Indigenous Community, Student Support, SMU Community, Alumni
Emily LeBlanc
Woven stories - dream catchers honour Mi'kmaq ...
Indigenous Community, SMU Community
Emily LeBlanc
Mi'kmaq History Month: Events and resources for ...
Entrepreneurship, Media Release, SMU Community, Student Success
Emily LeBlanc
Saint Mary's University wins the Enactus World ...
Experiential Learning, Faculty of Science, Research, Student Success, Unique Education
Emily LeBlanc
Saint Mary’s students help unlock black hole ...
Experiential Learning, Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Science, Research, Student Success, Unique Education
Emily LeBlanc
Undergraduate students lead groundbreaking ...

Sobey School of Business

, , , , , , ,

From classroom to career: empowering responsible AI leaders

, , , , , , ,
Looking in to a classroom with an instructor and students using laptops

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming higher education, not only reshaping how students learn in university classrooms but also driving innovative research across disciplines. At Saint Mary’s, our instructors are playing a pivotal role in bridging the gap between cutting-edge AI advancements and the broader business community by integrating AI tools into curriculum and community-based research projects.

Find out how Saint Mary’s is supporting students and the business community navigate the fast-paced world of AI.

Atlantic Canada AI Summit: May 1-3 at Saint Mary’s University

Register now!
Atlantic Canada AI Summit logo

Organized by leading institutions, including Saint Mary’s University, Dalhousie University, the University of New Brunswick, Acadia University, Memorial University of Newfoundland, and the University of Prince Edward Island, the Atlantic Canada AI Summit fosters collaboration across academia and industry in Atlantic Canada. 

The Summit will showcase cutting-edge AI research, facilitate industry-academia collaboration, and highlight exceptional AI talent in the region. It will feature three days of programming, including research presentations, workshops, a healthcare data competition and a youth AI pitch competition.

Youth AI Pitch Competition poster

The Youth AI Pitch Competition on May 3 invites youth ages 13-18 to use AI and creativity to improve the Children’s Emergency Department at the IWK hospital.

We are looking for AI-driven solutions to enhance the ER experience for kids and their families. Whether it’s making ER visits more fun, improving parent experience or advancing patient care, your ideas can make a difference!

Atlantic Canada AI Summit and Youth Pitch Competition
Anubhav and Bryce pose behind a laptop. They stands in front of a colourful mural.

Anubhav Gupta and instructor Bryce Cross

Under the guidance of Sobey School of Business Lecturer Bryce Cross, who heavily incorporates large language models (LLMs) into his PhD research, Anubhav Gupta and his classmates are getting unique exposure to AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot.

“Professor Cross loves talking about his research, and he tries to integrate it with the concepts he’s teaching,” Gupta shared.

This approach has allowed students to engage with AI in practical ways, such as using ChatGPT to analyze mystery companies, prompting the model to match anonymous balance sheets to the correct industry. “It was an interesting experience to see how AI and LLMs work and their limitations. You can use it, but you can’t replace the knowledge you’re learning at university.”

Shelagh stands beside a podium with fall leaves behind her

Dr. Shelagh Crooks

With political turmoil, social divides, economic instability and the complexities of AI, the global landscape is full of challenges.

Philosophy teaches students how to think about concepts like fairness, autonomy and justice, skills that are increasingly important as we interact with AI-driven systems in the workplace. Understanding the societal impact of AI is not just a technical challenge—it’s a moral one.

“If we consume AI, we have to consume it with a critical eye,” says Saint Mary’s Philosophy professor Dr. Shelagh Crooks. “One of the things you learn in all philosophy classes is to be a skeptic…ask yourself, ‘Why should I accept this as truth?’ That is not something people do naturally.”

Through SMU’s Youth Business Analytics & AI Co-op Program, students earn a high school credit while spending several Fridays on campus, learning from the university’s faculty, student mentors and industry professionals. Organized by the Sobey School of Business, the program exposes students to university-level academics while building foundational skills in AI, machine learning, data analytics and visualization.

"I am learning about how AI is being used by businesses to visualize and interpret data,” said Peter Lutz, a grade eleven student at Charles P. Allen High School. “I am hoping to learn more about market trends and what generative AI is. I am new to this, and we are living in a time when AI is being revolutionized. I want to be able to utilize it."

Interested in working in the growing industry of business analytics and AI? The Saint Mary’s Masters of Business Analytics (MBAN) program equips students with cutting-edge expertise and practical knowledge, emphasizing the development, evaluation, refinement and implementation of AI-powered analytics solutions to transform data into actionable insights, driving business innovation and success.

