Saint Mary’s students win VCIC in Boston, advance to global finals

SMU’s undergraduate VCIC team: Lydia Ramsay, Matthew Chapman, Katie Murray, Brennan Campbell, Vaishali Sachdeva with professor Dr. Ellen Farrell

A team of undergraduate students from Saint Mary’s University is heading to the global finals of the Venture Capital Investment Competition (VCIC) this April after earning first place at the regional competition—marking the university’s first regional win in 10 years and its first-ever invitation to the global finals.

Hosted at Boston University, the New England regional competition saw Saint Mary’s place first against top institutions, including New York University, Tufts University, Amherst College, University of Connecticut and Dartmouth College—last year’s global champion.

The team will now travel to the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School in April to compete in the VCIC Global Finals against leading schools from around the world.

Unlike traditional case competitions, VCIC challenges students to step into the role of venture capitalists. Over two and a half days, teams assess real startups, conduct due diligence, and make investment decisions under pressure—mirroring the realities of high-stakes investing.

“This was one of my best experiences at Saint Mary’s to date,” said student Matthew Chapman. “I started the first round of founder interviews feeling nervous, but then our team instantly clicked. We built on each other’s questions, dug deeper with every answer, and turned the conversation into real due diligence. That’s when I realized teamwork can create results bigger than any one person—and that’s exactly what carried us to the win.”

From classroom to competition

For many students, the experience highlighted the power of experiential learning at the Sobey School of Business.

“As a Sobey student, this experience was unique because it bridged the gap between classroom theory and the high-stakes reality of the startup world.”

— Trang Nguyen

“A standout moment for me was the final partner meeting; the adrenaline was high, but our preparation gave us the confidence to stand our ground,” said student Trang Nguyen. “I hope to carry that same decisiveness and collaborative spirit into my future career in finance.”

The competition includes a series of intensive evaluations: interviewing entrepreneurs, drafting investment term sheets, and defending decisions before a panel of experienced venture capitalists. Each stage is judged independently, and teams remain anonymous throughout the process to ensure fairness.

Collaboration across programs

SMU’s graduate VCIC team: Brooklyn Bohach, Jacob Pitre, Mia Carey, Trang Nguyen, Jiaen Yu with Dr. Ellen Farrell

Behind the undergraduate team’s success was strong support from graduate students, who competed in a separate round and shared insights and strategies.

“We didn’t win in our round, but we’re proud of our undergraduate team,” said graduate student Jiaen Yu. “The most challenging part of the competition was encountering an industry and business structure we weren’t familiar with. We had to learn the entire industry from scratch with limited and redacted information.”

“The competition felt incredibly real,” Yu added. “During our interview with the entrepreneur, a new piece of information came up and changed everything. Since we were the first team to meet with the entrepreneur, we weren’t able to discover that beforehand. But we adapted quickly, and the judges were impressed by how we progressed with each round of feedback.”

The graduate team —Brooklyn Bohach, Jacob Pitre, Mia Carey, Trang Nguyen, and Jiaen Yu —later shared their framework and insights with the undergraduate competitors, helping reinforce a strong sense of teamwork across programs.

“We could see their confidence and belief in each other, and we are thrilled that they won,” Yu said.

A global stage ahead

The winning team—Lydia Ramsay, Matthew Chapman, Katie Murray, Brennan Campbell and Vaishali Sachdeva—will now compete on the global stage, representing Saint Mary’s against top business schools worldwide.

For Dr. Ellen Farrell, who coached the team, the milestone reflects both the students’ dedication and the strength of the university’s hands-on approach to business education.

“This is where classroom knowledge meets real-world decision-making,” she said. “Our students demonstrated not only technical skill, but the curiosity, resilience, and collaboration needed to succeed in venture capital.”

As they prepare for the global finals, Saint Mary’s students are carrying forward more than just a win—they’re bringing with them the confidence, experience, and momentum to compete at the highest level.

