Not your typical research project

The CLARI space on Saint Mary’s campus allows faculty, students and community groups to work together on research projects

CLARI starts with community need, not a thesis

The Change Lab Action Research Initiative (CLARI) at Saint Mary’s University is quietly reshaping how research meets real-world needs. From mapping dementia care gaps and tackling housing insecurity to revitalizing Nova Scotia’s wool industry, CLARI-supported projects are as diverse as the communities they serve.

This spring, CLARI marks a major milestone: more than $1 million in provincial funding invested in over 130 projects. The initiative brings together faculty and students from post-secondary institutions across Nova Scotia with community partners to address local social and economic challenges.

“This funding milestone reflects significant investment of post-secondary resources in Nova Scotia communities,” says Ray MacNeil, Network Manager at CLARI. “That investment includes not only funding, but also the research expertise of faculty and students. More than 150 students have gained real-world experience working directly with community partners.”

At the heart of CLARI’s model is a simple shift: community groups—not researchers—set the priorities. CLARI helps identify faculty collaborators, provides grants and supports the partnerships through to completion.

“These projects show what’s possible when we stop asking, ‘What research do we want to do?’ and start asking, ‘What support do our communities need?’” says Dr. Adam Sarty, Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research at Saint Mary’s. “CLARI flips the usual model. It’s not about showcasing expertise, it’s about sharing it.”

Examples of projects supported through CLARI include:

CLARI researchers investigate how therapy animals can reduce isolation

• Investigating the role of therapy animals in reducing isolation in long-term care

• Creating resources to support men re-entering society after incarceration

• Making arts-based entrepreneurship programs more accessible to rural youth

• Developing trauma-informed responses for survivors of gender-based violence

• Collaborating with Mi’kmaw communities on land-based education and knowledge-sharing

CLARI is a pan-university initiative headquartered at Saint Mary’s and built on collaboration between six founding universities: Acadia, Cape Breton, Mount Saint Vincent, St. Francis Xavier, and Université Sainte-Anne, as well as the Nova Scotia Community College. The network builds partnerships together, sharing knowledge, and helping uncover issues.

As CLARI enters its next phase, the focus remains the same: helping Nova Scotians solve problems that matter with research that doesn’t stay on the shelf.

For more information on CLARI and its network or how to get involved, visit actionresearch.ca.

Can AI make medications safer? Saint Mary's prof says yes.

Medication errors cost billions and risk lives, but Dr. Somayeh Kafaie, Assistant Professor at Saint Mary’s University, says artificial intelligence can help solve the problem.

Nova Scotia is home to one of Canada’s oldest populations, creating significant challenges for its healthcare system. By 2030, more than 25% of the province’s residents will be over the age of 65.[1]

Many older adults rely on multiple prescriptions to manage chronic illnesses, a practice known as polypharmacy. While often necessary, taking several medications simultaneously significantly increases the risk of harmful drug-drug interactions (DDIs), potentially causing serious complications and hospitalizations.

In Canada, nearly two-thirds of Canadians aged 65 and older living in long-term care facilities take ten or more prescription drugs.[2] Globally, medication errors and harmful interactions cost approximately $42 billion USD annually in avoidable healthcare expenses.[3]

Dr. Somayeh Kafaie is developing AI tools for healthcare providers to help reduce the risk of harmful drug interactions in patients

Dr. Somayeh Kafaie, Assistant Professor in the Department of Mathematics and Computing Science at Saint Mary’s University, is addressing this challenge using artificial intelligence (AI).  

“Our goal is not simply to use AI to flag risky drug interactions,” says Dr. Kafaie. “We want healthcare providers to clearly understand why certain interactions are problematic. By unifying drug databases and applying AI, we can identify potential issues early.”

A core component of the project is a dynamic knowledge graph, visually representing complex drug relationships and translating dense medical data into clear, actionable insights. Knowledge graphs have demonstrated promise in effectively predicting drug interactions by integrating extensive medical information.[4]

Additionally, Dr. Kafaie’s team is developing an AI-powered Q&A tool designed specifically for healthcare providers, allowing instant access to evidence-based medication guidance.

“When a doctor or pharmacist has questions about a medication interaction, our program can deliver quick, clear answers based on the latest research. AI should never replace human judgment but instead support it. Clinicians face overwhelming complexity managing medications for older patients, and our platform aims to lighten that cognitive load.”