Students are eligible for an 8-month paid internship, offering hands-on experience with AI-driven tools and methodologies, strengthening their expertise and establishing a solid foundation for a successful career in business analytics and AI.

Researchers using AI to solve real-world problems

Two men in blazers look to Pawan Lingras who expresses with his hands. Behind them is a large screen showing computer code.

Chris Mitchell and Shahriar Swapni of Citco with Dr. Pawan Lingras

The Office of Innovation and Community Engagement (OICE) facilitates research relationships between Saint Mary’s University and external partners, such as companies, government departments and community organizations. In their 2025 report, OICE highlights a number of completed and ongoing research projects which benefit from integrating AI systems.

Harnessing Data to Reduce Food Waste

Easy Platter, a meal-planning and personal chef service, partnered with Mathematics and Computing Science professor Dr. Yasushi Akiyama to design a framework to calculate ingredient costs, potential food waste and nutritional value for selected meal plans.

Virtual Guides Transform Tourist Experiences

Fundy Language Analytics Inc., which specializes in artificial intelligence and machine learning for language applications, partnered with Mathematics and Computer Science professor Dr. Somayeh Kafaie to use Large Language Models to enhance their virtual tour guide app, Strollopia.

A Partnership to Diversify Revenue and Reduce Risk

Citco, a global network of independent firms, partnered with Dr. Pawan Lingras, Director of the Master of Science in Computing and Data Analytics (CDA) Program and his team of graduate students. Together, they developed a document scraping application powered by generative AI to diversify their revenue streams within the fund administration sector.

AI-Powered Animation Enhancing Creativity One Frame at a Time

Moonshot Rights Inc., a Canada/UK-based animation company, partnered with Dr. Jason Rhinelander, an Associate Professor in the Division of Engineering and Head of Technology and Innovation at the David Sobey Retailing Centre. Together, they are pioneering a new approach to animation by accelerating the generation of Ultra-High-Definition (UHD) computer-generated frames.

Read more in the 2025 OICE Report

Sharing AI insights with the business community and beyond

Arjun stands on stage behind a Saint Mary's University podium

Arjun Asokakumar speaks at the 2024 Responsible Leadership Day

Driving responsible leadership of AI

The Sobey School of Business brought together inspiring leaders and forward-thinking students for its sixth annual Responsible Leadership Day in November 2024: The Future of Responsible Work in an AI-Driven World. As artificial intelligence becomes more prevalent, the need for specialized knowledge remains high. Understanding how to judge the information AI provides you—and being able to evaluate its output critically—is key to using the technology responsibly.

The event included a thought-provoking keynote by Arjun Asokakumar, Director of Data Science at Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), on how AI-driven automation may reshape job roles and skill requirements.

Event poster

Demystifying AI for businesses

In March, Sobey School of Business professor Dr. Yigit Aydede hosted a half-day conference titled Beyond the Code: Demystifying AI. The event featured three engaging sessions designed to educate, demonstrate and inspire action around the transformative power of AI.

Sessions covered simplifying AI concepts for both technical and non-technical users, demonstrating AI in action to illustrate how the technology is applied to solve real-world challenges, and a practical discussion with key stakeholders on how small and medium-sized businesses can effectively leverage AI to drive growth, boost productivity, and achieve long-term success.

The Wonder Guard app shown on two mocked-up phone screens

SMU competition supports AI innovation in healthcare

The Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre at Saint Mary’s hosted The Arena, an annual pitch competition, in March. More than 60 student entrepreneurs from across Canada participated.

The winning project was Wonder Guard—an AI-powered Catheter Bag Module, created by McMaster University PhD student Manak Bajaj. Wonder Guard is capable of detecting and predicting urinary tract infections (UTIS), integrating electrochemical biosensors for real-time detection, quantification, and prediction of UTIs. This allows immediate diagnostic feedback to users and health information systems for AI-driven clinical decisions.

A photo of Theresa wearing a red scarf is edited into a podcast screen with podcast logo beside it

Considering the impact of AI development

In fall 2024, Faculty of Arts professor Dr. Teresa Heffernan joined UofT Jackman Humanities Institute Humanities at Large podcast host Melissa Gismondi for a conversation about AI. They discuss topics like the public's perception, limitations, environmental impact, and AI’s relationship with fiction. They also touch on the need for regulation and ethical considerations in AI development.

Guidance for students and faculty

Students sit in a lecture hall

The Patrick Power Library's Artificial Intelligence (AI) guide is designed to help students use AI responsibly and ethically in their academic work.

The Studio for Teaching & Learning has helpful guides and resources for instructors here: Generative AI in Higher Education. They also host learning events and share resources from other institutions, including an upcoming webinar series titled Mind the (Bias) Gap: Ethical AI for Inclusive Teaching, from May 28-30.

