Student Leadership Conference 2024

The 2024 Student Leadership Conference will take place on March 2, 2024. Come learn new skills, hear from inspiring speakers and have fun meeting new people. This one-day conference is open to all SMU students and includes opportunities to connect with peers, build your leadership skills and have some fun along the way.  The day will feature a leadership primer, discussions with current and emerging student leaders and an inspiring keynote speaker. 

The SMU Student Leadership Conference will bring together students from across campus to connect, learn, laugh and be inspired.  

All students are encouraged to attend, whether you are already involved in leadership activities or just getting started on your leadership journey. You don’t want to miss this. 

The Early Bird Registration deadline is February 9th. Space is limited. Register early to be entered to win one of three $25 SMU Bookstore Gift Cards! The first 100 people who register will receive a free leadership starter kit, including a Saint Mary’s leadership padfolio and guide. Kits and gift cards will be distributed at the conference. Participants must be present to claim theirs. 

Why attend the Student Leadership Conference 2024? 

1. Conference participation is CCR eligible, and all participants will receive a certificate of completion at the end. This looks great on the resume and gives valuable references on the cover letter. 

2. The conference gives students the opportunity to participate in fun and interactive sessions, gain valuable insights and network with like-minded individuals. 

3. There will be prize giveaways throughout the day. 

4. Lunch is provided. 

Event Details 

Date: March 2nd, 2024 

Time: Doors open at 9 a.m. (check-in required at the front desk) 
Conference runs from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 

Location: Loyola 290 

Registration Is Now Open! 
Register to attend the Student Leadership Conference on March 2nd, 2024! 

Conference Schedule 

9-10 a.m. | Check-In and Coffee 
10-10:15 a.m. | Opening Remarks and Overview of the Day 
10:15-11 a.m. | Leadership Primer by Tom Brophy 
11 a.m.-12 p.m. | Keynote Address 
12-1 p.m. | Lunch (included in registration) 
1-1:50 p.m. | Concurrent Sessions 
1:50-2 p.m. | Break 
2-2:50 p.m. | Concurrent Sessions 
2:50-3 p.m. | Break 
3-3:30 p.m. | Student Leader Panel 
3:30-4 p.m. | Closing Remarks and Ice Cream Social 

Questions? Email studentsuccess@smu.ca  

Transitioning from Co-Curricular Record to new Experience Record

The Saint Mary’s Co-Curricular Record (CCR) program has helped thousands of students connect with, track and validate co-curricular experiences including on- and off-campus volunteering, professional and personal development, leadership, student societies, awards and certificates, and sports and recreational opportunities.

Through the CCR program, students track hours, complete reflections and identify competency development using the university’s Career360° platform. Students use the record during their job search process or for further education or scholarship applications.

As the world of co-curricular and experiential learning evolves, Saint Mary’s University is transitioning from the former Co-Curricular Record model to our new Experience Record model. The Experience Record is a comprehensive document that summarizes a student’s involvement in curricular and co-curricular experiential learning at Saint Mary’s University. “Co-Curricular Record” is now defined as “Co-Curricular Recognition”, and all co-curricular programming will remain the same. Verified Co-Curricular Recognized (CCR) experiences will be documented on the Experience Record.

Some experiences will be automatically populated on a student’s Experience Record through Career360°, while others are submitted via the Co-Curricular Recognition (CCR) Program. The Experience Record includes verified experiences: Co-Curricular Recognized activities, Service Learning, Co-operative Education, Student Employment Initiative, Events/Workshops, Micro Experiential Learning, and more.

The new Experience Record model allows students to publish and sync their Experience Record to their LinkedIn profile in the Licenses and Certifications section. They can also access a URL link to the Record, which can be added to their cover letter or resumé.

For questions or inquiries on how to get involved with the CCR or Experience Record, contact Christy Starkey at Christy.Starkey@smu.ca.

Changing local lives with the SMU United Way campaign

The SMU United Way committee is pleased to announce the schedule of events for the 2024 United Way campaign!

Running from February 12-16, the campaign kicks off with a Pizza Lunch on Monday in Loyola 290. Stop in for a slice, try your luck on the Wheel of Prizes, and take in some special entertainment and speakers.

New this year is the online SMU Scavenger Hunt! How well do you know the Saint Mary’s campus? If you’re a SMU whiz, you could win a prize!

Another new addition to help raise funds is the first-every SMU colouring book, filled with iconic sights from around campus. Pick up your copy of the new Saint Mary’s Colouring Book for $5 at the Book Sale on Tuesday & Thursday in the Colonnade, or in Facilities Management: McNally South—MS011.