Sobey School of Business launches ‘Lead with Purpose 2025–2030’

The Sobey School of Business at Saint Mary’s University has officially launched its new five-year strategic plan, Lead with Purpose: Transforming learners to leaders and purpose to action (2025-2030), setting a clear direction for the future.

The plan builds on the Sobey School's strong foundation in experiential learning, community engagement and responsible management education. Guided by its purpose to advance knowledge and develop leaders to shape a better world, the strategy outlines how the Sobey School will enhance the learner experience, expand research impact and strengthen partnerships locally, nationally and globally.

Dr. Michel Delorme, Dean, Sobey School of Business

“Lead with Purpose captures not only where we are going as a School, but how we will move forward — thoughtfully, collaboratively and with intention,” said Dr. Michel Delorme, Dean of the Sobey School of Business. “Grounded in our commitment to experiential learning and responsible management education, this plan reflects our shared belief that business education must be connected to community and responsive to a rapidly changing world. Together, we will translate purpose into action.”

Building on the School’s distinctive strengths, including its dual AACSB and EFMD accreditation and its long-standing commitment to responsible management education, the strategy is organized around three interwoven themes: centering the student experience, prioritizing regional and global impact and influencing organizational practice.

Five interconnected strategic goals define the Sobey School's priorities through 2030:

• Learning for Leadership: To elevate the learner experience through inclusive, experiential, and interdisciplinary learning that equips graduates to lead with confidence, agility and a clear sense of purpose.

• Building Global Community: To build global communities through our programs, research, partnerships, and pedagogy and ensure our graduates thrive in diverse, interconnected environments.

• Research for Change: To advance positive change in business and society through exemplary, boundary-pushing and stakeholder-engaged research that bridges practical relevance with scholarly significance.

• Collaborating for Positive Impact: To address the real-world challenges of businesses and communities through partnerships in research, learning, employment and executive education. 

• Thriving Together: To cultivate a workplace where faculty and staff feel connected, supported and inspired in a collaborative and resilient learning environment.

Together, these priorities align academic excellence with meaningful societal contribution.

Developed through extensive consultation with faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners, the plan now moves into action. Clearly defined initiatives and measurable key performance indicators will ensure accountability and track progress over the next five years.

Lead with Purpose 2025–2030 positions the Sobey School of Business to turn purpose into action — transforming learners into leaders and reinforcing its role as a leader in advancing innovation, impact and shared prosperity.

For more information, visit the Lead with Purpose strategic plan page on the Sobey School of Business website.

Balancing the books and the runway: Chrissy Potter’s dual path from commerce to couture

Chrissy Potter BComm’24

By Jennifer Ashton

When Saint Mary’s University alumna Chrissy Potter BComm’24 talks about balance, she isn’t just referring to her work as a universal banker at CIBC. She’s also speaking from experience, managing photo shoots in New York and runway shows in Paris. It’s a balance between precision and poise; one she’s learned to navigate with confidence.

Originally from Antigua, Chrissy learned more about Saint Mary’s through a recruiting visit to her island. Through this meeting, the choice became even clearer. Her father was an alumnus, as were several friends and family members. “The pull of family and friends led me here,” she said. “I knew it was a safe space to navigate and figure out what I wanted to do.”

Like many students entering the field of commerce, she initially thought she would pursue accounting. But it didn’t take long for her professors to open her eyes to the wider world of finance. “My great professors cultivated my love of finance. They made it interesting and easy to understand,” Chrissy recalled. That curiosity for financial systems became a launching pad for her professional life, both in the banking sector and beyond.

While her career in finance satisfies her analytical side, modelling gives Chrissy an equally important creative outlet. Signed with Soli Management in Halifax in 2023, she has since walked runways in Halifax, New York and Paris. “My work in banking has encouraged me to find a creative outlet, which I get in fashion and modelling. Each side feeds a different part of me.”

Chrissy is quick to point out that the world of personal banking isn’t as rigid as people might think. “I can tailor my meetings to the personalities of the people I’m dealing with,” she explained. “I get to be myself, and that helps make people feel comfortable talking to you.” This ability to adapt and move easily between corporate offices and fashion studios is a strength.