, , ,

Business student recognized for excellence in leadership, athletics and entrepreneurship

, , ,
Taylor is a young white woman with long light brown hair. She wears a green shirt and black blazer.

We are thrilled to announce that Taylor Lougheed, a remarkable student in the Sobey School of Business, has received the prestigious 2025 Frank H. Sobey Award for Excellence in Business Studies. In addition to this award, Taylor is also a Sobey Scholar, a recognition that highlights her exceptional academic and leadership potential.

A natural leader, Taylor has proven herself in multiple areas. As a manager at Scholar’s Edge Painting, a student-run business, she led her team to generate impressive sales and build lasting client relationships. Her experience taught her invaluable skills in communication, problem-solving and resilience—qualities that will serve her well in her future career.

Taylor embodies the perfect blend of entrepreneurial spirit, academic excellence and athletic leadership as the Assistant Captain of the SMU Huskies Women’s Volleyball team. Her dedication and discipline shine through as she motivates her teammates and balances her studies. She is also involved in various campus organizations, including the SMU Women in Business Society and the Saint Mary’s Athletic Council. These experiences not only define her leadership style but also set the stage for an inspiring and successful career ahead.

Looking forward, Taylor aims to pursue her CPA and MBA, laying the foundation for owning a successful and financially sustainable business. With hard work and a natural ability to inspire others, she is poised to become a promising leader in the business world.

Learn more about the Frank H. Sobey Awards
,

Highlights from the 2025 Venture Capital Investment Competition at the Sobey School of Business

,

The Sobey School of Business was thrilled to host this year’s highly anticipated Venture Capital Investment Competition (VCIC), which brought together 72 talented graduate and undergraduate students from some of Canada’s top institutions, including the University of Waterloo, Queen’s University, Schulich School of Business and the University of Alberta.

Canada’s Venture Capital Investment Competition has become a landmark event in the venture capital industry, providing universities across the country with the opportunity to test and nurture the next generation of professionals.

All judges for the competition are venture capitalists, business angels or members of the VC program at Sobey School of Business. “The competition showcases a remarkable wealth of talent,” said Dr. Ellen Farrell, leader of the VC program, who is renowned for her innovations in venture capital. Her accomplishments include founding the Venture Grade: Student Venture Capital Fund, co-founding the Masters in Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation (MTEI) Program, creating InvestorQ&A, and winning the prestigious Father William A. Stewart, S.J. Medal for Excellence in Teaching.

This year, all of the featured startups were women-owned, highlighting the growing impact of women entrepreneurs in the venture capital space. Co-organizers Ellen Farrell and Andrew Ray praised the featured startups and celebrated the diverse representation from across Canada, from British Columbia to Nova Scotia.

To learn more about the undergraduate competition, visit: Undergraduate Canada VCIC

To learn more about the MBA competition, visit: MBA Canada VCIC

, , , ,

Pizza, jazz and sustainability

, , , ,

Sobey students explore global solutions in Chicago 

The vibrant energy of jazz, the universal love for pizza and the critical need for climate change solutions—an unexpected fusion of experiences shaped the Sobey School of Business students' transformative trip to Chicago, proving despite apparent divisions, Canada, the U.S., and Mexico can unite over global sustainability. 

During February's reading week, six ambitious Bachelor of Commerce students from SMU ventured to the Windy City for the "Developing Climate Leaders" course, guided by Dr. Rahman Khokhar, Associate Professor of Finance at the Sobey School of Business.  

Now in its third year, this innovative program showcases how cross-border cooperation can further sustainable business practices. 

International efforts in action 

Teamed with peers from Dominican University (Chicago, IL) and Universidad Anáhuac (Mexico), the students dove into assessing sustainability practices at companies like Top Pallets, Wintrust Financial, and Pepper Construction. 

Their mission was clear: to bring fresh, actionable insights back from their research. This work was supported by funding from the 100k Strong in the Americas Innovation Fund and the Linton Family Sustainability in Business Trust, established by Bill Linton BComm'75, DComm'22 and Marilynne Day-Linton. 

During their stay, the students presented their findings to company executives on-site and toured the facilities, gaining direct insights into operations and real-world experience. 

"Being able to interview the COO of Top Pallets opened my eyes to the critical role of green supply chains,” said Barbara Ellis, a second-year undergraduate student. “I loved collaborating with a cross-cultural group of students. We came up with solutions to practical business problems that could have a real impact."  

Halifax to Chicago: beats and eats  

The cultural experiences formed a core part of their journey. From tasting Chicago's legendary deep-dish pizza to grooving to a live jazz band, the students immersed themselves in the local scene.  

