Huskies celebrate excellence in sport at the 2025 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

2025 Huskies Sport Hall of Fame Inductees during Homecoming ceremony

This year marks an extraordinary moment for Saint Mary’s athletics, with four major inductions recognizing the achievements, history and impact of standout Huskies teams, athletes and builders. From the ice to the hardwood, Saint Mary’s champions have been honoured at both the Huskies Sports Hall of Fame and the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame, highlighting a legacy of excellence that continues to shape the university’s athletic culture.

Three new inductees enter the Huskies Sports Hall of Fame

As part of Homecoming Weekend, Saint Mary’s welcomed three exceptional additions to the Huskies Sports Hall of Fame: Marc Rancourt (Athlete), longtime head coach Trevor Stienburg (Builder) and the 2009-10 men’s hockey team – the first Huskies squad to capture a national title.

More than 200 alumni, friends and family gathered on October 4 for the celebration, which also included a Homecoming brunch and ceremonial puck drop before the men’s hockey home opener. With Saint Mary’s preparing to host the 2026 University Cup, the event offered a fitting tribute to the program’s storied history.

Marc Rancourt BComm’09 MBA’10

Marc Rancourt BComm'09 and MBA'10 (Athlete)

One of the most decorated players in program history, Rancourt captained the Huskies to their first national championship in 2010 and remains the university’s all-time assists leader. A former CIS Player of the Year and two-time All-Canadian, he amassed 216 points over his university career before moving on to professional hockey in North America and Europe. Today, he resides in Calgary with his family and works as Senior Director of Diversified Industries at ATB.

2009-10 Men’s Hockey Team (Team)

The 2009-10 Huskies delivered one of the most memorable playoff runs in SMU hockey history. Entering the AUS postseason as the third seed, the team swept Moncton, surged past Acadia and defeated STFX to claim a second consecutive conference title. At the University Cup in Thunder Bay, the Huskies recorded wins over McGill and Manitoba before securing the national championship in overtime against Alberta, clinching the program's first national title. Tournament MVP Andrew Hotham and three other Huskies earned national all-star honours.

Trevor Stienburg (Builder)

Across 23 seasons, head coach Trevor “Stieny” Stienburg transformed Huskies hockey into a national contender. He guided the team to three AUS championships, oversaw the program’s landmark 2010 national title and produced more than 140 Academic All-Canadians. A three-time CIS Coach of the Year, Stienburg retired from SMU in 2020 and now serves as an amateur scout for the Seattle Kraken.

1979 Men’s Basketball team honoured by Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame

Archive photo: 1979 SMU Men’s Basketball team during a game

Adding to this landmark year, the 1979 Saint Mary’s Huskies men’s basketball team was inducted into the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame. Widely regarded as one of the greatest university teams in Canadian history, the Huskies dominated the 1978-79 season en route to a second consecutive national championship, and their third in seven years.

Led by standout guard Mickey Fox and strengthened by key newcomers Kevin Wood, Percy Davis and first-year talent Jeff Gourlay, the team combined explosive scoring with exceptional depth. Veterans Ross Quackenbush, Tom Kappos, Rick Plato, Ron Blommers and Derrick Lewis anchored a roster that averaged more than 100 points per game and finished with an impressive 17-1 conference record.

At the national championship in Calgary, the Huskies defeated Windsor and York before securing the title with a decisive win over Victoria. Their induction honours a team whose talent, cohesion and championship legacy helped define an era of SMU basketball excellence.

Team members included: Mickey Fox, Kevin Wood, Percy Davis, Ross Quackenbush, Tom Kappos, Rick Plato, Derrick Lewis, Jeff Gourlay, Head Coach Brian Heaney, Assistant Coaches Jim Collins and Willie Follette and Manager John Landry.

Woven stories - dream catchers honour Mi'kmaq culture at Saint Mary's

Indigenous Student Advisor Kylar Johnson, Chief Wilbert Marshall and Isaiah Bernard stand under a dream catcher on SMU campus

The Mi’kmaq tradition of storytelling has long been a way of carrying culture, history and teachings across generations. At Saint Mary’s University, that same tradition is carried forward in two large dream catchers installed by son and father duo, Isaiah Bernard and Chief Wilbert Marshall of Potlotek First Nation.

More than art, the dream catchers are symbols of presence and visibility; threads of Mi’kmaq culture woven into the heart of campus.

“When I was a student here, I would see all these cultures represented, but I didn’t see my own,” describes former SMU student and former Indigenous Student Society president, Isaiah Bernard. “The university is on Mi’kmaq land, so we should be showcased within the campus. I brought the idea to the university President and to SMUSA (Saint Mary’s University Students’ Association), and they all agreed.”

Bernard’s father, Chief Marshall, taught him how to make dream catchers as a child, and they seemed like the perfect art form to display in prominent campus buildings.

“When the Europeans came, our people were annihilated and we lost everything, so we had to adopt a lot of our traditions from different tribes like out west in British Columbia,” explains Chief Marshall. “Everyone has their own spin on the story of the dream catcher.” The story is that a woman protects a spider spinning its web, and in thanks, that spider spins a web between her and the moon to ensnare bad thoughts and keep them from her.

“There are many different ways you can make a dream catcher; you can put three rings, or four, or even single rings. There are usually tassels on it, and on the weave, you can make different designs in the web itself,” shares Chief Marshall.

Chief Marshall and Bernard built and installed the dream catchers in 2020

One of the dream catchers hangs in the lobby of the O’Donnell-Hennessey Student Centre, the other is in the Patrick Power Library

Working with repurposed crab trap pipes and biodegradable rope, the pair created large dream catchers with two rings. “We put a little dream catcher in the middle—you’ll see the braided string that’s on there. It’s got the four directional colours on there also. Everything was done completely by hand.”

