Meet your Arts Valedictorians for Spring Convocation
Elizabeth Ganton and Grayson Kennedy
Valedictorians Elizabeth Ganton and Grayson Kennedy will represent the Faculty of Arts at their ceremonies on Friday, May 29. Watch the graduation livestream and find the convocation program on our website.
Elizabeth Lynn Ganton
Philosophy, Psychology (Hons)
Originally from Milton, Ontario, Elizabeth Ganton (she/they) is graduating with a Bachelor of Arts, summa cum laude, with Honours in Psychology and a major in Philosophy.
Elizabeth began at Saint Mary’s in 2021 as an undeclared arts major and embraced the opportunity to take courses in as many departments as possible. Having been homeschooled from kindergarten to grade 12, her first day at SMU was her first day of school ever!
Elizabeth went on to become a critical thinking tutor and believes that their path into philosophy was fuelled by their parents’ dedication to encouraging their children to think for themselves. Her involvement in various on-campus societies, interacting and forming community with many other students, and service learning opportunities at Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS) inspired Elizabeth to pursue psychology along with philosophy.
Q&A with Elizabeth
Why did you choose Saint Mary’s University?
I had wanted to attend university in Halifax since I visited when I was 10 years old, and chose SMU because of its smaller class sizes and variety of courses and programs in the arts.
How were you involved in the SMU community?
I have been involved in various campus societies, including the Drama Society, the Pride Society, the Philosophy Society, the Environmental Society, and was secretary and one of the founders of the Bookworm Society. I was also part of the SMU branch of the Nova Scotia Student Strike for affordable tuition and divestment, helping students learn about how government cuts affect their tuition, and what they can do about where that tuition money is going.
Did you have a job or research position on campus?
I was a peer tutor for a first-year philosophy Critical Thinking course for three years.
What was your favourite class?
My favourite class was Environmental Ethics with Dr. Emma McClure. The role-playing game at the end of this course and other games in Dr. McClure’s courses were very effective in allowing me to see how the theories, concepts, and skills I was learning in class apply to (hypothetical) real-world scenarios.
Elizabeth won the People’s Choice Award for their 3-Minute Thesis at the 2026 Psychology Student Conference
What was your thesis title and description? Why did this research appeal to you?
My thesis title was “Night Skies and Meaning in Life: Awe, Social Identity, & Wellbeing in the Astronomy Community”. In an online survey, we asked individuals in the astronomy community to describe a time when they felt awe towards the night sky and examined how that awe related to their sense of meaning in life and overall well-being.
I was drawn to this subject as I have always had an interest in the night sky and astronomy as a hobby, and felt that the more I feel in awe of my surroundings, the better I feel about my life overall. Researching meaning in life and well-being in the astronomy community was a great way to connect these ideas.
Which instructor had the biggest impact on you?
There were two instructors who had the biggest impact on me, Dr. Scott Edgar and Dr. Emma McClure. They pushed me to become a better writer, communicator, and, more importantly, a better learner. Through Dr. Edgar, I gained the ability to dissect, fully grasp, and communicate various concepts more clearly than I ever thought was possible. From Dr. McClure, I learned to piece together big ideas that once seemed far too muddled and complex for me. These professors make each student feel supported and cared for individually, and I am beyond grateful for the lifelong passion for learning they have instilled in me.
Did you participate in any experiential learning opportunities at SMU?
I participated in the community service learning program for a developmental psychology class and volunteered with the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia. Since volunteering with ISANS for the service learning program, I have continued to volunteer with them on and off in various capacities since then, and plan to resume this summer.
Did you receive any scholarships or financial awards as a SMU student?
I received a renewable entrance scholarship and funding from SMUSA to attend and present at the Atlantic Regional Philosophers conference in October 2025, and funding from SMUSA and the Dean of Arts fund to present at the Science Atlantic Psychology Student Research conference in May 2026.
Looking back, what was your favourite SMU memory?
My favourite SMU memories were at the SMUvies events put on by the religion, philosophy, and women and gender studies faculties. I loved hearing other students and professors talk about how the theories and ideas we are learning about in school relate to pop culture.
What will you miss about Saint Mary’s?
I will miss the community feeling of being in the same boat with so many of my peers, struggling with midterms together, being excited for reading week together, and being proud of each other after all we’ve accomplished each semester. I’ll also miss being surrounded by so many student-focused staff: custodians, librarians, and food service workers who remember us and check in with us, faculty unions who communicate with and support student initiatives every step of the way, and professors who take time to hear students and work to make sure we have the best experience possible at SMU.
What are your goals for the future?
My main goal is to keep learning! I want to become a better writer and communicator. After I take a gap year to work and travel, I plan to pursue philosophy in grad school.
What advice would you give to current students?
My best advice is that it’s so important to put yourself out there and step out of your comfort zone. It took me a while to realize that it really isn’t that serious to go to an event alone, go to a professor’s office hours with a potentially silly question, or ask the person sitting next to you if they want to study together. Being brave and doing things that seemed scary at first was always worth it and led to amazing, unexpected opportunities. And take advantage of the available student services, even if you don’t think you need them! To name a few, I learned so much by asking questions to the librarians and in academic advising, felt the most comfortable I ever have in a doctor's office with Dr. Wong, and couldn’t have made it through my degree without Karen Schaffer’s career counselling.
