Saint Mary’s University announces Dr. Karly Kehoe as Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada

Dr. Karly Kehoe, Faculty of Arts

Saint Mary’s University is proud to announce that Dr. Karly Kehoe, a distinguished scholar in the Department of History, has been named a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada (RSC). This prestigious honour recognizes Dr. Kehoe’s groundbreaking historical research on the displacement and migration of religious minorities from the Scottish Highlands and Ireland, and their settlement in Atlantic Canada.  

“By examining these communities’ roles in the process of colonization, she illuminates the broader consequences of socioeconomic and religious exclusion,” said the RSC’s September 4 announcement. “Her influential scholarship and exceptional public outreach informs global migration and integration strategies, including world-leading initiatives to support displaced academic researchers.” 

From Margaree Forks, Cape Breton, Dr. Kehoe holds the esteemed Canada Research Chair in Atlantic Canada Communities at Saint Mary’s. She is the board chairperson and academic lead of the Gorsebrook Research Institute for Atlantic Canada Studies. 

She served as president of the RSC’s College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists (2020-2022), and received the King Charles III Coronation Medal this past April after being nominated by the RSC. She is the founder and lead of the RSC’s At-Risk and Displaced Academics and Artists (ARDAA) program, among other programs to support researchers whose work has been disrupted by war, conflict and threats of violence.  

“We are very proud of Dr. Kehoe’s achievements and her election to the Royal Society of Canada,” said Dr. Adam Sarty, Associate Vice-President, Research and Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research. “Through her pioneering research and advocacy leadership, she is making a profound impact on policymakers and the global academic community, while highlighting the high calibre of scholarly work here at Saint Mary’s.” 

Kehoe is currently on a two-month research fellowship at the University of Edinburgh's Institute for Advanced Studies in the Humanities, working on her project “Activating Colonial Privilege: The Imperial Strategies of Highland Catholics, 1750-1820”.  

Kehoe is a fellow of both the Royal Historical Society and the International Science Council (ISC). She is the convenor of the Scottish Historical Review Trust and co-edits the Histories of the Scottish Atlantic book series with Edinburgh University Press. Recent publications include Empire and Emancipation: Scottish and Irish Catholics at the Atlantic Fringe (University of Toronto Press, 2022), and The Scottish Highlands and the Atlantic World: Social Networks and Identities (Edinburgh University Press, 2023; co-edited with Annie Tindley and Chris Dalglish).  

The Royal Society of Canada Fellowship is among the highest honours a Canadian scholar can receive, celebrating outstanding achievement in the arts, humanities and sciences. 102 new Fellows have been elected by their peers for their outstanding scholarly achievements.  

On Friday, November 14, the RSC will induct the 2025 Fellows and Members of the RSC College at a ceremony in Montréal as part of its annual Celebration of Excellence and Engagement. 

Related: 

• Dr. Karly Kehoe receives King Charles III Coronation Medal 

• History professor joins International Science Council Fellowship 

• Saint Mary’s University historian unveils discoveries on Catholic migration in Atlantic Canada 

Star Finder program prepares NS teachers with astronomy lesson plans

The inaugural Star Finders Teachers’ Workshop was held at Saint Mary’s University for elementary and junior high teachers

An enthusiastic group of elementary and junior high educators attended the first Star Finder Teachers’ Workshop in August, and they are now ready to share an appreciation of astronomical understanding and discovery with their students across Nova Scotia.

During the two-day course the teachers were introduced to the lesson plans, performed hands-on experiments and demonstrations, attended talks by astronomers from the Department of Astronomy and Physics, learned to use the Burke-Gaffney Observatory (BGO) and took part in stargazing activities.

All teachers and their classes in Nova Scotia now have access to use the BGO remotely from their classrooms, plus an extensive archive of the observatory’s data and images.

Hands-on experiments were part of the two-day workshop

Star Finders Teachers’ Workshop participants

The Star Finder lessons were developed by Saint Mary’s University alum Andrea Misner BSc’06,  along with Astronomy & Physics undergraduate student Mackenzie Hayduk, Astronomy Technician Tiffany Fields and Director of the Burke-Gaffney Observatory Dr. Vincent Hénault-Brunet. Focusing on space exploration and astronomy, the goal of the lesson plans is to foster enthusiasm, engagement and understanding of astronomy among school children—especially in rural and underserved communities in the province. 

Ms. Misner studied astrophysics at Saint Mary’s and later earned a master’s in education from the University of Manitoba. She teaches high school general sciences, physics and astronomy in Winnipeg, and is a recipient of a 2024 Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence.    