On October 1 – Treaty Day – Isaiah Bernard and Chief Marshall returned to Saint Mary’s campus, alongside Indigenous Student Advisor Kylar Johnson, to unveil newly installed plaques commemorating the dream catchers.

A plaque commemorating the dream catcher installation

“When we brought the dream catchers to campus, the welding broke. We had to get that fixed, repaint it and let it dry, so we asked the university if we could leave it on campus and then web it on site,” recalls Bernard. “It was cool to make it on campus in front of a live crowd. It took us about four hours [to web and install] because people kept coming by to watch us and ask questions – it was really something!”

The dream catchers have been more than a pastime for Bernard and his father; they are a way to connect with family, community and culture. Their dream catchers are installed across Mi’kma’ki, including Glooscap and Membertou, and Chief Marshall has put on seminars to teach younger generations how to make them. Through sharing the craft, they are bringing visibility to Mi’kmaq traditions and reclaiming practices that were once at risk of being lost.

“People often forget that Mi’kmaq were the first people here. This is Mi’kmaq nation, from dusk ‘til dawn, before others got here and after they leave, this is our territory, our culture. We were the first ones,” exclaims Bernard. “It’s time they start honouring the first people here and showcasing Mi’kmaq culture. We have a rocky history, and not enough of that is taught,” he adds.

Chief Marshall reflects, “Now, we have Treaty education in schools, but people also need to learn about the hard truths of our history. You can’t mask that, it has to be talked about.”

“I hope [the dream catchers] inspire the community here to learn about the First Nations, learn about the community, about our history, most importantly, and about our Mi’kmaq people,” Bernard emphasizes.

Hear from Isaiah and Chief Marshall about their dream catcher project at Saint Mary’s.

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October is Mi’kmaq History Month. Learn more here: Mi'kmaq History Month: Events and resources for the SMU Community

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Alaagi joins Nestlé & UNESCO Top 100 Global Start-Ups

Tyler MacLean, Vaishali Sachdeva and Sheheryar Khan BSc’25 DipENG’25 competed for the Hult Prize in London

Summer 2025 has been a landmark season for Alaagi, a cleantech startup founded by recent Saint Mary’s University graduate Sheheryar Khan BSc’25 DipENG’25.

After spending August in London, UK at the Hult Prize Global Accelerator, Khan and teammates Tyler MacLean and Vaishali Sachdeva returned home to even bigger news: Alaagi has been named one of the Top 100 Global Start-ups by the Nestlé and UNESCO Youth Impact: Because You Matter program.

The recognition includes a grant and six months of mentorship designed to help young innovators strengthen sustainable food systems through regenerative agriculture, climate change solutions, and packaging innovations.

“The Hult Prize accelerator was completely transformative,” said Sheheryar Khan. “To spend a month with global leaders, investors, and other start-ups gave us insights and connections that would have taken years to build. Now, being recognized by Nestlé and UNESCO confirms our mission is resonating.”

Alaagi is developing compostable, seaweed-based bioplastic films for seafood and meat packaging. In the past year:

• Alaagi has secured over $11 million in commercial LOIs, including pilots with Sobeys and High Liner Foods.

• The company has received four purchase orders and won $165K in non-dilutive funding.

• Alaagi is being presented at Enactus World Cup, through Enactus Saint Mary’s, in Bangkok, Thailand.

• Alaagi will soon head to Paris for the Nestlé/UNESCO showcase event.

Learn more about entrepreneurship opportunities for students through SMU’s Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre.

Star Finder program prepares NS teachers with astronomy lesson plans

The inaugural Star Finders Teachers’ Workshop was held at Saint Mary’s University for elementary and junior high teachers

An enthusiastic group of elementary and junior high educators attended the first Star Finder Teachers’ Workshop in August, and they are now ready to share an appreciation of astronomical understanding and discovery with their students across Nova Scotia.

During the two-day course the teachers were introduced to the lesson plans, performed hands-on experiments and demonstrations, attended talks by astronomers from the Department of Astronomy and Physics, learned to use the Burke-Gaffney Observatory (BGO) and took part in stargazing activities.

All teachers and their classes in Nova Scotia now have access to use the BGO remotely from their classrooms, plus an extensive archive of the observatory’s data and images.

Hands-on experiments were part of the two-day workshop

Star Finders Teachers’ Workshop participants

The Star Finder lessons were developed by Saint Mary’s University alum Andrea Misner BSc’06,  along with Astronomy & Physics undergraduate student Mackenzie Hayduk, Astronomy Technician Tiffany Fields and Director of the Burke-Gaffney Observatory Dr. Vincent Hénault-Brunet. Focusing on space exploration and astronomy, the goal of the lesson plans is to foster enthusiasm, engagement and understanding of astronomy among school children—especially in rural and underserved communities in the province. 

Ms. Misner studied astrophysics at Saint Mary’s and later earned a master’s in education from the University of Manitoba. She teaches high school general sciences, physics and astronomy in Winnipeg, and is a recipient of a 2024 Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence.    

Star Finder – The David Lane Astronomy Outreach Program is funded by a $250,000 philanthropic gift from the late David and Michelle Lane. During his 29-year career as the Astronomy Technician in the Department of Astronomy and Physics and the Director of the Burke-Gaffney Observatory at Saint Mary’s, Dave single-handedly automated the Observatory, making it available to users worldwide through social media accounts.