“I am starting to understand how different cultures might approach sustainability initiatives. Before this trip, my perspectives were short-sighted, but now I see the importance of hearing from different viewpoints,” said Zayna Eissa, a second-year undergraduate student and Sobey National Innovator Scholar. “I also loved trying new foods and I really admired the architecture in Chicago. That’s the beauty of international learning."  

“Just getting out of Halifax over the break,” said Cole Fraser, a third-year undergraduate student, on his highlights of the trip. “The food scene, visiting the Morton Arboretum, and the nights spent exploring downtown Chicago with a great group of students were unforgettable.” 

Empowering students as sustainable business leaders 

The course included various team efforts, including a social media campaign promoting carbon neutrality and a real-world sustainability challenge about Walmart and one of its suppliers.  

Through this exercise, students strengthened their problem-solving and presentation skills, gained insight into supplier negotiation dynamics, and explored how sustainability decisions today can significantly shape global supply chains of the future.  

The Sobey School of Business is proud of its commitment to fostering future leaders who are ready to tackle the world's pressing environmental issues with innovative, culturally informed approaches.  

Additional resources 

, , , , , ,

One million pounds of perfectly imperfect food feeds Nova Scotians

, , , , , ,

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

Four students sorting donated food in cardboard boxes and bags.

Students sorting donated food

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

“We could not have done it without the student teams, the community champions and the farmers. ”
— Courtney Dingle, Square Roots president

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

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

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

A woman with a dog selects potatoes.

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

Enactus Saint Mary's
, , , , ,

Sustainability…period!

, , , , ,

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

Bridget is a Black woman with shoulder length brown hair. She stands in a warehouse and holds handfuls of raw soybean material.

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.”

Two pads in packaging are shown on a table surrounded by small piles of raw cattail, soybean and corn material

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

Bridget points to a pad as she stands in front of large metal cannisters

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.

Bridget confidently stands on a pile of soybean material
““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
, , ,

Fresh ideas for accounting’s future

, , ,

The AC Group teams up with students to tackle recruitment challenges in the CPA industry at recent Innovation Sprint challenge 

Last week, 28 students from Saint Mary’s University, Dalhousie University and NSCC worked in teams on an Innovation Sprint. In this short, high-energy event, students collaborate to generate solutions for business challenges. The AC Group of Independent Accounting Firms Limited (AC Group) brought forward a challenge focused on addressing recruitment challenges within the CPA and accounting industry. 

The AC Group is an alliance of 13 independent accounting firms in Atlantic Canada. It facilitates the member firms' being leaders in serving the needs of owner-managed businesses in their marketplaces. 

Students heard from Angus Bonnyman, CEO of The AC Group, and Shirley Jollimore, Director of The AC Group. They provided insights into topics such as attracting high-quality applicants and increasing awareness and opportunities in the CPA and Accounting industry. 

The participating students brought fresh perspectives and creative strategies to the table, creating a win-win situation for both students and the AC Group. 

Solutions from the winning team, comprised of three business students, Hazza Sujeer, Lydia Lee and Asmita Ale, ranged from building strategic university partnerships for talent acquisition to targeted social media strategies aimed at increasing brand exposure. Reflecting on the competition, Hazza shared, “We tackled one of the biggest challenges in public accounting, which is to attract and retain top talent. It was an incredible experience being around creative and like-minded individuals to develop real-world solutions.” 

Business student Munyaradzi Matura and science student Q’Ba Richards won second place, while a team of business students, Kathleen Murray, Nguyen Thu Trang Truong, and Aquilya Smith, secured third place. 

The AC group representatives were highly impressed by the students’ professionalism and innovative thinking. Angus remarked, “We worked with a very dynamic group of students who had great ideas about how we could solve a real-world problem.” The firm was enthusiastic about implementing some of the proposed solutions. 

At the end of the Sprint, businesses choose the winning teams, with the first-place winners receiving $1,000, second-place winners receiving $700, and third-place winners receiving $300. In a unique opportunity, The AC Group also opened scholarship applications to participants and actively encouraged students to submit resumes for potential career opportunities. 

Find out how to participate in an Innovation Sprint. 

About Innovation Sprint  

Innovation Sprint is a short, focused event that brings business and keen, creative students together to generate ideas and solutions to business problems.  During the Innovation Sprint, participants:  

  • engage in time-sensitive bursts of intensive problem-solving and developing business solutions;  

  • receive insightful resources and mentorship, helping them address business challenges;   

  • learn how to facilitate rapid and effective outputs to challenges they may face in their business. This is a unique entrepreneurial experience that can be translated into their own chosen fields;  

  • collaborate with students from across Atlantic Canada from various faculties and disciplines.  