Star Finder – The David Lane Astronomy Outreach Program is funded by a $250,000 philanthropic gift from the late David and Michelle Lane. During his 29-year career as the Astronomy Technician in the Department of Astronomy and Physics and the Director of the Burke-Gaffney Observatory at Saint Mary’s, Dave single-handedly automated the Observatory, making it available to users worldwide through social media accounts.

Dave Lane passed away in March 2024; he is survived by his wife, Michelle. The Star Finder project was created as a way for the couple to give back to the community and share Dave’s passion for astronomy with the next generations.

“We were thrilled to connect with such passionate and dedicated educators during the two-day workshop,” says Dr. Vincent Hénault-Brunet, Director of the Burke-Gaffney Observatory. “We hope this workshop is just the beginning of building a vibrant community of teachers eager to bring astronomy-related activities to their students and use the observatory remotely.”

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For teachers wanting to learn more about this program and to download the lesson plans, click here and visit the Star Finder web page for updates. These lesson plans are focused on the Grade 9 Space Exploration unit of the Nova Scotia curriculum, but they are also tied to the Grade 9 Math curriculum and can easily be adapted for other levels.

Do not hesitate to email the Star Finder team at starfinder@smu.ca with ideas and questions about accessing the Burke-Gaffney Observatory remotely, or to share your experiences after trying out some of our lesson plans and projects with your classes.

You can also sign up for the Star Finder newsletter to receive all the latest news about the program.

Related:

• Saint Mary’s introduces Star Finder - The David Lane Astronomy Outreach Program

• Support the Star Finder program

Wicked problems, innovative solutions

L-R): Sophie Kent-Purcell, Dr. Patricia Matsumoto, Dr. Peter Bush, Miranda Frison and Md Moniruzzaman

The Wicked Problems Lab serves as a learning hub for preparing undergraduate and graduate students for their careers

To tackle the complex environmental challenge of understanding and measuring forests effectively, the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables (NSDNRR) teamed up with the Wicked Problems Lab at Saint Mary’s University. This partnership leverages advanced software and datasets to create innovative solutions for this local, national and global problem.

Wicked Problems Lab research analyst Dr. Patricia Matsumoto and Dr. Mathew Novak, Director, lead research focused on identifying old-growth forests, mapping forest changes over time, and forest landscape connectivity.

The research team is using several geospatial datasets to develop an Old Growth Forest Potential Index tool, which can be used to plan field activities and support land management decisions related to development proposals such as wind farms. The research team has also been focused on applying the latest methodologies in remote sensing, geographical information systems (GIS) and machine-learning algorithms to understand forest gain and loss in the province in a historical time-series.

The seven students employed by the Lab for the forestry project have learned how to interpret remote sensing images, create, manipulate and edit large GIS datasets, use the latest geospatial software and write reports and scientific manuscripts.

“Collaborating with the lab and students means we’re using the latest geomatics tools and research methods, which aren’t always accessible to our staff,” said Dr. Peter Bush, Provincial Landscape Forester at NSDNRR.

Through its partnership with NSDNRR, the Wicked Problems Lab exemplifies how academia and government can work together to create innovative, data-driven solutions for environmental sustainability and resource management in Nova Scotia and beyond.

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The Office of Innovation and Community Engagement (OICE) at Saint Mary’s University facilitates research partnerships between the University and companies, government departments and community organizations. OICE is the initial point of contact for faculty members and external partners wishing to collaborate. The office assists with finding suitable expertise, contract development and advising on funding opportunities.

This project highlight is from the 2025 OICE Report, which features researchers from Saint Mary's University and their external partners.

Nova Scotia’s next gen entrepreneurs shine at the Summer Entrepreneurial Experience Bootcamp

The SEE Bootcamp was held at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre

Participants represented multiple universities and colleges across Nova Scotia

SEE 2025 winner, SMU Arts student Stuti Sandhu

Stuti Sandhu presenting her Being There business idea

Staff from the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre chat with student participants

SMU BComm student Asmita Ale presents Alaagi

NSCC student Avery Cote presents TrekIQ

SMU alum Chantal Brine, Interim President and CEO of EduNova

Gabriel Martin BA’25 presents ScoutRoom

Jason Turner and Dina Sallam

Kulkaran Singh presents

Emo Ikede judges the competition

Yao Zhang presents

This summer, Nova Scotia’s brightest student entrepreneurs came together for the Summer Entrepreneurial Experience (SEE) Bootcamp 2025, a month-long program designed to equip students with the skills, mentorship and connections they need to turn ideas into action. Hosted by Saint Mary’s Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre in partnership with the TD Entrepreneurship Inclusion Initiative, EduNova and the Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (BEKH), SEE 2025 provided a launchpad for the next generation of innovators.

