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. 

Indigenous Youth Business Camp builds early pathways and community at Saint Mary's

Indigenous Youth Business Camp participants at Clearwater

Campers check out the E-sports arena on campus

SMU faculty and staff provided mentorship during the week-long camp

A visit to Tribe Network in downtown Halifax

Camp participants visited the Halifax Wanderers fan shop and offices

A visit to Clearwater

Clearwater hosted camp participants in their boardroom

Participants with reps from Clearwater

Sobeys headquarters

A store visit to Sobeys

This July, Saint Mary’s University welcomed Indigenous youth from Cape Breton for a week-long immersive business and university experience through the inaugural Indigenous Youth Business Camp.

Led in partnership by the Sobey School of Business and Kylar Johnson, Indigenous Student Advisor in Student Affairs and Services, the pilot initiative was designed to create early pathways to post-secondary education for Indigenous youth in Atlantic Canada. Over the course of the week, students lived in Saint Mary’s residence, explored life on campus and in Halifax, and participated in a range of programming focused on entrepreneurship and business fundamentals.

“This week was all about connection,” said Kylar. “It was about giving students a feel for what it’s like to live here and learn at Saint Mary’s, helping them build relationships with our Indigenous community at SMU, showing them what supports exist within Student Affairs and Services and beyond, and giving them a chance to explore what SMU has to offer.”

The Sobey School of Business programming focused on experiential learning with faculty, staff and student groups. Participants engaged in workshops on how to pitch a business idea, develop marketing strategies and manage key aspects of business operations. They also visited local businesses aligned with key business streams, including site visits to Sobeys headquarters, Clearwater, the Halifax Wanderers and Tribe Network, and took part in an on-campus session with the CEO of SimplyCast and prominent SMU alum, Saeed El-Darahali BSc’02 MBA’04. Participants also connected with members of the SMU Enactus team and learned how getting involved outside the classroom can enrich the university experience.

Camp participants visited a local Sobeys location

SMU Enactus members gave a presentation to students

According to Manar Salem, Manager of Strategic Initiatives and Special Projects at the Sobey School of Business, one of the most valuable aspects of the experience was its two-way learning model.

“We wanted to give students a realistic insight into university life – what to expect, how it differs from high school, and what opportunities exist across different areas of business,” Salem said. “But it was also a learning experience for us. Hearing their questions and seeing what sparks their interest helps us understand how to better connect with and support our future students. It shapes how we think about teaching business, and how we build community.”

Throughout the week, participants explored a variety of business disciplines, from marketing and sustainability to sport, retail, AI and non-government organizations. They gained a deeper understanding of the different academic pathways available at Saint Mary’s and how these are reflected in real-world business operations.

“It was validating to hear from presenters who wanted to learn from us too,” said Bethany, a participant in the program. “I make art, and I want to sell it, so this experience helped me start thinking through what I need to consider like expenses, pricing, even how to market to audiences. It also helped me think about how to find balance and not burn out.”

Indigenous student leaders played a key role throughout the week, with two current students serving as chaperones and mentors. “All it takes is one visit to campus and you're sold,” shared BComm student and Huskies Football player Cole Prosper. “Everyone here wants you to succeed - don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

The group also had the opportunity to experience campus life by staying in residence, touring spaces, including SMU’s newly renovated Indigenous Student Space, learning about available resources and supports, and going on social outings together.

“I loved the camp,” exclaimed Cheyanne, another student participant. “Everyone connected so quickly. I feel like I would be more likely to choose SMU now, having had the chance to meet some of the Indigenous students and seeing the student space they have here.”

A highlight of the week was the final presentation project. Participants worked in teams to develop and pitch creative solutions to real cultural issues, applying what they had learned throughout the week. Supported by student mentors from the Sobey School of Business, they presented their ideas to a panel of judges, impressing the judges with their innovation, confidence and thoughtful insights, and offering a glimpse of the potential these future leaders bring.

“This camp gives students a real chance to picture themselves here,” said Professor Vurain Tabvuma. “They’re not just hearing about university; they’re living it for a week, asking questions, meeting people and seeing what’s possible. That kind of experience can be a turning point in helping them figure out what they want and knowing they’d be supported if they came here.”

Discovery, resilience and community

A conversation with Dr. Michael Khan, Saint Mary’s University's 35th President 

Dr. Michael Khan began his term as Saint Mary’s President and Vice-Chancellor in July 2025

When Dr. Michael Khan first stepped onto Saint Mary’s University's Halifax campus, it wasn’t the striking buildings or innovative facilities that caught his attention. It was the students. 

Chatting casually about their co-op placements or high-fiving those who had just successfully defended their theses, Khan felt the university's pulse in these interactions. They reaffirmed his belief in the transformative power of higher education—one conversation, one student at a time. 