Grayson Lynn Kennedy
English (Hons)
Originally from Coldbrook, Nova Scotia, Grayson is graduating with a Bachelor of Arts, summa cum laude, with Honours in English and a minor in creative writing.
Throughout his academic journey, Grayson found his home among the creative arts scene in SMU, where he not only received the Robert Hayes Memorial Scholarship in 2024 for his interest and aptitude in creative writing, but he also won 3rd and 2nd place in the Margo Takacs Marshall Memorial Prize for Excellence in Short Story Writing in 2025 and 2026 respectively. He was an avid member of the Saint Mary’s University Drama Society since 2022, serving as the lead role in Midsummer.com and The Importance of Being Earnest, and a supporting role in Agamemnon. Grayson considers his crowning achievement to be the time he wrote and directed his own original play through the Drama Society titled What You Will in the winter of 2026.
Aside from creative accomplishments, Grayson was deeply involved in the SMU community through volunteering as a Pack Leader and working as a student assistant at the Patrick Power Library. He was also granted the opportunity to present some of his critical work at the Annual Atlantic Undergraduate English Conference in 2026.
After graduation, Grayson plans to pursue a Master of Arts in the near future while continuing his involvement in the arts through creative writing, publishing more work, and producing more plays.
Q&A with Grayson
Why did you choose Saint Mary’s University?
I chose Saint Mary’s University because I liked the small, close-knit community it presented through its size. It wasn’t as intimidating as other universities I was considering at the time, and I can confidently say that SMU does have a fantastic community with plenty of opportunities to connect with others. I also chose SMU for its creative writing program, a choice I am thoroughly satisfied with.
Did you live in residence?
I lived in residence for all four years I attended SMU.
Did you have a job or research position on campus?
I worked as a student assistant at the Patrick Power Library for almost two years, where I discovered a love for library work and working with books in general. It was the best job I have ever had, with amazing colleagues and incredible interactions with patrons.
What was your favourite class?
I consider almost every class I took in the English department as my favourite! To narrow it down, my favourite class for its entertaining content was The Fantastic, taught by Dr. Mark Barr, where I got to engage with books from my favourite genre: fantasy. However, my favourite classes for what I learned were Literary Theory I and Literary Theory II, both taught by Dr. Alexander MacLeod. Those classes made me think about the world in new and exciting ways, and those lessons will stay with me for a long time.
Tell us about your honours research.
In the Honours seminars I took, titled Works of Wonder in the 19th Century and Milton, I focused my research on my favourite topics: gender and queer theory. For Works of Wonder, I looked at the role women’s bodies played in religious oppression during the 19th-century phenomenon of the fasting girls and the Salem Witch Trials through The Wonder by Emma Donoghue and Lois the Witch by Elizabeth Gaskell. In Milton, I argued that Paradise Lost by John Milton suggests that gender queerness is a virtue, and that embracing strict traditions of gender identity is antagonized. As I am transgender and frequently find myself pondering all kinds of questions regarding gender and queerness, I am eager to continue exploring these topics in English literature in the future.
Which instructor had the biggest impact on you?
While almost all of my professors were quite impactful, I had the honour of meeting and being taught by Dr. Alexander MacLeod. Not only did he teach some of my favourite classes that showed me new ways to think about the world, but I also consider him to be fundamental in developing my creative writing skills. He taught me how stories work through characters, themes, language, and a lot more. Without him, I would not be the writer I am today.
Did you receive any scholarships as a SMU student? (or bursaries?)
I received the $ 7,000 Renewable Entrance Scholarship when I enrolled at SMU directly out of high school, which I was able to keep for the entire four years I studied here. In 2024, I also received the Robert Hayes Memorial Scholarship for my interest in and aptitude for creative writing, granted on the recommendation of the chair of the English Department.
Do you have a favourite space on campus?
My favourite space on campus is the Patrick Power Library. Not only did I have an amazing job there, but it was a fantastic place for me to study, especially because I am someone who needs lots of quiet in order to focus. Plus, I always enjoy being surrounded by books, no matter if it’s a library, bookstore, or my own room. All in all, I love its quiet and relaxed atmosphere.
Grayson during a production with the SMU Drama Society
Looking back, what was your favourite SMU memory?
I don’t think I have anything specific, but all of my favourite memories have to do with spending time with friends, working on various SMUDS productions, and making great connections with people. I’ve spent many nights playing games with my friends, and I had so much fun acting and directing. It’s hard to pick just one! Some of my favourite memories are about having fun with cast members, trying to remember lines and sometimes failing to do so, and all the laughs we had in late-night rehearsals where we were delirious with exhaustion. My time at SMU was a lot of fun and I will forever cherish these memories.
What will you miss about Saint Mary’s?
I will miss the community. I have met so many amazing people, and have been involved in so many incredible projects and groups, and I’m sad that I will be leaving all of that behind. When I first came to SMU, I was afraid I wasn’t going to make many friends or find a place where I belonged, but I found all that and more. I made connections that will last me a lifetime, and I will miss seeing everyone I know on a regular basis.
What are your goals for the future?
My main goal is to become a published author. I have a lot of story ideas that I have not been able to put together yet because I was so busy with school, but now that I am graduating, I hope that I will get more time to work on my projects and publish a book. Besides that, I currently plan to pursue a Master of Arts and potentially a PhD to become an English professor, but I plan to take my time with that as well.
What advice would you give to current students?
