Meet your Valedictorian: Laura Eamon BComm'23

Laura Eamon BComm’23

At 17, Laura Eamon jumped at the chance to attend university halfway across the country from where her family lived. After experiencing personal challenges with alcoholism, she struggled to complete the first year of her studies. 

In 2012, she returned to Nova Scotia. After getting sober, completing a diploma at NSCC and working at Nova Scotia Health, she decided to attend university while staying close to her incredible and supportive family.

After hearing about a close friend’s experiences at Saint Mary’s University, she decided to apply, and the rest is history.

During her Bachelor of Commerce journey at the Sobey School of Business, Laura received many awards and recognitions, including the Elaine Leventhal Bursary, the SSHRC Explore Undergraduate Summer Research Award, the Daughters of the Vote Delegate, the Handyside Ethical and Social Responsibility Award, the Canadian Conservation Corps Participant and the Frank H. Sobey Award for Excellence in Business Studies. Laura is also a member of the Sobey Scholars Network, a network that includes all current and past scholarship recipients, alumni, chair holders, named professors and post-doctoral fellows who have been the recipients of philanthropic financial support from the Sobey family, The Sobey Foundation, Sobeys Inc. and Empire Company Limited.

Q&A with Laura Eamon

Where is your hometown?: Hammonds Plains, Nova Scotia.

What’s your major?: I’m graduating with a major in Economics with a Co-op Distinction.

What activities were you involved with at Saint Mary’s?: I was Treasurer with Saint Mary’s University Environmental Society for one year.

What was your favourite class?: I enjoyed all the math classes I took because working through long problems with multiple steps and a correct answer at the end is very satisfying. I found it interesting learning about Atlantic Canada’s recent history, and I loved learning how economics can be used in any industry and in any country to explore why things happen the way they do.

What’s your favourite space on campus?: Probably everyone’s favourite space on campus is the Atrium with the living wall and the library with the incredible floor-to-ceiling windows. That’s where it feels most like the traditional university experience.

Which instructor had the biggest impact on you?: Professor Tiffany Vu was always an incredibly thoughtful, engaging teacher throughout my time at Saint Mary’s. She is kind, strong, and making waves in her field. She believed in me, let me explore my thoughts in class, asked me to come on as a teaching assistant and worked with me to get the SSHRC Explore Undergraduate Summer Research award and Frank H. Sobey Excellence in Business Studies award.

What advice would you give to your younger self?: You’re never too old or too invested to start over, be a beginner, and change your mind. Stay organized, and always ask for help.

Who inspires you?: The main reason I’m walking across the stage to get my degree is my family: my husband, my two stepdaughters, and my mum. I couldn’t have done any of this without their support and sacrifices. I wish my dad was here to see me as the first in our family to graduate from university. I speak publicly about my experiences and alcohol use because of him.

Do you volunteer in the community?: I volunteer with the Sackville Rivers Association as the social media coordinator.

What are your future goals?: I hope for a bright future filled with local adventures and happy experiences with my family. I hope for slow days of joy and quick days of pain. I want to work with a team of open-minded, caring individuals for an organization making a positive impact on the planet and its people. I hope I respect my values of variety, well-being, and sustainability.

Spring Convocation takes place May 17-19, 2023. Watch the ceremonies live at smu.ca/graduation or on our Facebook page.

SMU Model UN group returns from New York with two awards

The Saint Mary’s Model United Nations team in New York

SMU Model UN representing Saint Kitts and Nevis

An alumni connection gave extra inspiration to this year’s award-winning Model United Nations team at Saint Mary’s University. The delegation of ten undergraduate students returned from New York City on April 7 with a Distinguished Delegation Award, the equivalent of silver. Third-year students Pyper Lane and Naza Yammine also won an Outstanding Position Paper award.

The team represented the small West Indies nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis at the annual UN simulation, attended by thousands of students from around the world. As part of their advance research in Dr. Marc Doucet’s Model UN course, the group had a very helpful Zoom meeting in January with the Honourable Isalean Phillip BA'16 MA'19.

The Honourable Isalean Phillip BA’16 MA’19

Back in 2015, Phillip was a member of SMU's Model UN team, which represented Ukraine that year. Last summer, she was sworn in as a Senator in the government of Saint Kitts and Nevis, where she is also the Minister of Social Development & Gender Affairs, Youth Empowerment, Ageing & Disabilities.  

“Her insights allowed us to truly come to understand the heart of a nation that was previously unfamiliar to many of us,” says Yammine, a Global Development Studies major. “Her presentation on the twin island federation’s history, political system and culture sparked ideas on how to approach research on our topic.”

The winning position paper was submitted in advance for the event’s General Assembly First Committee. It covered topics including Youth for Disarmament, Non-Proliferation and Peace, and Addressing the Illicit Trafficking of Weapons to Non-State Actors.

A highlight of the week in New York was a virtual meeting with the UN Permanent Mission for Saint Kitts and Nevis, including its UN Ambassador Nerys Dockery. The island nation has a population of 53,000.  