Sign up for the next Innovation Sprint!
, , , ,

Sprinting for spa solutions

, , , ,

Students pitch ideas to help local business The Wine Spa at recent Innovation Sprint challenge

Last week, 26 enterprising students worked in teams with the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre and The Wine Spa on an Innovation Sprint, a fast-paced event focused on generating creative solutions to business challenges. The Wine Spa marries fine wine, delicious food, and luxury spa experiences to offer a one-of-a-kind social spa experience.

As the name suggests, an Innovation Sprint is a short, high-energy sprint during which students generate rapid-fire ideas and solutions to real-world business problems. Each sprint brings students and businesses together for live problem-solving and idea generation. Students practice their learning and skills, and businesses get access to current, fresh thinking. Everybody wins!  

Participants heard from The Wine Spa Founder Angela Szubielski, who briefed them on the product offering and shared insights and challenges, including finding new ways to utilize the space and identifying new markets and clients.

The participating students brought fresh ideas, new perspectives and solutions ranging from inviting senior homes for a spa day to curated packages for bachelorettes and special events, and corporate employee appreciation retreats.

The winning team included arts student Stuti Sandhu and business student Kris Ram. Their winning idea involved collaboration, unique events and expanding the target market to drive awareness and revenue for The Wine Spa. Reflecting on the competition, Stuti said, “We really got to think creatively, and that was amazing. It's also really rewarding to help our community succeed. That’s what I really love about Innovation Sprints.”

Echoing Stuti’s enthusiasm, Kris said, “Innovation Sprints are really inspiring. I get to learn about a real-world business problem and solve it hands-on. This is an experience many don't get to have and I'm very fortunate to be able to be exposed to that.”

Innovation Sprint students with Angela and Will, Founders of The Wine Spa

The Wine Spa team was enthusiastic about the students’ ideas and impressed with the results. “Everybody was so professional,  courteous and bright. To other businesses, I would absolutely recommend joining an Innovation Sprint,” said Szubielski from The Wine Spa. “I knew [the students] would brainstorm and present ideas, but we benefitted from their different cultures, perspectives and experiences. I don't spend a lot of time talking to university students at this stage in my life or as a business owner. So, to be able to see many different perspectives in one room was excellent.”

At the end of the Sprint, businesses choose the winning teams. First-place winners received $1,000 and a $100 gift certificate to The Wine Spa. Second-place winners received $700, and third-place winners received $300.

Find out how to participate in an Innovation Sprint here.

About Innovation Sprint

Innovation Sprint is a short, focused event that brings business and keen, creative students together to generate ideas and solutions to business problems.  During the Innovation Sprint, participants:

  • engage in time-sensitive bursts of intensive problem-solving and developing business solutions;

  • receive insightful resources and mentorship, helping them address business challenges; 

  • learn how to facilitate rapid and effective outputs to challenges they may face in their business. This is a unique entrepreneurial experience that can be translated into their own chosen fields;

  • collaborate with students from across Atlantic Canada from various faculties and disciplines.

Sign up for the next Innovation Sprint
, , , ,

Saint Mary’s student entrepreneur wins $10,000 award for mental health app start-up

, , , ,
Olivian holds an oversized cheque for $10,000

Olivian Sanderson, winner of the Dream Chaser Change Maker Social Impact Award

Bachelor of Commerce student Olivian Sanderson, Co-Founder of Sociable, a mental health app designed for students, has won the Dream Chaser Change Maker (DCCM) Foundation Social Impact Award and $10,000. The DCCM invites student entrepreneurs with social impact aspirations to a pitch competition where a team of mentors and alumni select the next Dream Chaser.

Olivian competed against thirty contestants and was shortlisted as one of seven finalists at the recent DCCM Award Pitch Competition held at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre. The award, which provides a scholarship supporting tuition and start-up costs, celebrates student entrepreneurs who use their businesses to address pressing social and environmental challenges. 

Olivian shared her excitement about the win and how the $10,000 prize will accelerate Sociable's development, “The competition was a great experience. Participating in the pitches was also amazing: being able to see all the amazing businesses other students are running and then being able to showcase my own to a panel of judges was great. The prize will help accelerate my business growth. With a portion of it going to my education, it also relieves some of that financial stress, meaning I can focus more time on doing what I love, building Sociable. The DCCM network has so many industry leaders and experts that I want to learn from, so I am excited to have been given such a valuable opportunity to do so.” 