“Halifax blends natural beauty and urban life in ways few cities can,” says Khan. “It's rare and special, and Saint Mary’s sits right at the heart of it.” 

Born and raised in Trinidad and Tobago, Khan’s path to Saint Mary’s spans continents and experiences. He vividly recalls studying in Montreal’s freezing winters after leaving the Caribbean heat behind, an early introduction to resilience. 

“Imagine going from 30 degrees to minus 15 in about six hours,” Khan reflects. But through moves to Montreal, Wales, Ontario, and now Nova Scotia, he's learned something fundamental: “Home is wherever you build it.” 

“It felt odd leaving Wales,” Khan recalls thoughtfully. “We were returning to Canada, a place we considered home, but simultaneously leaving behind a community we deeply valued. Even after only a short time here, Halifax genuinely feels like home.” 

Dr. Khan brings to Saint Mary’s extensive academic credentials and leadership experience. He holds a PhD in Human Kinetics from the University of British Columbia and has served in senior academic roles at institutions such as the University of Windsor, Bangor University in Wales, and most recently, Trent University in Ontario. 

Athletics, resilience and interdisciplinary learning 

Khan’s personal philosophy and leadership style draw heavily on his extensive background in athletics and human kinesiology. Initially passionate about cricket and soccer, he discovered squash in his late teens, quickly excelling to represent Trinidad and Tobago internationally and becoming a Canadian university champion. 

“Athletics shaped my resilience profoundly. Most of my greatest successes came after significant failures. That's what sport teaches you: resilience, perseverance, and how to relentlessly pursue your aspirations, despite setbacks.” 

Today, he sees athletics as essential not just for competitive excellence, but for overall well-being. “Physical activity doesn’t just support physical health,” he says. “It strengthens mental health, reduces stress, and builds community. I see this balance as critical, not just for athletes, but for everyone on our campus.” 

Khan champions interdisciplinary education. Reflecting on his own journey from initially studying geophysics to discovering his true passion in kinesiology, he emphasizes the importance of students exploring broadly rather than narrowly. 

““Career paths today are not linear. Successful people have diverse experiences. Our role at Saint Mary’s is to encourage students to dream big, explore widely, and embrace failures as necessary steps toward discovering their passions.” ”

Interdisciplinary learning, he says, isn’t academic idealism. It’s practical preparation for the future. “Today’s most pressing challenges, whether healthcare, climate change, AI advancements or social justice, can’t be solved in silos. Employers recognize this and actively seek graduates who can think differently.” 

Research: the foundation of everything we do 

“What we teach in classrooms and how we engage with our communities must be anchored in rigorous, impactful research,” Khan stresses. “Students at all levels need opportunities to engage directly in research because that’s what sparks discovery and deep learning. It shapes critical thinkers who lead well beyond their campus years.” 

Investing in research, Khan adds, means directly investing in students’ futures.

““Research is fundamental. It informs everything we do, from teaching to community engagement. Strengthening these connections creates practical, community-connected, and impactful learning opportunities.” ”

Khan’s immediate impression of Saint Mary’s was its vibrant sense of community engagement, a dynamic amplified by its unique location in Halifax’s south end. 

“When I first visited, the energy here stood out immediately,” he recalls. “Many institutions struggle post-COVID, but at Saint Mary’s, I see an active, vibrant campus—like a living classroom. It’s exactly what a university should be.” 

He believes Halifax offers students unparalleled educational opportunities due to its unique blend of natural beauty, urban amenities and community involvement. 

“Saint Mary’s leverages this exceptional location brilliantly, providing remarkable experiential and community-based learning opportunities right at our doorstep.” 

Collaborative leadership for a sustainable future 

As Khan begins his presidency, his top priority is clear: listening deeply. Reflecting on his extensive global experiences from Trinidad and Tobago to multiple Canadian provinces and the UK, Khan underscores his leadership approach. 

““Leadership is about creating opportunities. My role isn’t to provide all the answers but rather to listen, harness ideas, and make bold decisions for meaningful growth. Saint Mary’s already has incredible strengths. I want to support our academic mission and enrich the student experience even further.” ”

“My diverse background allows me to anticipate challenges and see opportunities differently,” he explains. “Diversity in experience brings perspective, clarity and insight. It enables me to navigate complexity and approach challenges thoughtfully.” 

Looking ahead, Khan points to Saint Mary’s recently released strategic plan as a roadmap, highlighting sustainability as a crucial priority. He notes the significance of campus initiatives, such as the solar energy installation on Loyola Tower, as clear demonstrations of SMU’s commitment to environmental stewardship and innovative community partnerships. 