“The meeting served to further our understanding of the country’s position in the international community, highlighting how its size is often a compelling point of departure in negotiations, which was certainly the case for us representing them at NMUN,” says Lane, a political science major going into the honours program next year.

The Saint Mary’s group included students from across Canada as well as India, Mexico and Ghana. Three political science majors were joined by a student in the environmental studies program and several from the Sobey School of Business.

“I’m really proud of what the students were able to do, and the awards are significant recognition for their hard work,” says Dr. Doucet, who aims to offer the course again next winter.

The inaugural East Coast Model UN event held at Saint Mary’s this year was another great way for the students to prepare. The pilot project drew more than 40 students from Saint Mary’s and other universities in the region, including Dalhousie, STFX and Acadia. But meeting with Senator Phillip was a huge advantage, adds Doucet.

“It was interesting for the students to connect with someone who had done an undergraduate degree here and is now in a government position. The question that’s often asked is, ‘What can you do with an Arts degree?’ Well there you go! This is what you can do!”

The experience encouraged Lane to apply for a NATO Field School hosted by Simon Fraser University, so she’ll be travelling to locations across Europe this summer.

“The preparation that we get through the Model UN course at SMU is the best of the best,” she says. “We all went in feeling prepared, confident and knowledgeable. We would not be nearly as successful if it weren’t for the support we receive from the SMU community, the Model UN course and our professor and faculty advisor Dr. Marc Doucet.”

Yammine agrees, adding she hopes to pursue a career in international law and potentially diplomacy.

“It was refreshing to apply my knowledge in a real-life setting, and to simulate how world leaders come to make certain decisions,” she says. “The Model UN course not only teaches you about resolution writing and the mandate of UN organs, but also how to excel in public speaking, negotiation and teamwork.”

Student Leadership Conference nurtures community leaders of tomorrow

In its first real return since before the global pandemic, the annual Student Leadership Conference (SLC) boasted a jam-packed day featuring inspiring speakers, motivational break-out sessions and a student leader panel. The theme, “Stepping up to Leadership” put an emphasis on new perspectives and understandings of what being a leader means, focusing on how the global pandemic evolved the construct of student leadership.

“We’ve seen a notable shift of student mentality within institutions all over,” describes Emma Rota, Student Transitions Specialist and conference organizer. “From how we show up for each other to how we speak up and take action, students are demonstrating a revived passion and interest in taking on more ownership in their leadership journey.”

More than 85 students attended the 2023 Leadership Conference, with a broad range of new and long-time SMU community student leaders. “Education goes beyond the classroom,” says Tom Brophy, Associate Vice-President, Student Affairs and Services. “The qualities, values and skills invested in students during their formative years, in particular, the development of leadership traits, are fundamental in empowering students and improving the broader community.”

The conference aims to develop and hone important leadership skills and strategies including self-care and wellness, communication skills, career sessions, time management, organization and social responsibility.  The day was topped with a special keynote speech from powerhouse alumna, Keisha Turner BA’12.

Turner’s keynote, entitled “Leading Beyond the Status Quo”, highlighted her journey as a Black, first-generation, student athlete and explored her time as a Saint Mary’s student and SMU Husky. Her advice to students was to “approach leadership by embracing lived experience to create meaningful and innovative change.”

The SLC has something for everyone, from those not yet involved and those just starting to explore leadership to seasoned leaders preparing to transition out of school. “The skills learned here will carry you beyond Saint Mary’s,” says Amy McEvoy, Student Success Centre manager and conference organizer. “What students are exploring and learning about here has a lasting impact. They are developing skills they will carry into their careers, their communities and even their relationships. They are positioning themselves for success in their endeavours.”

At Saint Mary’s, the student leadership opportunities are almost endless, and the conference creates an opportunity for leaders across campus to come together, share experiences, learn best practices and build their network.

“Student leadership is important to me because it encourages me to take initiative, which is extremely important for my future,” explains 2nd year political science student, Francesca Southwell. “I had a chance to listen and learn from those who uplifted themselves after encountering adversity. I learned if you want to see change, you must be it in your own life and community. This conference helped give me confidence and courage to do that.”

Fourth year environmental studies student, Sally Oppong, says that she gets excited for the Student Leadership Conference every year. “Being an international student, it was hard when I first started at Saint Mary’s, but student leaders like my RA and Pack Leaders helped me through it,” she explains. “I became a student leader so that I could be that person for other new students, and this conference helps me continue to grow and build my leadership skills.”

For more information on the Student Leadership Conference, and ways to get involved as a student leader at SMU, visit the Student Success Centre.

Two Saint Mary’s University students receive Frank H. Sobey Awards for Excellence in Business Studies

Hallie Wedge and Sandy Hiltz
Clothesline Media

Ambitious, community-minded and studious are some of the many ways to describe two award-winning Sobey School of Business Bachelor of Commerce students—third-year finance and economics major Hallie Wedge and second-year finance and accounting major Sandy Hiltz. They are two of only eight undergraduate students from across Atlantic Canada to win this year’s Frank H. Sobey Award for Excellence in Business Studies.

