SMU Community
Emily LeBlanc
Celebrating International Women's Day 2026
Celebrating International Women's Day 2026
Entrepreneurship, Experiential Learning, Sobey School of Business, Student Success, Unique Education
Emily LeBlanc
The Arena 2026: Watch 64 student entrepreneurs ...
Sobey School of Business, Student Success, Unique Education, Experiential Learning
Emily LeBlanc
Saint Mary’s students win VCIC in Boston, ...
Alumni, Black AfricanNS community, Sobey School of Business, Unique Education
Emily LeBlanc
Balancing the books and the runway: Chrissy ...
Athletics and Recreation, SMU Community, Student Success
Emily LeBlanc
SMU Huskies are the top scorers in the U SPORTS ...
SMU Huskies are the top scorers in the U SPORTS Men's Hockey 2025-26 season

SMU Community

Celebrating International Women's Day 2026

Illustration of four women reading International Women's Day

March 8 is International Women’s Day (IWD), a global celebration of women and girls. The theme for International Women’s Day 2026 is “Give To Gain”, which encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration. At Saint Mary’s, we encourage collaboration across faculties and departments, and between students, staff and alumni to create opportunities for learning and support for all women at SMU.

Read below to see events, resources and highlights of our incredible SMU community.

Campus events

Event information and three cartoon hands on a graphic

Colours of the World: International Women's Day

Thursday, March 5
4-6 p.m.
LI 135, Patrick Power Library

SAGA and the International Student Centre invite you to celebrate and commemorate International Women’s Day.

Take a break from classes and honour the strength, resilience, and achievements of women around the world. This special painting event is a space to reflect, express and celebrate empowerment, equality and community. This is your chance to use creativity as a voice.

All materials and supplies will be provided, just bring yourself and your ideas!

Event information typed on a purple poster

Women in Business Female Empowerment Mixer

New date to be announced!

Celebrate International Women’s Day with the Women in Business Society at the Female Empowerment Mixer. Featuring a keynote speaker, guided networking, and a welcoming space for students, faculty, professionals, and community members to come together and uplift one another.

Community events

Conference information and speaker photos on a poster

2026 Women and Gender Studies Graduate Student Conference

Thursday, March 5
12-4:30 p.m.
Seton Faculty Lounge, MSVU
Register

Graduate students from Professor Tatjana Takševa’s course in transnational feminism will present their research at the 2026 Women and Gender Studies Graduate Student Conference in celebration of International Women’s Day.

The event creates space for critical dialogue, cross-institutional and cross-sectoral collaboration, and features emerging student-driven scholarship addressing global questions of gender, solidarity and power.

Keynote speakers: 

  • Dr. Gugu Hlongwane, Associate Professor of English Language and Literature, SMU, and author of Electric Fences and Other Stories (Mawenzi House 2016)

  • Sam le Nobel, AMI Fellow, MSVU (2025-2026)

SMU Community Spotlight

Clara holds an award in front of a U SPORTS back drop

Clara Gascoigne BComm’23 MBA’25 was named one of the Top 8 U SPORTS Academic All-Canadians during a ceremony in Ottawa in January 2026. The former Huskies Basketball Guard 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, AUS Most Valuable Player and three-time AUS Champion while retaining a high GPA during her two degrees at SMU. Read more.

Three students hold an award

Stuti Sandhu, Nahriza Zahid and Nahriza Zahid won the 2025 Innovation Cup with Being There, a non-profit that uses preventive care to help older adults stay safe, stable, and independent while avoiding unnecessary emergency room visits. The cross-faculty team earned the $10,000 grand prize and an additional $1,000 for the Audience Choice Award. Being There is a project of Enactus Saint Mary’s. Read more.

Five students hold a large cheque

The Scott McCain & Leslie McLean Centre for Sport, Business and Health held a case competition this fall to address gender disparity in professional and collegiate coaching. The winning team: Sophie Scully, Jill Duggan, Ashley Penney, Kara MacLean, and Keyara Nelson, pitched a collaborative AUS coaching apprenticeship program, stating, “We envision a future where young women watching the bench can look at the staff and finally see themselves there too, not by exception but by expectation.” Read more.

Four female students laugh while posing together

The SMUSA executive team is breaking barriers as the first all-female executive team in SMU’s history. Augustina Tucker, President & CEO; Angelica Amara, VP Academic; Naomi Selemane, VP Events & Engagement; and Nariman Djamai, VP Societies, are empowering the student community through their leadership for the 2025-26 academic year. Learn more about the SMUSA team.

Resources

Two female students smile in conversation

Women’s Centre

The SMUSA Women’s Centre is a positive, safe space located on the fifth floor of the Student Centre building on campus. Our space has couches if you would like to either hang out, work on homework, or study in a different setting.  We are an awesome feminist-centred space that welcomes all genders and orientations.

Patrick Power Library

This year's theme for International Women’s Day is “Give to Gain.” The theme emphasises the power of reciprocity and support. As individuals, giving support means calling out stereotypes, challenging discrimination, questioning bias, celebrating women's success, and more. When women thrive, we all rise.

The SMU Library's International Women's Day book list celebrates women’s 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. 

, , ,

Students tackle solutions for gender inequity in pro sports

, , ,

The Scott McCain & Leslie McLean Centre for Sport, Business and Health hosted its inaugural case competition last fall, bringing industry experts together to let student-athletes pave the way for a new generation of professional coaches.  

Systemic barriers for women in coaching positions still exist, and according to a 2023 report by Women’s Sports Foundation, “women in head coaching positions at the collegiate level had fallen from 90% to 41% since the implementation of Title IX [in the United States].”  

This competition was born out of a clear and necessary mission: to give students and student-athletes a dedicated space to tackle ongoing gender disparity in professional and collegiate coaching. This wasn’t just an academic exercise; it was a chance for the next generation of leaders to make a direct, tangible impact on the industry they love. 

The competition 

Dr. Annika Voltan of Saint Mary’s University, Dr. Ann Pegoraro from the University of Guelph and Maura Martina of Canadian Women & Sport briefed students on the case and provided the foundational insights needed to navigate the complex realities of gender inequality in professional coaching.  