“An ideal university is a place where professors and students interact meaningfully, where active learning thrives, and where the entire community feels connected. My goal is to foster an environment where discovery is constant, ideas flow freely, and students, faculty, and staff can authentically thrive. That’s what will define our success.” 

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Watch: Greetings from Dr. Michael Khan

Alaagi is one step closer to $1 million

SMU sustainable business advances to the next stage of the Hult Prize Competition

Sheheryar Khan, Vaishali Sachdeva and Tyler MacLean

Alaagi, a company created by recent SMU graduate Sheheryar Khan BSc’25 DipENG’25, is disrupting the plastic industry. Launched in July 2024, Alaagi is redefining the future of packaging.

The Alaagi team, comprised of Khan, Vaishali Sachdeva and Tyler MacLean, competed against 56 international teams in the Hult Prize Competition and is one of 22 to advance to the next round.

The Saint Mary’s University student-led initiative has created a durable, fully compostable bioplastic made from seaweed. This innovative material can be used to make items like sandwich wrap and grocery bags. Additionally, the plastic film can be heat sealed to preserve freshness.

Khan demonstrates how the bioplastic is made at the Alaagi lab space on SMU campus

Alaagi bioplastic sample

Now, Alaagi is creating the world’s first bioplastic film that meets the industry-standard 10K Oxygen Transmission Rate. This bioplastic film, suitable for meat and seafood packaging, is an innovation with enormous commercial potential.

The team was named National Champions after competing against 19 other Canadian teams at the Hult Prize Competition in March, allowing them to advance to this latest round of competition.

“Being a part of the Hult Prize Global Accelerator is a dream come true,” says Vaishali Sachdeva, Saint Mary’s University arts student. “The incredible mentorship through the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre and the Hult team has helped us accelerate our business. I am so excited to represent Alaagi and Saint Mary’s University in London this August.”

The Hult Prize competition consists of five stages. Alaagi now moves on to Stage 4: the Global Accelerator, held in person in London this August. There, 22 teams will receive intensive mentorship, strategic guidance and networking opportunities. Of those, only eight will be selected to compete in the Global Finals in September, pitching their ventures to a distinguished panel of judges for the $1 million prize.

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Watch: Saint Mary’s University students transforming seaweed into compostable plastic (CTV News)

A partnership to diversify revenue and reduce risk

A Saint Mary’s team is using AI technology to provide solutions

Photo (L-R): Chris Mitchell, Shahriar Swapnil, Dr. Pawan Lingras

The Citco Group of Companies (Citco) is a global network of independent firms. To diversify their revenue streams within the fund administration sector, Citco wanted to develop a document scraping application powered by generative AI.

To bring this vision to life, Citco partnered with Dr. Pawan Lingras, a Professor in Mathematics and Computing Science and the Director of the Master of Science in Computing and Data Analytics (CDA) Program, along with his team of Saint Mary’s graduate students.

The research team used AI-driven solutions to streamline information retrieval, improve response accuracy, and enhance the user experience for a diverse range of professionals including fund accountants, technical personnel, and support staff.

The ongoing project has provided dozens of graduate students in the CDA program with valuable research internships, allowing them to apply their classroom knowledge in a real-world setting. Many CDA graduates have transitioned into full-time roles at Citco.

“Citco is at the forefront of financial services innovation through our collaboration with Saint Mary’s University,” said Chris Mitchell, Executive Vice President, Transformation Office, Citco, and Saint Mary’s University alumnus. “By leveraging cutting-edge AI technology, we are increasing operational efficiency, improving client satisfaction, and reducing risk. This partnership has also enabled us to hire top talent from the university, launching careers for many graduates and benefiting both our organization and local communities.”

Through this partnership, Citco is not only creating new revenue streams, reducing risk and costs, but also creating career opportunities for the next generation of computing professionals.

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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.

Shad students arrive at SMU

Last week, Saint Mary’s welcomed its first cohort of high-school students participating in the Shad Canada program.

These bright, young scholars will take part in a 27-day experience exploring entrepreneurship and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics).

Students will live on campus, immersing themselves in workshops, labs and hands-on design sessions. Daily campus life, including dormitory living and dining hall meals, will complement their academic activities.

This supportive environment encourages collaboration as students work together on innovative solutions to real-world issues such as food security, water sustainability and waste reduction.

Saint Mary’s offers a unique combination of local context and interdisciplinary learning. The experience will feature guest lectures from leading Saint Mary’s professors across multiple faculties and departments. These experts will share insights from their research, providing students with a foundational experience designed to help them explore academic pathways and future career possibilities.

