found confidence and connection through involvement.

“Log into Career360 and take a look at the CCR,” she says. “It only takes a few minutes, and you can create a permanent record of everything you’ve done at SMU. You might even discover new opportunities along the way.

Congratulations to all the inaugural badge recipients for leading the way and inspiring others to take their university journey beyond the classroom!

To learn more or begin earning your own Experiential Badge, visit the Experiential Badges page on Career & Experiential Learning online.

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Building Her Future: Women Shaping the Landscape of Tomorrow

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When alumni return to Saint Mary’s University, they bring more than experience—they bring stories of growth, leadership and impact. That spirit was at the heart of the 7th Annual Women in Business Conference, held on October 2, 2025. More than 230 attendees, an all-time record, gathered to celebrate women shaping the future of construction and real estate. 

This year’s event, titled "Building Her Future: Shaping the Landscape of Tomorrow," highlighted women who are driving change in fields that have traditionally been led by men. Alumni, faculty, students, and professionals gathered for a day of conversation, inspiration and connection, all centered on opportunity, equity and what it really means to build your own future. 

Leading with empathy and conviction 

Victoria Stanhope BA’07 MBA’13 presented the keynote speech

One of the returning alumni was Victoria Stanhope BA’07 MBA’13, CEO of Stanhope Simpson Insurance Ltd. She gave a powerful keynote speech that set the tone for the day. As a nationally recognized leader in construction and insurance, Stanhope discussed leveraging the strengths of being a woman in a male-dominated, competitive business environment. 

“The table is set for you to succeed,” she said. “The inherent traits that make us women are the same traits that make us exceptionally powerful, successful business leaders.” 

Stanhope emphasized that empathy and conviction are essential leadership qualities that help women build trust, attract strong teams and create lasting client relationships. 

“Genuine empathy helps attract new team members and clients, while conviction keeps you true to your values and your goals.” 

Her message encouraged attendees to “leave your mark… and inspire other women to do so, too.” 

Constructing change: women leading in construction and real estate 

The event continued with a lively panel discussion titled "Constructing Change: Women Leading in Construction and Real Estate." Dr. Arla Day, Professor of Occupational Health Psychology at Saint Mary’s, served as the moderator. 

The panel included four accomplished women leaders: alumni Jacqueline Hamilton BSc’89, Executive Director of Planning and Development at HRM; Nabila Sufyani BComm’10 PMP, Project Manager at Shoreham Development Ltd.; Siba Saoud, a top agent with RE/MAX Nova; and Eva Parade, MSc Eng, P.Eng., National Senior Director for Preconstruction at Crombie REIT. 

Constructing Change: Women Leading in Construction and Real Estate panel

They shared personal stories about perseverance, mentorship and leadership. From breaking barriers in male-dominated workplaces to supporting other women, their insights showed how far the industry has come and how much opportunity remains. 

Hamilton and Sufyani discussed the importance of mentorship. They noted that when mentors are hard to find, women can step up and become mentors themselves. “Sometimes you need to be your own cheerleader,” one panellist shared, “but when you rise, bring others with you.” 

The panel also discussed the unique strengths women bring to real estate and construction, such as empathy, patience and a strong understanding of people. “Buying a home isn’t just purchasing an asset—it’s building a life,” said one speaker. “That perspective builds trust and lasting relationships.” 

Research, insight and inspiration 

The day started with a presentation by Dr. Bahareh Mansouri, Associate Professor of Management Science at the Sobey School of Business. Using her research on supply chain ethics, analytics, and sustainability, Dr. Mansouri provided a data-driven look at gender equity in construction and real estate, laying the academic foundation for the rest of the day’s discussions. 

Throughout the conference, one message stood out: women are not just taking part in these industries—they are leading them. From insurance to infrastructure, entrepreneurship to urban planning, they are changing what leadership looks like. 

Sobey School of Business News
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SMU Huskies continue campus tradition with upcoming Red Tape hockey games

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SMU Huskies players put red tape on their hockey sticks as a visual statement against racism in sport.

Saint Mary’s University has a deep connection with the Red Tape movement.  

The movement began in 2019, when former SMU student Logan Prosper—of We'koqma'q First Nation—was on the receiving end of racial abuse during a minor hockey game in Cape Breton (Unama’ki). Logan, and his father Phillip Prosper, started what is now an internationally recognized statement against racism, wherein hockey players wrap their sticks with red tape as a sign of solidarity with athletes in all levels of hockey.  

The movement picked up quickly, as athletes across Canada spoke out about their experiences with racism in the sport, noting the generational impact of the issue and the effect it continues to have—especially on Indigenous youth.  