Supported by the New Health Investigator Grant from Research Nova Scotia, Dr. Kafaie’s research aims to transform how healthcare professionals predict and prevent harmful drug interactions. Although still in early stages, the AI-driven platform has significant potential to reduce medication errors, shorten hospital stays and enhance overall patient care.

“This grant isn’t just financial support—it’s a vote of confidence,” says Dr. Kafaie. “Support like this shapes the future of healthcare research, drives innovation and develops the next generation of scientists.”

As demographics shift globally, pioneering efforts like Dr. Kafaie’s illustrate how local research at Saint Mary's University can generate meaningful, far-reaching impacts, positioning SMU as a leader in innovative healthcare solutions.

About the New Health Investigator Grant

Research Nova Scotia’s New Health Investigator Grant supports early-career health researchers who are engaged in research that is focused on the efficient and effective delivery of healthcare to Nova Scotians. Funding is provided by the Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness.

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Sources

[1] Long Term Care | novascotia.ca

[2] Two-thirds of seniors in long-term care take 10 or more drugs: CIHI - PMC

[3] Medication Without Harm

[4] JMIR Medical Informatics - Drug-Drug Interaction Predictions via Knowledge Graph and Text Embedding: Instrument Validation Study

More than a website: FSC’s new digital hub centralizes accessibility at SMU

The Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility (FSC) at Saint Mary’s University has launched a newly redesigned website, introducing a centralized accessibility hub designed to improve the user journey and simplify access to essential supports. While the FSC remains the core of SMU’s academic accessibility, the new site brings together accessibility-related resources across the university into one cohesive, intuitive space, ensuring students, faculty, and staff can easily find the information they need. 

This project, made possible through donor funding, reflects Saint Mary’s ongoing commitment to accessibility and equitable education while advancing the FSC’s mission to integrate Universal Design principles across higher education. It also reinforces the university’s readiness to meet the standards outlined in the Nova Scotia Accessibility Act and aligns with Access by Design 2030. 

“By prioritizing digital accessibility from the start, the redesign aligns with the FSC’s goal of creating barrier-free learning environments that benefit all students,” Kate McHugh, Manager of the Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility, notes. “The project team worked diligently to meet or exceed WCAG 2.0 accessibility standards, achieving AA compliance wherever possible and reaching AAA in many components.”  

Through user engagement sessions, including input from students, faculty, and staff, and comprehensive before-and-after digital accessibility audits, the project team worked to build a site that is intuitive, inclusive, intersectional, and aligned with accessibility best practices. 

A user-centered approach to accessibility 

The redesign process focused on improving the user experience by identifying pain points and making the site easier to navigate, more intuitive and more inclusive. Key enhancements include: 

• A streamlined, centralized hub where students can explore academic accommodations, assistive technology and other accessibility supports all in one place.  

• Enhanced digital accessibility features to ensure the site meets diverse user needs, removing barriers to accessing information.  

• A focus on reducing the 'unknown' for students by including clearer explanations of what to expect when accessing FSC services, from registering for accommodations to visiting the space in person. The site also reflects the warm and welcoming nature of the FSC team, ensuring students feel welcomed and supported from their first interaction. 

• Plain language and user-friendly content to ensure students, whether they are familiar with accessibility services or just beginning to explore their options, can easily discover supports and determine what accommodations or resources may be the right fit for them. 

• A dedicated faculty section to provide guidance on inclusive teaching and learning, academic accommodations and best practices for supporting students. 

Creating a more inclusive digital experience 

One of the key insights from the user consultation process was that many students who qualify for accommodations don’t always recognize that their learning challenges, health conditions, or disabilities make them eligible for support. The new site helps demystify accessibility services, offering clear explanations of who may qualify, what accommodations exist and how to access them. 

Faculty can also benefit from the new Inclusive Teaching and Learning section, designed to foster collaboration in creating accessible learning environments. With resources, FAQs and guidance on implementing academic accommodations, the site equips faculty members with the tools they need to support students effectively. 

A one-stop destination for accessibility at SMU 

While a majority of accessibility services at SMU fall under the FSC services, the new website goes beyond academic accommodations to serve as a centralized hub for accessibility across the university. From information on built environment and digital accessibility, to news, events and student life, the site ensures that anyone seeking support and community can easily connect with resources. 