Dave Lane passed away in March 2024; he is survived by his wife, Michelle. The Star Finder project was created as a way for the couple to give back to the community and share Dave’s passion for astronomy with the next generations.

“We were thrilled to connect with such passionate and dedicated educators during the two-day workshop,” says Dr. Vincent Hénault-Brunet, Director of the Burke-Gaffney Observatory. “We hope this workshop is just the beginning of building a vibrant community of teachers eager to bring astronomy-related activities to their students and use the observatory remotely.”

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For teachers wanting to learn more about this program and to download the lesson plans, click here and visit the Star Finder web page for updates. These lesson plans are focused on the Grade 9 Space Exploration unit of the Nova Scotia curriculum, but they are also tied to the Grade 9 Math curriculum and can easily be adapted for other levels.

Do not hesitate to email the Star Finder team at starfinder@smu.ca with ideas and questions about accessing the Burke-Gaffney Observatory remotely, or to share your experiences after trying out some of our lesson plans and projects with your classes.

You can also sign up for the Star Finder newsletter to receive all the latest news about the program.

Related:

• Saint Mary’s introduces Star Finder - The David Lane Astronomy Outreach Program

• Support the Star Finder program

Two Huskies, one unbreakable friendship

Skip Oliver BA'67 LLD'02 and David Murphy BA'66 together on Saint Mary’s campus

From the moment they start talking, you can tell that Skip Oliver LLD'02 BA'67 and David Murphy BA'66 share a bond that runs far deeper than football. There’s the easy laughter, the way they finish each other’s sentences, and the countless stories that spill out—proof of a friendship that has endured for more than 60 years. 

That bond began in 1963, when Skip arrived at Saint Mary’s University. Back then, the campus was small and the football program was still finding its footing under coach Bob Hayes. 

“My first thought was, ‘What did I get myself into?’” Skip laughs. “Campus was small.” 

David remembers their first meeting off the field as if it were yesterday. “So, there’s this little place called Gus’s Canteen—different food from the main cafeteria, and if you have a cheeseburger there, it just tastes better. I’m sitting there one day, and in walks Skip. He’s wearing a beautiful London Fog raincoat, umbrella over his arm, and a hat. I’m thinking, this guy has no idea what he’s walking into—he won’t last a week. So I go right over, introduce myself, get a good handshake, and a look in the eye. I think, yeah, this guy’s going to be my friend.” 

Skip grins at the memory. “He had these dorky glasses on, and I thought, This guy’s kind of a geek, I feel sorry for him. But we became such good friends. He even came down to Pennsylvania to live with me for a summer.” 

That summer, working long shifts in a Pennsylvania soda pop factory led to spending time together later in life, relaxing together at summer homes in St. Margaret’s Bay. 

Their friendship is built on more than the camaraderie of the football field—it is rooted in shared experiences, trust, and a genuine care for each other’s lives beyond the game. 

And in between the practices and studies? “Let’s just say we got into our fair share of trouble,” Skip admits with a laugh. “But we always knew—no matter what happened—we could count on the other guy to be there and bail you out. In fact, I think all that practice getting David out of jams is what made me such a good lawyer later on,” he adds with a smirk. 

Their friendship extended beyond the Saint Mary’s campus. Skip built a legal career in Pennsylvania; David earned his surgical certification at NYU. They leaned on each other through demanding careers, celebrated weddings—Skip was even married at the chapel on the Saint Mary’s campus with David by his side—and kept their traditions alive, like attending 32 Super Bowls together. 

“I don’t know what I would’ve done without Skip’s support,” David said, and Skip agreed. 

For Skip, Saint Mary’s was more than a stepping stone—it was a launchpad. “I got involved in everything—yearbook, newspaper—and earned the Athletics M, Literary M, and Gold M awards. I was even named Man of the Year,” he said proudly. 

He also helped to strengthen the football program. “I invited Coach Al Keith to my hometown, and we sent eight players to Saint Mary’s. Those guys helped win the 1973 championship. I’m proud to have played a part in that,” said Skip. 

David’s ties to the university run just as deep. Alongside his medical career, he coached at Saint Mary’s, served two stints on the Board of Governors, and returned twice as Athletic Director. “Saint Mary’s is at my core,” he says simply. 

David and Skip met with SMU President Dr. Michael Khan during a recent campus visit

Looking back, Skip offers this advice to today’s student-athletes: “You get out of your university experience what you put into it. Put in friendship, loyalty, hard work—and you’ll carry those rewards for the rest of your life.” 

David nods. “The friendships, the teamwork, the life lessons—they stay with you long after the final whistle.” 

Even now, they continue to support Saint Mary’s through mentorship, attending games and supporting the university financially, with the football program at the top of their list. 

To both of them, Saint Mary’s is more than where they earned their degrees and played football.  

“It’s where we found family,” David said. “And that’s something worth giving back to.” 

Staff, faculty and alumni fill the shelves of the Community Food Room

The SMU Community Food Room is overflowing with generosity after this year’s Food Drive Competition!

Team members from the So-bee School - Hive Mind accept their top place trophy for the annual Food Drive Competition

Thank you to the dedicated faculty, staff, and alumni who participated in the annual Food Drive Competition hosted by the Alumni Office. Together, twelve teams helped pack the shelves with 2,563 lbs of food for the SMU Community Food Room—making a meaningful difference for students in need.

Congratulations to this year’s winner: The So-bee School Hive Mind! Their collaboration and commitment truly set the bar, earning them top honours in this year’s campus-wide challenge by donating the most food by weight, plus the items most needed by our students. Following closely in second place, the EntrepreNOURISHship team also brought incredible energy and enthusiasm to the competition.