SMU Huskies were early adopters of the movement, launching their first Red Tape game in January 2020 in support of the Prospers’ vision. Five years later, Saint Mary’s continues to host Red Tape games in solidarity with athletes across Canada and the world, and this year is no different.  

Former SMU Husky Erin Denny BSc’25 hits the ice at one of last year’s Red Tape games.

This year, Ryan Francis (Saint Mary’s first Indigenous Visiting Fellow) is once again working together with Athletics & Recreation and the Scott McCain & Leslie McLean Centre for Sport, Business and Health to organize the Red Tape events on Saturday, November 22.  

Francis grew up in Cole Harbour—an area known for its hockey history—and is from Wasoqopa'q First Nation. He’s had his own experiences with racism during his time in hockey, and he has done exemplary work to address systemic barriers in the sport, including launching the Indigenous Girls Hockey Program, a program that sees him working closely with former SMU Husky Erin Denny BSc’25. 

Francis also founded the Genevieve Francis Memorial Fund, an organization that “[provides financial support] to communities, and charities in Atlantic Canada who lead initiatives that create opportunities for Indigenous women and girls to experience sport, recreation, and physical activity in a meaningful way.” 

This Saturday, November 22, Saint Mary’s will host two games – one with the women’s hockey team and one with the men’s hockey team – to raise awareness of the movement. The Scott McCain & Leslie McLean Centre for Sport, Business and Health will also be hosting a draw for six copies of Beyond the Rink to encourage attendees to examine the “complicated role of sports in residential school histories.”  

“What makes this matter is the ongoing commitment and recognition of this cause,” says Francis. “Showing up every year and saying that this matters and that this is a priority for the athletic community is a key part of how the university creates [more inclusive space for Indigenous athletes.]”  

To support the movement by attending our Red Tape Games, see the Huskies website here: Saint Mary's Huskies - Universe  

For more about the Genevieve Francis Memorial Fund, see the website at Home | GFMF.  

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Data with heart: A new pathway for healthcare innovators

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When healthcare and data meet, the possibilities extend far beyond numbers—they shape the future of how we care for one another. That belief sits at the core of the Graduate Diploma in Health Data Analytics (GDHDA), Saint Mary’s newest graduate offering through the Sobey School of Business, designed for professionals ready to use data as a force for better health outcomes. 

Launching this winter, the GDHDA is a 12-month, weekend-format graduate diploma created for working professionals who want to remain in their roles while developing advanced analytical and leadership skills. The program responds to a growing need in healthcare: leaders who understand both people and data. 

“Healthcare is undergoing a profound transformation,” says Dr. Michael Khan, President and Vice-Chancellor of Saint Mary’s University. “This program reflects our commitment to collaboration and innovation, connecting academia, the healthcare sector and our broader community to address real-world challenges that matter to Canadians.” 

Developed in partnership with Nova Scotia Health, the GDHDA bridges the expertise of data scientists, healthcare administrators and policy leaders. Students learn to connect analytics to real-world decision-making through courses in data governance, predictive modeling and visualization, all grounded in the ethics of responsible innovation. 

Dr. Shannon Dea, Provost and Vice-President Academic and Research, highlights how the diploma aligns with Saint Mary’s University’s broader academic strategy. “Programs like the GDHDA showcase how interdisciplinary education can have direct social and economic impact,” she says. “It gives professionals the tools to translate complex data into knowledge that improves patient care and system performance.” 

For Dr. Michel Delorme, Dean of the Sobey School of Business, the diploma captures Sobey’s mission in action. “The GDHDA represents what the Sobey School stands for: education that connects business, technology and community impact,” he notes. “It builds capacity in a sector that touches every Canadian and shows how data-driven leadership can improve lives.” 

One of the program’s most distinctive features is its pathway to the Master of Business Analytics (MBAN). Students earn graduate credits transferable toward the MBAN, allowing them to continue their studies and deepen their technical and strategic expertise. 

For Sobey MBAN alumnus Ryan Campbell, that pathway represents real opportunity. “The MBAN completely changed how I think about data, not just as numbers, but as a language for solving problems,” he says. “For healthcare professionals, the GDHDA offers that same transformation, but through the lens of health and human impact.” 

As the first cohort prepares to begin in January 2026, the GDHDA underscores Saint Mary’s ongoing commitment to driving innovation that serves people and communities. “It’s an investment in leadership that advances both healthcare and society,” says Dr. Khan. 

Saint Mary’s invites its alumni, partners and community to help amplify this milestone by sharing the opportunity and championing the program within their networks. 

Learn more or apply at smu.ca/gdhda.  