Leading the way 

With this launch, the Fred Smithers Centre is helping lead the way in creating a more accessible and equitable university experience. The new site is more than just an information hub; it’s a crucial progression toward a more inclusive Saint Mary’s, where accessibility is seamless and support is easy to find. It also establishes a strong foundation for future improvements, creating opportunities to apply the insights from this project more broadly across Saint Mary’s websites and digital communications. 

“Enhancing digital accessibility is a pivotal step in our strategic plan to foster an inclusive and equitable educational environment at Saint Mary’s University," says President Robert Summerby-Murray.  

“This new digital hub not only aligns with our commitment to accessibility and the goals outlined in Nova Scotia’s Access by Design 2030 plan, but it also exemplifies our dedication to integrating Universal Design principles across all facets of the university. By centralizing accessibility resources, we are making significant strides toward a seamless and supportive experience, positioning Saint Mary’s as a leader in digital accessibility within Atlantic Canada and beyond." 

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Explore the new Fred Smithers Centre website and let us know your thoughts! Spot an area for improvement or have other feedback? Let us know at studentcomms@smu.ca. 

Saint Mary's students win national Enactus title—again!

Halifax team to represent Canada on a global stage with world-changing projects

For the second year in a row, students from Saint Mary’s University have been named Canada’s national champions in a countrywide competition celebrating bold ideas and real-world impact.

Their win means Saint Mary’s will once again represent Canada at the Enactus World Cup in Bangkok, Thailand, this September, competing against top student teams from around the world.

The team rose to the top at the Enactus Canada National Exposition, held this week at the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre, where more than 600 students from over 50 post-secondary institutions across the country gathered to showcase their work. After three rounds of intense competition, Saint Mary’s emerged victorious.

At the heart of their success are two projects making a difference here at home:

• Square Roots fights food waste and hunger by rescuing “imperfect” produce and selling it affordably across Nova Scotia.

• Alaagi™ offers a sustainable alternative to plastic packaging—turning seaweed into biodegradable wrap.

In addition to the first-place national win, Enactus also place in three separate topic challenges. 

• Innovation and Impact Challenge, powered by Enactus Alumni – 1st place

• Canadian Tire Environmental Sustainability Challenge – 2nd place 

• TD Entrepreneurship Challenge – 2nd place 

Finally, the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre’s Business Design Manager, Meredith Drost, was awarded the John Dobson Fellow of the Year by Enactus Canada for her dedication to advancing entrepreneurial learning and student success. 

Enactus Saint Mary’s now moves to the global stage, bringing with them Canadian innovation, East Coast spirit and a commitment to change the world.

About Enactus Saint Mary's

Enactus Saint Mary’s is a student-led organization dedicated to creating a better world through entrepreneurial action. They develop and implement projects that address social, environmental and economic challenges, empowering individuals and communities to thrive. 

Extraordinary leadership takes the stage at 2025 Spring Convocation

Dr. Rhonda Y. Britton, The Honourable Deborah Gass, Joyce Carter BComm’84 and Paul Davidson will receive honorary degrees from Saint Mary’s University at Spring Convocation in May

Saint Mary’s University will award honorary doctorates at the 2025 Spring Convocation to four distinguished individuals whose leadership, service and vision have made a lasting impact in Nova Scotia, across Canada and around the world.

Spring Convocation takes place from May 27-30, 2025, on Saint Mary’s campus. Visit the convocation webpage for ceremony details and links to the live stream.

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Dr. Rhonda Y. Britton

Dr. Rhonda Y. Britton

Dr. Rhonda Y. Britton is a recently retired Baptist minister with a distinguished record of service to the community. After earning a Doctor of Ministry from Acadia Divinity College and degrees from Princeton Theological Seminary and Rutgers University, she transitioned from a corporate IT career to full-time ministry.

In 2007, she became the first female senior pastor of Halifax’s New Horizons Baptist Church, a historic institution rooted in the African Nova Scotian community. Her early years at the church saw the launch of parenting programs and "Save Our Sons, Save Our Sisters", a preventative initiative rooted in faith-based social action.

Her leadership in opposing the sale of public land in Halifax’s North End reflects a broader movement where faith leaders are stepping into the role of civic advocate for housing and urban equity. Through actions like renaming the church in recognition of Indigenous reconciliation and collaborating with Mi’kmaq historian Daniel Paul, Dr. Britton’s ministry weaves justice, historical awareness and a commitment to healing.