This thorough brief ensured that when the competition day arrived, the solutions presented were grounded in real-world knowledge and experience.  

Taking the top spot with their pitch was "The Five R's," composed of Sophie Scully, Jill Duggan, Ashley Penney, Kara MacLean, Keyara Nelson and Leslie McLean.  

“We propose that the AUS help address systemic barriers affecting the underrepresentation of women in coaching and leadership roles by creating an AUS-wide assistant coach apprenticeship that prioritizes the recruitment of varsity women and alumnae seeking to further their education.

In this program, we envision collaborative work between the faculty of graduate studies at AUS schools and their athletic departments to provide cohorts of 10-12 graduating student athletes the opportunity to be mentored as assistant coaches while completing a master’s degree at their respective schools. Our mission aligns directly with the AUS mission: creating extraordinary, personal, and memorable student-athlete experiences – the kind that build belonging.”

“We envision a future where young women watching the bench can look at the staff and finally see themselves there too, not by exception but by expectation.”
— The Five R's team

Team The Five R’s took first place in the pitch competition

They were followed by "HERizon" in second place, featuring Charlie DaFonseca, Reid Valade, William Thompson, Mathew MacDougall and Josh Wainman, who created a solution that brought support pieces such as childcare stipends, scholarships and paid work experience into the fold.  

“Our two-year program combines rotational coaching experience, mentorship, NCCP training and access to a regional Women in Coaching Network.” 

Third place went to the team "LeadHER Atlantic", represented by Taylor Lougheed, Marisa McClocklin, Mackenzie Beggs, Jacquline Moore and Lianne Rogers. 

“Our team proposed a coaching certification and leadership advancement pathway designed to elevate women in sport. Within five years, the program aims for all women student-athletes to graduate with entry-level coaching certification in their respective sports, while each female varsity team is paired with a community woman mentor.” 

Team HERizon took second place

Team LeadHER Atlantic took third place

One of the Centre’s benefactors, Leslie McLean, was on-site to award the prizes. Key members from SMU’s Athletics & Recreation department, the Faculty of Arts, the Sobey School of Business, and local and provincial sport organizations participated on the adjudication panel.  

Looking ahead 

By inviting student-athletes into the conversation, the Scott McCain & Leslie McLean Centre for Sport, Business and Health bridged the gap between those who play the game and those who will eventually manage it–demonstrating the importance of having a diverse range of voices at the table where industry-changing decisions are made.  

To get involved with sports-business initiatives that have a real impact on the world, connect with the Scott McCain & Leslie McLean Centre for Sport, Business and Health and check out our Sports Business program. 

, , , , ,

Meet the advisors behind the World Cup winning Enactus Saint Mary’s team

, , , , ,

From left to right: Meredith Drost BComm’19 MTEI’25, Leslie Arsenault BComm’19, Jason Turner, Michael Sanderson MBA’08 and Brennan Daley BSc’16 

Behind the Enactus Saint Mary’s World Cup-winning team is a group of advisors who have quietly shaped generations of student leaders. Through mentorship, guidance and a shared belief in learning by doing, they help students turn ideas into meaningful action, often in ways that extend far beyond campus. 

Enactus Saint Mary’s at the 2025 World Cup in Thailand

Enactus Saint Mary’s is a student-led organization, supported by the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre at Saint Mary’s University. Through entrepreneurship and innovation, students create meaningful social, environmental and economic impact. From early-stage ideas to ventures generating hundreds of thousands of dollars in revenue, the program gives students a platform to apply what they’re learning beyond the classroom, building real businesses and addressing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a journey that led to them winning the World Cup in Bangkok, Thailand, in 2025. 

For Michael Sanderson MBA’08, who has been involved since 2003, Enactus Saint Mary’s has always been about leadership development. As one of the earliest advisors, he remembers when the team was just 11 students dreaming about how big Enactus could become. From taking the team to watch the World Cup in Toronto, Ontario, in 2005 to experiencing the monumental Saint Mary’s World Cup win, Michael has seen firsthand how confidence, presentation skills and belief can change the trajectory of a student’s life. 

That long-term growth is something Jason Turner, an advisor since 2007, holds especially close. He recalls the team placing in the top four at the National Exposition for the first time. This moment felt like a turning point for Enactus Saint Mary’s. Even more meaningful, he says, is seeing former students like Brennan, Meredith and Leslie step into advisory roles, a full-circle moment that reflects the strength of the Enactus community.  

Brennan Daley BSc’16, an advisor since 2016, is one of those alumni. Brennan helps ensure students have what they need to succeed. While he jokes about the travel opportunities, what truly keeps him coming back is watching students grow, mature and step confidently into their careers—a journey he understands deeply, having met his wife through Enactus. 

Leslie Arsenault BComm’19, an advisor since 2019, began her Enactus journey serving as a project manager for a program that helped neurodiverse entrepreneurs create business plans. She also travelled to Asembo, Kenya, to deliver entrepreneurship training and initiatives. For Leslie, Enactus was a place where academic achievements and community could intersect. She learned how to apply classroom learning in ways that could make a positive impact on the community. Today, she continues advising to be part of that same journey for the next generation of leaders. 

Meredith Drost BComm’19 MTEI’25, an advisor since 2023, was drawn to Enactus when she saw the impact it made on communities and students alike. After joining her first Enactus meeting, she knew she had found a group of people committed to creating real change. For the same reason, she now gives her time as an advisor, a commitment that earned her the John Dobson Fellow of the Year 2025 award from Enactus Canada for her dedication to advancing entrepreneurial learning and student success. 

Together, these advisors foster an environment where students from business, science, arts and beyond can grow into leaders, build impactful ventures and give back to their communities, all while addressing global challenges in meaningful ways. 

Learn more about Enactus Saint Mary’s

, ,

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.

Lead with Purpose website
,

What A Sin: new exhibition at SMU Art Gallery celebrates matriarchal power

,

A pair of NSCAD profs are celebrating the matriarchy in an exhibition at the Saint Mary’s University Art Gallery.