Do not be afraid to take opportunities. If you see something you like or that interests you, go for it! Even if you don’t think you’ll get it, you never know what could happen. You aren’t guaranteed to win contests, get the job you really want, etc, but you are guaranteed to lose it if you don’t go for it. I wouldn’t be where I am today if I let opportunities slip by, no matter how doubtful I felt about my chances. You miss every shot you don’t take, and that is a quote I live by every day.
How one Saint Mary’s University student balanced school, entrepreneurship and visual storytelling
Prateek Tamta
Prateek Tamta has spent the past two years helping shape the visual identity of the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre while balancing being a student in university, entrepreneurship and leadership roles outside the classroom.
Originally from India, the Saint Mary’s University arts student is a self-taught photographer, cinematographer and designer who built his creative business, Pixels by Prateek, alongside his studies. Through photography, videography and storytelling, he has helped capture the energy of the Centre’s events, programs and entrepreneurial community while continuing to grow his own brand in Halifax.
Prateek’s creative journey started long before university.
“My mom used to buy film cameras when I was a kid and print albums of photos,” he says. “As I grew older, I became very keen on all things tech-related, would take a lot of photos on my phone, draw in my free time and watch lots of tech tutorials to get better at design.”
What began as curiosity quickly evolved into a passion for multidisciplinary storytelling. Over time, Prateek taught himself photography, videography and design through online tutorials, experimentation and trial and error.
“The most important skill I learned was how to learn anything,” he says. “Since I am self-taught, most of my skills came from Googling, YouTube tutorials, Skillshare courses and just trying things out.”
Prateek holds the Enactus World Cup trophy
While building Pixels by Prateek, Prateek was also balancing classes, his role at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre and leadership responsibilities with Enactus Saint Mary’s University. As VP of Tech alongside Co-VP Maya Campbell, he helped lead the tech team during Enactus SMU’s World Cup win.
“It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” he says. “We pulled all-nighters, problem-solved and built a system that future tech teams could use as a base. The win felt worth it because everyone worked so hard to get there.”
At the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, Prateek’s visual storytelling helped strengthen the Centre’s online presence by capturing authentic moments from events, student ventures and the entrepreneurial community. Through reels, photography and creative content, his work helped showcase the people and stories behind the Centre.
Balancing so many responsibilities was not always easy, but Prateek credits the Centre with helping him grow both personally and professionally.
“I was lucky enough to get a job at the Entrepreneurship Centre that let me work more within my skillset while giving me enough time to do well in classes as well as business,” he says. “The EC also introduced me to a lot of people and ways I could find clients for my business.”
As graduation approaches, Prateek will continue pursuing creative storytelling full-time. Looking back on his journey, he encourages other students to explore different interests and embrace the learning process.
“Make sure you’re taking care of yourselves,” he says. “It’s very easy to neglect your health when you’re passionate about something. Just make sure you’re not burning out, learning lots and most importantly, having fun.”
Worlds colliding: Accounting, Science & Arts Interdisciplinary Colloquium
If you are an applied science researcher looking for solutions to combat environmental problems like, say, innovative ways to remediate legacy gold mining waste materials, the accounting standard for contaminated sites might not be on your go-to list of tools and methods.
But it could be.
This was the bold premise behind an innovative interdisciplinary event held at Saint Mary’s on April 10, 2026. Researchers from Saint Mary’s Arts and Science Faculties were invited to share a piece of research they are working on. Professors of Geography, Environmental Science, Engineering and Astronomy and Physics took part: Linda Campbell, Valeria Montes Urrego, Karen Harper, and Athanasios Psaltis.
A team from the Accounting department of the Sobey School of Business then reflected on what methods, approaches and tools academic accounting might offer on the same project. These professors included organizers Vasiliki Athanasakou, Matthew Boland, Amna Chalwati Mohamed Drira, and Ming Liu, as well as Khin Phyo Hlaing.
Innovative insights presented
In the popular imagination, “accountant” is often positioned as an opposite to “creative”, but the presentations required enormous creativity. The event gleaned rich insights, as organizer Dr. Vasiliki Athanasakou pointed out:
“In particular, the vital role of accounting and disclosure in supporting remediation and more complete recognition of environmental liabilities; the importance of accounting and taxation in enabling the economic viability of innovative environmental solutions; the remarkable wealth of natural capital data that remains underexplored in reassessing ecosystem value; and the need to embrace a mix of methods to strengthen the external validity of complex, interdisciplinary phenomena.”
There is a certain kind of power in hearing an accountant speak about the real market values of biodiversity and its effects on GDP worldwide in conjunction with the scientist pointing out the value to the ecosystem.
Panelists call for stable funding and dialogue
The lunchtime fireside discussion engaged practitioners and academics who drilled into the real barriers of tackling long-term problems with evidence-based and practitioner-informed solutions. Panelists expressed frustrations with isolated policy development and implementation while ignoring the experience of practitioners. The gap can lead to unintended consequences or simply policy failure. For their part, researchers recognized the value of the findings brought by application. All agreed that unstable funding did not support long term outcomes.
Dr. Athanasakou noted, “The fireside discussion further emphasized the importance of clarity and certainty in investment projections as a key condition for translating evidence into action; the growing need to bring together scientists, companies, investor representatives and policymakers into shared dialogues; the central role of trust and governance in making those dialogues meaningful; and the importance of policy and governance consistency in supporting sustainable, long-term decision-making.”