Beyond the $10,000 prize, the competition celebrated students as changemakers, recognizing their commitment to creating a positive impact. The other finalists represented a diverse range of innovative ventures: 

  • Ashish Ganapathy, Co-Founder of Accesstructure, featured a business focused on creating more accessible campuses for those with disabilities; 

  • Gabriel Martin, Founder of Purlo Foods, pitched his business emphasizing transparency and sustainability in the food supply chain; 

  • Vaishali Sachdeva, Brand Ambassador of Bean, presented a smart food assistant app designed to revolutionize meal planning; 

  • Stuti Sandhu, Founder of Being There, pitched an initiative aiming to support dementia care and prevention with a personalized, holistic approach; 

  • Karanveer Singh, Founder of Eco-Nova Store, focused on sustainable and eco-friendly plastic alternative products that could be eaten after their use; and

  • Andrei Marchenko, Founder of All Year Greens, featured an innovative vertical farming solution to increase access to fresh, healthy food.

Finalist Andrei Marchenko shared his perspective on participating in the pitch competition: “This competition inspired me to grow as a presenter and helped improve my public speaking skills for a wider audience. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone looking to grow both personally and professionally.” 

A group of people pose with Olivian and her cheque

Finalists, judges and DCCM representatives at the pitch competition

Following the competition, all finalists were invited to a pitch training program led by the DCCM team to refine their pitching skills further and advance their businesses. 

About The Dream Chaser Change Maker (DCCM) Foundation

Founded as a scholarship program in 2017, The DCCM Foundation is a federally registered non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing generations of social entrepreneurs. The DCCM aims to alleviate financial barriers to education, helping Dream Chasers (student social entrepreneurs) harness the power of academic knowledge and their creativity to drive positive social change in the world.   

Visit DCCM Foundation to learn more about the organization.  

Learn more about student opportunities through the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre
,

De-Mystifying AI in the Workplace

,
Arjun wears a black suit and stands in front of colourful boxes showcasing the UN sustainable goals

Arjun Asokakumar, Director of Data Science at RBC, was the keynote speaker at Responsible Leadership Day 2024

Empowering Students to Shape a Sustainable Future

A 2024 analysis by Statistics Canada reveals a growing trend, with 30% of businesses in the information and cultural industries, 25% in professional, scientific, and technical services, and 19% in arts, entertainment and recreation planning to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the next year.[1]

In a world where AI seems to be everywhere, how can students prepare themselves for what the future could bring?

The Sobey School of Business brought together inspiring leaders and forward-thinking students for its sixth annual Responsible Leadership Day on November 22, 2024.

The event kicked off with a thought-provoking keynote on how AI-driven automation may reshape job roles and skill requirements, delivered by Arjun Asokakumar, Director of Data Science at Royal Bank of Canada (RBC). Attendees also had the opportunity to engage with expert panelists on the upcoming challenges of AI.

Responsible Leadership Day at Saint Mary’s University

In today’s competitive job market, students must understand how to effectively work with and respond to artificial intelligence to stay ahead, not just in the business world but across multiple areas. Regardless of where you are in the organization, AI has the potential to impact all levels.

How do machine learning and algorithms help solve people’s problems?

Although AI may seem complex and mysterious, at its core, it’s all about us—people. AI is programmed by people, learns from people, and ultimately is used by people. It learns by reading our books, analyzing our paintings, listening to our music, downloading our history and studying our habits.

Because it learns from us, AI inevitably inherits our flaws and biases. What we think, feel, and believe becomes embedded in its algorithms. AI cannot judge right from wrong—it processes data without judgement. For example, when using AI to sort through resumes for hiring, factors like postal codes, names, genders, and gaps in employment due to parental leave can unintentionally introduce biases into the process.

The ability to recognize and understand these biases is crucial for using AI effectively and responsibly. As AI becomes more integrated into the workplace, employers are placing greater value on this crucial skill. 

As artificial intelligence becomes more prevalent, the need for specialized knowledge remains high. Understanding how to judge the information AI provides you—and being able to critically evaluate its output—is key to using the technology responsibly.

As an employer, there are steps you can take too. For example, pushing for transparency on what data was used in creating the AI programs and asking for evidence and results.

The expert panel emphasized innovation and plans for action toward a more responsible future, all while embracing an entrepreneurial mindset.

Dr. Stephanie Kelley, Scotiabank Professor in Innovations in Business Technology and Assistant Professor of Management Science at the Sobey School of Business at Saint Mary’s University, moderated the discussion.

Panelists included Roshanak Sadeghi-Zadeh, Director of People and Belonging at IWK Health, Saeed El-Darahali, President and CEO of SimplyCast, and Sandra Pasquini, Senior Vice President, Human Resources at Empire Company Limited.