What A Sin, which opened to a packed house on January 23, features the work of Craft division professors at NSCAD, Ali Nickerson and Leesa Hamilton. 

Nickerson presents a variety of media, including interactive soft sculptures, drawings, banners and paintings, while Hamilton offers quilted soft structures and banners. Together, their work creates a colourful, thoughtful, interactive immersion into women’s labour in its myriad forms, without judgment. 

“We started leaning into this idea of a feminist cult,” says Nickerson. “When you walk into the gallery, you’re met with banners and seating, an invitation to sit, reflect, and ‘pray’ to the feminist before us, thanking them for everything they’ve given us.”

The pair knew each other a little as colleagues, but after Nickerson saw an exhibition of Hamilton’s at the Anna Leonowens Gallery, she invited her to join the Saint Mary’s show. A partnership quickly formed, each artist responding to one another’s pieces and creating collaboratively. 

“We explore similar themes, we have an aesthetic that works together, but is really different,” says Hamilton. “Ali’s work is really free and playful and round, and I play within the lines. I love a grid.

‘The show isn’t about hierarchies, it’s about conversations.’

Hamilton’s large quilted patterned cones, cubes and cylinders were inspired by Maritime signal flags—a system of communication used between ships, i.e. “My position is doubtful”—while navigating work and parenting. “I was having trouble understanding and communicating my own needs, and the messages of distress were comforting in their simple requests and simple declarations of distress,” she says. “They felt humorously simple and true to my situation.”

Nickerson was influenced by the strong matriarchal culture of the south shore, where she grew up, “a collection of different, very strong matriarchs who lived within a setting of Shelburne County or Queens County and secretly ran these towns and were often dismissed,” she says. “Instead of talking about the dismissal, it’s more of a complete celebration of their power.”

The celebration of power extends into the traditional tenets of a gallery exhibition—instead of an artist talk, the pair will be hosting quilting circles on Fridays at the Gallery (check website for details). “The show isn’t about hierarchies,” says Nickerson, “it’s about conversations.”

Nickerson started quite the conversation with her students at the show’s opening when she explained the selfie station they were visiting: a banner featuring a combination of hand-printed fabric and nostalgic textiles with a circular opening at its center, surrounded by fluorescent pink fringe. 

At the exhibition’s opening, she explained that the piece functioned both as an invitation and a provocation—raising questions about visibility, participation, and the performance of self within feminist and communal spaces.

The audience conversations taking place now began as communion and then collaboration between the two artists.

“There was this beautiful thing that happened as we started to complete work — that we were able to make work that responded to each other,” says Hamilton, “and place the work in a way that we felt there was a conversation happening between the pieces.”

What A Sin is on until March 29, 2026, at the Saint Mary’s University Art Gallery.

This story was originally published on NSCAD.ca and shared with permission.

, ,

Rooted in memory, built in community – Sankofa: Black Excellence Commons officially named

, ,

On January 29, the Saint Mary’s University community gathered to officially name a dedicated Black student space established in spring 2025. Students, staff, faculty and alumni marked the opening of African Heritage Month by honouring the advocacy, collective care and generations of leadership that shaped the space and brought the community to this moment.

“Sankofa, an African word rooted in Adinkra principles, means ‘go back and get it,’” explained Ebun Oladele MA’21, Black Student Advisor. “It reminds us that we draw strength from our histories and our ancestral wisdom as we move forward. Sankofa: Black Excellence Commons (BEC) is a space rooted in memory, in community, and in possibility. Not just for today but for generations to come.”

The naming of the space was student-informed and guided by the Naming Committee, which included Black student leaders alongside representatives from Student Affairs and Services and the Diversity, Inclusion and Wellness team. More than a title, the name reflects both the journey that led to the creation of the space and the responsibility that continues beyond its opening.

The journey to Sankofa: Black Excellence Commons

The Black Excellence Commons did not emerge overnight. It was shaped through years of Black student leadership.

Throughout the ceremony, student leaders spoke candidly about the emotional labour and determination required to bring this vision to life, naming both the barriers they faced and the collective strength that sustained them.

“This space is a result of advocacy, persistence and care. From students speaking up, to people who listened, and from community members who believed that Black students deserve spaces that reflect their identities and their experiences.”
— Ebun Oladele, Black Student Advisor

Ebun Oladele MA’21

SMUSA President Augustina Tucker framed the naming ceremony as a moment of recognition that honours those who drove this effort.

“This ceremony is more than just a naming,” Tucker said. “It is a recognition of the voices that refused to be quiet. That fight took courage, and it took an unshakeable belief that belonging should never have to be negotiated.”

As Saint Mary’s enters African Heritage Month, Tucker connected the moment to this year’s provincial theme, Strength and Unity: Moving Forward with Purpose, Prosperity, Power, and Progress, noting that Sankofa: Black Excellence Commons embodies these values through collective action.

“This space is a reminder that when students organize with purpose, real change follows,” she added. “But let us also be clear that this space is not the end of the work. It is a foundation.”

Former Black Student Society President Jaiden Kariuki-MacDonald was one of the early student leaders to formally represent the interests of Black students at the university, helping to shape not only the foundation of the Sankofa: Black Excellence Commons but also broader progress in Black student support through her advocacy for the Black Student Advisor role.

Kariuki-MacDonald reflected on the depth of her experience in Black student leadership, describing the role as one that demanded constant advocacy and persistence to ensure Black student needs remained visible and prioritized.

Photo gallery of speakers

“It was an incredibly difficult role, and it took a lot from me and my experience at SMU,” Kariuki-Macdonald shared. “It makes me want to talk about the institutional barriers that tried to tear me down, to tear our community down. It makes me want to talk about the times people said our goals were impossible, that they were too big or not worth it.”

Despite the weight of that experience, she emphasized it was “an honour to dedicate myself to advocating for Black students at SMU,” reflecting on the work to help ensure consistent Black student advising supports, strengthen Black student community, and contribute to the creation of the university’s first dedicated Black student space.

Former African Student Society President Topaz Nnani reflected on the deep cultural context that shaped his experience at Saint Mary’s, particularly the grounding influence of African Nova Scotian history and community.