All full-time business students attending Atlantic Canadian universities are eligible for consideration for the award. Deans at each university nominate candidates based on their experience with entrepreneurship, supporting the communities in which they live and work and their employment. Each award winner receives $45,000 in recognition of their achievements and gains access to mentorship support from members of the business community across the Atlantic region.

“We are very proud of Hallie and Sandy for being recognized for their excellence and earning this award,” says Dr. Harjeet Bhabra, Dean of the Sobey School of Business. “Our business school is fostering the next generation of leaders who are taking their education forward to lead entrepreneurial and sustainable businesses and communities. Hallie and Sandy’s award recognition highlights the dedication our students demonstrate to their studies and communities.”  

Since 1989, the Frank H. Sobey Awards have been awarded to 215 emerging business leaders from Atlantic Canada. These award recipients are selected by the Frank H. Sobey Awards Board of Trustees comprised of Atlantic Canadian business and academic leaders.

Meet the winners

Hallie Wedge

Clothesline Media

Hallie Wedge is a highly motivated young woman. When she’s not in the classroom, you can find her captaining Saint Mary’s women’s field hockey team or volunteering with one of three organizations close to her heart: Kaleidoscope Social Impact, the National Collective for Women in Business and Square Roots Bundle. She credits her late father, who passed away three years ago, with instilling a strong sense of community and drive to succeed. More than being her father, he was her best friend.

“He was my biggest supporter and always encouraged me to go after whatever I wanted and to do my best,” says Hallie. “He’s still my biggest motivator, and I still feel him with me.”

In high school, Hallie knew having an education in finance would help open doors to more opportunities. At Saint Mary’s, she quickly learned she could combine her passion for the environment, activism, and social concerns with her education and have an impact.

“This summer I’m starting my own regenerative food and flower farm,” says Hallie. “After I graduate, I would like to expand the business and turn it into a social enterprise where I’m growing food for people who are underprivileged or wouldn’t otherwise have access to good quality food.”

In addition to growing her business, she is interested in sustainability consulting and teaching financial literacy. In 2020, Hallie was a recipient of the Sobey National Innovator Award. Winning the Frank H. Sobey Award for Excellence in Business Studies is something for which she is equally grateful.

“It’s incredible to be a part of such an amazing group of accomplished people,” she says. “I am very honoured to be a part of this community.”

In her free time, Hallie enjoys being outside with her dogs and boyfriend, gardening and spending time with friends.

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Sandy Hiltz

Clothesline Media

Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, Sandy Hiltz could not help but feel motivated by his parents. His mother owns a film catering company, and his father has been working in various retail involvements over the years. Being surrounded by antiques as a young boy, Sandy was inspired. At the tender age of eight, he used his innovative ambition and started his own business by selling antiques at shows and later getting involved in estate sales.

“I am inspired by great entrepreneurs like Frank Sobey,” says Sandy. “I’m passionate about small business, Atlantic Canada and history, and it was great to merge these interests.”   

On Sundays, he operates A. H. MacMillan & Family Antiques and Fine Furniture in East Chezzetcook–a 3000-foot store that sells a mixture of art, silver and furniture. Additionally, he is involved with a local production company working on a show called “The Past and the Curious” similar to “The Antiques Roadshow.”

Sandy understands the importance of giving back to his community and volunteers with the Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Dartmouth at St. Peter’s Church and sits on a committee: the Parish and Pastoral Council. One of their projects involves amalgamating some churches.

Previously, Sandy had received the Sobey National Innovator Scholarship, something he considers a great source of pride. He is equally appreciative for being recognized with a Frank. H Sobey Award for Excellence in Business Studies.

“It’s a great honour to receive this award and meet the other recipients who are passionate about improving Atlantic Canada,” he says. “I think this place is the greatest in the world, and the other recipients have shown a great passion for it as well–I’m excited about that.”

In his free time, Sandy enjoys being in the great outdoors, spending time with his dogs and being in the countryside.  

Three-Minute Thesis winner to represent Saint Mary’s at Eastern Regional competition

Stephen Paterson, Gabrielle Armstrong and Shannon MacFarland placed in the top of the 3MT competition

Saint Mary’s 3MT competitors

Miranda Frison, MA Geography

Julie Dayrit, MSc Applied Science

Stephaniie Erhunmwunsee, PhD Applied Science

Stephen Paterson, PhD Applied Science

Tamana Hamid, MA Global Development Studies with Dr. Evie Tastsoglou

Shannon MacFarland, a first-year Master of Science student in Astronomy, won first place in the recent Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) competition at Saint Mary’s University. Her topic ‘How does a galaxy die? Determining the star formation history from a galaxy's colour’, also earned the People’s Choice award at the competition. MacFarland will compete in the Eastern Regionals in June.

In second place was Gabrielle Armstrong, Master of Science in Applied Science. Stephen Paterson, PhD in Applied Science, received an honourable mention.