Panelists were:
Adel Merabet, Professor of Engineering, SMU
Danika van Proosdij, Geomorphologist and Professor of Geography and Environmental Studies, SMU
Timothy Bachiu, Director of Research at Net Zero Atlantic
Donald G. LeBlanc, President of RDA Atlantic
Rob Rashotte, President, Global Training and Education, Cato Networks and student in the Sobey Executive Doctorate of Business Administration program.
Duncan P. Williams, President & CEO at Construction Association of Nova Scotia
Sparking new creative collisions
Interdisciplinary approaches really shine in an intimate community like Saint Mary's University. The day concluded with a cross-project discussion on opportunities for future research with doctoral students, which was also attended by a dual-credit co-op class of high school students. Interdisciplinary, intergenerational and reflecting a commitment to innovative ways to solve real-world problems.
The Accounting, Science and Arts Interdisciplinary Colloquium was, in many ways, a perfect distillation of the Saint Mary’s University promise of a world without limits.
From campus to community: Maddie Vanderlinden’s alumni journey
Maddie (on the right) volunteers with SMU Alumni during Homecoming
For Maddie Vanderlinden BA’24, staying involved with Saint Mary’s University was a natural next step after graduation—and a meaningful way to stay connected.
While completing her Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Intercultural Studies and French, along with a minor in Asian Studies, Maddie built a strong sense of community through her involvement with SAGA (Students Acting for Global Awareness), the French Society, WUSC (World University Service of Canada), and as a Welcome Weeks Leader—connections that made her experience unforgettable.
Today, she continues that connection as a member of both the Alumni Council and the Young Alumni Committee, roles she stepped into immediately after graduating.
“I chose to continue volunteering with SMU as a way to stay connected after graduating,” she shares. “I had such a positive experience during my time there.”
For Maddie, volunteering is about supporting students and helping foster the same welcoming environment she experienced. She’s especially enjoyed attending cultural events like Caribanza and believes it’s important for alumni to show support for student societies and the work they do.
We are very grateful to Maddie for her continued involvement and the energy she brings to the SMU community.
Her advice for students and new graduates:
“Getting involved before you graduate makes the transition to alumni engagement much easier—but it’s never too late to start.”
Donna Davis is a woman with a plan
By Krista Keough
Donna Davis Hon BA’85
“I was always interested in cities,” said Donna Davis Hon BA’85, “which is kind of interesting given the fact that I grew up in a rural community.” Hants County in Nova Scotia is where Davis calls her hometown, but the bright city lights were calling her name from an early age.
“I didn’t get to go to the city very often, but I was very intrigued,” she said. “Lots of lights, lots of people, lots of activities going on. I was very excited by it, and interested in exploring cities and understanding how they worked.”
In high school, Davis discovered her passion for urban geography. One of her geography teachers, Robin Crickmer, was also a part-time professor at Saint Mary’s. He was instrumental in her application to the university and her pursuit of a career in the field.
“At that time, I didn’t want to leave Nova Scotia. Being able to go to a local university that has a well-known geography program, as well as having a professor that I knew, really made that decision pretty easy.”
With Davis’ stand-out grades, Crickmer and her guidance counsellors had put her name forward for a full scholarship, “so that also helped,” she said. The extra support, however, came with its own set of challenges.
“I had to maintain a 4.0 grade point average to keep the scholarship for four years,” said Davis. When asked how she handled the added pressure that comes with achieving the highest marks, she says she was very proud of the opportunity.
“I didn’t want to disappoint anyone, including my parents, who were pleased as punch. I was probably going to work really hard anyhow, but it drove me to succeed.”
While on campus and living in residence, she played recreational sports, took part in social activities and met a lot of really great friends. “The small class sizes also meant that I got to know a lot of my schoolmates.”
Davis completed her Master of Science in City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning at the University of Toronto after graduating from Saint Mary’s. She was drawn to the fact that Toronto is a really big city, and it gave her the chance to live that “big city life”.
As much as she enjoyed her experience, she returned to Nova Scotia to begin her career and be near family and friends.
Her first job was as a planning technician, followed by a position as a junior planner at the Municipality of East Hants. She moved to the (former) Town of Bedford and, after the amalgamation, transitioned to the Halifax Regional Municipality.
“I’ve been working for the municipality for 38 years. I’ve had the opportunity to do many different things, and that’s always kept my interest.”
For the first decade, she worked in planning and development. “I started as an urban planner writing urban planning policy, developing city plans and being involved in development approval processes.”
Davis took on more senior roles, up to Chief Information Officer, and led major initiatives using information and technology management to provide better services to residents. At the top of her game, she could have retired early, “but I didn’t,” she said.
“I had the opportunity to take on the role of project manager for the Cogswell District project,” she said, which is the biggest city-building project in the history of Halifax. “That really brought me full circle into the planning realm again.”
“To have a hand in what’s going to be a brand new neighbourhood, and a very pivotal piece in downtown Halifax in such a prime location, is just phenomenal. We’ve been able to take an area of land that really didn’t have a purpose and turn it into something really vibrant.”
Not only was the interchange underutilized, but it also represented a separation of the north and west end from the waterfront and downtown. “Our ability to remove it and knit those connections together again is one of the most exciting things for me.”
What’s next for Davis, now that she is officially retiring? Making memories with her parents and taking on meaningful volunteer work are at the top of her list. To fulfill her passion for exploring new places, she plans to travel more with her husband. “There are lots of cities and lots of urban areas to see in the world,” she said, as the bright city lights call her name once again.