In the absence of a Black Student Advisor at the time, Nnani acknowledged that he and other Black student leaders often carried significant emotional responsibility for their peers.

“This was a group effort – things like this always are,” Nnani shared. “We did what we could to support one another, but the emotional toll was real.”

Nnani credited the strength to persist to African Nova Scotian stories of resilience, culture and joy, as well as to moments of allyship and institutional listening. Instances, he noted, where administrators like Tom Brophy showed up, listened without defensiveness and took meaningful action.

Creating a legacy for SMU students

For Ramon Stultz, President of the Caribbean Society, establishing the BEC represents not a conclusion, but a continuation.

He emphasized that the BEC exists because students organized together, building community with intention, refusing to be pushed to the margins, and asserting not just the right to exist, but the right to thrive.

“This room, these walls, the opening of this space… it is the continuation of a story Black students have been working toward for generations. It is a story of presence, persistence, and power.”
— Ramon Stultz

“This is their legacy,” Stultz continued. “But a legacy is not a museum piece; it is a responsibility. Because the real work isn’t just in opening doors, it’s in changing the culture.”

Former SMUSA President Simbarashe Chiunda also spoke to the shaping of this legacy, acknowledging the efforts of those who came before and underscoring the role of the present generation to carry and lead the responsibility of those who come after.

“Let us open this space with new commitments to our history and our future,” Chiunda said. “Because Black history is not history, it is here, and it is us.”

Deborah Brothers-Scott, Director of Diversity, Inclusion and Wellness, reflected on the deeper meaning of the moment, as a member of both the Saint Mary’s and African Nova Scotian communities.

“Today, we didn’t just open a room,” Brothers-Scott said. “We affirmed a legacy. This space will be shaped by the laughter, the Black brilliance, the creativity, and the care of the Black students who occupy it daily.”

Commitment to Black Excellence at SMU

President Dr. Michael Khan emphasized that the creation of the Black Excellence Commons reflects both learning and responsibility.

“The creation of this space matters,” Dr. Khan said. “Students thrive when they can bring their whole selves to campus, and institutions grow stronger when we listen deeply to our students and respond with meaningful action.”

He also underscored that the BEC is not an endpoint. “Space is powerful, but it is only the beginning,” Dr. Khan asserted. “We must continue to support Black students through programs, resources, pathways and partnerships that enable you to thrive long after you leave this campus.”

That responsibility was echoed by Tom Brophy, Associate Vice-President, Student Affairs and Services, who reflected on the significance of the moment.

“To have my name included on this plaque alongside these Black student leaders is not something I take lightly,” Brophy shared. “This space exists because of their courage, persistence and refusal to accept less than belonging. My role was to listen, to learn, and to act, and I am deeply honoured to stand in support of the students who led this change.”

Dr. Michael Khan, Tom Brophy, Ramon Stultz, Jaiden Kariuki-MacDonald, Danae Conrad, Ebun Oladele, Dr. Shannon Dea and Simbarashe Chiunda at the BEC opening ceremony

A plaque unveiled during the ceremony bears an African proverb: “However long the night, the dawn will break.” Beneath it, the dedication reads:

Established to honour the voices, histories and lived experiences of the Black students of Saint Mary's University. This space affirms joy, culture, learning and community today and for generations to come.

We acknowledge and thank those whose commitment and collaboration brought this space to life.

With recognition to:

  • Jaiden Kariuki-MacDonald, President, Black Student Society (2023-2025);

  • Topaz Nnani, President, African Student Society (2023-2025);

  • Ramon Stultz, President, Caribbean Society (2024-2026);

  • Simbarashe Chiunda, President, Saint Mary's University Students’ Association (2024-2025);

  • Ebun Oladele, Black Student Advisor;

  • Tom Brophy, Associate Vice-President, Student Affairs and Services

As African Heritage Month events continue through February, Sankofa: Black Excellence Commons serves as both a reflection of how far the community has come and a call to move forward, inviting continued learning, accountability, celebration, and collective care. Learn more about accessing the space on campus.

Explore the African Heritage Month Splash Page to view the full schedule of events and ways to engage throughout the month.

, , , ,

Going for gold: Shining the spotlight on Saint Mary’s Olympians

, , , ,

Saint Mary’s has a history of excellence in athletics, and the accomplishments of our athletes extend far beyond Huskies stadium.  

Along with winning championships and producing Academic All-Canadians in spades, SMU students—past and present—have contributed heavily to Team Canada’s Olympic effort in a wide range of sports.  

As elite athletes gather for the 2026 Winter Games in Milan, we compiled a list of our own impressive Huskies with Olympic ties. From athletes to coaches, broadcasters and more, we are proud to celebrate our alumni and students’ athletic achievements.

Photo: CBC

Steve Armitage BA’68 DCL’09

Armitage is a fundamental part of Canada’s sporting history. During his time at Saint Mary’s, he served as a quarterback for the Huskies Football team while commentating for the CBC Halifax late-night sports slot. His career included a 38-year stint with CBC Sports, where he covered 13 Olympic Games, and, among other accolades, was nominated for a Gemini Award in 1998 for his work covering speed skating at the Olympic Games in Nagano, Japan. Armitage's last Olympic appearance was at the 2022 Beijing Games.  

He received an Honorary Doctorate from Saint Mary’s in 2009 to honour his longtime commitment to professional excellence.  

Photo: CBC

Signa Butler BA’96 

An athlete-turned-sports-broadcaster, Signa Butler knew from an early age that she’d pursue a career in sports. Growing up as a multi-sport athlete in soccer, basketball, gymnastics and field hockey, she ended up playing for the Huskies Women’s Soccer team during her incredible five years at SMU. Butler joined the CBC in 2000 and has covered 12 Olympic Games as a play-by-play commentator. She is one of the only women broadcasters to cover nearly every sport on the network.  We’ll hear her again during the upcoming 2026 Winter Games in Milan, Italy.  