Condensing a thesis—the result of months or even years of work—into three minutes is an impressive feat. Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) competitors are challenged to condense and communicate their work while still making it accessible to a non-expert audience—with the clock ticking. Hosted by the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, the annual 3MT event saw seven Saint Mary’s Masters students and PhD candidates explain their research with one static Powerpoint slide, no other props or aids. The participants spoke about a wide range of topics, showing the breadth of research and study at Saint Mary’s University.

Originally from White Rock, British Columbia, MacFarland completed her BSc at the University of British Columbia. She chose Saint Mary’s for her graduate studies because her supervisor, Dr. Marcin Sawicki, is part of CANUCS (The Canadian NIRISS Unbiased Cluster Survey). CANUCS has guaranteed observation time with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).

“It's very competitive right now to get time with such a new instrument, so I could not turn down an opportunity to work with JWST data within the first year of its operating time,” says MacFarland. “I'm very fascinated by the distant past and galaxy evolution. JWST is the perfect tool for looking far back into the universe, and Dr. Sawicki's group is full of experts and students that share that passion, so SMU seemed like a good fit.”

Shannon MacFarland presents at 3MT

More about Shannon MacFarland’s research: The colour of a galaxy contains a large amount of information about what stage of life a galaxy is in. Broadly, we put galaxies into two categories: Blue galaxies are considered "alive" because the gas within them is being compressed to form new stars. Red galaxies are considered "dead" because there is little to no star formation within them. We also know that in the past, there were more blue galaxies than there are today. This indicates some process by which a galaxy's colour transitions from blue to red, and its star formation is suppressed or shut down. What I'm interested in is how quickly/slowly a galaxy transitions from blue to red, also known as a galaxy's star formation history. To do this I am using the most powerful telescope ever created, the James Webb Space Telescope. This research is important because we know from the diversity of galaxies that we see that all galaxies evolve differently. My work will aim to answer how all galaxies, like our own Milky Way, will eventually die.

Saint Mary’s 3MT competitors:

• Gabrielle Armstrong (second place), MSc Applied Science (Biology)

  Occurrence and preference of anthropogenic materials in European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) nests

• Julie Dayrit, MSc Applied Science (Chemistry)

  Ancient solution to a modern problem: Combating antimicrobial resistance using Philippine medicinal plants

• Stephaniie Erhunmwunsee, PhD Applied Science (Geology)

  Organic geochemical analysis of Early Jurassic oil shows in the Scotian Basin

• Miranda Frison, MA Geography

  Understanding habitats and distributions of threatened lichens within Atlantic Canada through the creation of species distribution models and their model-derived products.

• Tamana Hamid, MA Global Development Studies

  Afghan immigrant women and their integration into Canadian society

• Stephen Paterson, PhD Applied Science (Environmental Science)

  The silent migration beneath our feet: understanding the spread of non-native earthworms in northern Canada

International Women's Day at Saint Mary’s

On Wednesday, March 8, the Saint Mary’s community joins the global celebration of International Women’s Day.

To shine a light on women’s and girls’ social, economic, cultural and political achievements, and on the work still being done towards gender equality and empowerment, we’re highlighting some of the many stories that celebrate our students, faculty and alumni.

Saint Mary’s is also hosting special lecture, titled ‘Women's Bodily Autonomy and the Right to Bare Arms’, in partnership with Mount Saint Vincent University and SMUSA. See below for details.

Learn more about International Women’s Day, and be sure watch @smuhalifax channels for more inspiring stories.

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Lecture: Women's Bodily Autonomy and the Right to Bare Arms

Wednesday, March 8
4:30—6 p.m.
Burke Theatre B 

Dr. Meredith Ralston is a professor of women’s studies and political studies at Mount Saint Vincent University and a documentary filmmaker. In her book,Slut-Shaming, Whorephobia, and the Unfinished Sexual Revolution, she examines the common denominators between the #MeToo movement, the myths of rape culture and the pleasure gap between men and women to reveal the ways that sexually liberated women threaten the traditional patriarchy. Join us for an engaging discussion on her latest book.

Stories

Science student and SMU Husky Shae Demale garners Top 8 Academic All-Canadian award

Saint Mary’s Huskies women’s hockey forward Shae Demale was honoured recently as a Top 8 Academic All-Canadian for the 2021-22 season by U SPORTS.

Shae was named the most valuable player in AUS women’s hockey last season and registered a perfect 4.30 GPA in both 2020-21 and 2021-22. She is also a volunteer hockey coach with the Metro West Force Female Hockey Club in Halifax, and a volunteer in the emergency department at the IWK Health Centre. Read more.

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Dr. Benita Bunjun honoured for teaching excellence and educational leadership

Dr. Benita Bunjun’s innovative teaching methods resonate deeply with her students and colleagues at Saint Mary’s University, inside the classroom and out in the community.

An associate professor in the Department of Social Justice and Community Studies and the Women and Gender Studies program, Dr. Bunjun is “invested in envisioning programs, curricula and resources that promote alternative and diverse perspectives and knowledge systems which have predominantly been omitted, silenced and excluded from academic spaces of learning.”
Read more.