Her time at Saint Mary’s helped sharpen the practical skills that make this dual career possible. “Time management is a critical component of everything I do. SMU gave me the willingness to learn and encouraged me not to be afraid to ask questions.” That openness, she says, has been key to growing in both industries.

Beyond the classroom, Chrissy found community in the Black Students’ Society, where she served as finance representative on the board. “During the pandemic, it was a great way to connect with people and make friends. It was also a great way to see other Black students and build unity.”

Now, as she looks ahead, Chrissy sees both her career paths continuing to evolve. “Both can take me all over the country, and both offer excellent support systems. As far as intersecting goes, I’d love to share my financial literacy skills with other models. I think they’d see great benefits.”

Her advice to students or alumni with more than one passion is simple: “Just do it. Life is for living. Do what makes you happy. If you pursue your passions, the money will follow.”

It’s a philosophy that has guided her through international opportunities and new creative challenges.

Looking back, she’s proud of the path she’s carved, one that blends professionalism, creativity and authenticity. “Always be reflecting on the things that you’ve done while also keeping an eye on the things you want to do.”

To current business students, Chrissy offers practical advice:

““Take advantage of every opportunity given to you. Take the Canadian Securities Course while in school; it’s a great accomplishment. Network with professors, ask questions, and attend office hours—they welcome this interaction and are great people. Be kind, be authentic and build relationships.””

From balancing accounts to walking catwalks, Chrissy Potter is proof that there’s no one formula for success. With curiosity and courage, she’s showing that you can thrive in more than one world and look good doing it.

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This story was featured in the Fall edition of the Maroon + White alumni magazine. Visit the online magazine to read more alumni stories!

From Pugwash to the World Cup stage: BComm student champions community, entrepreneurship and global impact

BComm student Olivian Sanderson presents at the Enactus World Cup stage in Bangkok, Thailand

Olivian Sanderson grew up in Pugwash, Nova Scotia—a rural, picturesque fishing village with approximately 800 full-time residents. In just a few short years since coming to Saint Mary’s, she’s had the chance to travel the world and make a meaningful impact in the community through her involvement with Enactus Saint Mary’s and the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre.

Growing up, Olivian learned from her parents the importance of hard work, community and seizing opportunities. She made an impression during her high school years as Chair of the Cumberland County Youth Council, Student Council President, Ambassador for the Nova Scotia International Student Program and recipient of the Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia Award (2022) and Governor General’s Academic Medal of Canada (2023).

When considering universities, Olivian knew she wanted to experience city life and find a program that would allow her to pursue her passion for business and community building. Knowing its reputation as one of Canada’s best business schools, she applied to the Sobey School of Business at Saint Mary’s.

She was the successful recipient of a Sobey National Innovator Scholarship, including on her application: “Looking to the future, I have big dreams and aspirations. I am passionate about understanding how the economy works and plan to use my skills to be involved in projects that support the community, as it has provided so much for me. I want to make the best world for myself and the people around me.”

Now a third-year accounting and management student, she’s made great strides toward her goals as the Co-Founder of the Sociable start-up and presenter for the global award-winning Enactus team.

Launching Sociable

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Despite being very involved in high school, Olivian found the first few weeks of university difficult and lonely. Determined to find her place at Saint Mary’s, she dove headfirst into everything – trying out multiple societies and volunteering. Ultimately, it was Enactus and the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre where she found her place among people who shared her passion for big dreams and doing business for good.

During a session with Enactus Saint Mary’s, the idea for the Sociable start-up was formed. Sociable is an online community platform that helps students connect, get peer support and gain access to campus events. It builds student engagement, boosting student retention, wellness and success. Olivian and co-founder of Sociable, Jason Phonchareon BSc’25, developed the start-up to address student loneliness and mental health concerns, something they both experienced.

In 2024, Sociable won the Dream Chaser Change Maker (DCCM) Foundation Social Impact Award, which included a $10,000 prize to support business development – bringing Olivian one step closer to making a positive impact on students’ lives.  