Dr. Britton will receive a Doctor of Civil Law, honoris causa.

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The Honourable Deborah Gass

The Honourable Deborah Gass

Justice Deborah Gass is a retired Supreme Court judge whose career helped reframe family law and access to justice in Atlantic Canada. A Mount Allison and Dalhousie graduate, she was called to the bar in two provinces and spent her early years leading legal aid programs focused on inmate and youth rights.

She served as a judge from 1991 to 2018, then as Deputy Judge with the Nunavut Court of Justice. In this role, she brought court proceedings to remote communities, where Inuit Elders could help shape sentencing with cultural context and community understanding.

Justice Gass’s work with the RCMP settlement class action and Nova Scotia’s first restorative justice programs placed her at the intersection of legal systems and social healing. As Canadian courts face renewed calls for reform and transparency, her career is a powerful example of how individuals can lead meaningful change from within.

Justice Gass will receive a Doctor of Civil Law, honoris causa.

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Joyce Carter BComm’84

Joyce Carter BComm’84

Joyce Carter is a distinguished Saint Mary’s alumna and one of the most influential figures in Canadian aviation. As President and CEO of Halifax Stanfield International Airport Authority, she has guided the airport through major disruptions while maintaining a focus on long-term growth, inclusion and regional impact.

A 1984 Bachelor of Commerce graduate, Joyce Carter has served on major aviation and aerospace boards and is a passionate advocate for gender diversity in leadership roles across the transportation and infrastructure sectors.

Her civic contributions include work with the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia, Community Food Centres Canada, and the North American Indigenous Games. As an industry leader, her career shows that economic development can be a foundation for inclusion, resilience and shared prosperity.

Ms. Carter will receive a Doctor of Commerce, honoris causa.

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Paul Davidson

Paul Davidson

Paul Davidson is one of Canada’s most respected post-secondary leaders. As President of Universities Canada from 2009 to 2023, he shaped national strategy on international education, research investment and equitable access to learning across 97 institutions.

With degrees from Trent and Queen’s Universities, his cross-sectoral experience spans government, health care, publishing, and global development. Under his leadership, programs like the Global Skills Opportunity reimagined international student exchanges—not only as travel abroad, but to build intercultural fluency and inclusive global engagement.

Though he has served as an advisor and advocate for nearly every university in Canada, this will be Paul Davidson’s first honorary degree. It comes at a time when universities are re-examining their roles in society, something he has long championed as essential to rebuilding public trust and strengthening democratic institutions.

Mr. Davidson will receive a Doctor of Civil Law, honoris causa.

Saint Mary's University names Julia Knox as new Chair of David Sobey Retailing Centre Advisory Council

Julia Knox

Saint Mary's University proudly welcomes Julia Knox, Chief Technology and Analytics Officer and Chief Privacy Officer at Empire Company Limited, as the new Chair of the Advisory Council for the David Sobey Retailing Centre. Julia brings outstanding leadership, extensive retail expertise, and a passion for driving innovation to the Centre’s strategic direction.

Julia recently visited campus, meeting with members of the Centre’s leadership team to discuss her new role as Chair and explore exciting opportunities for collaboration. She will connect with the full Advisory Council at the upcoming meeting on May 15. Her appointment reflects the Centre's strong confidence in her ability to inspire transformative change in retail innovation and research.

“I am honoured to take on this role with the David Sobey Retailing Centre and excited to help shape the future of retail alongside such a talented, forward-thinking group,” said Julia Knox. “As retail evolves at a rapid pace, the Centre is uniquely positioned to drive real change by bridging academic insight and industry practice. I am especially passionate about helping the next generation of retail leaders build the skills, tools, and confidence they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry.”

In her new role, Julia will also highlight the Centre’s thought leadership as a featured speaker at two high-profile events:

• Atlantic AI Summit (May 1, 2025), hosted at Saint Mary's University, where she’ll explore how AI is revolutionizing retail.

• Canadian Retail Collective Conference (May 7, 2025) in Toronto, joining an expert panel discussing AI and tech-driven innovation in retail. The Collective aims to bridge academic research and retail practice. It is led by the David Sobey Retailing Centre in partnership with Toronto Metropolitan University, McGill University, and the University of Alberta.

Julia’s extensive career includes senior leadership roles at Giant Tiger, where she drove success as Senior Vice President, E-Commerce and Chief Merchandising Officer, and strategic roles at H-E-B Grocery Company and Monitor Group in Toronto and New York.