Wednesday features some opportunities for self-care, with a free yoga session in the Homburg and massage therapy sessions in the Library, offered by student practitioners from Eastern College. Or stop by for a lunch-hour screening of the Oscar-winning documentary with a SMU connection, The Queen of Basketball.

Wrapping up the week is Lunch-hour Trivia in the Gorsebrook Lounge on Thursday, February 15. Teams of up to four are encouraged to join and put their trivia skills to the test for the chance to win some fun prizes!

All proceeds raised go to the United Way Halifax Community Fund,

When you give, you are helping people who are struggling to keep up with their basic needs: safe shelter, nutritious food, and mental health support. At a time when costs are rising and housing is scarce, United Way Halifax is bridging gaps with short-term and long-term solutions. Your support right now is crucial.

CLICK TO DONATE NOW

Every donation counts and helps to improve people’s daily lives right here in our community. Thank you for your support.

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Event schedule

Campaign Kickoff
Monday, February 12
Noon-1 p.m. | Loyola 290
Pizza for lunch! | Spin the Wheel of Prizes!
Donations appreciated

Books & Games Sale
Tuesday & Thursday, February 13 & 15
10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Loyola Colonnade
Hard cover books, games & puzzles: $2;
Softcover: $1; SMU Campus Colouring Books: $5

Massages Therapy Sessions
Wednesday, Feb. 14
12-4 pm | Patrick Power Library
By Massage Therapy Program, Eastern College
Minimum donation: $5/30 minutes

Trauma-informed Yoga
Wednesday, Feb. 14,
Noon-1 p.m. | Homburg Centre, Studio A
Donations appreciated

Movie Lunch Break!
The Queen of Basketball (22 minutes)
Wednesday, Feb. 14
11:30 a.m. | Film starts at noon sharp
Burke Theatre A
$5 donations at the door

Screen an Oscar-winning documentary with a SMU connection! Directed by Ben Proudfoot, The Queen of Basketball is an electrifying portrait of Lucy Harris, who scored the first basket in women’s Olympic history and was the first and only woman officially drafted into the N.B.A. Harris has remained largely unknown—until now.

Trivia
Thursday, Feb. 15
11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | Gorsebrook Lounge
$30 for groups of up to four people
Register at the door

Saint Mary’s University launches MyCreds™ digital transcripts

Effective February 6, 2024, Saint Mary’s University students and graduates will now have 24/7 direct access to transcripts via the MyCreds™ platform.

The MyCreds™ platform is a digital document wallet that allows for certifying, sharing, and verifying academic credentials. Saint Mary’s will engage with the platform both as a sender and receiver.

Through MyCreds™, students will be able to securely and conveniently access and share their academic documents with other colleges and universities, government, employers and third parties. Documents issued through MyCreds™ are tamper-evident and cryptographically signed, making them authentic and official.

“At Saint Mary’s, we understand the value and importance of intuitive navigation to services and ease of access for all users,” says Dan Seneker, Associate Vice-President, Enrolment Services and University Registrar. “Implementing the MyCreds™ platform allows Saint Mary’s to modernize an important aspect of engaging with and supporting students. We’re excited to meet students’ needs by simplifying the process of transcript sharing and enhancing their user experience.”

Saint Mary’s has adopted the MyCreds™ platform as part of a larger, provincial strategy developed in collaboration with the Council of Nova Scotia University Presidents and EduNova.

Students and graduates will gain access to the MyCreds™ platform through the Self-Service Banner and will be prompted to set up their MyCreds™ account upon first access.

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About MyCreds™

MyCreds™ is a national, shared service and platform that provides students and graduates access to a secure, online, password-protected learner credential wallet. This virtual wallet allows them to view and share their verified and official transcripts, credentials, and academic documents in a digitized format on a 24/7 basis – anytime, anywhere. It also enables sharing between organizations with the learner’s permission. Secure, cryptographically signed documents can be sent conveniently and require no further verification. MyCreds™ is the first and only national bilingual system of its kind in Canada. Visit www.mycreds.ca for more details or contact ARUCC’s Executive Lead, Joanne Duklas at info@aruccnationalnetwork.ca.

President’s Award for Excellence in Research: Dr. Luigi Gallo

Dr. Luigi Gallo with Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray at Winter Convocation

Dr. Luigi Gallo was honoured at Winter Convocation with the President’s Award for Excellence in Research for his contributions to astrophysics.