This story was featured in the Fall edition of the Maroon + White alumni magazine. Visit the online magazine to read more alumni stories!
Being There: How Stuti Sandhu is supporting older adults through preventive care
Stuti Sandhu
As a fourth-year arts student studying psychology, Stuti Sandhu is turning her passion for helping others into meaningful action. As the founder of Being There, Stuti is working to address a critical gap in community support for older adults by creating a preventive care model designed to help them maintain independence and age in place.
Her journey began long before the idea for Being There took shape. Growing up, she always knew she wanted to help people. While many children dream of becoming astronauts, engineers or superheroes, Stuti envisioned starting a nonprofit organization that would make a real difference in people’s lives. At the time, she didn’t know exactly how that dream would unfold, but she continued to pursue opportunities that allowed her to serve others.
That clarity came while volunteering in hospitals. During this experience, she encountered many older adults navigating complex health challenges and a lack of preventive support. She began to see firsthand how easily small issues, such as dehydration, missed meals or forgotten medications could escalate into serious health concerns.
Those observations sparked the idea behind Being There. The organization focuses on prevention, aiming to support older adults before health challenges become emergencies. By identifying early warning signs and providing consistent community support, Being There works to reduce avoidable emergency department visits and help older adults maintain their baseline health and independence for as long as possible.
For Stuti, entrepreneurship has played an important role in turning her academic knowledge into real-world impact. Through her psychology program, she developed a strong understanding of research and human behaviour. However, it was through her involvement with the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre and the World Champion Enactus Saint Mary's team that she learned how to implement ideas and build solutions that address real community needs. The business was also a part of the team that recently took third place in the 2026 Desjardins Community Empowerment Challenge at the Enactus Regional Exposition this February.
She says that many students in arts and science fields are motivated by a desire to change the world, but often lack the tools to turn research into action. Entrepreneurship, she believes, provides that pathway.
Today, Being There is preparing to launch its first pilot program, marking an exciting milestone for the organization. Stuti hopes the initiative will not only support older adults in the community but also inspire greater collaboration among organizations that share a commitment to improving aging care.
As the project grows, Sandhu continues to focus on her original mission: ensuring that older adults feel supported, valued and able to live independently for as long as possible.
Interested in learning more about how entrepreneurship can blend with other areas of study? Explore programs and events at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre.
Saint Mary’s graduate student uncovers hidden barriers in PEI’s rental market
When Brittany Cormier began scrolling through rental ads in Charlottetown, she was not looking for a research topic. She was trying to help people keep a roof over their heads.
Brittany Cormier
At the time, Brittany was working in a rent-geared-to-income program on Prince Edward Island, supporting tenants who were being displaced by renovations, short-term rental conversions, or landlords reclaiming units for personal use. Helping people find alternative housing meant hours spent reviewing online rental advertisements.
What she noticed was language that quietly shaped who felt able to apply. “There were patterns that kept repeating,” Brittany recalls. “Requirements that seemed neutral, but in practice discouraged a lot of people before they ever had a chance.”
Those observations stayed with her. Years later, as a student in Saint Mary’s University’s Master of Applied Health Services Research (MAHSR) program, they became the foundation of a research fellowship through the Canadian Centre for Housing Rights (CCHR) and a published report examining discrimination and exclusion in rental housing advertisements across the capital region of PEI.
From lived experience to applied research
Brittany has been a student in the MAHSR program since 2018, with research focused on hidden homelessness, evictions and inequities in the rental sector. Her academic work has always been closely connected to her professional experience.
“I was already seeing these issues on the ground,” she says. “The fellowship gave me the opportunity to study what I had been observing for years, but in a systematic way.”
As part of the Canadian Right to Housing Research Fellowship, Brittany manually collected more than 1,800 rental advertisements over a 22-week period in 2023. Ads were gathered from Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji, the two primary platforms used for rental listings on the Island. From that larger set, a representative sample was analyzed in depth.
Each advertisement was reviewed individually, documenting rental type, pricing and language that could signal discrimination or exclusion. “That close reading is where patterns start to reveal themselves,” Brittany says.
What the ads revealed
The findings were striking.
Seventy-seven percent of the rental ads in the sample contained discriminatory or exclusionary language. More than half included multiple barriers. Some of that language fell within protected grounds under the PEI Human Rights Act, such as source of income or family status. Other language did not technically violate legislation, but still discouraged certain people or groups from applying at all.
“One of the most important distinctions in the study was between discrimination and exclusion,” Brittany explains. “Even when something is legal, it can still have real consequences for who is able to access housing.”
Even in the absence of evidence of intent or authorship, the findings highlight how the cumulative effect of exclusionary screening practices operating within a constrained housing market can meaningfully restrict access to housing.
The type of barriers also differed by housing arrangement. For example, language related to source of income and family or marital status was more prevalent in standalone unit ads, while language related to sex and gender expression or gender identity was more prevalent in shared accommodation ads.
Another unexpected finding was the volume of shared accommodation listings. Nearly half of all ads analyzed involved people seeking roommates. “To me, that really spoke to affordability constraints,” Brittany says. “People are sharing not because they want to, but because it’s the only way they can afford to live.”
Why it matters
While the research focuses on rental advertisements, Brittany is clear that the implications extend beyond housing. “Housing is foundational,” she says. “When people cannot access stable housing, the impacts show up everywhere, including health, education, and employment.”