"We are excited to have Julia Knox leading our Advisory Council,” said Dr. Ramesh Venkat, Director of the David Sobey Retailing Centre. “Her vision, experience, and energy are exactly what we need to advance our mission of shaping the future of retail, especially at such a pivotal time for the industry.”

Beyond her professional achievements, Julia is deeply committed to community impact: serving as past Chair of the Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation, as a founding activator of Coralus (supporting women entrepreneurs), and as a member of GS1 Canada’s Board of Governors. She is an alumna of the Ivey Business School at Western University.

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About the David Sobey Retailing Centre
The David Sobey Retailing Centre at Saint Mary's University drives retail innovation through impactful research, education, and collaboration—bringing academia and industry together to shape the retail future.

Student-led startup named Canadian Champion at Hult Prize National Competition

Founded by Sheheryar Khan, a soon-to-be graduate in the Diploma in Engineering program at Saint Mary’s University, Alaagi is on a mission to replace traditional plastics with sustainable, biodegradable alternatives. Using seaweed and other marine resources, the company creates fully compostable plastics.

The Alaagi team—comprised of SMU students Sheheryar Khan, Gabe Martin and Vaishali Sachdeva—was named National Champion after competing against 19 other teams from across Canada at the competition held in March at McGill University.

Kate Ramirez of the Hult Prize with Vaishali Sachdeva, Sheheryar Khan and Gabe Martin of Alaagi, and Hult Prize Advisor Aarondeep (Aaron) S. Bains

Another Saint Mary’s team that competed was Sociable, an online platform founded by Olivian Sanderson and Jason Phonchareon. The platform aims to help students build meaningful relationships through shared interests and community events.

With the national win, the Alaagi team immediately moves on to the next phase of the competition, working toward the grand prize of $1 million to be awarded at the Global Finals in London in September 2025. Alaagi has been mentored through the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre and is currently incubated through Enactus Saint Mary’s.

““Working with the team at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre was truly transformative. They supported my vision and taught me fundamental skills like how to pitch and manage my business. But I also have to credit my mom—she sent me to Saint Mary’s and to Canada to chase my dreams.””

— Sheheryar Khan

Alaagi Founder Sheheryar Khan presents at the Hult Prize Canadian National Competition

The Hult Prize is a globally recognized social entrepreneurship competition that challenges students to tackle the world’s most pressing issues through innovative business ideas. Each year, more than 187,000 students from 113 countries and 1,324 universities participate, pitching solutions for a chance to win $1 million.

“The Canadian National Competition was competitive and exciting! It was amazing to see teams from across the country come together—not just as competitors, but as colleagues supporting one another through the process,” said Kate Ramirez, North American Regional Manager of the Hult Prize. “This was the first Canadian National Hult Prize competition, and it set the tone for what’s to come.”

The Hult Prize competition consists of five stages. With their national win, Alaagi enters Stage 3: the Digital Incubator. Alongside 60 top teams from around the world, they will refine their ideas, validate product-market fit, build proof-of-concept models, and develop go-to-market strategies. Successful teams will progress to Stage 4: the Global Accelerator, held in person in London this August, where 28 teams will receive intensive mentorship, strategic guidance, and networking opportunities. Of those, 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.

Follow the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre online for more updates on Alaagi’s journey and other student entrepreneur success stories.

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The Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre at Saint Mary’s University is Atlantic Canada’s premier hub for fostering entrepreneurial mindsets and driving open innovation. Over the past five years, the Centre has supported over 4,000 students and 3,000 businesses through programs, mentorship, and entrepreneurial engagement activities.

Acclaimed comic artist Kate Beaton to deliver the 2025 Cyril J. Byrne Memorial Lecture

What is the relationship between the arts and the economy? How do we value the ‘work’ of art and the business of creativity in our daily lives? 

Spend an evening with internationally acclaimed comic artist Kate Beaton as she revisits her earliest work—some never seen in public—and discusses her artistic journey so far. Join us in celebrating one of Atlantic Canada’s greatest artists as she charts her journey from Mabou, Inverness County, out to the world and back home again.

“We Were Always Working and Making Art: Rethinking the Economics and Value of Creativity”

• Friday, March 21 at 7 p.m.