This July, 33 student entrepreneurs from across Nova Scotia participated in intensive workshops, collaborative sessions and mentorship opportunities. These sessions covered the full spectrum of entrepreneurship, from business planning and marketing to finance and pitching. The top 18 students advanced to the final pitch competition, where they presented their business ideas to a panel of judges, competing for recognition and prize funding to kickstart their ventures.

The winners were:

• First Place ($2,000): Stuti Sandhu, SMU arts student - Being There

• Second Place ($1,000):

  • Gabriel Martin SMU BA'25 - ScoutRoom

  • Asmita Ale, SMU commerce student - Alaagi

• Third Place ($500):

  • Avery Cote, NSCC commerce student - TrekIQ

  • Adeb Arianson, Dalhousie University arts student - Fund a Life

Special scholarships of $1,000 each were also awarded through the Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub to support Black student entrepreneurs. MSVU master’s student Lotoya Forde (THRIVEDRIVE), and SMU commerce student Aquilya Smith (ScholarConnect), received the scholarships.

For participants like BComm student Amita Ale, the experience was both inspiring and practical. “The SEE Bootcamp covered a wide range of topics relevant to starting a business. The variety of speakers and insights helped me build confidence and clarity as an aspiring entrepreneur,” she said. “You also get to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs and build your community. I highly recommend this bootcamp to anyone with a business idea or in the early stages of launching one. It’s an excellent starting point to turn your idea into action!”

SEE 2025 brought together students from multiple institutions, including Dalhousie University, Saint Mary’s University, Nova Scotia Community College and Mount Saint Vincent University, creating a diverse environment for idea-sharing and collaboration. The bootcamp also tied into broader initiatives, like the Study and Stay™ program, which focuses on retaining international talent in Nova Scotia and supporting students in building ventures that contribute to the province’s economy. By the end of the program, students had not only refined their ideas but also gained a sense of what it takes to launch and scale a business.

The SEE Bootcamp shows the growing movement behind student entrepreneurship in Nova Scotia. By providing early-stage entrepreneurs with mentorship, resources and a platform to pitch their ideas, the program is helping to create a startup ecosystem within academic institutions, bridging the gap between classrooms and real-world business opportunities.

As first-place winner Stuti Sandhu reflects, SEE 2025 was more than just a competition. It was a journey that empowered students to dream bigger, act bolder and connect with a network that will support them long after the bootcamp ends.

Interested in learning more about the Summer Entrepreneurial Experience (SEE) Bootcamp? Follow this link to learn more.

The trees of Saint Mary's…and the Dean who helped plant them

A sustainable, living laboratory in Halifax’s South End

Saint Mary’s campus feels more like a park than a university. Tall trees cast long shadows across the walkways and flowering shrubs bloom near the residences, while living canopies shelter songbirds overhead. But it wasn’t always this way.

When Dr. David Richardson arrived at Saint Mary’s University in 1992 as Dean of Science, he found a campus with very few trees and little shade. Many existing trees were mature with limited species diversity. Recognizing the need for change, he spearheaded a campus greening initiative that began in 1993. It was supported by dedicated volunteers that included student technicians and science faculty.

Dr. David Richardson (back) works with a volunteer to plant a tree on campus

A team of volunteers work to plant trees at SMU

Student technicians and faculty members help with the campus greening project in the early 1990’s

Trees being planted on campus near the Burke Building on Inglis St.

“When I first came to Saint Mary’s, there were few trees; now there are trees of all shapes and sizes,” says Dr. David Richardson, Dean Emeritus at Saint Mary’s University. “The initial plantings cost little, often around $20 to $30 per tree, so we were able to plant quite a lot.”

A view of the McNally building

Victorian-era homes, tree-lined avenues, and coastal walks make the historic south end of Halifax and the area around SMU one of the most desirable neighbourhoods in the city. The proximity of Point Pleasant Park, just a five-minute walk away, and the Public Gardens, ten minutes in the other direction, gives Saint Mary’s University students access to green spaces unmatched by most campuses in Canada.

“There is a harmony between urban life and nature. Such an environment enhances academic life, attracting students and staff who value both education and quality of life.”