She points to economic exclusion as particularly urgent. Even without discriminatory language, rising rents alone are preventing low-income individuals and families from participating in the private rental market. “When housing is financially out of reach, people are left with overcrowding, unsafe arrangements or homelessness,” she says.
For students and researchers, Brittany believes the study offers a clear example of how systemic barriers can operate quietly in everyday processes. “This isn’t just about bad actors,” she says. “It’s about how ordinary practices shape access.”
The Saint Mary’s influence
Brittany credits her experience at Saint Mary’s with shaping how she approaches this research.
Supervision for her MAHSR thesis – a separate project looking at hidden and at-risk homelessness – falls under the Department of Social Justice and Community Studies, which helped her develop a human rights-based lens over time.
“When I started my program, I didn’t fully understand the right to housing as a framework,” she says. “Through mentorship and coursework, that lens became central to my work.”
The MAHSR program’s emphasis on applied, community-grounded research also mattered. Brittany completed the fellowship while continuing to live and work in her home community. “It meant I could study housing issues while being embedded in the place I was studying,” she says. “Small communities experience housing challenges too, but they’re often understudied.”
Looking ahead
While the report stops short of policy recommendations, Brittany hopes it contributes to broader conversations about housing access and fairness.
“If we ignore barriers at the earliest stages of the housing search process, we miss a critical part of the problem,” she says. “Addressing housing supply alone isn’t enough if people are discouraged before they can even apply.”
For anyone searching for their first apartment, her advice is practical. Learn your tenant rights. Ask questions. Keep records. “It’s okay not to know everything,” Brittany says. “But having information can make a real difference.”
As for what she hopes readers take away: “Housing discrimination doesn’t always look dramatic,” she says. “Often, it’s quiet and easy to overlook, yet its effects can shape people’s lives in lasting ways.”
New social innovation field course includes travel to Ghana
Accra, Ghana
Launching at Saint Mary’s in 2026, a new field course will help students build career-ready skills in non-profit leadership, community-based research and intercultural communication. The Ghana Field Course: Religion and Social Innovation (RELS 3800) will take learning far beyond the classroom this summer, as students explore how culture and religion help drive social innovation in the West African nation.
“This isn’t a typical study abroad experience,” says Dr. James Kwateng-Yeboah, who developed the new course. “Students will spend three weeks working alongside Ghanaian community leaders, NGO practitioners and religious organizations to understand how spiritual values drive real-world social change. They’ll visit Indigenous shrines, historic mission sites and contemporary social enterprises, while building practical competencies that employers and graduate programs value.”
The course will examine how African Indigenous and religious traditions are shaping social innovation in education, entrepreneurship and cultural heritage in Ghana—one of Africa’s most vibrant centers of creative enterprise. The course also invites reflection on how African communities transform histories of slavery and colonialism into new models of resilience and social impact.
Combining pre-departure preparation, three weeks of immersive fieldwork in Ghana and post-return synthesis sessions, the course will give students the contextual knowledge, field experience and reflective space to truly integrate their learning. In just seven weeks (July 6 to August 24), students will earn six credit hours.
Though the course is offered by the Department for the Study of Religion, it’s designed to be interdisciplinary in nature. It will appeal to students interested in Black and African studies, religious studies, history, intercultural studies, global development studies and sociology. The course is particularly valuable for students considering careers in global development, nonprofit management, community organizing and social entrepreneurship, or graduate work in African studies, religious studies or history, as the structured fieldwork is designed to build transferable professional skills.
“I designed this course because students need more than abstract theories; they need to see how communities actually create change,” says Dr. Kwateng-Yeboah. “Ghana offers a living laboratory where you can trace how communities have transformed centuries of colonial exploitation into new models of resilience, creativity and entrepreneurship.”
Dr. James Kwateng-Yeboah (far right) with Ebun Oladele, Black Student Advisor (far left) and two students at the Ghana Field Course information session during International Education Week
During International Education Week in November, Dr. Kwateng-Yeboah held an information session in the Black Student Commons. He has also produced a brief video to promote the new course.
Spots are limited to ensure meaningful engagement with community partners. Interested students should complete the expression of interest form as soon as possible. Dr. Kwateng-Yeboah will contact applicants for interviews before final registration. For more details, contact him at James.Kwateng-Yeboah@smu.ca.
Kwateng-Yeboah completed his own undergraduate studies at the University of Ghana before coming to Canada for his graduate studies. At Saint Mary’s, his primary areas of research and teaching are African Christianity, migration, and development.
The new course adds to SMU’s study abroad offerings in Africa that have also included several Geography field courses in The Gambia, most recently in Winter 2025. Saint Mary's also maintains an academic exchange partnership with Uganda Martyrs University in Africa, through the Global Learning & Intercultural Support office.
Related
Saint Mary's-based Centre sets gold standard for shoreline protection in Atlantic Canada
Sometimes climate leadership looks like a homeowner choosing a thriving habitat over a quick-fix retaining wall.
TransCoastal Adaptations (TCA), the Saint Mary’s University-based Centre for Nature-Based Solutions, has announced a major milestone for coastal resilience: the first certified Green Shores for Homes projects in Atlantic Canada.
Two waterfront properties, located at Kingsburg Beach and Molega Lake in southwest Nova Scotia (Kespukwitk), have both achieved Gold-level certification, the highest standard under the program.