• Scotiabank Conference Theatre (Sobey Building 201, 903 Robie Street) or watch via Zoom

• Open to the public, free to attend

Beginning with Hark! A Vagrant (2007-2018), moving through the explosive critical success of Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands (2022), on to her penetrating analysis of Bodies of Art, Bodies of Labour (2024) and her new 2025 release Shark Girl, Beaton will discuss her understanding of the essential role of the artist in our daily lives. Why have the arts always mattered to us, and why must we, especially now, continue to value and protect creative work in our contemporary culture? 

Kate Beaton is a comic artist and cultural critic with a webcomic series and eight books written for both adults and children. A multiple past winner of the Eisner, Yale, Harvey and Doug Wright Awards, she is a regular contributor to The New Yorker magazine and her work has been translated and published around the world. She'll be a guest speaker at Harvard University next week as its Weatherhead Canada Program presents "A Visual Narrative of Labour Migration and the Environment: In Conversation With Kate Beaton.”

Beaton’s graphic memoir Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands won CBC’s Canada Reads competition in 2023. It was named a “Book of the Year” by the New York Times, The Guardian, The Globe and Mail, The Washington Post, NPR, Time, Publishers Weekly and...Barack Obama! The Globe and Mail hailed Ducks as a “deeply beautiful” book that presents a “moving picture of humanity in general: lonely, disillusioned and, ultimately, redemptively, compassionate." 

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The Cyril J. Byrne Memorial Lecture
Over the years, the Cyril J. Byrne Memorial Lecture has welcomed many of the world’s best writers to Halifax. Past evenings have featured readings and discussions with Booker Prize-winners such as Yann Martel and Anne Enright, Pulitzer Prize winner Richard Ford and many others, including Alistair MacLeod, Anne Carson, Colm Tóibín, Dionne Brand, David Adams Richards, Wayne Johnston and the cast of CODCO. 

Throughout his 35-year career as a literature professor at Saint Mary’s University, Dr. Byrne embraced interdisciplinarity in his teaching and research. Well ahead of his time, he played a major role in establishing the university’s Atlantic Canada Studies Program in 1975 and the D’Arcy McGee Chair in Irish Studies in 1986. In recognition of the national significance of his work, Dr. Byrne was named to the Order of Canada in 1992. After his passing in 2006, this lecture was inaugurated to celebrate his memory, his scholarly vision and his fun-loving spirit.

Sponsored by the Irish Studies Program, this public lecture is presented by the Department of English Language and Literature in collaboration with the Faculty of Arts. All are welcome to attend. The Scotiabank Conference Theatre is located off the main lobby of the Sobey Building (SB on the campus map) at 903 Robie Street, Halifax, or join via Zoom: https://smu-ca.zoom.us/j/89229106318.

Saint Mary's University appoints Dr. Shannon Dea as Provost & Vice-President, Academic and Research

Dr. Shannon Dea

Saint Mary's University is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Shannon Dea as the university's first Provost & Vice-President, Academic and Research (PVPAR). Dr. Dea will assume her new role on July 1, 2025, bringing a wealth of experience and a distinguished career in academia.

Dr. Dea joins Saint Mary's University from the University of Regina, where she has served as Dean of the Faculty of Arts since 2020. In this role, she has been an academic leader for a faculty comprising 13 departments, 43 program options, and over 2,600 students.

Dr. Dea's academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Western University, an M.A. in Philosophy from Queen’s University and a B.A. in Philosophy and Russian from the University of Waterloo. Her scholarly work spans a wide range of topics, including academic freedom, harm reduction and feminist philosophy. She is the author of many articles and book chapters. Her book, Beyond the Binary: Thinking about Sex and Gender, now in its second edition, has been widely acclaimed for its insightful analysis and thought-provoking perspectives.

In addition to her academic achievements, Dr. Dea has held numerous leadership positions, including Vice-President of the Board of Trustees at the MacKenzie Art Gallery and Chair of the Western Canadian Deans of Arts, Science, and Indigenous Studies. Her commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is evident in her work, particularly in her efforts to Indigenize academic spaces and promote social justice.

Dr. Dea's appointment marks a significant milestone for Saint Mary's University as she becomes the first person to hold the newly created position of PVPAR. In this role, she will oversee the university's academic and research activities, working closely with faculty, staff, and students to enhance the university's academic excellence and research impact. The Provost and Vice-President, Academic & Research also plays a crucial role in the university budget by overseeing the allocation of resources to support academic priorities and ensuring effective management of the budget process.