Dr. Richardson’s British accent, very much a part of his identity, underscores the international influence he has brought to campus. He studied at the University of Oxford, known for its architecture, picturesque landscapes and botanical gardens. It was the tree-planting initiative that brought a touch of that same timeless magic to Saint Mary’s University.

The greening efforts over the decades have turned Saint Mary’s into a living showcase of more than 100 different tree species. This biodiversity provides habitats for birds and other wildlife. The overall impact is not just aesthetically pleasing but also supports sustainability and ecological balance.

Japanese Maple Acer palmatum

Crimson King Norway Maple Acer platanoides

Alternate-leaved Dogwood Cornus artenifolia

Paul's Scarlet Hawthorn Crategus Laevigatus

Black Walnut Juglans Nigra

Northern Red Oak Quercus rubra

Dr. Richardson is internationally recognized for his research on lichens, small but remarkable organisms that respond to shifts in their environment.

He has published more than 100 research papers and three books, The Vanishing Lichens, The Biology of Mosses and Pollution Monitoring with Lichens, which emphasize the importance of plant diversity and how it can serve as an indicator of environmental health.

His work has been recognized with the Lawson Medal from the Canadian Botanical Association, a decade of service with the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC), and even the naming of a species in his honour, Skyttea richardsonii.

Dr. Richardson describes the campus as "a living laboratory”, where students can learn firsthand about sustainability, ecology and environmental stewardship. Greg Baker, Research Instrumentation Technician in the Department of Geography, has produced a list of campus trees along with their GPS location.

"Every spring there are labels placed at the base of the trees. Walking across the campus you pick up a little knowledge along the way."

Saint Mary’s can stand proudly alongside universities celebrated for their beauty and botanical richness—such as the University of Western Ontario, the University of British Columbia, and the University of Victoria. Saint Mary’s is firmly part of this Canadian tradition of green campuses.

“Walking through campus can change your day. It grounds you. But things never stand still with respect to our trees. They have to withstand droughts, hurricanes, and alien diseases. It’s our responsibility to care for and cherish the natural world.”

Meet Bert, Engineering’s Chief Morale Officer

Bert makes school more fun—and lowers the stress levels of students with a wag of his tail

A key figure in the new Engineering Building at Saint Mary’s, the Chief Morale Officer has an important role in brightening the days of students and faculty.  

Bert, Chief Morale Officer in Engineering

Bert, a four-year-old Havanese-Poodle mix, rushes through the door to see his favourite students when he arrives on campus. On the third floor, he makes a beeline out of the elevator to classrooms and labs, where he provides emotional support.

“Bert is a calming presence for students, and he loves to be here,” says professor Don MacNeil, who is Bert’s owner. “Many of our students are living away from home for the first time and they’re missing home and adjusting to a new school environment. Bert really brings down the stress levels of students.”

For some students, meeting Bert is their first positive interaction with a dog.

“Several people have told me that Bert is the first and only dog they have ever petted,” says MacNeil. “They say they’re scared of all dogs—except Bert.”

Always ready for a party, Bert joined the students in dressing up for Halloween—sporting a vampire costume that matched Prof. MacNeil’s—as the students designed and 3D-printed pumpkin candle holders.

Don McNeil and Bert on Halloween

Bert supervising the robotics design competition

On a busy day near the end of term, Bert watched as second-year students raced to finish their final design assignments. As the designers worked on their remote-controlled robots to earn class points and bragging rights, he was the centre of attention—and in the centre of the track—as ping pong balls flew from the robots in the friendly competition. Adding to the excitement, a group of visiting elementary students watched the competition…and Bert, who stole the show.

Emma Smith with Bert

Bert enjoyed meeting family and friends at a gathering in the Engineering Building after convocation in the spring, and it was a chance for one last belly rub from students who will be moving on to other educational opportunities and careers.

“Even if you place last, Bert will be there; after exams, he’s there,” says Emma Smith, who recently graduated with a Diploma in Engineering. “He’ll do some zoomies and then fall asleep under a desk. We’ll be back to see him.”

Fellow graduate James Nowell agreed: “He’s an absolute legend.”

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Flexible education, personalized support and a contemporary learning environment—learn why the Diploma in Engineering Program at Saint Mary’s might be right for you!

Empowering small-scale producers

A partnership for global food security and sustainability

Dr. Tony Charles and Hasan Latif

A specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is working toward food security for all by ensuring regular access to sufficient, high-quality food for active, healthy lives.