Food Room volunteers stock the shelves with donations

Thank you to the faculty, staff, and alumni who generously contributed financial items during the competition. Your support allows the SMU Community Food Room to purchase essential items as needed.

Donations are welcome year-round, and members of the SMU community can contribute at any time—with tax receipts available for gifts made here.

"This year’s food drive was more than a competition; it was a powerful reflection of what’s possible when a community comes together with purpose,” said Yusupha Njie, Community Food Room Coordinator.

“I’m deeply moved by the generosity shown across campus and incredibly proud of how each department stepped up to support students facing food insecurity. My heartfelt thanks go to SMU Alumni for organizing this vital initiative, and to the dedicated volunteers of the SMU Community Food Room. Your behind-the-scenes work–coordinating, sorting, and lifting every pound of food we received made this success possible. Together, we did not just collect food; we strengthened a community of care."

Thank you to all the departments that came together to contribute to the success of the Annual Food Drive Competition:

• The SMUSA Bread Winners – SMUSA

• EntrepreNOURISHship – Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre

• It's All Gravy – Facilities Management

• Snack Pack – Alumni/Development

• Rock and Enroll – Enrolment Services

• The Grocery Bags – External Affairs

• Bits & Bytes – EIT

• The So-bee School - Hive Mind – Sobey Dean's Office, BComm Advising, Accounting, Economics, FISMS, Management and Marketing

• Sarty and the Side Kicks – Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research

• All Stuff, No Fluff – People & Culture

• SAAS team – Student Affairs and Services

• The 42 Crew: Understanding life, the universe and everything – Science Faculty staff

About the Food Room

The SMU Community Food Room is the on-campus food bank for the Saint Mary’s University community. It is a partnership with SMUSA and Student Affairs and Services and is operated by student volunteers. Their goal is to offer access to safe, nutritious, and culturally acceptable foods in a welcoming environment. In collaboration with Feed Nova Scotia, they work to improve food security, food equity, and food literacy on our campus.

Between May 2024 and April 2025, 4,051 appointments were booked at the food room, an increase of nearly 200 pick-ups over the previous year.

Celebrating graduates at Spring Convocation

View photo albums on the Saint Mary’s University Halifax Facebook page.

Hundreds of excited graduates, donning their graduation attire, stopped for photo ops across campus last week—posing with their classmates, families and hard-earned degree parchments. The Winter and Spring classes of 2025 celebrated convocation from May 27-30. Sunshine, smiles and cheers brought tremendous energy to campus, while hundreds of supporters watched online from around the world.

Awards, medals and prizes for outstanding graduates and faculty

The top annual university graduation awards, the Governor General’s Medals, were awarded to Lucienne Kaye Pothier-Bogoslowski (Silver Medal–Undergraduate) and Christopher Alan Robert Walker (Gold Medal–Graduate).

Lucienne Kaye Pothier-Bogoslowski

Christopher Alan Robert Walker

Undergraduate Gold Medals, given to the student with the top marks in each undergraduate faculty, were awarded to Callie Lloyd, Bachelor of Arts; Anubhav Gupta, Bachelor of Commerce; Samuel Denis Sequeira, Bachelor of Science; and Lila DanQi Gechtman, Diploma in Engineering.

More graduate awards and prize recipients can be found in the convocation program.

Dr. Rachel Zellars recognized with two faculty awards

Dr. Rachel Zellars with Dr. Jason Grek-Martin

Dr. Rachel Zellars, Associate Professor in the Department of Social Justice & Community Studies, received both the Dr. Geraldine Thomas Educational Leadership Award and the Father William A. Stewart, S.J., Medal for Excellence in Teaching.

Dr. Rachel Zellars with Alumni Director Mary Ann Daye

Dr. Rachel Zellars has distinguished herself as a transformative educator and leader in the field of social justice education. Since joining Saint Mary’s University, she has developed and taught a range of pioneering courses—including The African Nova Scotian Experience and Climate Disaster and Social Justice—that reflect a deep commitment to equity, community engagement, and student-centred learning. Her pedagogical approach weaves together critical theory, lived experience, and innovative classroom practice, often centring historically marginalized voices.

The Dr. Geraldine Thomas Educational Leadership Award recognizes a faculty member’s excellence in and long-term commitment to improving teaching, with an emphasis on institutional contributions that extend beyond their own discipline and professional role within Saint Mary’s University.

The Father William A. Stewart, S.J. Medal for Excellence in Teaching highlights full-time and part-time faculty members who have made significant contributions to the education of Saint Mary’s students through excellence in teaching and service. Read more in the convocation program (pg. 21).

Dr. Alexandra Dobrowolsky named Professor Emerita

Dr. Alexandra Dobrowolsky with Dr. Jason Grek-Martin

Dr. Alexandra Dobrowolsky has been a professor in the Political Science department for twenty-five years, having previously taught at York, Mount Saint Vincent and Dalhousie universities.

Her research encompasses Canadian, Comparative, and Women, Gender and Politics, and delves into issues that range from representation, citizenship, and social policy, to immigration, public engagement, and feminist governance.

Her book edited with Fiona MacDonald, Turbulent Times, Transformational Possibilities? Gender and Politics Today and Tomorrow was described as “Canadian political science at its innovative best.” In 2015, she was delighted to be the first woman in the Faculty of Arts to receive Saint Mary’s President’s Award for Research Excellence. She has been a passionate teacher of undergraduate students, has supervised a long list of Political Science Honours students, and has worked with graduate students in various disciplines, locally and nationally. Read more in the convocation program (pg. 20).