"We are very pleased to welcome Dr. Shannon Dea to Saint Mary's University," said Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, President and Vice-Chancellor of Saint Mary's University. "Her extensive experience, visionary leadership and deep commitment to academic excellence and social justice make her the ideal person to lead our academic and research initiatives. We look forward to the many contributions she will make to our university community."

Dr. Dea expressed her enthusiasm for joining Saint Mary's University, stating, "I am honoured to be appointed as the first Provost & Vice-President, Academic and Research at Saint Mary's University. I look forward to working with SMU’s amazing faculty, staff, and students to advance the university's mission and to foster a dynamic, equitable and inclusive academic environment."

One million pounds of perfectly imperfect food feeds Nova Scotians

Square Roots, a Nova Scotia social enterprise founded at Saint Mary’s University, celebrates major milestone.

Students sorting donated food

Square Roots, founded by Saint Mary’s University students in 2016, buys imperfect yet perfectly edible food from local farmers and sells it directly to customers at a price that is 50% less than the grocery store. Nova Scotians benefit from getting healthy food at a more affordable price and farmers benefit because they get revenue from the food that would otherwise go to waste. This month, Square Roots celebrates the major milestone of delivering one million pounds of food since its beginning in 2016.

“We could not have done it without the student teams, the community champions and the farmers. ”

— Courtney Dingle, Square Roots president

“Square Roots is delighted to reach this one million pounds of food milestone. We could not have done it without the student teams, the community champions and the farmers. We believe this is just the beginning of what’s possible. We are currently in 16 communities and want to be in every county in Nova Scotia by April 2025 and we have a vision to take this model nationally,” says Courtney Dingle, Square Roots president and SMU business student.

Square Roots was developed by students at SMU who participate in an international student program called Enactus. Enactus marries entrepreneurial-minded students with social action. Square Roots addresses the twin issues of food waste and food insecurity. At the farm level, 30% of harvested produce is dumped into landfills due to cosmetic imperfections despite being perfectly healthy. Square Roots rescues this "less attractive" produce that would otherwise be discarded, offering it at affordable prices to those with limited access to healthy food.

Working with local contacts, Square Roots is currently bringing food to over 25 communities across Nova Scotia—the newest being Port Hawkesbury, D’Escousse, Sydney, Baddeck, Cornwallis Park, Digby, Yarmouth, Shelburne, Mill Village, and Lunenburg. The team intends to be in all Nova Scotia counties by May 2025 and, in the bigger picture, has plans to expand across Canada by 2026.

The SMU Enactus team is well-recognized in Canada and around the world. They have placed top 4 in the Canadian Enactus championships 11 of the last 13 years and won the national Canadian champion in 2024. With this recognition, the team represented Canada at the global Enactus championship in Kazakhstan in October 2024. The SMU Enactus team recently earned first place in the 2025 Enactus regional competition and heads to the national competition in May 2025.

Saint Mary’s University announces Dr. Michael Khan as the next President and Vice-Chancellor

Saint Mary’s University announces the appointment of Dr. Michael Khan as its next President and Vice-Chancellor, effective July 1, 2025. Dr. Khan will join Saint Mary’s from Trent University, where he currently serves as Provost and Vice-President Academic. 

“I am very pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Michael Khan as the 35th President of Saint Mary’s University,” said Chair, Board of Governors, Alan R. Abraham Jr. BComm'80. “Dr. Khan’s extensive experience in academic leadership, his innovative approach to education, and his commitment to fostering inclusive and diverse communities make him an ideal fit for our university. We are confident that, under his leadership, Saint Mary’s will continue to achieve excellence.” 

Dr. Khan brings a wealth of experience and a diverse, international perspective to his new role. He has been Provost and Vice-President Academic at Trent since 2020. Dr. Khan’s distinguished career includes his tenure as Dean of Human Kinetics at the University of Windsor, where he oversaw the Department of Kinesiology and Athletics & Recreational Services. Prior to this, he was the Head of the School of Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences at Bangor University in Wales, U.K. 

Growing up in Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Khan’s multicultural heritage and international experiences have shaped his approach to academic leadership.  

“I am deeply honoured and delighted to join Saint Mary’s University as President and Vice-Chancellor, said Dr. Michael Khan. “Saint Mary’s is celebrated both nationally and internationally for its excellence in research, teaching and community engagement. The university’s values align closely with my own. I am committed to supporting students in realizing their goals and aspirations.”  

