Members from Eastward Energy visited Saint Mary’s campus to discuss the new Indigenous Opportunities Bursary with student advisor Kylar Johnson
New bursary offered in September 2025 in partnership with Eastward Energy
Saint Mary’s University is proud to announce a new bursary aimed at supporting Indigenous students, thanks to a generous donation from Eastward Energy. The Eastward Energy Indigenous Opportunities Bursary will provide financial assistance to five Indigenous students each year for the next five years. This initiative will help alleviate barriers to post-secondary education and empower future leaders within Indigenous communities.
"As an Indigenous Student Advisor, my role is to be a bridge—connecting students to the resources they need to succeed,” said Kylar Johnson BComm'23, Indigenous Student Advisor. "This bursary not only helps Indigenous students financially but also affirms the commitment of the university to provide them with the support they need to thrive. It is a tangible, real-world example of creating change. By creating these opportunities, we are reinforcing the importance of community and reconciliation, ensuring that Indigenous voices are heard and valued throughout the university experience."
“Supporting Indigenous students is an important step toward building a more inclusive future,” said Kristen Wilcott MAEC'21, Manager of Government Relations at Eastwood Energy. “This bursary underscores our dedication to fostering opportunities and partnerships with First Nations communities. I hope it encourages students to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in their communities.”
A partnership grounded in shared values
Saint Mary’s University and Eastward Energy share core values of reconciliation and a commitment to fostering inclusive education.
The connection goes even deeper—several members of the Eastward Energy team are alumni of Saint Mary’s, including Ashley MacDonald BComm'11, Vice-President of Finance, and Allison Coffin MBA'13, Director of Regulatory and Government Relations. Partnering with Saint Mary’s was a natural extension of their shared commitment to diversity, making this collaboration a personal and meaningful step in advancing Truth and Reconciliation.
SMU Indigenous Student Advisor Kylar Johnson BComm’23 with Allison Coffin MBA'13, Kristen Wilcott MAEC'21 and Ashley MacDonald BComm'11 of Eastward Energy
A lasting impact for Indigenous students
“As an institution, we are committed to supporting Indigenous students and fostering stronger community connections,” said Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, President and Vice-Chancellor at Saint Mary’s University. “This significant gift will have a lasting impact, empowering Indigenous students to reach their academic potential. Saint Mary’s University remains dedicated to eliminating disparities and promoting inclusion, core pillars of our strategic plan. This bursary is a key step in realizing those values as we strive for a world without limits.”
“This effort is aimed at reducing financial barriers for Indigenous students pursuing higher education,” said John Hawkins, President at Eastward Energy. “This initiative reflects our continued commitment to Indigenous youth. As many of our team members at Eastward are Saint Mary’s alumni, we are pleased to partner with them. By supporting the next generation of leaders, we hope to contribute to reconciliation and the shared prosperity of our region.”
Quick Facts
The Eastward Energy Indigenous Opportunities Bursary will be awarded for the first time in the Fall of 2025.
The bursary will award $1,000 to five students each year for the next five years.
Self-identifying Indigenous students can learn more about bursaries, scholarships and awards.
Eastward Energy is a Nova Scotia-based company that provides natural gas distribution services across the province.
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