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Inspiring words from Honorary Degree Recipients and Valedictorians

Four people were recognized with the university’s highest honour for their leadership in business, community, justice and education. Joyce Carter BComm’84, Dr. Rhonda Y. Britton, The Honourable Deborah Gass and Paul Davidson addressed graduates as they received their honorary doctorate degrees. Reflecting on their careers, the changing world (and even Star Trek!), they shared inspirational messages and lessons.

Learn more about the honorary degree recipients: Extraordinary leadership takes the stage at 2025 Spring Convocation and click the links in the photos below to watch their speeches.

Watch: Dr. Joyce Carter BComm’84 - Doctor of Commerce

Watch: Dr. Rhonda Britton - Doctor of Civil Law

Watch: Dr. Deborah Gass - Doctor of Civil Law

Watch: Dr. Paul Davidson - Doctor of Civil Law

Watch: Dr. Joyce Carter BComm’84 - Doctor of Commerce | Dr. Rhonda Britton - Doctor of Civil Law | Dr. Deborah Gass - Doctor of Civil Law | Dr. Paul Davidson - Doctor of Civil Law

Six graduates, representing Winter and Spring 2025 classes, gave their valedictory speeches to an eager group of peers. Read more about the valedictorians: Meet your Winter and Spring 2025 Valedictorians, and watch their speeches by clicking the links on the photos below.

Watch: Muhammad Usman, Bachelor of Commerce

Watch: Sheheryar Khan, Bachelor of Science with a Diploma in Engineering

Watch: Lydia Hui-Qi Lee, Bachelor of Commerce

Watch: Maria Mannette, Bachelor of Commerce

Watch: Maxinne Nana Ama Benyiwah Baddoo, Master of Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Watch: Madeline Grace Dalzell, Bachelor of Environmental Studies

Watch: Muhammad Usman, Bachelor of Commerce | Sheheryar Khan, Bachelor of Science with a Diploma in Engineering | Lydia Hui-Qi Lee, Bachelor of Commerce | Maria Mannette, Bachelor of Commerce | Maxinne Nana Ama Benyiwah Baddoo, MTEI | Madeline Grace Dalzell, Bachelor of Environmental Studies

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Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray celebrates final convocation ceremonies as SMU President

Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray

Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, whose term as President and Vice-Chancellor ends in June, addressed graduates and guests with a passionate message, encouraging them to stand up to limitations and step into the world as leaders.

“Your studies have equipped you supremely well to discover, identify and, most importantly, to overcome these limits. For you, in the hope and opportunity that lie ahead, a World without limits is not a statement of completion, as in completing your degree or diploma, but rather it is an aspiration.” 

He acknowledged his decade at the helm of the university with positivity: “What a decade it has been! Tremendous successes in research, teaching excellence, philanthropy, cultural and athletic performances, and our well-recognized engagement with our community, locally, nationally, and globally. I’m deeply grateful that you have been part of our university's mission and will now take it to the wider world. And I am honoured to have had the privilege of leading Saint Mary’s through exciting and challenging times.”

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Recordings of all convocation ceremonies and the online convocation program are available at Video & Graduation Program Archive.

Alumni-led Canadian International Peace Conference held at Saint Mary's

On April 25–26, Saint Mary’s University hosted the 2025 Canadian International Peace Conference, organized by alumni Fatu Kaba MTEI’24 through her social enterprise, HEARTS Global Network. The event brought together over 30 speakers and 20 workshops, uniting activists, academics, policymakers and students to explore inclusive and community-driven approaches to sustainable peace.

Fatu Kaba MTEI’24

Kaba is an award-winning peace activist, TEDx speaker, and the first woman in her family to earn a master’s degree. She founded HEARTS Global Network to champion global peace and gender equity through education, entrepreneurship and storytelling. Her lived experience, born during the Liberian Civil War, continues to shape her powerful work today.

The conference emphasized peace-building through clean energy, food security, gender equity and community empowerment, aligning closely with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Saint Mary’s faculty, staff and students were featured speakers at the conference. Dr. Saja Al Zoubi from the Department of Political Science and Global Development Studies spoke on a panel titled ‘The Role of Women in Peacebuilding’. Dr. Margherita Cameranesi from the Department of Psychology co-led a seminar titled ‘Gender-Based Violence and Its Impact on Refugees and their Families’. Natasha Fernandes BA’23, Business Consultant at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, and SMU student Shaneika Carter, moderated panels.

With inspiring keynotes, performances, and hands-on workshops, the event was a bold step toward a more peaceful and just future.

Event to examine the role of Acadian soldiers in the First World War

165e Batailon Acadian, 1916

The Gorsebrook Research Institute (GRI) for Atlantic Canada Studies is pleased to welcome Dr. Gregory Kennedy for a public presentation on April 3 at Saint Mary’s University.

Lost in the Crowd: Acadian Soldiers of Canada’s First World War

• POSTPONED: Date to be announced

Dr. Kennedy is a leading historian from Brandon University. The presentation will focus on his recent award-winning book about Acadian participation in the First World War, Lost in the Crowd: Acadian Soldiers of Canada's First World War (McGill-Queen’s University Press, 2024).

The event will follow an interview format with Q&A to follow. Dr. Kennedy will be in discussion with Stefanie Slaunwhite BA’14 MA’17, PhD candidate in History at the University of New Brunswick and graduate of the Master of Arts in Atlantic Canada Studies program at Saint Mary's University.

Dr. Gregory M. W. Kennedy is Professor of History and Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Brandon University. A historian of early Canada and particularly of New France and the French Atlantic World, Kennedy has published two monographs and numerous scholarly articles and book chapters. His first book, Something of a Peasant Paradise? Comparing Rural Societies in Acadie and the Loudunais, 1604-1755 (McGill-Queen’s University Press, 2014), was awarded the Canadian Historical Association’s Clio prize for the best scholarly book on Atlantic Canadian history and is also available in French with Septentrion (2021).