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Multiple degrees enhance the family business for mother and daughter

Simultaneous studies in Arts and Commerce added up to the perfect combination for Elora Gehue of Halifax—and for her mother, Olwyn Terris-Gehue.

“It’s been a great experience, honestly,” says Gehue, herself a mother of two young sons. “I think it made us closer too, being able to learn and grow with each other.”

The mother and daughter share an appreciation for the interdisciplinary learning options at Saint Mary’s. They took quite a few classes together, and are graduating with an unusual combination of credentials. Read more.

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More inspiring women

• Creating opportunities for Indigenous girls in sport: Student and SMU Husky Erin Denny

• Decolonizing museum collections: Dr. Kirrily Freeman

• Recent grad making a splash in the world of entrepreneurship: Marlee Armour MTEI’22

• Pioneering N.S. filmmaker Margaret Perry focus of series with FIN, N.S. Archive: Dr. Jennifer VanderBurgh

• Competition to solve freshwater issues begins in Atlantic Canada: Dr. Linda Campbell

• Breaking down barriers for women with the Women’s Empowerment Conference: Saint Mary’s University Entrepreneurship Centre (SMUEC)

• Alumna creates bursary for African Canadian and Indigenous women: Keisha Turner BA’12

• Dr. Catherine Loughlin Recognized for Research Excellence

• Celebrating excellence: Dr. Danika van Proosdij elected as a new Fellow of The Royal Society of Canada

Shae Demale receives Top 8 Academic All-Canadian award

Shae Demale and Governor General Mary May Simon

Saint Mary’s Huskies women’s hockey forward Shae Demale was honoured recently as a Top 8 Academic All-Canadian for the 2021-22 season by U SPORTS.

 In the 2021-22 academic year, more than 4,900 student-athletes achieved U SPORTS Academic All-Canadian status by maintaining an average of 80 percent or higher while competing for one or more of varsity teams and volunteering in their communities.

 From this pool of top athletes, an elite group is chosen from across Canada to make up the Top 8, making this one of the most prestigious recognitions in U SPORTS.

 Shae, now 22 years old, received the award at a ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa from Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada.

 “It was a surprise and honour to be recognized,” said Shae. “I couldn’t have imagined this when I was starting to play, but I knew that there was a lot of opportunity and I worked hard at everything I did. When you do that, it can take you a long way.”

 Shae started her athletic career at a young age in Red Deer, AB, first in ringette before switching to hockey in grade six. She is now a volunteer coach with young players in the Metro West Force Female Hockey Club in Halifax.

 “It’s rewarding to work with young female players,” said Shae. “It’s an important part of sports and especially female sports, to get role models for them—and I love doing it.”

 Shae was the most valuable player in AUS women’s hockey last season, leading the conference with 25 points (13 goals, 12 assists). She has just returned from Lake Placid, New York, where she won a gold medal as a member of Team Canada at the 2023 World University Games.

 As a science student majoring in biology with a minor in psychology, Shae has maintained a perfect 4.30 GPA in the past two years and has earned a spot on the Dean’s List for four academic years.

 In 2020, she received the Saint Mary’s President’s Award for top academic and athletic performance. She is also a four-time U SPORTS Academic All-Canadian, and has won the Dr. John C. O’C. Young Award for having the highest grade in chemistry, along with several other awards from Saint Mary’s for her academic standing and community involvement. She also volunteers in the emergency department at the IWK Health Centre.

 After graduation this spring, she hopes to play in a professional hockey league either in North America or Europe before returning to school to pursue graduate studies in a medical field.

The Governor General's Academic All-Canadian Commendation was founded in 2013 by the Right Honourable David Johnston, former Governor General of Canada, who first honoured Canada's Top 8 student-athletes.

Along with Shae, the other winners were: Alex Carson of Dalhousie, Jade Downie-Landry of McGill University, Jean-Simon Desgagnés of Laval, Raphaël Garcia of Carleton, Kate Current of Western, and Eric Lutz and Rebecca Smith of Calgary were all nominated for their excellence both on and off the field of play. The awards were presented on January 26, 2023.

Meet your Valedictorians: Bernadine Inah Baual BComm’23 and Kapil Sahni MTEI’23, Sobey School of Business

Graduates from the Sobey School of Business leave with not only a degree, but with untold memories, skills and dreams for the future. Our winter valedictorians, Bernadine Inah Baual and Kapil Sahni, both exemplify the spirit of the Sobey School. Before they both cross the stage and accept their degrees, we sat down with them to ask a few questions.

Bernadine Inah Baual

Bernadine Inah Baual

Bernadine, originally from the Philippines, moved to Canada in 2017 and calls New Glasgow home. She is graduating with a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Accounting.

During her time as a student, Bernadine was a Teaching Assistant for Spirituality and Work, supporting the professor in the overall teaching and learning experience of the students in the course. She was also the student representative and a member of the Service-Learning Advisory Committee (SLAC), which discusses Service Learning and its approaches in the university, student engagement and community partnerships to encourage students and support them in attaining additional learning outside of the classroom.

Preferred name: Bernadine
Graduation date: January 28, 2023
Program: Bachelor of Commerce, Major in Accounting

What has been your favourite class?