Seeing the world with Enactus

In 2024, Enactus Saint Mary’s won the National Enactus Championship for the first time. As a member of the presentation team, Olivian had the opportunity to travel to Astana, Kazakhstan, to represent Canada in the World Cup competition. While they didn’t win in Kazakhstan, it was an incredible learning experience for Olivian and her teammates.

In 2025, during Olivian’s second year as presentation team captain, the Saint Mary’s team earned their second National Championship win. This time, they travelled to Bangkok, Thailand, to compete against 28 of the best teams from around the world in the Enactus World Championship.

The team worked around the clock on their presentation about two student-run social enterprises—Alaagi and Square Roots—practicing, editing and preparing to answer questions. Olivian applied her work ethic and passion to the Enactus presentation, sharing the inspiring work being done by students at Saint Mary’s. Facing finalists from Zimbabwe, Tunisia and Germany, their presentation wowed the judges, and the team was crowned Enactus World Champion – the first world title for Saint Mary’s University.

Olivian on stage at the Enactus World Cup in Thailand

Enactus Saint Mary’s celebrates winning the World Cup

Reflecting on her first two years at Saint Mary’s, Olivian sometimes shakes her head at how much she has experienced. Her advice to new students: get as involved as you can.

“Classes are great, but you will have life-changing experiences in extra-curricular activities. The mentorship, the soft skills, and the network – so very valuable. It’s thanks to those experiences that I’ve been able to see the world.”

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Opportunities at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre are open to all Saint Mary’s students – check out their programs and events here.

SMU Huskies basketball alumna receives prestigious award in Ottawa

Clara Gascoigne BComm’23 MBA’25 leading the Huskies to greatness during her time on the court

Clara Gascoigne’s time at Saint Mary’s was anything but ordinary.

Breaking records in the classroom and on the court, the Sobey School of Business graduate made a name for herself as one of the most decorated players in U SPORTS women’s basketball, earning accolades like U SPORTS Defensive Player of the Year and AUS Most Valuable Player, while leading the Huskies to three straight AUS Championships.

Academically, she’s just as talented, earning five U SPORTS Academic All-Canadian selections and several scholarships.

Her road to success was carved through years of hard work, exemplary leadership and grit, culminating in her being recognized as a Top 8 Academic All-Canadian last week in Ottawa, Ontario.

Putting the “student” in “student-athlete”

Student-athletes have a unique blend of responsibilities as they balance study schedules and exams with training and competition. Reaching the top in both categories is difficult, and U SPORTS Top 8 recognition is a mark of that incredible achievement.

The Top 8 distinction represents the highest individual academic honour bestowed by U SPORTS, as student-athletes must maintain an academic average of 80 per cent or higher while continuing to compete in their chosen sport. From that group of high-achieving, high-performing athletes, only eight are selected annually to represent this dual achievement. See the 2024-2025 cohort of Top 8 Academic All-Canadians here.

Gascoigne represented Atlantic Canada over two days of recognition and celebration, earning private tours of the Senate and the House of Commons, as well as a Parliament Reception and a meeting with the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada. She also met with Shannon Miedema, Member of Parliament for Halifax.

“I got the call that I had won just before Christmas. I feel very honoured and humbled to have been chosen.”

— Clara Gascoigne on being chosen as a Top 8 Academic All-Canadian

A group of Top 8 Academic All-Canadians were recognized at an event in Ottawa in January 2025. Credit: Michael P. Hall

Clara Gascoigne accepts her Top 8 Academic All-Canadian award. Credit: Michael P. Hall

Top 8 student-athletes were invited to the Senate and House of Commons. Credit: Michael P. Hall.

This experience isn’t just another feather in Gascoigne’s cap: it represents a journey of growth and evolution unique to the student-athlete experience she had at SMU.  

Journey to the top

Gascoigne’s road to academic success started during the first year of her Bachelor of Commerce – but not how you’d expect.