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Fall Convocation celebrates inspiring grads, new President

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Graduates from the Fall Class of 2025 crossed the stage on November 13 and 14 to the tremendous applause from family and supporters, celebrating the dedication and effort put in during their studies at Saint Mary’s.

Among the hundreds of undergraduate and master’s students were five PhD graduates who joined the university’s highest rank of academic achievement, along with the first two graduates from the Sobey School of Business Executive Doctorate in Business Administration (EDBA) program.

See a full list of graduates and award winners in the convocation program.

Alan Abraham Jr., Chair of the Board of Governors and Chancellor Dr. Michael Durland assist Dr. Michael Khan in donning his ceremonial robes during the Presidential installation ceremony

Welcoming our new President

Dr. Michael Khan was installed as Saint Mary’s University’s 35th President and Vice-Chancellor in a special ceremony during convocation. Having joined Saint Mary’s in July, this was his first convocation ceremony as President.

Dr. Khan was joined on stage by colleagues from universities across Canada and received messages of support from around the world on an online message board.

In his speech, he said, “At Saint Mary’s, we are about providing opportunity. Opportunity to those who have ambitions and want to pursue their dreams, but also opportunity to those who may not realize what they’re capable of, or those who may have barriers to overcome, those whom others may have doubted. Our purpose is to enable you to pursue your passion, your talent, your purpose - not that of which someone else wishes for you.”

Watch the video here: Presidential Installation.

Inspiring valedictorians

KJ Conyers-Steede addresses convocation

Lipika Kharbanda joined by Alumni Association President Bafana Mashingaidze, Dr. Khan and Dr. Durland

Two valedictorians shared insightful remarks and reflections on their time at Saint Mary’s.

Kjeld Conyers-Steede addressed his fellow graduates from the Sobey School of Business by saying, “We are not a collection of individual achievements here today. We are a network of relationships that has pushed each other further than if we did it alone.”

Lipika Kharbanda represented undergraduate students in the Faculty of Science. Reflecting on an experience with a supportive professor, she said, “I carried with me her lesson that resilience is not built in isolation, but by the people who care enough to stand by us. And that’s exactly what Saint Mary’s does for each and every one of us.”

Watch their speeches and the full convocation ceremony recordings here: Video & Graduation Program Archive

Faculty excellence

Dr. Michael Khan and Dr. Diane Crocker

Dr. Diane Crocker was recognized with the President’s Award for Excellence in Research. The Criminology Professor is a national leader in criminology and restorative justice research.

Since joining Saint Mary’s in 2000, she has held increasingly senior academic roles, including Associate Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research (2013-2018), Chair of the Department of Criminology (2019-2024), and currently Associate Dean of Arts, Curriculum and Student Affairs.

Read more about Dr. Crocker’s important community work and research.

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IKEA Canada CEO to headline Responsible Leadership in Retail event

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Selwyn Crittendon, CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer of IKEA Canada

Sobey School of Business to host 7th Annual Responsible Leadership Day featuring keynote by Selwyn Crittendon

The Sobey School of Business at Saint Mary’s University will welcome Selwyn Crittendon, CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer of IKEA Canada, as the keynote speaker at its 7th Annual Responsible Leadership Day on Friday, November 21, 2025. Learn more and register here.

Crittendon will share insights into IKEA’s ongoing sustainability and inclusivity commitments, discussing how the company integrates responsible practices into every part of its business. During the event, he will also be presented with the David Sobey Retailing Centre Distinguished Retailer Award, which honours retail leaders whose contributions have a lasting impact on their organizations, customers, and communities.

“IKEA’s vision of creating a better everyday life for people aligns perfectly with the values of responsible leadership,” says Dr. Ramesh Venkat, Director of the David Sobey Retailing Centre. “Selwyn’s participation offers an unparalleled opportunity for our students and community to learn from a leader redefining retail’s role in sustainability.”

This year’s event theme, “Responsible Leadership in Retail,” will explore how retail leaders can drive meaningful change through sustainability, equity and innovation. Presented by the David Sobey Retailing Centre, the annual event brings together students, faculty, industry experts and policymakers to discuss how the retail sector can advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through responsible operations, tackling issues such as waste reduction, responsible consumption, packaging and inclusive workplaces.

“Responsible Leadership Day showcases how business can be a force for good,” says Dr. Michel Delorme, Dean of the Sobey School of Business. “This year’s focus on retail recognizes the sector’s powerful role in shaping consumer habits and setting global sustainability standards.”

As a PRME (Principles for Responsible Management Education) signatory since 2016 and PRME Champion since 2020, the Sobey School of Business continues to lead in aligning education, research and dialogue with the SDGs. Responsible Leadership Day embodies this commitment by creating space for collaboration, reflection, and action.