Saint Mary’s University is engaged in a partnership with FAO through Dr. Tony Charles, Director of SMU’s School of the Environment and a professor in the Sobey School of Business.

Dr. Charles has a long history of supporting local communities worldwide in their stewardship activities, protecting the environment while maintaining their livelihoods, and connecting with governments to advance policies that support these grassroots initiatives.

Working with FAO, Dr. Charles created a stewardship database and a framework to assess conservation practices and environmental stewardship among small-scale producers in fishing communities. The impressive range of such stewardship achievements has been published by Dr. Charles in FAO’s report Environmental Stewardship by Small-Scale Fisheries.

“Dr. Charles’s work on small-scale fisher stewardship, community-based management, and the link between climate change and poverty has been pivotal in removing obstacles faced by small-scale producers,” said Dr. Daniela Kalikoski, Fishery Officer and Leader of FAO’s Priority Area on Small-Scale Producers’ Equitable Access to Resources, and Social Protection in Fisheries. “Saint Mary’s University has fostered a unique environment that integrates scientific and local knowledge, offering critical insights for policy creation and governance that emphasize openness, collaboration, and inclusion.”

This collaborative effort demonstrates the profound impact that integrating research, local knowledge, and global initiatives can have in empowering local people and their communities worldwide and building a more sustainable and food-secure future.

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The Office of Innovation and Community Engagement (OICE) at Saint Mary’s University facilitates research partnerships between the University and companies, government departments and community organizations. OICE is the initial point of contact for faculty members and external partners wishing to collaborate. The office assists with finding suitable expertise, contract development and advising on funding opportunities.

This project highlight is from the 2025 OICE Report, which features researchers from Saint Mary's University and their external partners.

Two Huskies, one unbreakable friendship

Skip Oliver BA'67 LLD'02 and David Murphy BA'66 together on Saint Mary’s campus

From the moment they start talking, you can tell that Skip Oliver LLD'02 BA'67 and David Murphy BA'66 share a bond that runs far deeper than football. There’s the easy laughter, the way they finish each other’s sentences, and the countless stories that spill out—proof of a friendship that has endured for more than 60 years. 

That bond began in 1963, when Skip arrived at Saint Mary’s University. Back then, the campus was small and the football program was still finding its footing under coach Bob Hayes. 

“My first thought was, ‘What did I get myself into?’” Skip laughs. “Campus was small.” 

David remembers their first meeting off the field as if it were yesterday. “So, there’s this little place called Gus’s Canteen—different food from the main cafeteria, and if you have a cheeseburger there, it just tastes better. I’m sitting there one day, and in walks Skip. He’s wearing a beautiful London Fog raincoat, umbrella over his arm, and a hat. I’m thinking, this guy has no idea what he’s walking into—he won’t last a week. So I go right over, introduce myself, get a good handshake, and a look in the eye. I think, yeah, this guy’s going to be my friend.” 

Skip grins at the memory. “He had these dorky glasses on, and I thought, This guy’s kind of a geek, I feel sorry for him. But we became such good friends. He even came down to Pennsylvania to live with me for a summer.” 

That summer, working long shifts in a Pennsylvania soda pop factory led to spending time together later in life, relaxing together at summer homes in St. Margaret’s Bay. 

Their friendship is built on more than the camaraderie of the football field—it is rooted in shared experiences, trust, and a genuine care for each other’s lives beyond the game. 

And in between the practices and studies? “Let’s just say we got into our fair share of trouble,” Skip admits with a laugh. “But we always knew—no matter what happened—we could count on the other guy to be there and bail you out. In fact, I think all that practice getting David out of jams is what made me such a good lawyer later on,” he adds with a smirk. 

Their friendship extended beyond the Saint Mary’s campus. Skip built a legal career in Pennsylvania; David earned his surgical certification at NYU. They leaned on each other through demanding careers, celebrated weddings—Skip was even married at the chapel on the Saint Mary’s campus with David by his side—and kept their traditions alive, like attending 32 Super Bowls together. 

“I don’t know what I would’ve done without Skip’s support,” David said, and Skip agreed. 

For Skip, Saint Mary’s was more than a stepping stone—it was a launchpad. “I got involved in everything—yearbook, newspaper—and earned the Athletics M, Literary M, and Gold M awards. I was even named Man of the Year,” he said proudly. 

He also helped to strengthen the football program. “I invited Coach Al Keith to my hometown, and we sent eight players to Saint Mary’s. Those guys helped win the 1973 championship. I’m proud to have played a part in that,” said Skip. 