“The first couple of weeks can be slow, and you’re really enjoying the university experience – so it kind of lulls you into a more relaxed rhythm that changes very, very quickly once you get to midterm season,” she says. Between adapting to the increased time-management needs of university, adjusting to life outside of high school, and juggling training and game schedules on top of that, she was in for a shock when that first mid-term season came around.

“I remember I didn’t get the grades I wanted in that first set of mid-terms, and I immediately recognized that was completely self-inflicted.”

Gascoigne leaned on the resources available to her at SMU and took great advice from her coaches, classmates and teammates to get back on track academically.

“I feel like this is an experience a lot of people can relate to in their first year, and as a student-athlete, that experience was amplified by my training schedule and game commitments.”

“Time management was a very necessary skill to balance my academics with my athletics, and I felt very strongly about leading by example. I wanted to set a standard for our team and put an emphasis on the ‘student’ in ‘student-athlete’ – which is something I think SMU does really well.”

Learning to manage her time and energy was essential to her success. As she grew into her role as Team Captain, she made a point of modelling those systems for her teammates – a trait that has stayed with her after completing her Master of Business Administration in May 2025.  

Life after sport

Although Gascoigne hasn’t touched a basketball since graduation, she continues to draw on her student-athlete experience in her work with Doane Grant Thornton Halifax, a job she secured in part through her robust education with the Sobey School of Business.

“Being a team player and understanding how to work collaboratively towards a common goal is a great skill to bring to the job market – and it’s a skill you build in spades as a student-athlete.”

With her BComm and MBA behind her, her eye is already on her next prize as she works towards her official designation as a Chartered Professional Accountant.

Once she’s made a name for herself in the workforce, she intends to return to sports as a coach — leading the next generation of athletes to follow in her footsteps.

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Related:

• 2024-25 Huskies Athletic Awards Night: Gascoigne, Gentile named Athletes of the Year

• Clara Gascoigne earns 2025 James Bayer Memorial Scholarship Award

• Clara Gascoigne named U SPORTS Defensive Player of the Year, First Team All-Canadian

• Clara Gascoigne named AUS Women's Basketball MVP & DPOY

• Women's Athletics leading the pack at SMU

Watch: U SPORTS 2025 Women’s Defensive Player of the Year: Clara Gascoigne

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.  

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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.  

Register here.

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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!

• Learn more here

• Register on Career360

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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.

Register here.

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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.

Register here.

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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. 

Register here.

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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.

Register here.

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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.

Register here.

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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!

Register here.

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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.

Register here.

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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.

Register here.

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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.

Register here.

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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.

Register here.

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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.

Register here.

Health Data Analytics Symposium demonstrates the power of applied analytics in healthcare

MBAN students at the Health Data Analytics Symposium at Saint Mary’s University

Sobey School of Business Dean Dr. Michel Delorme

MBAN students presented their projects

Healthcare and data executives in attendance

As healthcare systems face increasing operational complexity, the ability to translate data into clear, actionable insight has become essential. The second edition of Saint Mary’s University’s Health Data Analytics Symposium brought this challenge into focus through applied analytics projects developed inside Nova Scotia Health, offering a practical view of how data can support decision-making in real clinical and operational environments.

The Symposium showcased work completed by Master of Business Analytics (MBAN) students during their internships with Nova Scotia Health. Embedded within teams across the system, students worked with live data, real constraints and active problems to explore issues such as workforce planning, scheduling fairness, emergency department flow and patient experience. The projects were not theoretical exercises, but responses to questions the health system continues to actively grapple with.

Building on the momentum of its inaugural year, the Symposium demonstrated how applied analytics can bridge the gap between academic learning and system needs. The student presentations reflected not only technical capability but also an understanding of the healthcare context, collaboration and the human implications of data-informed decisions.

For healthcare leaders in attendance, the relevance of the work was evident.