Photo: Olympics.ca

Andrew Russell MBA’14 

Now Chief Growth Officer (CGO) at Made with Local, the Dartmouth, NS-born Russell was a member of the Canadian Team at the 2008 Summer Games in Beijing, where he competed in Canoe/Kayak racing. He achieved Canada's best-ever combined results in the C-2 1000m and 500m events, placing fifth and sixth , respectively.  

Dylan Di Perna BComm’20 

After a stunning career with the SMU Men’s Hockey team, Ontario-born Di Perna is making his Olympic debut representing Team Italy in the upcoming 2026 Winter Games in Milan. This will be Italy's first return to Olympic hockey since 2006.

Photo: Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame

Jamie Bone BComm’89 

A legendary wheelchair sprinter and Paralympian, Bone dominated the 1988 Seoul Paralympics, where he was the only Nova Scotian on the Canadian team. Winning three gold medals (100m, 200m, and 400m) and setting multiple world and Paralympic records, Bone’s Olympic record eventually led him to being inducted into the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame in 1997.  

Photo: Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame

Jackie Barrett BComm’98 

A prolific powerlifter known as the "Mississippi Moose," Barrett finished his career with 20 gold medals and 13 first-place finishes at the World Special Olympics. In his last year of competition, he set three Special Olympics records, lifting a combined 1,272.5 kg across the squat, deadlift, and triple combination events. He made history in 2021 as the first Special Olympics athlete inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame. 

Photo: Graham Hughes/The Canadian Press

Kori Cheverie BA’12  

An alumna of the SMU Huskies Women’s Hockey team, Kori Cheverie served as an assistant coach for Team Canada during its gold-medal run at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. She returns with fellow alum Troy Ryan to coach Team Canada again in 2026, an achievement highlighted by SMU’s Scott McCain & Leslie McLean Centre for Sport, Business and Health, which aims to support women in high-level coaching positions.

Photo: CBC

Katie Pegg (Current student) 

Current biology major and Paralympian Katie Pegg stunned in her first Paralympic games, bringing home Bronze in shotput for Team Canada in Paris in 2024. Finishing seventh in the world, Pegg—who was born with a missing radial bone in her right arm—had an eight-year football career as a defensive lineman before getting back into shotput here at Saint Mary’s.  

, , , ,

SMU Huskies basketball alumna receives prestigious award in Ottawa

, , , ,
Clara plays basketball on court wearing a white Huskies jersey

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

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.”

Clara practices basketball on court wearing a maroon Huskies jersey
“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

Clara speaks with team members on court

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.

, ,

50 years of the Patrick Power Library

, ,

Story by Hansel Cook

When the Burke Building was completed in 1965, it was designed to serve as the long-term home of the University Library. But just ten years later, the space was already considered obsolete – too small to accommodate the library’s growing collection and increasing student population.

The 1960s and early 1970s were a period of unprecedented growth and transformation for the university. Saint Mary’s tripled in size, growing from 834 full-time students in 1965 to 2,444 in 1975. In that same decade, the university became co-educational (1968), with women soon making up more than a third of the student body, and the Catholic Church transferred governance to a secular board (1970).

New academic programs and departments were being launched almost yearly, and the campus itself was evolving quickly. The Student Centre was constructed in 1967, the Science Building in 1968, Huskies Stadium rose to host the Canada Summer Games in 1969 and the Loyola Building opened in 1971. Amid this expansion, the need for a larger, modern library was clear.

Construction on a new facility began in 1974 and was completed in August 1975. The growing collection was transferred from the Burke Building just in time for the start of the 1975-76 academic year. The new library introduced several innovations for its time: a state-of-the-art multimedia centre, expanded shelving for its 300,000-book collection and an early computerized information retrieval system touted as “able to provide instant answers to almost any question.”

Completed construction of the library in 1975

Inside the library when it opened

Opening reception for the Patrick Power Library

For its first year, the building was known simply as the New Library. Then, in June 1976, it was officially named the Patrick Power Library in honour of one of Saint Mary’s most significant benefactors. Patrick Power (1815-1881) was a Halifax merchant and philanthropist born in Kilmacthomas, Ireland. After immigrating to Canada as a young man, he found success in business and served as a Member of Parliament in 1867 and again in 1874. Upon his death, he left a generous bequest to support the establishment of a boys’ college. In 1913, the funds from this endowment were transferred to Saint Mary’s University – helping to shape the institution that would later bear his name.

“With a long-standing reputation for service excellence, this 50th anniversary provides an opportunity to celebrate the Library’s legacy as well as our contributions and commitment to teaching, learning and research,” said Suzanne van den Hoogen BA’91, Dean of the University Library and Archives.

Library staff planted a tree in memory of Marie DeYoung in 2025

To mark the Patrick Power Library’s 50th anniversary, a series of celebrations will continue through June 2026. The first event, a tree planting in memory of former University Librarian Marie DeYoung, took place this past summer. During Homecoming in October, alumni gathered for a special faculty author reading honouring both the Library and the 50th anniversary of the Geography Department. In November, the Library hosted an after-hours “Murder in the Library” mystery game, inviting student teams to solve clues inspired by the Library’s history while sharpening their research skills.

Fifty years later, the Patrick Power Library remains a vibrant hub for research, study and community engagement. Its collections now include more than 150 research databases, over one million books (both print and electronic) and online access to thousands of journals and periodicals. Together with instructional programs and research services, these resources continue to support the teaching and learning needs of today’s students and faculty.

The building itself has also evolved, with modernized study areas, service desks and accessibility-focused upgrades to study rooms and washrooms – all designed to make the space more welcoming and efficient for users.

“For many of our students, the Library represents more than bricks and mortar,” said van den Hoogen. “It has been and continues to be a safe space where students learn from one another, collaborate with their peers and develop the skills to become lifelong learners. To all our students, faculty and alumni, thank you for being a part of our past, present and future.”

Where will the Patrick Power Library be fifty years from now? With the pace of technological change, no one can say for sure. What remains certain is that the Library, along with its dedicated team of librarians and professional staff, will continue to adapt, evolve and uphold its mission to support the pursuit of knowledge for generations to come.

By Hansel Cook

Find more information and events on the Patrick Power Library 50th Anniversary webpage.