His second book is Lost in the Crowd: Acadian Soldiers of Canada's First World War (McGill-Queen’s University Press, 2024). It was recently named winner of the New Brunswick Scholarly Book Award by the Journal of New Brunswick Studies/Revue d’études sur le Nouveau-Brunswick.

Dr. Kennedy also co-edited a collection of essays in French entitled Repenser l’Acadie dans le monde: Études comparées, études transnationales, forthcoming in May from McGill-Queen’s University Press, as part of its Rethinking Canada in the World series. A second collection of essays in English, Military Service and Society in Atlantic Canada Communities, is in progress. His current research focuses on mobility, migration, and military service in French Canada, contributing to an SSHRC-funded partnership project, “Trois siècles de migrations francophones en Amérique du Nord”.

All are welcome to attend this event in person or online. Bookmark Halifax will be on site with copies of Dr. Kennedy’s books.

GRI Lecture Series 2025

Dr. Kennedy’s event falls amid a series of spring presentations as the Gorsebrook Research Institute continues its GRI Lecture Series 2025. On March 14, the lecture series launched with "Fogs Love This Shore: Living with Fog in Atlantic Canada," with Dr. Sara Spike of the Department of History at Dalhousie University. On March 28, SMU History alumnus Alex Myrick MA’21 presented “The Meyerian Diaspora and Nova Scotian Psychiatric Reforms, 1913-1970.

Coming up on Friday, April 11: "Cousins of the Empire: Nova Scotia and Bengal, 1756-1867," with Dr. Madhuparna Gupta, Instructor, SMU Department of Political Science and Global Development Studies. Noon to 2 p.m. in McNally North room 219 and online.

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The Gorsebrook Research Institute (GRI) for Atlantic Canada Studies at Saint Mary’s University is a regional hub for research and collaborative scholarship in Atlantic Canada. Its Atlantic Canada recognizes First Nation communities and their land sovereignty, the ethnic and cultural diversity of those who were settled as part of forced immigration and colonization, and those who are here by their own choice and agency. Its mandate is to provide an interdisciplinary research environment that facilitates exchanges and partnerships among researchers at Saint Mary’s University and affiliates from many different fields who can come together to improve understandings of Atlantic Canada. Learn more on the GRI website.

Sustainability…period!

From classroom to Aruna Revolution: how Bridget's MBAN is helping make menstrual products eco-friendly

Bridget Osundiji MBAN’24 blends her passion for business, sustainability and women’s health at Aruna Revolution

Fresh off her master’s from the Sobey School of Business, Bridget Osundiji, a young powerhouse, has found her calling as a Growth Marketing Specialist at Aruna Revolution, a Halifax-based start-up reimagining menstrual care products.

Bridget’s story is not just about academic achievement. It’s about purpose, passion and the power of using business to spark meaningful change.

Originally from Nigeria, Bridget relocated to Canada to pursue her dreams of higher education and living abroad. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Landmark University in Nigeria before coming to Saint Mary's, looking for a place to not only further her education but also launch her career. The Sobey School of Business Master of Business Analytics (MBAN), with its emphasis on responsible leadership and global perspectives, proved to be the right environment for her growth.

“For me, the master's program was a reality check. I knew it would be challenging, but I wasn’t prepared for how intense it would be—it was very fast-paced. There was always something to do, like assignments, rotations and workshops. It was go go go. I realized I had to prioritize and cut out unnecessary distractions. The program was tough, but it taught me a lot.”

After graduation, Bridget joined Aruna Revolution, a company focused on creating sustainable, compostable menstrual pads made from plant-based materials.

“The MBAN program was not just about education—it was about building relationships. SMU actually really helped with that. I got the internship at Aruna originally through a networking event. A lot of my classmates were able to secure job positions through those workshops.””

Bridget displays the plant-based materials used to create compostable menstrual pads at the Aruna Revolution warehouse in Dartmouth, NS

“Michael Zhang, the director of the MBAN program, is someone who is very passionate about the department and very passionate about the students. He wants to make sure that everybody's fine, everybody gets their job, and everybody understands what's going on in class. He helped with everything I needed. I really appreciate his support.”

The MBAN provides critical knowledge but also helps students develop a deep sense of purpose—one that now fuels Bridget’s work at Aruna Revolution. She continues to thrive in her now more permanent role, helping to develop strategies that not only promote the company's products but also raise awareness about the importance of sustainable menstrual care.

Bridget was recently recognized as Tribe Scholar of the Year at the Tribe Leader Summit, an event hosted by Tribe Network. Tribe Network is a community that supports racialized individuals in entrepreneurship and innovation by providing resources, opportunities and networks to help them succeed.

Empowering women, protecting the planet

Aruna Revolution’s mission of reducing plastic waste and empowering menstruators aligns perfectly with Bridget’s values. As someone passionate about sustainability and women’s health, she feels like she’s found her calling.

“Aruna is not just offering an alternative to traditional menstrual pads—we are offering a solution that’s better for the planet and the people who use them. It’s exciting to be part of a company that’s working toward real change in an industry that has long relied on plastic.”

Compostable menstrual pads are made from cattail, soybean raw material and extracted processed corn fibers

The bioreactors shown behind Bridget process the raw materials in a chemical solution to create the pad material

The company’s innovative approach to menstrual care is a direct response to the environmental harm caused by traditional products.