For decades, waterfront improvements have often involved installing rock walls or concrete that can unintentionally worsen erosion and destroy local ecosystems. The Green Shores for Homes program, coordinated in the Maritimes by the TCA team at Saint Mary’s, offers a different path.
Dr. Danika Van Proosdij, Saint Mary’s University Professor and Director of TransCoastal Adaptations
“These projects prove that climate adaptation and biodiversity protection can go hand-in-hand,” says Dr. Danika Van Proosdij, Coastal geomorphologist and professor in the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at Saint Mary’s University, as well as the Director and Co-Founder of TCA.
“By working with natural processes rather than against them, these homeowners are protecting their properties while also strengthening the health of our coastlines,” she says.
Southwest Nova Scotia is a recognized biodiversity hotspot, home to many species at risk. These Gold-certified sites serve as practical models for how individual actions can contribute to broader environmental outcomes:
At Kingsburg Beach, erosion mitigation and sand-capture techniques were implemented to stabilize the shoreline while maintaining natural coastal dynamics.
At Molega Lake, a full riparian zone restoration was completed, creating a natural buffer that improves water quality and increases resilience to flooding.
“The impact of these projects extends past the property lines,” says Dr. Van Proosdij. “The homeowners on these two properties treated their certification as a starting point for advocacy, engaging with their neighbours and local communities on shoreline health.”
True to the Saint Mary’s mission of community-engaged research, these projects bring together a wide range of expertise. While TCA provided the framework, the work on the ground was supported by:
Helping Nature Heal Inc. and CB Wetlands and Environmental Specialists (Design and implementation)
Manzer Brothers Excavation and Landworks Inc. (On-the-ground support)
The Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute and Government of Nova Scotia biologists (Specialized knowledge of Atlantic Coastal Plain flora and endangered reptiles)
As climate pressures like rising sea levels and storm intensity continue to affect Atlantic Canada, the success of the Kingsburg and Molega Lake projects is a proven example that coastal living can be protected by working in partnership with nature, one shoreline at a time.
To learn more about Green Shores for Homes and how TransCoastal Adaptations is leading nature-based climate solutions, visit transcoastaladaptations.com.
Event on campus
Join Dr. Van Proosdij for an upcoming event with Dr. Jonathan Fowler: "Re-imagining resilience in Bay of Fundy Dykelands."
Thursday, February 26, 2026
6-8:30 p.m.
Unilever Lounge, 4th floor Sobey School of Business
923 Robie St.
Welcome to the first annual fireside chat in the series Reimagining Rural Resilience: Changing Landscapes and Lifescapes. Hosted by The Gorsebrook Research Institute for Atlantic Canada Studies (GRI), the TransCoastal Adaptations Centre for Nature-Based Solutions (TCA) at Saint Mary's University, and the Community Conservation Research Network (CCRN), this series will showcase new research on and about Nova Scotia with the public.
This is a friendly fireside chat, open to everyone. Light refreshments provided. Together, let's learn about the latest research beyond barriers of university classrooms. Register here.
Career Week: February 3-11, 2026
Join us for SMU Career Week from February 3-11! This week-long series of activities is designed to support students and new alumni at all stages of their academic journey as they plan their professional futures.
Career Week includes both virtual and in-person events, offering insights, connections and unique perspectives from valued community partners, SMU subject matter experts, employer partners and alumni. You’ll be inspired to explore, plan and build a strong foundation for success.
Thank you to Sobeys, our Career Week sponsor. Join the Sobeys event on February 3 to learn about a career in retail with Sobeys.
Accessibility Information: We aim to make our events inclusive for everyone. Please email cel@smu.ca with any accessibility requests or specific accommodations.
Career Week 2026 Events
Sobeys – Retail Reimagined
The careers you don’t expect at Sobeys
Tuesday, February 3
4-6 p.m.
Loyola 290
“It’s all about people!” You'll hear this echo through the halls of Sobeys—and now we're inviting you to experience it firsthand.
Join us for an evening with leaders who've shaped one of Canada's most iconic retailers, born and raised right here in Nova Scotia. Hear directly from Sobeys executives and former students who've turned internships into thriving careers. Discover what it really takes to succeed in retail, from supply chain to store operations, and everything in between.
This isn't just another corporate presentation. It's your chance to connect with people who have walked your path, ask the questions that matter, and explore opportunities with an organization that's deeply rooted in Nova Scotia.
Come ready to connect, learn and see why at Sobeys, it really is about the people.
Open to all students, this free, reception-style event includes food, swag bags and the chance to network directly with Sobeys recruiters. Registration is required.
Summer Job & New Grad Career Fair
Wednesday, February 4
11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Loyola 290
Forty organizations in one room, ready to talk with students and recent graduates from Arts, Science, and Commerce. Whether you're seeking a co-op work term, internship, summer job or full-time work after graduation, this fair is for you!
Year 2 at SMU Lunch & Learn
Thursday, February 5
Noon-1:30 p.m.
Loyola Academic 178
Second year students: this session is for YOU! Learn how to separate career myths from facts and find out how you can leverage your university experience for career success.
Rise and Thrive: Unlocking Black Brilliance Panel
Thursday, February 5
4-6 p.m.
Sobey 422
At this panel event, you will learn about empowerment, growth and excellence in career development, as well as strategies for overcoming barriers and taking initiative in your professional life. It’s about moving beyond survival to success and flourishing in your career. Learn about the unique creativity and innovation that Black alumni bring to their respective fields as we create spaces where Black excellence is seen, valued, and elevated.