I’ve loved my Financial Accounting courses, specifically Introductory Financial Accounting and Intermediate Financial Accounting. Introductory Financial Accounting was the course that made me confirm that I really want to take Accounting as a major, and I loved the challenge of Intermediate Financial Accounting – it was hard, but fulfilling!

Are there any awards you’ve won or achievements you’d like to share?
I’ve been a consistent Dean’s Lister through my entire degree.

What are your future educational plans?
I plan to get my CPA designation. After that, I’m not sure yet!

What is your favourite spot at SMU?

The second floor of the library. I love how quiet it is there, it is the place where I really finished a lot of schoolwork and studies!

Do you have any advice for students starting at SMU?

Do not be afraid to explore new things. Unforeseen circumstances contain the lessons that we need in life. Going into university and getting your degree will be a hard and challenging journey, but I want you to know that it will all be worth it in the end just trust yourself and never give up on those dreams.

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 Kapil Sahni

 Kapil Sahni

 Kapil Sahni moved to Canada from New Delhi, India, and is confident, curious, self-driven and kind-hearted. During his two years at Saint Mary’s pursuing his Master of Technology Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Kapil was actively involved in campus life, volunteered for the International Student Career & Employability program, as well as co-founding the Working Women Network to enhance the employability of women professionals across Canada, aiming to bridge the gender diversity gaps in the corporate world. He has also held the roles of a teaching assistant and research technician at SMU.

Preferred Name: Kapil
Graduation Date: January 27, 2023
Program: Master of Technology Entrepreneurship & Innovation (MTEI)
Previous Degrees: MBA, BBS

 Why did the MTEI program appeal to you?

MTEI helps individuals become independent and channel their creativity into creating something of their own in this competitive world. My long-term career goal of establishing myself as an entrepreneur in today’s digital world could only be fulfilled by a comprehensive program curriculum of MTEI.

What, in your mind, are the most valuable skills/experiences that the MTEI program provided you with?

The program’s curriculum of entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation enhanced my analytical and problem-solving skills, which has enabled me to solve daily life problems. Diving deep into technology and modern-age digital practices helped create a robust foundation for my entrepreneurial journey.

Do you have successes you’d like to share or difficulties you were able to overcome?

Prior to joining the MTEI program, I did not have the entrepreneurial tools and techniques I needed, which was a bottleneck to my long-term career growth. With the right amalgamation of technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation-oriented curriculum along with industry-led training, I feel I can now make headway into the start-up arena. In fact, the support provided by the MTEI professors and the SMUEC officials helped me to scale my start-up quicker than expected in a short time span.

What are your future plans?

My future plan is to establish my entrepreneurial venture in the North American market commercially. As I seeded Canada’s first women-focused, AI-powered talent management platform – Working Women Network – during the MTEI program, getting early recognition with the prestigious VOLTA and Mitacs scholarship now propels me to take it to the market in the coming years.

Do you have any advice for incoming students?

The MTEI program instructs students about the multifarious business models one can pick from and customize them to suit their business idea most appropriately. The program’s holistic learning approach ranges from learning the theoretical concepts about the fundamentals of business to growing as an individual from all perspectives. It teaches real-world skills and prepares its undertakers to use their imagination to ward off any challenge that the future might throw at them as aspiring entrepreneurs.

Graduate Profile: Souvik Sinha MFin’22, Sobey School of Business

Souvik Sinha

This past September was supposed to be a time of celebration for Souvik Sinha. He had completed the Master of Finance (MFin) program at the Sobey School of Business and was set to convocate. However, Hurricane Fiona’s province-wide destruction cancelled those plans – until now. Before he walks across the stage in this special-edition Fall convocation, Souvik sat down with us and reflected on his journey through the MFin program.

Preferred Name: Souvik

Home Country: India

Graduation Date: Fall 2022 (Convocation January 2023)

Previous Degrees: Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), specialized in Finance, from International School of Business and Media, Pune, India

Why did the MFin program appeal to you?

The MFin program of Sobey School of Business is an accelerated, one-year program which comprises of multiple in-depth Finance courses, a corporate tour to Toronto and assistance for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) examination. The school is in the prime location of Halifax, which is one of the fastest growing cities in Canada while being easier to live in than other major centers, such as Toronto and Vancouver. The school ranking in Canada is impressive and the class cohort is small, which enables us to interact with Professor seamlessly. For these reasons, I chose to study at the Sobey School.

What, in your mind, are the most valuable skills/experiences that the MFin program provided you with?

The MFIN program at Saint Mary’s University provided a unique opportunity to navigate the financial markets of Canada. It created a platform to interact with employers, associates and alumni, and attend career fairs. The intense coursework helped us to enrich our finance knowledge, and graduate career services and the writing center provided professional development.

Do you have successes you’d like to share, or difficulties you were able to overcome, during your time in the program?