David’s ties to the university run just as deep. Alongside his medical career, he coached at Saint Mary’s, served two stints on the Board of Governors, and returned twice as Athletic Director. “Saint Mary’s is at my core,” he says simply. 

David and Skip met with SMU President Dr. Michael Khan during a recent campus visit

Looking back, Skip offers this advice to today’s student-athletes: “You get out of your university experience what you put into it. Put in friendship, loyalty, hard work—and you’ll carry those rewards for the rest of your life.” 

David nods. “The friendships, the teamwork, the life lessons—they stay with you long after the final whistle.” 

Even now, they continue to support Saint Mary’s through mentorship, attending games and supporting the university financially, with the football program at the top of their list. 

To both of them, Saint Mary’s is more than where they earned their degrees and played football.  

“It’s where we found family,” David said. “And that’s something worth giving back to.” 

Architecture with intention: The Fred Smithers Centre

Unique infrastructure at Saint Mary’s for student accessibility

It’s easy to say you believe in accessibility, but far harder to demonstrate it.

The Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax has a long and evolving history. Originally established as the Atlantic Centre for Disabled Students, the Centre was reimagined under its current name thanks to the vision and generosity of Fred Smithers.

Smithers, a Nova Scotian entrepreneur whose influence extends far beyond business, is the founder and former CEO of Secunda Marine Services. He is recognized not only for his leadership within marine industries, but also for his impactful philanthropic vision.

His approach is clear: invest where the impact is tangible, measurable, and transformative. In close partnership with Saint Mary’s, Smithers helped propel a purpose-built accessibility hub unique within Canadian higher education.

Imagine you are a student with dyslexia, ADHD, sensory processing challenges, low vision, or who uses a mobility aid. You have left behind the familiarity of living at home as a high school student and are now adapting to university life on your own. You might even be in a new province or country, away from the support systems you have counted on. This is a significant shift, filled with uncertainty and new demands.

Traditional accommodations such as extended test time or quiet corners can only do so much. The Fred Smithers Centre’s approach is comprehensive:

• State-of-the-art private and soundproof testing rooms are equipped with white noise machines, ergonomic desks, and noise-cancelling headphones.

• Integrated assistive technology like Kurzweil 3000, Dragon speech-to-text software, JAWS screen reader, and specialized note-taking software.

• Low-stimulus adaptive spaces: The Centre follows Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles, creating environments that accommodate a broad range of student needs, with or without formal diagnoses.

• Sensory-friendly ergonomic features, including adjustable-height desks, ergonomic seating, and dimmable lighting designed to reduce strain and create a comfortable atmosphere.

“Students walk into these spaces, and it immediately communicates: we see you, we believe in you, and we built this place for you.” — Kate McHugh, Manager of Student Accessibility and the Fred Smithers Centre

This is intentional infrastructure, designed to overcome the genuine challenges students face. Saint Mary’s is one of the few Canadian universities providing this uniquely holistic approach.

“We wanted to move beyond just resources into comprehensive support,” says Kate McHugh, Manager of Student Accessibility and the Fred Smithers Centre. “We envision tangible, real spaces where students feel empowered. Students walk into these spaces, and it immediately communicates: we see you, we believe in you, and we built this place for you.”

“Disabilities can take many forms,” says McHugh. “They can be visible, invisible, temporary, or evolving—and often misunderstood. Students transitioning from high school face unique challenges related to their identity, including discovering how and where they fit in. Sometimes there's stigma around asking for help as they move into adulthood, or uncertainty about whether they even qualify.”

The Fred Smithers Centre offers solutions to these real needs, demonstrating how the university supports student success and has become a strategic institutional asset. Accessibility infrastructure enables scalable services and measurable student outcomes, significantly reducing stress, anxiety, and academic frustration among students.

• Main office: a spacious area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Saint Mary’s campus in the historic south end of Halifax. Think 100-year-old trees, classic campus architecture, and waterfront glimpses. It’s furnished with a comfy couch, a water-bottle refill station, plenty of natural light, and welcoming vibes credited largely to friendly staff.

• Classroom: A dedicated space equipped for accessibility workshops and instructional support, or as a secondary testing space. Thoughtfully integrated into the Centre’s layout, this room provides a welcoming area for events and open houses.

• C-shaped testing centre: Eight soundproofed breakout rooms, many with windows. These are designed for focused study or testing and grouped around an inner corridor, with ten additional open-air cubicles.