[1] Analysis on expected use of artificial intelligence by businesses in Canada, third quarter of 2024

About Responsible Leadership Day   

Responsible Leadership Day is a flagship event for the Sobey School of Business. It brings together students and researchers with industry and government partners and highlights the school’s commitment as signatories of PRME, a UN initiative that promotes Principles for Responsible Management Education. The Sobey School of Business is committed to upholding sustainability, as demonstrated by its research, student projects, and course content.

, , , ,

Health Data Analytics Symposium showcases student innovation

, , , ,

How can data transform healthcare? Can data help us make better decisions around patient care and even help manage the overall healthcare system in Nova Scotia?

Those were the central questions at the Health Data Analytics Symposium, which was recently held at Saint Mary’s University. The symposium brought together a diverse group of experts from government, healthcare, and business.

This annual event provides a platform for SMU graduate students in the Master in Business Analytics (MBAN) program to present their groundbreaking research. It is a place for them to share the results of their internships and co-ops with some of Nova Scotia’s largest healthcare providers, including Nova Scotia Health, the IWK and the Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness. This symposium is aimed at fostering partnerships between academia and healthcare, driving innovations that directly benefit Nova Scotians.

MBAN student Farhat Roopkatha

“My work with the IM/IT Business Intelligence Team at Nova Scotia Health […] has been a transformative experience, setting new standards for capacity planning and organizational transparency in healthcare,” says MBAN student Farhat Roopkotha.

“From customizing workflows to fostering collaboration across diverse teams, this project has demonstrated how tailored tools can drive impactful change. By integrating Agile methodologies, we’ve empowered teams to optimize resources and align goals for better outcomes across Nova Scotia Health.”

Healthcare experts questioned the students about the practical applications of data insights into various aspects of healthcare, from daily medical routines to long-term planning. These discussions highlighted examples of how data is being used to enhance patient care and streamline healthcare operations in local emergency rooms, long-term care facilities, and prescription management.

“The feedback from the Nova Scotia Health community was truly inspiring, reaffirming the importance of this project in improving data collection and patient outcomes,” says MBAN student Fana Abaynew Mandefro, who presented her work with the Wound Care Registry Project with the Nova Scotia Health Innovation Hub.

A notable session delved into the role of data in understanding the social determinants of health. Scott McKenna, Chief Information Officer, Nova Scotia Health and IWK, stressed the importance of analyzing social factors such as income and education. “Data and analytics have the power to bring tremendous insight to the health system.  Layering in important socio-economic information can give us a whole different perspective and influence how we design solutions for citizens and tailor them to respond to unique needs.”

Jordan Warford, Executive Director of Planning and Performance, Department of Health and Wellness

Jordan Warford, Executive Director of Planning and Performance, Department of Health and Wellness, posed the question, “How can we harness the power of data to plan for the longer term?”

Warford emphasized the importance of data analytics in uncovering hidden patterns and trends, which can lead to more informed decisions. “Data is the compass guiding us through healthcare’s complexities, revealing insights that turn information into better care and healthier communities. These students are proving that the smart decisions we make today can shape a stronger, more sustainable system for tomorrow.”

As the symposium progressed, attendees gained valuable insights into the critical role of data in shaping the future of healthcare. The event underscored SMU’s commitment to fostering innovation and preparing the next generation of healthcare leaders.

Matthew Murphy, Chief Data Officer, Nova Scotia Health Authority, expressed his deep appreciation for the partnership and commitment to further advancing internship programs with SMU. Saint Mary’s University continues to lead the way in equipping students with the tools to revolutionize healthcare through data. "Partnerships like the one between Nova Scotia Health and Saint Mary’s University are pivotal in shaping the future of healthcare. By leveraging the power of data, we are not only equipping students with practical skills but also creating real-world solutions that enhance care and improve outcomes for Nova Scotians.”

The work underway in SMU's health analytics space reflects the ecosystem's commitment to building a healthcare system that meets today’s demands and is prepared to adapt to future challenges with data at its core.

Master of Business Analytics at SMU
, , , ,

Meet your Valedictorians: Fall Convocation 2024

, , , ,

Three students will address their graduating classes at the upcoming Fall Convocation ceremonies at Saint Mary’s University. These graduates, recipients of the John and Heather Fitzpatrick Valedictorian Awards, were selected for their academic determination, involvement on campus and in their communities, and their unique journeys to the graduation podium.

All graduation ceremonies will be live-streamed at smu.ca/graduation on November 14 and 15. Congratulations, graduates!

Krystal Lowe

Master of Science, Applied Psychology
Faculty of Graduate Studies | Thursday, November 14 at 2 p.m.

Originally from Toronto, Ontario, Krystal Lowe relocated to Halifax in 2013 with a dream of building a more meaningful life. She will graduate with a Master of Science in Applied Psychology (Forensic Stream) from Saint Mary’s University as a mature, first-generation student. Krystal’s academic journey began at 23 when she completed her high school diploma at the Nova Scotia Community College before enrolling at Saint Mary’s, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts with Honors in Psychology in 2022.  