The program was fast-paced and I experienced significant successes which would not have been possible if I had not enrolled in the program. Some highlights for me were:

• Participation in Ethics Challenge conducted by CFA Society Atlantic Canada

• Participation in Halifax Innovation Challenge conducted by RBC and IBM

• Executives roles in different student societies:

  • President of the Saint Mary’s Investment Society

  • Vice President Public Relations, Toastmaster’s Club at SMU

  • Co-chair, Graduate Advisory Committee by SMUSA

In regards to difficulties, I experienced a few health setbacks including being sick with covid and breaking my elbow in an accident. These were tough times, however SMU supported me taking a short time off for recovery.

What have you been doing since graduating back in September?

After graduating, I started working as a Business Analyst at RBC Capital Markets, Halifax.

I am working on Portfolio and Change Management team of RBC Capital Markets.

What are your future plans?

I would like to continue working with RBC Capital Markets, learning and growing within the organisation. In addition, I would also continue my CFA education.

I also love to travel, and I would like to visit most of the Canadian provinces in coming years.

Do you have any advice for incoming students?

Saint Mary’s University has lot of resources, utilizing those will be highly rewarding for future.

Interact, learn, and share with all your professors and classmates. Communicate with other students in your program. Join a student society and participate. Attend employers-driven online or offline programs. Be curious! Enjoy the lovely people and beautiful city of Halifax.

Thank you Souvik for your time, and we hope you have an incredible convocation!

Graduate Profile: Shubhra Singh MTEI’23, Sobey School of Business

Shubhra Singh

Shubhra Singh came to the Master of Technology Entrepreneurship & Innovation (MTEI) program with a business idea: a network that addresses the challenges of women in the workforce. With the guidance and support of MTEI professors and SMUEC, Shubhra’s start-up idea became a prestigiously-funded reality called WWN Technologies. Before she walks across the stage during convocation, Shubhra sat down and answered some questions about both her journey through MTEI and her business.

Preferred Name: Shubhra

Hometown: New Delhi, India

Graduation Date: 27 of January, 2023

Why did the MTEI program appeal to you?

As a woman in tech with lots of experience in building start-ups from the ground up, I always wanted to start my own tech business. I was accepted into various entrepreneurship programs across Canada, however the MTEI program from Saint Mary’s university had a very practical approach. I decided that the tools and resourceful ecosystem of the program would be very helpful to me as a budding entrepreneur.

What, in your mind, are the most valuable skills/experiences that the MTEI program provided you with?

MTEI provided me with resources and an ecosystem that kept the fire burning in my belly to embark my entrepreneurial journey. The entire program curriculum is well structured, which helps you to learn practical applicability of everything that a start-up needs. The best part is all the professors and even the dean, Dr. Harjeet Bhabra, are more than willing to help you. The SMU Entrepreneurship center also has wonderful mentors that keep pushing you to achieve.

Do you have successes you’d like to share, or difficulties you were able to overcome?

During my stint at MTEI I founded my company WWN Technologies, which is Canada’s first AI based SAAS platform for women job seekers that will help companies to achieve their diversity targets. With the ecosystem MTEI provided me and mentors like Dr. Ellen Farrel, Dr. Claudia de Fuentes, Michael and Jason, the company is a VOLTA resident company, which is the biggest accelerator in Atlantic Canada. The company is able to get decent pre-seed funding.

What are your future plans?

As a woman entrepreneur, I want to grow my company and make it the biggest SAAS platform for diversity hiring in North America. I want to give back to society.

Do you have any advice for incoming students?

As a student myself, I understand we deviate from our goals and the journey of an entrepreneur is tough. However, you are at the right place – all you need to do is ask for help from your professors and SMUEC, and keep your network intact. Be proactive and believe in your idea!

Thank you Shubhra, we wish you and WWN Technologies all the success – happy convocation!

Meet your Valedictorian: Jaideep Tuli IMTE’23, Faculty of Education

Jaideep Tuli

Delivering a valedictory address comes naturally to Jaideep Tuli, who has been recognized for his motivational speaking work in his home country India. During his time at Saint Mary’s, Jaideep was vice-president of the university’s Halifax Toastmasters chapter. He feels quite at home in the spotlight whether he’s making speeches, reciting poetry, acting in theatre productions…or teaching a new language to students.

Jaideep is graduating with an International Master of Teaching English (IMTE) degree. He already manages his own educational institute JD IELTS Classes in his hometown of Karnal, in northern India’s Haryana province. He serves as a board member for the Dartmouth Learning Network and Halifax Theatre for Young People, and has volunteered with other local arts organizations such as FIN Atlantic International Film Festival. On campus, he volunteered with SMUSA’s Graduate Advisory Committee and The Language Centre, where he’s now working casually.

Amid his many talents and interests, poetry is his first love. He believes in the power of words to “live in the hearts of people while bringing love, joy, positivity and smiles to the world,” he says. Recognized as ‘Best Youth’ by the Indian Red Cross Society, he has received numerous awards and accolades for his poetry, writing, acting, public speaking and social activism.

Have you always spoken English yourself? No. I spoke Hindi at my school and I spoke Punjabi at my home and did a certificate course in Urdu language. I've learned English on my own by writing blogs and by reading, talking to people and just out of curiosity, by watching interviews.

