Saint Mary’s University mourns the death of PhD candidate Blair John

Blair John

Blair John

I am saddened to share the news that Blair John, a PhD candidate in Psychology, recently passed away in Turin, Italy.

The university has been in close contact with Blair’s family to offer support and to extend sympathy and condolences on behalf of the Saint Mary’s community.

Originally from the Bahamas, Blair joined Saint Mary’s in September 2017 and was working on his PhD in Industrial / Organizational Psychology. He was a Junior Consultant at the CN Centre for Occupational Health and Safety.

In his time at Saint Mary’s, Blair became known as a leader, and was a well-loved colleague and friend. He served as University Representative for the Canadian Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology and was involved in many student activities. He also recently won first prize in the Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) competition at Saint Mary’s for his presentation, “Catching the Fakers: Exploring New Methods to Identify Applicant Faking in Interviews.”

Blair was an engaging, caring individual who embodied Santamarian values. We extend our deepest sympathies to all those who knew him.

Dr. Rob Summerby-Murray
President and Vice-Chancellor
Saint Mary’s University

Supports available to all within the Saint Mary’s community

  • A grief counsellor from Shepell Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) will be available from 9 am – 1 pm on Friday, June 7 in Sobey 158.        

  • The Counselling Centre
    4th Floor, Student Centre
    902-420-5615 / counselling@smu.ca
    Drop-ins welcome

  • Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP)

  • Mental Health Mobile Crisis Team (24/7, telephone response)
    Crisis support across Nova Scotia
    902-429-8167 or 1-888-429-8167

  • Student Health Centre
    902-420-5611

  • Good2Talk
    24/7 free and confidential phone counselling
    1-833-292-3698

  • SMUSA Health Plan is providing services through I.M. WELL.
    Please contact the SMUSA Health Plan Office for assistance: SMUSA Health Plan Office, 5th Floor Student Centre, 902-496-8754; or, if you wish to speak directly with a counsellor:

  • I.M. Well (24/7, 365 days per year)
    Download (I.M. Well) Counselling App, and/or resources and live chat available for ALL students: 1-877-234-5327

  • Grief consultation will be available on campus. For further information please email: healthplan.smusa@smu.ca