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

Read Maroon + White

Upcoming event as part of the Library’s 50th celebrations:

Causal Inference and Machine Learning: Faculty Author Series talk with Dr. Yigit Aydede and Professor Mutlu Yuksel

Thursday, March 5
12-1 p.m.
Classroom LI135, Patrick Power Library, Saint Mary's University 

Join us to celebrate Dr. Yigit Aydede and Professor Mutlu Yuksel’s new book! It bridges the gap between machine learning and causal inference, offering an accessible roadmap for real-world policy questions. Perfect for researchers, students, and anyone using data to inform policy and decision making. Coffee and tea provided. RSVP today!

, ,

Access Ability: Making entrepreneurship accessible for 25 years

, ,
Someone's hands using a note pad on a computer desk

Michael Sanderson, Director, Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre (the Centre), was born with a neurological disorder that left him with significant physical limitations. He learned early on that to overcome his limitations, he would need to adapt and innovate. While his peers were doing physical part-time jobs to earn money, Michael built jobs around his capabilities and thrived. And, a lifelong entrepreneur was born.

Years later, Sanderson’s own formative experience inspired him to develop Access Ability – a program that supports individuals who self-identify as living with a disability. The program offers individuals a chance to establish entrepreneurship as a viable and sustainable career. Now, in its seventeenth year, Access Ability provides a business incubator and a speaker series that deliver the guidance, knowledge, and resources entrepreneurs need to thrive. Since day one, the program has been led by the Centre, and since 2013, it has been funded by the Government of Canada’s Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities.

“In Access Ability, we use entrepreneurship and innovation as a vehicle to empower change and build confidence,” says Michael.

Since its inception, Access Ability has transformed into a province-wide initiative reaching communities in every corner of Nova Scotia, from Yarmouth to Port Hawkesbury. In the past three years alone, Access Ability has made local entrepreneurship more inclusive by supporting ninety-nine participants. These individuals have launched and developed 40 businesses that reflect their strengths, backgrounds, and lived experiences. From food products to professional services, from visual arts to digital design, the businesses are as diverse as the entrepreneurs behind them. These businesses continue to operate today, contributing to a more inclusive and dynamic local economy.

The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, is not surprised: “Creating a stronger, inclusive, and barrier-free Canada is not just the right thing to do; it's ensuring everyone can reach their full potential. Access Ability is exactly the kind of program the Opportunities Fund is designed to support; we're creating opportunities, removing barriers, and making sure no one is left behind. Together, we are building Canada strong."

Molly Morgan, Access Ability Project Manager, says that witnessing the growth of these entrepreneurs is the motivation that keeps this project going. “From my experience, this program works because we meet these entrepreneurs where they are. It provides an opportunity for individuals who have been historically underrepresented in entrepreneurship to be part of a supportive community and be given dedicated time and space to grow their businesses.”

Entrepreneur Melissa Laverdure’s Access Ability journey offers a clear example of the program’s impact.

Melissa Laverdure

Melissa, an experienced researcher with a global network of archival contacts, owns and operates a research and archive production business that specializes in locating rare and meaningful footage from around the world. The service identifies, sources and licenses the exact material a client requires, providing expert guidance and access to unique visual content.

“In a world that often says, ‘sink or swim,’ this program reminds us you do not have to do it alone,” says Melissa, “Access Ability empowers entrepreneurs to grow their businesses while honouring their unique paths. This program teaches you how to learn what you need, how to be confident swimming with assistance and how to feel valuable along that journey.”

Melissa’s story is just one of the many entrepreneurial success stories from the Access Ability program. For seventeen years, the Centre has continued to demonstrate what can be achieved when individuals are supported, valued and given the space to explore their potential.  The impact of the Access Ability program is reflected in every business launched, every milestone reached and every entrepreneur empowered. Access Ability embodies the Centre’s commitment to ensure that inclusive entrepreneurship is not an exception, but a standard in Nova Scotia.  

Visit Access Ability to learn more and how to get involved.

, ,

African Heritage Month 2026: Perspectives, community and events

, ,
African Heritage Month featuring a red, yellow and green ribbon

February marks African Heritage Month at Saint Mary’s University, a time to honour the histories, cultures, and contributions of people of African descent in Nova Scotia and across the African diaspora. Each year, this month invites our community to learn, reflect and engage meaningfully in ways that honour and support Black students, faculty, and staff across the university. 

Read below to find out about events happening on campus, highlights of Black Excellence at SMU and resources available to students.

Students pose together wearing traditional African clothing

Students celebrate at SMU’s African Night

A personal reflection on African Heritage Month

To help ground this year’s celebrations, we spoke with Deborah Brothers-Scott, Director, Diversity Inclusion and Wellness, who shared her reflections on the month’s significance, the importance of centering Black and African Nova Scotian voices, and what meaningful inclusion looks like at SMU throughout the year.

Deborah speaks at a podium

Deborah Brothers-Scott speaks at an African Heritage Month event on campus

What does this month mean to you personally, and what do you hope it offers to the SMU community? 

As an African Nova Scotian woman, it is deeply personal. It's a time when the contributions of Black people are spotlighted, acknowledged and celebrated. This acknowledgement of Black excellence should extend beyond February. 

For the university community, African Heritage Month offers an opportunity for learning, reflection and connection. It creates space for meaningful conversations, challenges stereotypes, and encourages appreciation of Black histories and contributions. It invites the community to engage with diverse perspectives, build understanding and foster a more inclusive and respectful environment for all. 

  • This year’s African Heritage Month theme is Strength in Unity: Moving Forward with Purpose, Prosperity, Power, and Progress. What feels most important for our community to reflect on or engage with this year? 

    This year's theme invites our university community to reflect on how collective action and shared responsibility shape meaningful change. The University’s commitment to the Scarborough Charter on Anti-Black Racism calls for sustained action, accountability and institutional transformation that supports Black flourishing across all areas of university life. Engaging with this year's theme means holding ourselves responsible for turning principles into practice, and that progress is measured by the lived experiences and success of Black faculty, staff and students.  

    From your perspective, how do moments like African Heritage Month contribute to a stronger sense of belonging for Black students, faculty and staff? 