Did you always want to be a language teacher? No, teaching came by accident to me, though my parents are teachers. My mother worked as a principal for 22 years at a charitable school and my father worked as a physical instructor. When I was a child I said, “No, I don't want to be a teacher.” I used to say I'll become a blogger or an actor, even an army officer.

Why did you choose to come to Halifax for our IMTE program? For me, the name Saint Mary’s was fascinating. I've been surrounded by spiritual people all my life so the word ‘Saint’ really caught my eye. Back home in India, I did my bachelor’s degrees in computer science and education, then fortunately got a job teaching English. I realized this is something I really want to do, and wanted some formal education for that. When I looked into the IMTE program at Saint Mary’s, it was exactly what I wanted. When I came here, it was even more than what I expected.

What have you gained through the IMTE program? I've learned so much from each of the instructors. I've learned how to listen effectively, how to be kind to your students and how to be receptive to different cultural considerations. I've learned how to make a lesson student-centered and how to be flexible in the classroom. And how to help international students be confident, even if they are just starting to learn English.

Do you have a favourite memory of your time at Saint Mary’s? One of my first times on campus, there was an event happening (Mawio’mi) that I wanted to explore. Mi’kmaq students were there with music and wearing costumes. I was wearing my turban so I looked totally different from all the people there. They were dancing and so I danced with them. They welcomed me in such a nice way. I love to try new experiences and learn new stories of life from different people.

What are you planning to do next? I’m applying to be a mentor with the EduNova Study and Stay™ program, so I'm looking forward to that. I'll keep doing more volunteer work and teaching English too. I’m always working on my @StraightFromHeart channel on YouTube, uploading my poetry videos. I hope to do some auditions for acting and I dream of writing a book too. Life is about telling stories and listening to stories in one way or another. Everything is a story. If you see carefully, there are stories all around you.

Watch Jaideep’s valedictory speech on January 27 at 7 p.m. via the convocation live stream. ·

Meet your Valedictorian: Mehak Tekchandani BA’22 CertHRM’22, Faculty of Arts

Mehak Tekchandani

Mehak Tekchandani of New Delhi, India landed a terrific job in Toronto last summer, soon after finishing her studies at Saint Mary’s University. Just a week into her new post as an associate consultant with IBM Canada, she returned briefly to Halifax to be valedictorian at the fall graduation. Hurricane Fiona had other ideas and the ceremonies were postponed. Mehak is thrilled to be back on campus this week to graduate summa cum laude and receive her Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology, with a minor in economics and certificate in human resource management.

During her time at Saint Mary’s, Mehak excelled as a co-op student, and volunteered at the Language Centre and as vice-president for the Speak Up Society. She worked and lived on campus as a research assistant, teaching assistant, residence assistant and residence service officer. She capped off her final year representing Saint Mary’s at the National Model United Nations conference in New York, where the university’s team received a Distinguished Delegation Award last April. 

Why did you choose to study at Saint Mary’s University?
To be honest, it was more about Saint Mary’s University choosing me. I was given the Presidential Scholarship, which was a big help for me in achieving my academic goals. It was also my first time staying away from my family and SMU had an amazing reputation for being international-friendly and located in the heart of Halifax, a perfect blend of a big city and small town. Looking back, I couldn’t have asked for anything better.
Do you have a favourite space on campus?

Definitely Tim Hortons! I will never forget the conversations that brewed at those white round tables.   

How was your Model United Nations experience? 
We met people from all over the world. It was fascinating to hear their thoughts and how one action has a different ripple effect all over the globe. I realized how big the world really is and how much there is to know and explore. If you are at SMU, I would highly encourage you to take this course! I’d also like to acknowledge those who made our trip possible: Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, who helped us with the US visa process, and our amazing professor Dr. Marc Doucet, who was a constant support and a rock for our team of delegates.
Can you tell us a bit about your work with IBM Canada?

There’s a lot to learn and a lot to contribute. Young professionals like me are eager to make a mark in their chosen field but I think it’s important to take a seat back from time to time and truly understand how the system works. This helps make those contributions all the more meaningful. People are diverse, inclusive and incredibly encouraging. I am looking forward to what this journey has to offer. 

 What’s the inspiration behind your wonderful new blog?

The power of words is unimaginable and I love storytelling in all its forms. My blog “Predictable People” is a set of fictional stories of street vendors and others you pass by. How do people make bonds? How do people truly understand each other? How do we change a mindset? My hope is for readers to be a little more brave and a little more kind, for it could mean the world to so many. And it would mean the world to me, if you gave the blog a read 😂.

 Do you have any advice for future students coming to Saint Mary’s? 

Please get involved. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Remember to celebrate little victories along the way. University can be hard sometimes but there is always help; it’s just a matter of reaching out. Lastly, make friends and make meaningful memories. I am deeply thankful to my friends, who have been a constant support and made SMU feel like home away from home.

Watch Mehak’s valedictory speech on January 27 at 10 a.m. via the convocation live-stream.  

Read Mehak’s blog