Register for Responsible Leadership Day
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President’s Award for Excellence in Research: Dr. Diane Crocker

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Diane is a white woman with shoulder-length brown hair. She wears round glasses.

Dr. Diane Crocker is a Professor in the Department of Criminology and Acting Associate Dean of Arts, Curriculum and Student Affairs

As a national leader in criminology and restorative justice research, Dr. Diane Crocker is transforming how our communities address gender-based violence. She is widely recognized for her innovation in bringing together diverse partners to design practical solutions for complex social issues. Her collaborative approach connects academia, government and community groups, centering the voices of survivors in policy and program improvements.

Research with meaningful community impact is at the heart of Dr. Crocker’s work. She is a current member of the Research Nova Scotia-funded project CIRCLES-NS (Creating Integrated Restorative Communities for Locally Engaged Solutions). She was a co-investigator with the Canadian Domestic Homicide Prevention Initiative and a member of the Policy and Research Advisory Board for the Mass Casualty Commission, the independent public inquiry created to provide recommendations to help keep communities safer in the aftermath of Nova Scotia’s mass casualty in April 2020.

With support from a team of student and community-based researchers, Dr. Crocker led an evaluation of Nova Scotia’s provincial action plan, Standing Together to Prevent Domestic Violence. She participates in the national effort iMPACTS: Collaborations to Address Sexual Violence on Campus, and works closely with Nova Scotia’s universities to develop effective sexual violence prevention and response policies. Her co-edited book, Violence Interrupted: Confronting Sexual Violence on University Campuses (MQUP, 2020), provides a collection of essays on research related to campus sexual violence in Canada. She has authored the book Crime in Canada (OUP, 2012) and many book chapters, journal articles and over 80 research and policy reports commissioned by government and community organizations.

She has received significant research funding, securing nearly 50 grants and research contracts, many in partnership with federal and provincial government departments. Dr. Crocker is a research partner with PREVNET: Canada's Healthy Relationship Hub and she holds a research fellowship at the Muriel McQueen Fergusson Centre for Family Violence Research in New Brunswick. She is a research associate with the Restorative Research, Innovation and Education Lab at the Schulich School of Law and a member of Justice Canada’s Advisory Committee for the National Restorative Justice Research Network. She has also advised the Department of National Defence and organizations as far away as Australia’s National Office for Child Safety.

Dr. Crocker is considered an essential ally in the work to eradicate gender-based violence. With Bridgewater’s Be the Peace Institute, she has helped amplify survivors’ voices through projects like Pathways to Justice and Voices of (In)Justice, promoting trauma-informed and restorative responses. Her collaboration with Circles of Support and Accountability (CoSA) has enhanced public safety by improving reintegration supports for individuals transitioning from incarceration.

As an educator and mentor, Dr. Crocker has supervised more than 25 honours and graduate students and trains early-stage researchers and community volunteers, fostering future leaders in community-engaged scholarship. In 2018, she received the President’s Award for Exemplary Service, having served on numerous committees and initiatives at Saint Mary’s, such as the Research Ethics Board and the Sexual Violence Prevention and Education Advisory Committee.

Dr. Crocker holds both a PhD and MA in Sociology from York University and a BA in Anthropology from Memorial University. Since joining Saint Mary’s in 2000, she has held increasingly senior academic roles, including Associate Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research (2013-2018), Chair of the Department of Criminology (2019-2024), and currently Associate Dean of Arts, Curriculum and Student Affairs.

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.

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Meet your Valedictorian: Lipika Kharbanda, BSc

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Lipika Kharbanda

Originally from New Delhi, India, Lipika Kharbanda is graduating from Saint Mary’s University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Since joining SMU in 2021, she has earned a place on the Dean’s List and served multiple times as a Chemistry Lab Demonstrator, helping her peers gain confidence in the subject through her guidance and enthusiasm.

Lipika’s time at Saint Mary’s has been guided by empathy and a belief in the value of human connection. She aspires to become a doctor and has recently begun her journey in healthcare as an Early Childhood Educator, continuing to demonstrate kindness and care in everything she does.

Learn more about Lipika in the Fall Convocation Program.

Q & A

Why did you choose Saint Mary’s University?
I chose Saint Mary’s University because of its small size and diverse community. The smaller campus environment allows students to focus more effectively, while professors can offer more individual attention. This creates a more personal and productive learning experience, rather than one that simply revolves around completing coursework.

How did you get involved in the SMU community?
I participated in numerous societies, contributed to the SMU Food Room, and served multiple times as a Chemistry Lab Demonstrator for various chemistry courses since my second semester. I accumulated over 900 hours of volunteering within the Saint Mary’s campus. Additionally, I have completed several online workshops that have enhanced my academic and personal growth.