As an astrophysicist in high-profile international research projects, Dr. Luigi Gallo has been involved in major missions with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), NASA, and the Canadian Space Agency, and has received more than $10-million in funding for projects such as the Astro-H Metrology System.

Dr. Luigi Gallo

Dr. Gallo’s research interests include supermassive black holes, or active galactic nuclei, and X-rays emitted from the innermost regions of black hole environments; accretion-powered systems of all scales (e.g. cataclysmic variables, X-ray binaries, AGN); and the definition and realization of future X-ray missions. His work has led to discoveries that have altered scientists’ understanding of black holes, their formation, growth, behaviour and their influence on the evolution of galaxies.

After a stint in industry, Dr. Gallo returned to academia and completed his PhD at the prestigious Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics in Germany, and then joined JAXA before becoming a faculty member at Saint Mary’s University in 2007.

A prolific publisher, Dr. Gallo is credited with more than 80 successful observing proposals and more than 150 refereed publications written as part of his research on black holes and instrumentation, work with peers, and as a supervisor to many of his students and postdocs. He has also published work with large collaborations, including papers by the Hitomi Collaboration, which he made significant contributions to, as well as other publications on future missions.

As a professor, Dr. Gallo is focused on supporting the next generation of researchers, co-writing papers with undergraduate and graduate students who have gone on to higher-level studies and research of their own. He contributes significant time and knowledge to the advancement of his field through committee work and outreach initiatives and as a member of the Canadian Astronomical Society.

The President's Award for Excellence in Research honours continued exceptional contributions to research and scholarship conducted by a full-time Saint Mary's University faculty member. More information can be found at smu.ca/fgsr/presidents-award.

Congratulations Dr. Luigi Gallo!

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Recordings of the convocation ceremonies and a PDF of the convocation program are available at smu.ca/graduation. See the photo album on the SMU Halifax Facebook page.

Honouring African Heritage Month at Saint Mary's

February is celebrated as Black History Month. In Nova Scotia, the month is known as African Heritage Month. This theme for 2024 is Our Smiles, Our Joy, Our Resilience as African Nova Scotians. 

Each year at this time, Saint Mary's University acknowledges and celebrates the achievements and contributions of Black and African Nova Scotia members of our community.  

To help mark the significance of the month, the tri-colour Pan-African flag will be raised in front of the McNally building. The red, black and green flag was created in 1920 to represent the people of the African Diaspora.  

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SMU Huskies Black Heritage Night

Friday, February 2, 2024

The SMU Huskies are celebrating African Heritage Month at the Homburg Centre with a vendor market featuring Black Nova Scotian entrepreneurs, performances, displays and more!

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

Half-time performances with the African Dance Society

Men's hockey game: SMU vs. UPEI
Puck-drop 7 p.m.

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Dynamic Rural Business Series: Rural Black Businesses

Wednesday, February 7, 2024
5–8 p.m.
Halifax Stanfield International Airport

The Black Business Initiative (BBI) and the Sobey School of Business, in collaboration with the Halifax International Stanfield Airport, proudly present the second annual Dynamic Rural Business Series: Rural Black Businesses. Join us for an insightful session where we spotlight rural black businesses, featuring inspiring discussions with their owners and fostering a supportive network.

Our distinguished panelists include Gem Roberts, Dr. Ernest Asante Korankye and Cedric Smiley.

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Cultural Preservation & Community Capacity Building Forum

February 21-22, 2024
9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
CLARI (Atrium 340)

This two-day forum is hosted by the Loyalist Connections Creative Society, in collaboration with the Black Cultural Centre and the Faculty of Arts. Students, educators and community members will join together for thought-provoking discussions and podcast recordings on past accomplishments and future opportunities for African Nova Scotian communities. 

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Kemet Udjat: an African Heritage Month film festival

February 27-28, 2024
Scotiabank Theatre, Sobey School of Business and via Zoom

Join us for two nights of film screenings and discussions, in person and online. Presented by Dr. Jean-Blaise Samou, Francophone and Intercultural Studies, with the support of the Office of the Dean of Arts and Alliance Française Halifax. 

Erasing Slavery in Canadian History: A Conversation with Dr. Charmaine Nelson
February 27, 6-7:30 p.m.
Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 870 2835 6414

Canada enjoys the mythic image of a haven where Black slaves could find refuge through the Underground Railroad. However, historians now reveal Slavery as “Canada’s best-kept secret”. What’s the real story of slavery in Canada and why is it important to discuss it today? Join us to learn more.

Dr. Nelson is a Provost Professor of Art History and the founding Director of the Slavery North Initiative at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, which supports research and research-creation on the study of Canadian Slavery and slavery in the US North. 