    From my perspective, events during African Heritage Month can be powerful if they do more than celebrate culture. They affirm presence and history in spaces where Black voices have often been marginalized or overlooked. In an academic setting—a place where knowledge is created, validated and preserved—who and what is centered matters deeply.  

    African Heritage Month also creates intentional visibility. It signals to Black faculty, staff and students that their identities, contributions and lived experiences are not only welcomed but valued. It also opens the door for awareness and reflection across the broader community. When done thoughtfully and with intention it helps shift institutional culture. 

    For those in the SMU community who may be unsure how to engage meaningfully with African Heritage Month, what would you encourage them to be curious about or open to? 

    I'd encourage members of the SMU community to approach African Heritage Month with curiosity, humility, and a willingness to listen. That might mean learning about histories and contributions that aren't always centred, engaging with stories and experiences beyond your own, or reflecting on how systems and institutions shape people's lives differently. 

    Being open doesn't require having all the right words. It starts with showing up, asking thoughtful questions and not being afraid to say the wrong thing. It is about valuing voices that have too often been overlooked or silenced. 

    Beyond February, what does meaningful recognition and inclusion look like to you at SMU throughout the year? 

    Meaningful recognition and inclusion beyond February means embedding Black voices, histories, and experiences into everyday life at SMU. This includes integrating Black scholarship and perspectives into curricula across disciplines, the inclusion of Black voices at decision-making tables, and supporting the needs of Black faculty, staff and students. Also, a visual representation of Black achievement. 

    Ultimately, meaningful inclusion means Black excellence is recognized and celebrated. When this work is ongoing, SMU moves from symbolic recognition to real lasting change. xt goes here

Deborah Brothers-Scott, Director, Diversity Inclusion and Wellness at Saint Mary’s leads efforts to advance equity, inclusion, and wellbeing across campus. She also chairs the SMU Anti-Racism Committee and played a key role in the university’s engagement with the Scarborough Charter, helping guide institutional action on Black inclusion and antiracism. As an African Nova Scotian leader with deep community roots, she is committed to fostering belonging, supporting Black flourishing, and building a stronger, more equitable university environment

SMU Events

Naming Ceremony of the Black Student Commons

Event information in text shown on a black background with the Pan-African flag

Thursday, January 29
4-6 p.m.
Anne J. & Albert T. Isaacs Commons

Join us, the Black Student Advising Office, for the official naming ceremony of the Black Student Commons, a dedicated space that affirms community and connection for Black students. This ceremony acknowledges the collaborative efforts that brought this vision to life and honours the journey and advocacy that have shaped the space into a place of community, affirmation and excellence for Black students at Saint Mary's.

RSVP here

Event information on a maroon background with the SMU and Sobeys logo

Rise & Thrive: Unlocking Black Brilliance Panel

Thursday, February 5
4-6 p.m.
Sobey Building 422

Part of Career Week 2026

Learn about empowerment, growth, and excellence in career development, overcoming barriers, and taking initiatives in your professional life. It is about moving beyond survival to success and flourishing in your career. This panel recognizes the unique creativity and innovation that Black alumni bring to their field. It is ultimately about creating spaces where Black excellence is seen, valued, and elevated.

Register here

A huskies basketball player on a graphic displaying event information

SMU Huskies Black Heritage Night

Friday, February 6

The SMU Huskies are celebrating African Heritage Month at the Homburg Centre. Half-time performances from Owen ‘O’Sound’ Lee, ECMA Award Winning 'king of the African Canadian songbook’.

Basketball doubleheader vs. UNB
Women's basketball: tip-off at 6 p.m
Men's basketball: tip-off at 8 p.m.

Women’s Hockey vs U de Moncton
7 p.m.
Dauphinee Centre

Get tickets

Budget Bites: African Heritage Month Edition

Tuesday, February 10
4-6 p.m.
Loyola Residence 18-7

Join the SMU Community Food Room and Residence Life for an African Heritage Month-themed interactive cooking demo and discover how to cook on a budget! Learn quick, tasty, and budget-friendly recipes you can mash, mix, and taste yourself.

Questions? Please reach out to food.room@smu.ca

Paint Your Flag

Tuesday, February 10
6-8 p.m.
The Gorsebrook Lounge

In collaboration with Mauya The Fine Arts Tribe and Saint Mary's University Student Association, join us in decorating the Black Student Commons by displaying the Black Diaspora at SMU! Refreshments will be provided.

Register here.

Black-Owned Vendors Market

Tuesday, February 24
12-4 p.m.
Loyola Conference Hall (LA 290)

The Black Student Society and SMUSA present the 2026 Black-Owned Vendors Market.

Visit Loyola Conference Hall (LA 290) to shop a variety of local and Black-owned businesses.

African Dance Workshop

Wednesday, February 25
6-7 p.m.
McNally Theatre Auditorium

Are you up for a challenge that will have you dancing and sweating while learning more about African culture? This workshop will be facilitated by the Maritime Centre for African Dance and will feature teachers from Africa and the Caribbean. All are welcome, whether you are a seasoned dancer or a nervous beginner!

Hosted by The Counselling Centre, Residence Life, and the Black Student Advising Office.

Voices and Verses: African Heritage Month Open Mic Night

Thursday, February 26
5-7 p.m.
Join the Student Success Centre for an African Heritage Month open mic night of poetry, short stories, spoken word, and songs. This will be a cozy and inclusive space to share stories and personal journeys. Questions? Please reach out to welcome@smu.ca

Leadership and Legacy: Black Mother, Black Daughter Documentary Screening and Networking Tea

Thursday, February 26
3-4:30 p.m.
CLARI (Atrium 340)

Join the Black Student Advisor and the Sexual Violence Advisor for Leadership and Legacy, a documentary screening of Black Mother, Black Daughter and networking tea honouring African Heritage Month and International Women’s Day. Celebrate Nova Scotia’s Black women leaders, connect with community, and build relationships with Black-identifying students. Pizza and refreshments provided. Everyone is welcome!