Do you have a favourite space on campus?
Definitely the Patrick Power Library. Somehow, I always find myself sitting in the same spot I’ve occupied for the past four years. That library is more than just a study space; it’s a home filled with memories, friendships, meaningful conversations, and cozy corners. It truly feels like a second home to me, holding a lot of emotional significance.

Looking back, what was your favourite SMU memory?
My Pack Leader days and the fun evenings spent with students and staff, especially the bonfire nights with marshmallows and laughter, stand out as some of my best memories. I also cherish my time with the SMU Boat Club and all the experiences that came with the Pack Leader role.

What are your goals for the future?
I plan to pursue a career in healthcare, most likely in medicine, though I’m also open to following wherever life leads me. Saint Mary’s has played a meaningful role in preparing me for the future, providing a strong academic foundation, valuable volunteering opportunities, and essential life skills. It has also taught me important lessons and values that I will carry forward.

Did you or do you currently volunteer with any organizations?
I have volunteered with several organizations, including IWK Health Centre, Nova Scotia Health Authority, St. John Ambulance, Vedanta Hindu Temple, and the Maritime Sikh Society.

What advice would you give your younger self who was starting university?
Attend Welcome Weeks! It’s incredibly helpful and provides all the resources and guidance you need to start university life on the right foot. You’ll meet new people, find answers to your questions, and feel part of the SMU community right from the beginning.

Fall Convocation takes place November 13 & 14. See the schedule, live stream links and more information here: smu.ca/graduation

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Meet your Valedictorian: Kjeld Mizpah Conyers-Steede, MTEI

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Kjeld Mizpah Conyers-Steede

Kjeld Mizpah (KJ) Conyers-Steede is a graduate of the Master of Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation (MTEI) program at Saint Mary’s University. His research explores how social finance and catalytic capital can empower rural and isolated communities to achieve sustainable economic transformation. Under the supervision of Dr. Chantal Hervieux, KJ’s thesis examined how seed funding shapes capital flows and governance in rural regions, providing new insights into how social innovation can reimagine development beyond traditional finance models.

As the founder and CEO of Future Civics, a nonprofit organization based in Nova Scotia, KJ continues to test ways to support rural innovation by merging business startup ideology with community-based approaches.

Learn more about KJ in the Fall Convocation Program.

Q & A

Where is your hometown?
I’m originally from Bermuda, but I’ve made my home in Hantsport, Nova Scotia. Both places are islands in their own way and have shaped how I see community, resilience, and innovation.

Why did you choose Saint Mary’s?
My father went to Saint Mary’s, and for him, it was the launching pad for his career. In many ways, it’s been the same for me. I chose SMU because of its reputation for connecting business with community impact, a balance that reflects both my roots and my goals.

Did you live on campus?
I lived off campus on my property, which I am turning into a small-scale farm while juggling work, research, and community projects. 

What’s your favourite space on campus?

The Inspiration Hub. It’s the heartbeat of the university — open, bright, and filled with the kind of energy that comes from people who believe they can make things happen.

What was your favourite course?
My thesis. It gave me a framework for understanding how ideas move from concept to impact, a lesson that’s shaped both my thesis and my career.

Which instructor had the biggest impact on you?
Dr. Chantal Hervieux. Her guidance pushed me to connect research with purpose, and to always ensure that my work, whether academic or practical creates space for others to lead and innovate.

What is your favourite SMU memory?
Defending my thesis. It was the culmination of years of research, travel, and collaboration. That moment wasn’t just academic; it was deeply personal. It represented resilience, purpose, and growth.

What will you miss most about Saint Mary’s?
The community. SMU has a unique way of bringing together people from every walk of life, each with a story that adds to the bigger picture. I’ll miss that daily exchange of ideas, cultures, and perspectives.

What are your goals for the future?
I want to continue bridging research and practice, especially in social financing and rural innovation. Whether in Bermuda or Atlantic Canada, my goal is to design systems that make it easier for communities to access capital and build sustainable futures.

How has Saint Mary’s helped to set you on this path?
Saint Mary’s gave me the language and confidence to turn ideas into action. The university’s focus on entrepreneurship and social impact helped me see that business can be a vehicle for systems change, not just profit.

What advice do you have for new students?
Be curious about everything — not just your program. The real magic of SMU is in the connections you make and the ideas you explore beyond the classroom. Don’t just chase a degree; chase understanding.

Fall Convocation takes place November 13 & 14. See the schedule, live stream links and more information here: smu.ca/graduation