Hidden Figures (2017) Dir: Theodore Melfi   
February 28, 6-8:30 p.m.
Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 872 7523 7154
The story of three brilliant African-American women mathematicians who served a vital role in NASA during the early years of the U.S. space program. 

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Patrick Power Library book display

Africville File 1 (News Clippings 1985-1989): Lynn Jones African-Canadian and Diaspora Heritage Collection

Throughout February, the Patrick Power Library is featuring a collection of library resources for African Heritage Month, on display on the ground floor of the library. Book recommendations will be shared online throughout the month on our social channels (@smuhfxlibrary). All books can be borrowed with your SMU ID card. Browse the full African Heritage Month collection online.

Samples from The Lynn Jones African Canadian & Diaspora Heritage Collection will be available at the Cultural Preservation & Community Capacity Building Forum on February 21 and 22, along with Saint Mary’s archives staff to answer your questions. Shawn Smith and other researchers from the Loyalist Connections Creative Society, and SMU's Dr. Kirrily Freeman, have been using the Lynn Jones Collection to research topics for the forum.

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Related stories and resources:

• Student launches Black haircare and beauty supply vending machine on campus

• Embracing the power of writing with new Kane Award

• Saint Mary’s African Student Society brings back African Night

• Bob Dawson, leader in the fight against racism, to receive an honorary doctorate

• African Descended/Black Student Support

• Lynn Jones African Canadian & Diaspora Collection

• Local African Heritage Month events

Saint Mary's partners with KW Legacy to promote Sobey National Innovator Scholarships

Students in the Sobeys Inspiration Hub

Saint Mary's University and KW Legacy are pleased to announce a unique enterprise to promote an exceptional scholarship opportunity. Under this partnership, KW Legacy will publicize the Sobey National Innovator Scholarships to students in the Waterloo region who want to pursue their post-secondary education at the Sobey School of Business in Halifax, Nova Scotia.  

“We believe that by working together, we can make a true difference in the lives of those in our region and support students in their post-secondary dreams. We are proud to partner with Saint Mary's University and support the unique opportunities they provide for so many students. Adding more students from the KW region to the Atlantic Canada mix is a great opportunity to learn, share, and grow between provinces and regions,” says Peter Kalbfleisch, KW Legacy. “Thank you to Saint Mary's and the Sobey School of Business for helping us support students in our region, helping develop our future leaders and making a significant impact in the lives of our youth and community.”  

“We appreciate and are grateful for the support of KW Legacy and the Sobey National Innovator Scholarships to provide a student within the Waterloo Region with a scholarship to Saint Mary’s University,” said Jeewan Chanicka, Director of Education for the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB). “This financial support represents the type of partnership that can provide opportunities for students to continue their academic journey and provide more equitable access to a university education as they work towards achieving their full potential in learning and in life.” 

“These scholarships represent a significant opportunity for personal and professional growth for the recipients, embodying the transformative power of education. We are deeply grateful for the generosity of Saint Mary’s University, KW Legacy, and Sobeys, which reflects our commitment to nurturing young minds. This scholarship will make a profound difference in the lives of its recipients, and we are honored to be part of this exciting announcement,” said Lema Salaymeh, Senior Manager of Communications, Waterloo Catholic District School Board. 

The Sobey National Innovator Scholarships are exclusive to Saint Mary’s University and the Sobey School of Business. There are ten renewable entrance awards valued at $50,000 over four years awarded annually. These scholarships are presented to ten exceptional Canadian students each year in recognition of their accomplishments and as encouragement and support for their success in the Sobey School of Business. The initial scholarship in academic year one is $20,000. The renewal value in academic years two–four is $10,000 per year. The total value of each scholarship over four years is $50,000.  

The Sobey National Innovator Scholarship recipients also become members of the Sobey Scholars Network, a special cohort that includes all current and past students, 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.   

“The Bachelor of Commerce program at the Sobey School of Business is one of Canada’s most respected programs at one of Canada's top three undergraduate universities," says Mark Raymond, Interim Dean of the Sobey School of Business. "We teach our Bachelor of Commerce students more than how a good business runs. We show them how to run a business for good—for the long-term and for a better, more sustainable, more responsible world. We equip our students with the knowledge and insights to lead with purpose, and they graduate prepared to make a positive impact on business, organizations and on society."  

Keeping campus safe: Security at SMU

With hundreds of faculty, students, staff and visitors traveling on campus each day, safety is a priority for Saint Mary’ university.

Saint Mary’s has a suite of measures in place to ensure campus is a safe place to learn and work, including a team of trained and vetted security officers and special services available to the SMU community.