“Watching a master’s student take a theoretical concept and move it into an applied project that speaks directly to workforce risk is incredibly powerful,” said Matthew Murphy, Vice President, Organizational Support and Readiness at Emergency Medical Care Inc. and former Chief Data Officer at Nova Scotia Health. “That kind of work is important not only for Nova Scotia Health, but for healthcare systems more broadly.”

Several projects focused on workforce sustainability and operational resilience, areas of growing concern across the healthcare sector. Others examined patient flow and experience in high-pressure environments such as emergency departments, highlighting how thoughtful use of data can support more timely decision-making and improved outcomes.

Scott McKenna of Nova Scotia Health noted that the partnership with Saint Mary’s continues to evolve, reinforcing its value for both organizations. He emphasized that the collaboration supports talent development while also helping the health system explore new analytical approaches to complex challenges.

For students, the opportunity to work inside the health system provided learning that could not be replicated in the classroom alone.

“ “Working within Nova Scotia Health helped me understand how analytics can reduce bias, support staff, and improve decision-making while keeping care human-centered.””

— Yilong Wu, MBAN student

MBAN student Yilong Wu, who presented an intelligent scheduling system for MRI staff, described the experience as transformative. “Efficiency matters, but people matter more,” he said.

Another student presenter, Abhinethra Rajamoorthi Gangamani, focused on a predictive analytics system using data to identify risk factors associated with patients leaving without being seen. The project required in-depth engagement with operational workflows and a clear understanding of how healthcare data is processed from raw inputs to the dashboards used by clinicians and patients.

Industry partners in attendance emphasized that grounding analytics in real environments is critical. Kevin Fournier of Microsoft highlighted the importance of strong data foundations and clarity of purpose.

“In today’s world, data is the foundation of decision-making,” he said. “What stood out was how clearly students understood the problem, the data behind it and how their solutions could support better outcomes.”

From the Sobey School of Business perspective, the Symposium reflects a deliberate approach to applied learning and system engagement. Faculty leadership emphasized that embedding students within complex organizations strengthens both analytical capability and professional judgement, helping graduates contribute meaningfully from the outset of their careers.

Dr. Michael Zhang, MBAN Program Director, noted that working directly with Nova Scotia Health enables students to develop a deeper understanding of context, constraints and impact, leading to more relevant and responsible analytical work.

In her opening remarks, Susan MacDonald, Vice-President, Finance and Administration at Saint Mary’s University, underscored the broader institutional importance of partnerships like this one. She emphasized that universities play a critical role not only in educating students but also in contributing to provincial capacity by supporting workforce development and system improvement.

Together, the student work and partner perspectives demonstrated how applied analytics, developed through close collaboration between academia and the health system, can support better decisions, stronger operations and improved patient experience. As healthcare continues to evolve, the Health Data Analytics Symposium offers a growing platform for aligning education and practice in the service of complex, real-world challenges.

Saint Mary’s is offering a new Graduate Diploma in Health Data Analytics program starting in September 2026. Apply now!

Celebrating 25 years of excellence: The PhD in Business Administration at Saint Mary’s University

The first group of PhD candidates in Business Administration at Saint Mary's University in 2000

This year, Saint Mary’s University’s Sobey School of Business proudly marks the 25th anniversary of its Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration program – a milestone celebrating a quarter-century of cultivating exceptional business researchers, educators and leaders.

Since its launch in 2000 under the guidance of then-Director K. Kelloway, the PhD program has been dedicated to developing highly skilled researchers equipped to make meaningful contributions to academia, industry and the public sector. Designed to build both deep disciplinary expertise and a nuanced understanding of research contexts, the program has attracted students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, all united by a commitment to advancing knowledge in business administration.

The original program emphasized human resource management and organizational behavior, while also preparing students to pursue research in specialized areas such as accounting, finance, marketing, international business and information management. Students engage in a rigorous curriculum that includes foundational courses in management thought and research paradigms, advanced functional courses tailored to individual research interests, comprehensive examinations, graduate seminars, teaching workshops and the completion of an original doctoral thesis.