Welcoming space

Private cubicles with ergonomic seating

Large windows

Much of the space benefits from natural light.

Assistive technologies

Relaxing music

A turntable provides relaxing music when appropriate.

Built for success

The Fred Smithers Centre transforms not only student experiences but also campus culture. When students feel genuinely supported, there is increased engagement and a clear message that Saint Mary’s invests in individual potential. This demonstrates more than promises and instead becomes proof of action.

“It’s about focus and respect,” says McHugh. “When a student tells me, ‘I’m feeling better taking tests,’ that’s when you know the Centre is genuinely making a difference. That’s when infrastructure becomes opportunity.”

Universities must now consider moving beyond mere accessibility statements toward tangible, foundational change. Accessibility is a shared responsibility across the entire campus community and is most effective when embraced in day-to-day planning and decision-making.

“Students can register with the Centre at any time—whether it's their first semester, final year, or anywhere in between,” says McHugh. “We've also just redesigned our website to make it easier for everyone at SMU to quickly find the information and resources they need.”

Another donor’s generous gift has supported the website’s redesign, contributed to additional technology and tools for the Centre, as well as established a fund for students to receive psychoeducational assessments.

Intentionally designed, the Centre operates behind the scenes yet is profoundly impactful. Saint Mary’s is helping to set new standards for accessibility, creating spaces that empower students in lasting and meaningful ways.

Unwelcome worms: researching invasive jumping worms in New Brunswick

Dr. Erin Cameron (Photo by Samantha Bennett

Invasive species are an increasing threat to ecosystems across Canada. In New Brunswick, the invasive jumping worm has raised concerns among scientists and conservationists. These earthworms change soil conditions and plant growth, which in turn may affect the animals that depend on them.

Dr. Erin Cameron, an Associate Professor of Environmental Science at Saint Mary’s University, researches how global changes impact where species live, how they interact with each other, and how ecosystems function. She focuses mainly on invasive earthworms and their impacts on soil, plant life, and overall soil health.

Dr. Cameron’s research team includes Dr. Helen Phillips (former postdoctoral fellow at SMU), Samantha Bennett BSc’23, and several undergraduate field assistants. The team partnered with the New Brunswick Invasive Species Council (NBISC), the New Brunswick Museum, and Laurie Manzer, who provided access to their backyard and contributed to the research.

Dr. Cameron’s team maps the local distribution of invasive earthworms, gathering data that helps conservation organizations, government agencies, and local communities better understand and address the risks posed by invasive earthworms. Public education and outreach are also key in the effort to prevent the spread of invasive jumping worms.

“Over the past several years, our collaboration with Dr. Cameron and her team, along with staff at the New Brunswick Museum, has been key in enhancing our efforts to raise awareness about the spread of invasive jumping worms in New Brunswick,” said Claire Ferguson, Outreach and Communications Coordinator for NBISC. “Supporting Dr. Cameron’s research and observing these worms firsthand has provided our staff with invaluable knowledge to share with partners and the public, while also fostering stronger interprovincial collaboration.”

By combining scientific research with public engagement, this partnership is playing an important role in protecting New Brunswick’s forests and wildlife from invasive species.

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The Office of Innovation and Community Engagement (OICE) at Saint Mary’s University facilitates research partnerships between the University and companies, government departments and community organizations. OICE is the initial point of contact for faculty members and external partners wishing to collaborate. The office assists with finding suitable expertise, contract development and advising on funding opportunities.

This project highlight is from the 2025 OICE Report, which features researchers from Saint Mary's University and their external partners.

Staff, faculty and alumni fill the shelves of the Community Food Room

The SMU Community Food Room is overflowing with generosity after this year’s Food Drive Competition!

Team members from the So-bee School - Hive Mind accept their top place trophy for the annual Food Drive Competition

Thank you to the dedicated faculty, staff, and alumni who participated in the annual Food Drive Competition hosted by the Alumni Office. Together, twelve teams helped pack the shelves with 2,563 lbs of food for the SMU Community Food Room—making a meaningful difference for students in need.

Congratulations to this year’s winner: The So-bee School Hive Mind! Their collaboration and commitment truly set the bar, earning them top honours in this year’s campus-wide challenge by donating the most food by weight, plus the items most needed by our students. Following closely in second place, the EntrepreNOURISHship team also brought incredible energy and enthusiasm to the competition.