“It is about more than just creating and selling biodegradable menstrual products. I believe we are part of a larger movement toward a circular economy, where every product is designed with its full lifecycle in mind—from creation to composting.”

Aruna Revolution recently secured a deal on Dragons' Den with Michele Romanow and Manjit Minhas, who offered $300,000 for a 25% stake.

Bridget’s story exemplifies the transformative power of an education that blends business expertise with social responsibility. Her journey shows the profound impact responsible leadership, paired with a strong educational foundation, can have in today’s workplace and serves as a reminder that defining success in business can be found beyond just the numbers.

““Saint Mary’s gave me the tools to pursue a career that not only drives business success but also aligns with my values. I am proud to be part of a company that’s doing important work for both people and the planet.””

— Bridget Osundiji MBAN'24

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Related:

• Master of Business Analytics

• Celebrating International Women’s Day at Saint Mary’s

• Sustainability at SMU

Celebrating International Women's Day

Saturday, March 8, is International Women’s Day (IWD), a global celebration of women and girls. This year, we’re challenged to amplify the voices of all women, create opportunities for women and girls and accelerate action for gender equality. Learn more about the Government of Canada’s Strength in Every Story theme and the IWD Accelerate Action theme.

Join the SMU community for uplifting events happening on campus and online in celebration of International Women’s Day, and read about the students and alumni whose leadership inspires us all.

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International Women's Day - Celebrating a Feminist Future

Wednesday, March 5
11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Loyola Colonnade

Join the Sexual Violence Support Centre team in the Loyola Colonnade to mark International Women's Day and celebrate a feminist future!

Drop by between 11-2 to honour a woman in your life, contribute to a special art exhibit and share a treat. All are welcome.

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Journalling Workshop for Black Students

Wednesday, March 5
2:30-4 p.m.
Loyola Private Dining Room, LA 298

Join the Black Student Advisor and the Sexual Violence Support Centre for a Journalling Workshop for Black students. FREE journals for the first 20 participants!

Shianne Gordon (Community Mobilization Coordinator with the East Preston Resource Centre and Community Navigator with Avalon Centre) will guide a journalling process of mindfulness and gratitude to support wellbeing.

Join us in Loyola 298 (Private Dining Room) for an afternoon of connection and reflection.

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Her Story: Empower Her

Wednesday, March 5
5:30-8 p.m.
Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre Inspiration Studio (SH 212)

Join us for a special Women’s Day celebration as we come together to honour the achievements and contributions of women across various fields.

This event will highlight how women are re-imagining success by breaking boundaries, overcoming challenges, and leading with courage, innovation, and resilience.

Meet Inspiring Speakers:

• Rashmi Prakash – CEO & Co-founder, Aruna Revolution

• Sayeda Nabila – Senior Market Manager, TELUS

• Navdeep Parmanand – Chief Curves Officer & Founder, Celebrate Your Curves

Join us for an afternoon of thought-provoking conversations, shared experiences, and powerful insights from trailblazing women redefining success in their fields. Register Here.

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Celebration of Women in Entrepreneurship

Friday, March 7
10-11:30 a.m.
Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre Inspiration Studio (SH 212)

Mark your calendars for March 7, 2025, as we come together to celebrate International Women’s Day at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre. This event is all about confidence, connection and celebration—an uplifting space to honour women entrepreneurs and change makers!

Why you should attend:

• Connect with like-minded women entrepreneurs, students, alumni and changemakers

• Be inspired by success stories from incredible women making an impact

• Engage in fun, empowering activities designed to boost confidence and self-reflection

• Enjoy delicious treats from women-owned businesses

This event is open to all students, alumni and community members, and we welcome everyone who believes in the power of women’s leadership and entrepreneurship. Register here.

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International Women's Day: Embodying Support

Monday, March 10
10 a.m.-noon
O’Donnell-Hennessey Student Centre, 5th floor common space

Join the Sexual Violence Prevention Initiative in celebration of International Women's Day at the Student Centre 5th Floor common space! Get a temporary tattoo of a purple and/or teal ribbon to show your solidarity and support for those who have been impacted by gender- and sexual-based violence.

Meet the SVPI team, get resources for available supports and grab some snacks for the day!

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Empowering Voices: A Talking Circle for Immigrant and Black Women Entrepreneurs

Wednesday, March 12
5:30-7:30 p.m.
Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre Inspiration Studio (SH 212)

If you are an immigrant woman entrepreneur, a Black woman entrepreneur, or both, we want to invite you to connect with us at our intimate Talking Circle!

This is not your typical formal event—it’s a welcoming space to exchange stories, reflect on personal journeys and build meaningful connections.

We'll gather in a cozy circle of seats, sharing our backgrounds and experiences in a warm, supportive environment. It’s a chance to feel connected, comfortable, and inspired—the perfect way to brighten up a cold winter evening.

What to Expect:

• Open conversations about challenges, barriers, and triumphs

• A supportive environment to learn from diverse cultures and perspectives

• Opportunities to foster new friendships and explore business growth in Halifax

Our Facilitator will be Keisha Turner BA'12, Co-Founder of Starberry Drink Co. Register here.

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Paint and Sip

Wednesday, March 19
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre Inspiration Studio (SH 212)

Come join us for a relaxing evening of creativity and tea at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre in support of local women-owned businesses! All ticket sales will go to a local woman-owned business or organization supporting women - we will do a draw at the end of the night. There will also be amazing giveaway prizes from local businesses for attendees.

There will be a tea bar with a selection of teas and snacks to keep you warm and someone to help guide you through the painting process. No experience is necessary; just bring your creativity and enthusiasm! This event is perfect for a fun night out with friends or a solo artistic adventure. Let's paint, sip, and unwind together! Register here.