Over the past 25 years, the PhD in Business Administration program has evolved to meet the changing needs of the global business landscape. Today, graduates of the program are recognized internationally for their research, holding faculty positions at universities around the world and driving innovation across sectors. The program continues to emphasize rigorous methodological training, interdisciplinary inquiry and impactful scholarship that shapes both theory and practice.

As the program celebrates this milestone, it reflects on a rich history of academic achievement and looks forward to continuing its tradition of excellence. With each cohort of PhD candidates, Saint Mary’s strengthens its commitment to developing leaders who will drive research, education and ethical decision-making in business for decades to come.

For more information about the PhD in Business Administration program at Saint Mary’s University, visit smu.ca/sobey/phd.

Student-led ideas drive WorkSource Alliance Innovation Sprint

WorkSource Alliance, an organization based in Prince Edward Island, is dedicated to helping international students and graduates build meaningful careers in the region. Through professional development support, EDI-focused corporate consulting and regular events and webinars, they work to connect students with opportunities while also helping employers create inclusive workplaces.

This fall, WorkSource Alliance partnered with students at Saint Mary’s University and Dalhousie University for an Innovation Sprint held at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre. The session brought together 12 international students who were invited to share their ideas on how the organization could strengthen and expand its platform.

The organization’s Co-Founder and Executive Director, Daniel Ohaegbu, is currently an MTEI student at SMU. His own experience navigating the international student journey helped shape the early vision for WorkSource Alliance. Identifying a clear gap in accessible, tailored support for international graduates, Daniel set out to build something that would make entering the workforce easier, more transparent and more equitable.

During the Sprint, students worked in teams and presented a range of thoughtful solutions. Some focused on ways to help students gain more hands-on experience, such as a Business Assisted Learning model that offers micro-placements or short-term opportunities to help build résumés more quickly. Other teams recommended adding “gig-style” roles in partnership with local employers to give students more flexible options. There were also suggestions for new marketing approaches, updates to the organization’s consulting services and ideas for expanding the variety of work opportunities on the platform.

At the end of the session, WorkSource Alliance selected three teams as winners:

• First Place: Hazzaa Sujeer and Chloe Pobjoy-Ridolfo (SMU)

• Second Place: Ibrahim Haddad and Hassan Rashid (Dal)

• Third Place: Nguyen Thu Trang Truong and Boluwatife Erogbogbo (SMU)

First place team

Second place team

Third place team

The WorkSource Alliance team shared that they were impressed by the quality and practicality of the ideas presented. They also offered an additional $500 in prize money to the teams that did not place, noting that every group contributed valuable insight. The organization expressed interest in continuing to build on the recommendations shared throughout the sprint.

Learn more about Innovation Sprints on our website.

Sobey MBA ranked among Top 40 in the world for sustainability by Corporate Knights

Saint Mary’s University is proud to announce that the Sobey School of Business MBA program has been ranked among the Top 40 MBA programs worldwide in the Corporate Knights 2025 Better World MBA Ranking—a global benchmark for sustainability-focused business education. 

This international recognition highlights the Sobey MBA’s commitment to developing responsible, purpose-driven leaders equipped to build an inclusive and sustainable global economy. Rooted in the principle of "Responsible Leadership, the program integrates sustainability management, social entrepreneurship, and ethical decision-making across its curriculum. Faculty members contribute to this mission through relevant, impactful research and experiential learning that prepares graduates to lead with integrity and vision. 

The Corporate Knights Better World MBA Ranking evaluates programs around the world on their integration of sustainability, ethics and social impact across teaching, research, and institutional leadership. Being named among the top programs globally reinforces the strength of the Sobey MBA and its ongoing efforts to embed sustainability in every facet of business education. 

“This recognition speaks to the kind of learning environment we strive to create. Our goal is to ensure that every MBA student is equipped to lead responsibly, think critically about social and environmental challenges and contribute to meaningful change in their organizations and communities,” said Firat K. Sayin, Associate Professor and MBA Director. 