Food Room volunteers stock the shelves with donations

Thank you to the faculty, staff, and alumni who generously contributed financial items during the competition. Your support allows the SMU Community Food Room to purchase essential items as needed.

Donations are welcome year-round, and members of the SMU community can contribute at any time—with tax receipts available for gifts made here.

"This year’s food drive was more than a competition; it was a powerful reflection of what’s possible when a community comes together with purpose,” said Yusupha Njie, Community Food Room Coordinator.

“I’m deeply moved by the generosity shown across campus and incredibly proud of how each department stepped up to support students facing food insecurity. My heartfelt thanks go to SMU Alumni for organizing this vital initiative, and to the dedicated volunteers of the SMU Community Food Room. Your behind-the-scenes work–coordinating, sorting, and lifting every pound of food we received made this success possible. Together, we did not just collect food; we strengthened a community of care."

Thank you to all the departments that came together to contribute to the success of the Annual Food Drive Competition:

• The SMUSA Bread Winners – SMUSA

• EntrepreNOURISHship – Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre

• It's All Gravy – Facilities Management

• Snack Pack – Alumni/Development

• Rock and Enroll – Enrolment Services

• The Grocery Bags – External Affairs

• Bits & Bytes – EIT

• The So-bee School - Hive Mind – Sobey Dean's Office, BComm Advising, Accounting, Economics, FISMS, Management and Marketing

• Sarty and the Side Kicks – Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research

• All Stuff, No Fluff – People & Culture

• SAAS team – Student Affairs and Services

• The 42 Crew: Understanding life, the universe and everything – Science Faculty staff

About the Food Room

The SMU Community Food Room is the on-campus food bank for the Saint Mary’s University community. It is a partnership with SMUSA and Student Affairs and Services and is operated by student volunteers. Their goal is to offer access to safe, nutritious, and culturally acceptable foods in a welcoming environment. In collaboration with Feed Nova Scotia, they work to improve food security, food equity, and food literacy on our campus.

Between May 2024 and April 2025, 4,051 appointments were booked at the food room, an increase of nearly 200 pick-ups over the previous year.

Meet the entrepreneurs breaking barriers this Disability Pride Month

This Disability Pride Month, we’re celebrating Kevin MacKinnon and Melissa Laverdure, two entrepreneurs who are leaving their unique marks in their industries. After participating in the Access Ability Entrepreneurship Incubator at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, Kevin and Melissa both show what’s possible when creativity, resilience and the right support come together. 

Kevin MacKinnon is the co-founder of KevEthel’s SpringRoll Company, based in Port Hawkesbury, Nova Scotia. Known for putting a delicious twist on tradition, Kevin’s spring rolls have become a local favourite. His signature cheeseburger roll, which blends familiar Canadian flavours with Filipino inspiration, is a crowd favourite.  

Kevin MacKinnon (right) with Ethel Doncillo MacKinnon.

Through the Access Ability Entrepreneurship Incubator, he brought his creations to Harbourside Rib Fest in Dartmouth as one of the featured food vendors. The exposure was a huge milestone for Kevin and a sign of just how far he’s come since his time in the Access Ability program.  
 
Kevin brings great creativity, and with his continued involvement in industry events like the SPICE food conference, it’s exciting to see where he’s headed next. 

As the founder of The Archival Agent, Melissa Laverdure works behind the scenes in the film and media world as a researcher and archival producer. She specializes in tracking down rare photographs, records and footage which is often material that her clients didn’t even know existed and securing the licenses to use them. Her work has been featured in projects for CBC, The History Channel, Hot Docs and the Canadian Screen Awards. 

Melissa started her business after a major life shift that forced her to rethink how she worked. That moment sparked a decision: if she was going to strike out on her own, she was also going to make it count by uplifting other women along the way.  

Melissa Laverdure

“I arrived at the idea to start my own business after a life-shifting event and had to change the way that I worked,” Melissa says. “I decided that if I was going to try and launch my own business, it would mean that I would also advocate for other women and build each other up along the way.” 

The Access Ability program gave Melissa the structure, guidance and confidence to grow her business and clarify her vision. Today, her work is helping bring powerful stories to life on screen and she’s building a business rooted in collaboration and impact. 

Kevin and Melissa's stories, though distinct, share a powerful common thread: the incredible resilience that drives entrepreneurship and the powerful effects that community partnership and collaboration bring to growing local entrepreneurs.  

Ready to explore how the Access Ability Entrepreneurship program offers guidance, knowledge and resources for your business to thrive? Visit our website for details on the Access Ability Entrepreneurship program.