Saint Mary’s is located on the coast in Halifax’s vibrant south end, offering students direct access to the natural beauty and unique culture of the Maritime region. Students will explore this firsthand through several hands-on, outdoor adventures.

Here’s to inspiring and challenging Canada’s next generation of innovators.

A cleaner future for mining

Advancing sustainable gold extraction

Liah Christie, Dr. Christa Brosseau and Tanner George

Mining is important to Nova Scotia’s economy, but traditional gold extraction methods are based on dissolution and extraction using cyanide slurries of powdered ore, a process known as cyanidation.

With financial assistance from the Mineral Resource Development Fund (MRDF), Dr. Christa Brosseau (Tier II Canada Research Chair in Sustainable Chemistry and Materials) and Dr. Robert Singer, Professors in the Department of Chemistry, are developing sustainable alternatives to using cyanide, and in turn decreasing environmental risks. The MRDF supports research that attracts investment, creates jobs, especially in rural areas, and promotes innovation in the mining sector.

Their research into task-specific ionic liquids (TSILs) offers a promising solution that will make metal extraction cleaner and more environmentally responsible. TSILs are customizable chemicals capable of efficiently and selectively removing silver and gold from base metals. Unlike cyanide, ionic liquids can be engineered to be non-toxic and biodegradable.

For graduate student Tanner George, working on this project provided a new perspective on sustainable mining.

“Having the opportunity to dedicate my time to understanding ore refinement has given me sincere respect for the challenge of effective, yet environmentally conscious and ethically sound mining practices,“ he said. “While we were not able to completely replace cyanide with ionic liquid thioureas, we recognize the need for chemists to lead the future of critical minerals mining.“

“This project reinforced my passion for research with tangible societal impacts, and gave me hands-on experience,” said Liah Christie, undergraduate researcher.

By exploring alternatives to traditional gold extraction, this research is contributing to a more sustainable mining industry and helps prepare the next generation of chemists for real-world environmental challenges

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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.

Introducing the Arts Outreach Bulletin

The Faculty of Arts is delighted to share its inaugural Arts Outreach Bulletin with the SMU community. The 35-page digital report offers a summary of outreach initiatives and activities from Spring 2024 through Spring 2025.

"The projects and public events you will see in these pages reflect a passion for collaboration and exploration that enriches our academic environment and our community," Dr. Kirrily Freeman, Director of Outreach and Experiential Learning, said in her introductory message. "They are a testament to our collective commitment to engaged and innovative scholarship and education, on campus and beyond."  

The new publication shares highlights from innovative community collaborations, experiential learning opportunities for students, educational outreach, the Nova Scotia Provincial Heritage Fair, the annual Social Studies Teachers Association Conference, public lectures and ongoing events through the Saint Mary's Reading Series and Let's Go to the SMUvies!

A major outreach development this past year was the launch of Arts for Everyone (A4E), a new program that invites members of the public to attend a selection of courses for free on a drop-in basis. The program has more than doubled in size for its second year ahead; it started with five courses in 2024-2025, while 11 A4E courses are on the schedule for the upcoming year.

The Faculty of Arts Outreach Bulletin 2024-2025 is available for viewing online and downloading from the Outreach page and the Publications page of the Faculty of Arts website.

The publication was released on June 30, 2025, coinciding with the conclusion of Dr. Freeman’s three-year term. Dr. Rylan Higgins begins a new role in the Faculty of Arts on July 1 as Associate Dean of Outreach and Experiential Learning.

Dr. Freeman expressed her gratitude to faculty and staff members, Arts students and community partners, “whose openness and dedication made these initiatives such a success.”

Dean of Arts Dr. Mary Ingraham added, “These experiences not only enhance academic studies but also cultivate civic responsibility and professional growth. Through community-connected research, teaching and service, our faculty and students contribute to and learn from local and global perspectives.”   

For more outreach news and events throughout the year, follow the Faculty of Arts on Instagram at @smuarts and on Facebook at @SMUArts.

See some photos from our activities in 2024 and 2025 below:

Loyalist Connections Live Podcast event on campus

Loyalist Connections booth

Hands-on Mediterranean Archelogy workshop

Field course in The Gambia

Field School: Villa of Titus in Italy

Faculty of Arts booth

“From alien planets to faerie worlds: what constructed languages can tell us about human languages” with Christine Schreyer

2025 Cyril Byrne Lecture with Kate Beaton

"Upholding Sacred Obligations: Searching for the Missing and Disappeared Children" lecture with Kimberly Murray

SMU Reading Series: The Sign of Jonas

SMU Reading Series: Sue Murtaugh

SMU Reading Series: Souvankham Thammavongsa

Bright Club comedy show

Let’s Go to the SMUvies: May the Fourth

Let’s Go to the SMUvies: Queer for Fear