Community Events

Policing Black Lives: State Violence from Slavery to ICE

Saturday, February 7
5 p.m.
Paul O’Regan Hall, Halifax Central Library

Presented by the East Coast Prison Justice Society (ECPJS).

Join Author Robyn Maynard in conversation with SMU professor Rachel Zellars, and ECPJS board members El Jones & Suzanne Patles for a timely conversation on policing and state violence.

All are welcome to attend in the spirit of community & solidarity.

Creating A Fair Society

Wednesday, February 11
10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre

Hosted at SMU by the Africa Festival of Arts and Culture Society

Get ready for an inspiring in-person event all about building a fairer Canada together. Connect with passionate folks, share your ideas, and discover new ways to make a difference and include others in your life.

With SMU professor Robert Wright, Lyana Patrick, Suzy Hansen and Lisa Lachance.

SMU Community Spotlight

Elisha jumps on an athletic track

Elisha Delphin sets school triple jump record as Huskies compete in Athletics NS Open

In January, first-year Engineering student Elisha Delphin set a new school record in the Women's Triple Jump with 10.96m. This ranks her 3rd in the AUS rankings so far this season. Read more.

Ramon holds his leadership award certificate

BComm student Ramon Stultz recognized for his leadership

Ramon earned a Student Leadership Recognition Award for the 2024-25 academic year for his many roles on campus, including President of the Carribean Society and RA. The Premiere Emcee Team co-founder was also a Research Assistant at the Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub, where he applied his finance expertise and passion for youth mentoring to support groundbreaking research initiatives for Black communities. Read more.

A group of African Nova Scotian high school students at SMU

A new pathway for African Nova Scotian students begins at Saint Mary’s

A recently signed Memorandum of Understanding between Saint Mary’s and The PREP Academy is aimed at strengthening connections and creating pathways for African Nova Scotian learners. Read more.

Louise with some trees behind her

MSc grad Dr. Louise Edwards has built a career charting the universe

After graduating with a Master of Science from Saint Mary’s in 2003, Louise became one of the first Black Canadians to earn a PhD in Astronomy at Université Laval. Since then, she’s had an exciting career across North America, teaching and studying the brightest cluster galaxies and the cosmic web, and completing a rotation with the National Science Foundation. Read more.

SMU community celebrates the opening of the Black Excellence Commons

On January 29, the Saint Mary’s University community gathered to officially name a dedicated Black student space established in spring 2025. Students, staff, faculty and alumni marked the opening of African Heritage Month by honouring the advocacy, collective care and generations of leadership that shaped the space and brought the community to this moment.

“Sankofa, an African word rooted in Adinkra principles, means ‘go back and get it,’” explained Ebun Oladele MA’21, Black Student Advisor. “It reminds us that we draw strength from our histories and our ancestral wisdom as we move forward. Sankofa: Black Excellence Commons (BEC) is a space rooted in memory, in community, and in possibility. Not just for today but for generations to come.”

Read more

Past Tribe Network Scholarship Recipients Stephen Osunrinde, Alfred Burgesson, Maxinne Baddoo, Chidiebere Onwe, Nana Ekow Baah Korsah, Uzoamaka David, Papa Kwame Twumasi-Ntiamoah, Samuel Ebong, and Dr. Adam Sarty

Tribe Network Graduate Student Scholarship and Internship

Saint Mary's University, in partnership with the Tribe Network, is offering graduate students who self-identify as Black or Indigenous the opportunity to apply for a scholarship that will financially support the student through their graduate studies, as well as establish a connection with the Tribe Network to help identify an internship position if needed for their program. The deadline to apply is February 28, 2026

Visit our website for more information.

New summer field course explores culture and religion in Ghana

A new field course will help students build career-ready skills in non-profit leadership, community-based research and intercultural communication.

The Ghana Field Course: Religion and Social Innovation (RELS 3800) with Dr. James Kwateng-Yeboah will examine how African Indigenous and religious traditions are shaping social innovation in education, entrepreneurship and cultural heritage in Ghana—one of Africa’s most vibrant centers of creative enterprise.

The course takes place during the Summer Term. Students can learn more about the course and submit their expression of interest here.

Reading materials and resources in the Patrick Power Library

Ten book covers are shown in a website screenshot

A portion of the books and items featured in the Patrick Power Library African Heritage Month collection

Throughout February, the Patrick Power Library will display a collection of library resources for African Heritage Month on the ground floor. Along with our book display, we will be featuring artwork done in partnership with the Black Student Advisor and students.  

Featured resource recommendations will be shared on our social channels (@smuhfxlibrary). These resources include theses from the University Archives’ Institutional Repository, which highlights the work of Saint Mary’s graduate students whose research explores themes related to Black and African heritage, history, identity and social justice. All books can be borrowed with your SMU ID card. Browse the full African Heritage Month collection online. 

The Patrick Power Library’s activity table on the ground floor will feature African Heritage-themed puzzles and crafts throughout February for students to enjoy.  

Saint Mary’s University, in cooperation with Dr. Lynn Jones (C.M.), African Nova Scotian leader and activist, proudly houses The Lynn Jones African Canadian & Diaspora Heritage Collection in the University Archives. The Collection documents the lives of Lynn, her family, and over 50 years of African, African Diasporic and African Nova Scotian heritage and history.  Key parts of the collection include materials on: 

  • civil rights and social justice struggles in Halifax, Canada and beyond 

  • Lynn’s career as an athlete, politician, union activist, and work as an election observer for the 1994 South African Presidential election of Nelson Mandela 

  • the activism of Lynn’s brother, Burnley “Rocky” Jones and many others 

  • thousands of news clippings, programs, reports and other material documenting Black life (e.g. the histories of local Black communities and institutions, an obituary collection, news coverage of local and international racial segregation and apartheid, clippings on famous athletes and environmental racism). 

Researchers, community members, educators, students, community organizers and others are all welcome to visit the collection. It can be viewed in person at the Saint Mary's University Archives. Parts of the collection, including samples of archival material from Lynn's personal collection and a small example of the newspaper clipping collection, have been digitized and are available on the library's digital repository. A more detailed finding aid and collection inventory are also available. 

Four students seated together on campus, smiling