This achievement reflects the collective efforts of faculty, staff, students, alumni, and program advisors who continue to champion responsible leadership and sustainability throughout the Sobey MBA experience. Their contributions play a key role in shaping a program that aligns academic excellence with social and environmental responsibility. 

The Sobey School of Business extends its appreciation to the entire community for their continued dedication to the program’s growth and global impact. 

Learn more about the Corporate Knights ranking and the Sobey MBA: 

• Sobey School of Business MBA Program

• Corporate Knights Ranking 

• Annual Responsible Leadership Day

EQUIS accreditation for Sobey School of Business

The Sobey School of Business at Saint Mary's University is proud to have achieved EQUIS re-accreditation. Awarded by the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD), EQUIS is one of the most comprehensive and prestigious international accreditations for business and management education.

Institutions that are accredited by EQUIS must demonstrate not only high general quality in all dimensions of their activities but also a high degree of internationalisation. The scope of EQUIS encompasses all programs offered by an institution, from undergraduate to PhD.

With both EQUIS and AACSB accreditations, the Sobey School is unique in Atlantic Canada and recognized among the top 1% of business schools globally for quality and rigour.

"We are extremely proud to have achieved EQUIS re-accreditation,” said Dr. Michel Delorme, Dean of the Sobey School of Business. “This global recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty and staff, and it reaffirms our commitment to the highest international standards in management education. Our focus on responsible leadership, entrepreneurship, and sustainability ensures that our research and teaching are academically excellent and directly relevant to the societal and economic challenges facing our region and the world."

From executive to evidence-based leader: EDBA graduate champions the unique program

Jonny Stevens graduated with one of SMU’s first EDBA degrees at the Fall 2025 convocation. Shown here with President Michael Khan, Chancellor Michael Durland, and supervisor Dr. Ramesh Venkat

When Jonny Stevens BComm'02 MBA'07 EDBA’25 decided to pursue his Executive Doctorate in Business Administration (EDBA) at the Sobey School of Business, it wasn’t because he needed another credential. With a successful executive career already behind him, Stevens was driven by something deeper: curiosity.

“I didn’t want to just think I knew something—I wanted to know it,” he says. “I wanted to deepen my knowledge, challenge myself, and show my kids that you’re never too old to learn something new.”

As one of the first graduates of the Sobey EDBA program, Stevens helped shape the program’s early development while balancing full-time work and family life. He describes being part of the inaugural cohort as both an honour and a rare opportunity to help define a new academic path. “The core academics were solid from day one, but we got to influence some of the process details. That was exciting.”

The EDBA program, designed for experienced professionals who want to apply research to real-world business challenges, turned out to be exactly what Stevens had been searching for. For years, he had explored doctoral study options but found that traditional PhD programs required leaving full-time work behind. The EDBA provided a rigorous, research-focused alternative that was built around industry relevance.

“It's the same level of academic rigour as a PhD,” he explains, “But it’s designed for people who want to bring evidence-based thinking directly into business practice.”

Putting knowledge into practice

That mindset led Stevens to make a career pivot during the program. Formerly the Chief Revenue Officer of a billion-dollar professional services company, he founded his own consulting practice to help organizations apply research-based approaches to leadership and growth.

“I tell people my superpower is my library card. I help businesses move from thinking to knowing—to make decisions backed by data and evidence.”

His own research explored inclusion climates in B2B sales environments, developing an original 11-item scale to measure the impact of gender inclusion on team performance. The results showed that positive inclusion climate leads to greater job satisfaction and job performance. “It’s not just the right thing to do; it’s the profitable thing to do,” he says.

For Stevens, who graduated in fall 2025, the EDBA experience was transformational. “You can’t start this program and finish it as the same person,” he says. “It stretches your thinking, your skills, and your view of what’s possible.”

His advice for future students? “Know why you’re doing it, be clear about your goals, and be ready to work hard. If you want to be surrounded by the best professors, peers, and research opportunities—this is the program for you.”

Learn more about the EDBA program and how it’s transforming business leadership: smu.ca/sobey/edba