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Recurring Events

EDIA Book Club

The book for the Winter Term is Inferior: How Science Got Women Wrong – and the New Research That's Rewriting the Story by Angela Saini.

The EDIA Book Club meets biweekly on Fridays from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in Patrick Power Library room LI-135.

Remaining dates for this term: March 7, March 21, April 4

Visit the webpage for updates about which chapters to read and for more information about the book club. If you would like to be added to the EDIA book club mailing list, please reach out to Maheshi Dharmasiri (maheshi.dharmasiri@smu.ca).

Women in Sport Business Speaker Series

In this monthly online speaker series, women with expertise in the field of sport business share their insights, highlighting their important roles in the sport industry.

Next event: Tuesday, March 18 at 7 p.m. with Lindsay MacPhee DipEng’04. Register here.

Lindsay, a former chemical engineer turned entrepreneur, founded The Floatation Centre Health and Wellness in 2015. She will discuss the benefits of floatation therapy and holistic wellness for athletes.

For more information, visit the Scott McCain & Leslie McLean Centre for Sport, Business and Health website.

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50th Anniversary of Women in Varsity Sport

Former athletes, coaches and supporters gathered to celebrate the anniversary at Homecoming in October 2024

In 2024, Saint Mary's celebrated a monumental milestone: the 50th anniversary of women in varsity sports. The yearlong celebration showcased the inspiring journeys of female athletes who have shaped the university's athletic program, creating a legacy of achievement, determination and empowerment.

The highlight of the festivities took place during Homecoming in October 2024, when alumnae athletes, current student-athletes and prominent figures in women's sports gathered to celebrate the accomplishments and journey of the past 50 years of women in varsity athletics. It was more than just a celebration; it was a heartfelt tribute to the past, present and future of women's sports at SMU. Read more about the celebration and alumni highlights in Maroon + White alumni magazine.

Today, the SMU Huskies women’s teams are leading the pack!

Women’s Basketball AUS Champions 2024-2025

Women’s Volleyball AUS Champions 2024-2025

The Women’s Basketball Huskies won the 2024-2024 AUS Championships for the third season in a row! MBA student Clara Gascoigne was named the AUS Women's Basketball MVP, Defensive Player of the Year and Tournament MVP. Lucina Beaumont, Evie Hargraves and Aki Kobayashi were also recognized with AUS awards.

The Women’s Volleyball Huskies won the 2024-2025 AUS Championships, with left-side hitter Emilia Mikanovich named the AUS MVP and Playoff MVP. Grace Blaskovits was named AUS Rookie of the Year and Alena Piatukhova was named First Team All-Star.

Women’s Hockey captain Ashley Penney was recognized for her academic, athletic and community contributions with the AUS Student-Athlete Community Service Award. Abigail MacKenzie and Ava Shearer also received AUS awards.

In the Fall term, Cara Freeman was named 2024 AUS Women's Soccer First Team All-Star and Elliana Porter was named 2024 AUS Women's Rugby All-Star.

AUS award winners Clara Gascoigne, Ashley Penney and Emilia Mikanovich

Inspiring Students

Rheannon Richards BA’24 was the first woman to be awarded the Edna and Velma Thomas Kane Writers Award at last year’s Spring Convocation. She was recognized for giving back to her community as a tutor and conversation partner for newcomers. The $30,000 award was established in 2023 for undergraduate Arts students of African Nova Scotian or Black/African descent who aspire to careers in writing.

Commerce student and entrepreneur Olivian Sanderson was awarded a Dream Chaser Change Maker Award for Sociable, a mental health app for students, which she co-founded. The award provides a $10,000 scholarship and celebrates student entrepreneurs who use their businesses to address pressing social and environmental challenges. 

First-year Engineering student Mia Makhlouf received the Montreal Women’s Memorial Scholarship, which honours the memory of the 14 women who were killed on December 6, 1989 in an anti-feminist attack at the École Polytechnique, the engineering school at the Université de Montréal.

First-year student Emi Morse received the prestigious Honourable David C. Onley Scholarship Award from Canadian Hearing Services. This national scholarship is awarded to an individual who demonstrates outstanding academic achievements, resilience, and dedication as a leader in accessibility and the deaf community.

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International Women’s Day Collection at the Patrick Power Library

This year's theme, Strength in Every Story, highlights the importance of uplifting the voices of all women, especially those who continually face barriers to success. The SMU Library's International Women's Day book list celebrates women’s resilience, determination, and contributions to our past, present, and future.

Find the display on the ground floor of the library, or browse the book list online. All Library resources are free for SMU students, faculty, and staff to borrow. 

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More inspiring women at Saint Mary’s:

• Sustainability…period! From classroom to Aruna Revolution: how Bridget's MBAN is helping make menstrual products eco-friendly

• Anecia Shepherd: celebrating Black culture and women’s history through art

• Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre highlights Female Changemakers

• BComm student with focus on sustainability wins prestigious Frank H. Sobey Award

• 'A dream come true' Saint Mary's shot put star Katie Pegg set to compete at 2024 Paralympic Games 

• PWHL's Victoria Bach inspires young hockey players during campus visit

• Celebrating Women in Business: Highlights from the 2024 Conference

More events this month:

• March 6: Public reading by our SMU 2025 Writer-in-Residence Souvankham Thammavongsa

• March 12: Queer Market

• March 13: Upholding Sacred Obligations: Searching for the Missing and Disappeared Children

• March 14: Fighting for France: Secret Intelligence, War Memoirs, and How Josephine Baker Took on the British Empire