Krystal’s master’s research, Suicidality Among Individuals with a History of Criminal Behavior – A Test of the Three Step Theory of Suicide, earned her both the SSHRC Canada Graduate Scholarship – Master’s, and Scotia Scholar’s Master’s Award. During her time at SMU, she has worked as a teaching assistant and research assistant in the Department of Psychology, focusing on topics at the intersection of psychology and law. She also assisted with research on sexual violence on Canadian campuses in the Department of Criminology and served as the Sexual Violence Prevention Initiative Coordinator, where she facilitated programs and workshops for the SMU community. Simultaneously, Krystal worked with Public Safety Canada as a research analyst in the Corrections Research Unit, where she assisted with files related to risk profiling, sexual violence and coercion in federal custody, and best practices in reducing recidivism. Her publications include work on domestic violence disclosure schemes and correctional psychology, and she remains an active researcher.  

When she isn’t working, Krystal enjoys writing, yoga, and hiking with her fiancé and two dogs. After graduation, Krystal will continue her work as the Education and Prevention Coordinator with the Transition House Association of Nova Scotia, where she is deeply passionate about developing training and education to support the well-being of those working in the violence-against-women sector, as well as public education to reduce domestic and intimate partner violence.  

Krystal expresses deep gratitude to those who have supported and empowered her throughout her academic journey, particularly Dr. Marguerite Ternes, Dr. Veronica Stinson, Dr. Diane Crocker, and soon-to-be Dr. Dee Dooley, for their mentorship and guidance.

Anubhav Gupta

Bachelor of Commerce
Sobey School of Business (undergraduate) | Friday, November 15 at 10 a.m.

Born and raised in Chandigarh, India, Anubhav graduates from the Sobey School of Business with a Bachelor of Commerce, summa cum laude, achieving a GPA of 4.29 with a double major in Finance and Computing & Information Systems.  

Anubhav began his on-campus involvement as the Financial Director for the Commerce Society and a presenter for Enactus Saint Mary’s, where he secured first place in the national Scotiabank Climate Action challenge. He was also a Teaching Assistant with the Finance Department, a Global Skills Opportunity Ambassador, a Residence Assistant, and the Co-Curricular Record Engagement Facilitator. Anubhav served as the Vice-President (Advocacy) for SMUSA where he sat on the university’s Board of Governors, served as the primary spokesperson to the government, championed the student voice on several EDIA issues, and successfully spearheaded initiatives like the Zero Textbook Cost Course List and the Final Exam Weightage Regulation. During his time at SMU, he also received several awards, including the Academic Achievement Award, Chrysler Canada Scholarship, SMUFU Gold Scholarship for Academic Excellence, and the Student Leadership Recognition Award. 

Passionate about making a difference, Anubhav aspires to take the lessons learnt at SMU and contribute to the community. He wants to study further and is presently trying to unravel what career path to embark upon – while the future is uncertain, Anubhav is excited about the endless opportunities to continue to learn and grow as an individual. He credits the wonderful friends he made at SMU, his professors, the mentors he has found here, and his family for their unwavering support that has made his achievements possible.   

Magnolia Lillian Rice

Bachelor of Arts (Honours)
Faculty of Arts & Faculty of Science (undergraduate) | Friday, November 15 at 2 p.m.

Born and raised in Vermont, USA, Magnolia Rice is graduating with a Bachelor of Arts, summa cum laude, with Honours in Criminology and a minor in Anthropology. 

During her time at SMU, Magnolia was heavily involved in the community both on and off campus, acting as President of the Anthropology Society, Vice-President of the Criminology Society, a Pack Leader, a member of the Art’s Societies Gala Planning Committee, and a volunteer for multiple open-houses and campus events. She was also involved in the 7th Step Society of Nova Scotia, where she volunteered and wrote grants with people who have had conflict with the law, and she is currently involved in their Youth Justice program as a grant researcher. These experiences bolstered her sense of community, and she currently works as an AmeriCorps VISTA member at Common Good Vermont, working to strengthen Vermont’s nonprofit sector. 

During her final year at SMU, Magnolia was a Teaching Assistant for the Criminology Department. She wrote her Honours Thesis on the motivations behind alcohol consumption in Vermont and was awarded the McMullan & Rege Honours in Criminology Convocation Award. 

Magnolia is very grateful for the people she met at Saint Mary’s and would like to specifically thank her parents and family, her incredible friends, and her professors for supporting her throughout her degree. She could not have done this without them. 

Read the convocation program