Get a Job with the Government of Canada
Friday, February 6
12-1 p.m.
Online event
Join the Public Service Commission of Canada to learn about the various job opportunities for students and graduates, including the Federal Student Work Experience Program, Co-op and the Research Affiliate Program.
Learn about support programs for Indigenous students and students with disabilities, and ask about the types of careers you can pursue with the Government of Canada.
Networking Event for International Students
Friday, February 6
1-3:15 p.m.
Loyola 186
Recruiters from several industries will share tips and strategies for job search success in this interactive session featuring both a larger panel presentation and smaller breakout discussion groups. Listen, ask questions, network and get the inside scoop on what employers want!
Limited spaces available.
Resume Development: Beyond the Basics
Friday, February 6
2-3 p.m.
Online event
Explore, learn and build a resume that truly reflects your unique self and helps you stand out from the competition! This webinar will help you develop a professional resume that reflects a collection of your strengths, experiences and skills in a way that employers can easily understand.
LinkedIn Photoshoot
Monday, February 9
2-4 p.m.
Student Centre 401
Elevate your LinkedIn profile with a new professional photo! Come by Career & Experiential Learning to have your headshot taken by a professional photographer, for free. Be sure to sign up for a slot in the Career360 calendar. Remember to dress in professional attire!
How To Help People in Your Career
You don't have to be a therapist (unless you want to!)
Monday, February 9
4-5:15 p.m.
Loyola Academic 173
Are you considering a career as a therapist because you want to help people? This session explores various options and possibilities for supporting individuals and communities, while also delving into the career pathways for different types of therapists.
From Student to Leader: On-Campus Jobs Explained
Tuesday, February 10
2:30-4 p.m.
Loyola Academic 277
Interested in an on-campus job or leadership role for next year or this summer? Join Peer Success Coaches to learn what roles are posted in February, hear peer tips on applying, and explore the benefits of these positions. You'll gain insights from Career Services Professionals on how to identify the skills gained from these roles and make them transferable to a professional job.
B.Ed. Network & Prep Fair
Tuesday, February 10
4-6 p.m.
Sobey 422
Considering applying to Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) programs? Have questions about admission requirements and whether you're on track? Bring your questions—and transcripts—to the B.Ed. Network & Prep Fair. Connect with representatives from B.Ed. programs across Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, along with SMU Academic Advisors and Career Coaches. You'll receive personalized guidance, get confirmation that you're on track, and discover ways to strengthen your application.
Grad Expo
Wednesday, February 11
10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Anne J. & Albert T. Isaacs Commons
Are you graduating in 2026? Attend the Grad Expo to learn about alumni benefits, student loan repayment, resources for new graduates, and more! Calnen Photography will be on site for grad photos - book your session here.
Workplace Wellness & Accessibility
Wednesday, February 11
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Online via Zoom
Learn how to self-advocate at work, tips on identifying inclusive job postings and employers, as well as how to navigate and request workplace accommodations.
Turning a diagnosis into impact: How Emma McGill is building community through Gluten Free Living
Emma McGill presents at a JA Nova Scotia event
Emma McGill sits comfortably between two worlds, science and entrepreneurship. An astrophysics and anthropology student, Emma is also the founder of Gluten Free Living. With support from the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, the growing initiative focuses on supporting people with celiac disease and gluten intolerance.
Emma’s journey into entrepreneurship began long before she ever thought of starting a business. At 12 years old, she was diagnosed with celiac disease, a moment that quickly reshaped everyday life for her and her family. Suddenly, grocery shopping became expensive and time-consuming, with gluten-free alternatives costing significantly more and often falling short in quality.
“I was told by my doctor that celiac disease was one of the easiest illnesses to live with because you just have to change your diet,” Emma recalls. “But that doesn’t mean it’s easy.”
As she grew older, Emma became more aware of how isolating the condition could be. Eating out with friends, attending work events or finding reliable information often came with stress and uncertainty. What stood out most was the lack of accessible, centralized support for people navigating similar experiences.
This gap is what inspired Gluten Free Living, with the platform currently growing through community events and social channels. It aims to create safe spaces where people can connect, share information and find trusted gluten-free options. In the long term, Emma envisions Gluten Free Living as a fully developed app that brings together verified health information, restaurant resources and practical financial tools, including an AI-powered assistant to help users navigate Canada’s complex celiac-related tax credits.
“The cost of gluten-free food can be two to five times higher than regular food,” Emma says. “I wanted to build something that helps people not only protect their health, but also manage the financial reality that comes with it.”
While entrepreneurship might seem far from astrophysics, Emma sees more overlap than expected. Skills such as problem-solving, communication, teamwork and proposal writing transfer easily between the lab and the business world. Her involvement with Enactus Saint Mary’s has further strengthened those skills, connecting her with a community of students who are driven to create a meaningful impact.
That sense of momentum has only grown following Enactus Saint Mary’s recent World Cup win in Bangkok, Thailand, which Emma believes has energized the broader entrepreneurial community both on campus and beyond. “There’s this excitement now,” she says. “People feel encouraged to build things that matter.”
For Emma, Gluten Free Living is about more than food. It’s about visibility, connection and reminding people that they’re not alone.
“You shouldn’t have to struggle quietly just because something is labelled as ‘manageable,’” she says. “Community makes a difference.”
Interested in learning more about how entrepreneurship can blend with other areas of study? Explore programs and events here.