Dr. Khan’s extensive experience spans academic and administrative leadership, strategic enrollment management, fundraising, and creative partnerships. As Provost at Trent University, Dr. Khan has spearheaded the development of an integrative academic plan that led to the creation of numerous new undergraduate and graduate programs, postgraduate certificates, and co-op opportunities. At Bangor University, he fostered partnerships in the public and private sectors by establishing innovative, high-impact research groups. In Windsor, he led the creation of the Lancer Sport and Recreation Centre Project, a $73 million sport and recreation facility for the university and its community, and actively promoted links with healthcare and sport organizations, school boards, businesses, and charities. 

With a research background in cognitive processes underlying movement control and learning, Dr. Khan’s work focuses on the visual control of manual movements. He is also a former elite athlete with over 25 years of coaching experience and has a keen interest in talent identification and expertise development. Dr. Khan holds a Ph.D. in Human Kinetics from the University of British Columbia, an M.A. in Kinesiology from the University of Western Ontario, and a B.Sc. in Geophysics from McGill University. 

Saint Mary’s University is excited to welcome Dr. Michael Khan on July 1, 2025, and looks forward to the innovative leadership and international perspective he will bring to the institution. 

Tallest solar-integrated building in North America wins Clean50 Award

Saint Mary’s University: bringing sustainability to life

Saint Mary’s University was honoured at the Clean50 Top Projects Awards, which annually recognizes Canada’s most innovative projects tackling climate change and sustainability.

Dennis Gillis, Senior Director of Facilities Management at Saint Mary’s accepts the Clean50 Top Project Award

The Loyola Residence Recladding Project, a 22-storey student residence with an integrated, retrofitted solar exterior wall, was selected for its environmental leadership and innovation. Saint Mary’s is proud to represent the post-secondary sector among leading organizations from across Canada.

"Sustainability is at the heart of Saint Mary’s University and is a key pillar of our strategic plan," said Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, President of Saint Mary’s University. "The Clean50 Award reflects our commitment to building a sustainable future. We are thrilled to see our efforts recognized and hope to inspire similar initiatives across Canada. Universities are driving forces of innovation in green energy research and climate action. Through transformative projects such as this one, Saint Mary’s has become a leader and hub for groundbreaking sustainability efforts.”

Setting new standards for sustainable urban infrastructure

Originally built over 50 years ago, the Loyola Residence faced challenges such as heat retention, leaks, and structural issues. Instead of simply replacing worn-out concrete, Saint Mary’s took advantage of the opportunity to do something unique.

Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) are solar power systems built directly into walls, a roof, or windows, generating electricity from the sun but also acting as part of the building’s structure. Saint Mary’s worked with Toronto-based company Mitrex to install BIPV across the entire south-facing wall.

The Loyola Residence tower BIPV system shown on the right, along with solar panelling on the roof of the Sobeys Inspiration Hub

The retrofit includes work from DSRA Architects, Dillon Consulting, Able Electric, Markland Associates, and BMR Structural Engineering, with construction overseen by EllisDon Corporation and Grey Cardinal Management Inc.

According to Clean50, the project is a model for sustainable urban infrastructure, showcasing how older buildings can be revitalized to meet today’s energy efficiency standards.

Saint Mary’s has installed an interactive energy production display in the Loyola Residence lobby, allowing students and visitors to track solar energy generation in real-time. This display further demonstrates the university’s commitment to education and transparency in sustainability.

An interactive display in the Loyola building shows real-time solar energy information

Carbon footprint cut by 51.7% since 2005

Beyond the Loyola recladding project, Saint Mary’s offers a range of campus spaces and programs that bring sustainability to life. Upcoming initiatives include a green roof on the Patrick Power Library, new roof designs for McNally East and Homburg Centre, and a solar canopy for the science parking lot.

Initiatives already completed include:

• replacing the steam heating plant with a high-efficiency hot water plant;

• switching from oil to natural gas for heating; 

• using compact fluorescent lights; 

• replacing less efficient lights with LED lights; and 

• increases in Nova Scotia Power’s energy blend from renewable sources.   

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 Related reading

• Clean 50 Top Project: Saint Mary’s University Loyola Residence Recladding

• Loyola integrated solar installation wins Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Engineering

• Sustainability at Saint Mary’s