Kevin Trudeau, University Security Manager at Saint Mary’s, oversees a team of five permanent security staff and 12 contract employees of Paladin, a national, reputable security service provider.

“People might not know that all our contracted security staff are vetted and licensed by the NS Department of Justice and all have at least Basic First Aid training,” says Trudeau. “Our internal security staff have various security and campus-specific training as well as Advanced Medical First Responder training.”

The security team works behind the scenes and at all hours. Officers patrol campus inside and out on a 24/7 basis. After hours, all buildings are routinely checked for security. There is a dedicated member assigned to Parking Enforcement during the weekdays and another assigned to the Atrium overnight seven days per week during the school year. And, the Security Dispatch position is staffed 24/7 to respond to calls.

Having the security team in place is critical, but Trudeau encourages the SMU community to take advantage of the security services on campus and to adopt a security mindset.

“Security is best when everyone participates,” says Trudeau. “Being aware of the services available to you, having a sense of ownership and responsibility for shared spaces, and reporting things that seem wrong or unusual all help to make campus safe.”

Services for the SMU community

Faculty, students and staff can take advantage of the following services:

Safe Walk
Any student, faculty, staff or even bonafide visitors to campus can call Campus Security 24/7 to request a Security member to walk them to and from any location on campus if they feel unsafe or just prefer not to go alone.

Lone Worker / Studier
Any person or small group working or studying on campus during hours that are typically quiet (late nights or weekends) may contact security 24/7 to notify them of their location and ask that security members come by to periodically check on them.

SMU Safe app
Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to download this free app (available on Google Play and Apple stores) for quick access to SMU Security and information. Features include:

o   Contact Security button, emergency numbers, a quick 911 call button and links to various campus resources such as Health, Counselling and Sexual Violence support.

o   Virtual Walk Home: once activated Security staff can monitor the requestor’s progress in real time and can initiate an emergency support call (i.e. 911) in the event something goes wrong during the walk home, on or off campus.

o   Friend Walk: Allows the requestor to connect with a friend to monitor the walk rather than Security.

o   Emergency Notifications: Alerts users to various emergency conditions and expected actions (i.e. evacuation) on campus. Users must ensure they activate the permissions to allow the app notifications on their device.

Celebrating 40 Years of Shirley

SMU Dining celebrates a team member’s milestone of not only 40 years of dedicated service, but 40 years of kindness, friendship, and community.

From January 4th, 1984, to January 4th, 2024, Shirley Boudreau has been a significant member of the SMU Dining Team.

Before becoming the face of the well-known C-Store in the Loyola Colonnade, Shirley began her employment with SMU Dining working in the cafeteria, now known as Dockside Dining Hall. From there, Shirley operated Orange County, a coffee and donut cart which then transformed into a storefront called “Easy Go”, a grab & go counter located beside Tim Hortons in the Loyola Colonnade.

Shirley has been a part of SMU Dining’s evolution over the years. Shirley was in her 30s when she began her career with SMU Dining and from the very beginning, she has been a “mother figure” to many.

Now, 40 years later, Shirley has had the pleasure of watching students graduate from SMU, begin their own careers, and start families of their own. Today, those relationships continue as Shirley meets and serves the children and even grandchildren of those students she met years ago.

Whether it’s a regular stop for a morning cup of coffee or a daily high five from the Point Pleasant Child Care group, members of the SMU campus community young and old have developed long-lasting relationships and traditions with Shirley.

Along with her inspiring number of friendships within the SMU community, Shirley has demonstrated remarkable dedication and devotion to her work. Shirley takes great pride in her perfect attendance, not for just a year or two, but over the course of her 40 years of service!

Shirley arrives to campus well before her shift each morning and ensures the C-Store is in tip-top shape when she leaves each afternoon.

One of SMU Dining’s most notable memories of Shirley’s devotion to her work was in September of 2003, when Hurricane Juan made landfall in Nova Scotia. Joe Makary, General Manager, recalls making the trek to campus the morning of the storm, to ensure students were fed. Due to the extensive damages, power outages, and devastation brought on by Hurricane Juan, Joe expected to be the only staff on campus that early in the morning.

To his surprise, when he arrived, Joe was not alone. Shirley had made her way to campus in the early hours of the morning and set up camp in the campus chapel to sleepover and ensure she was on campus to serve the students despite the storm. The night of Hurricane Juan is one of many times that Shirley has shown her truly admirable commitment and devotion to the campus community.

On January 4th, 2024, the SMU Dining Team gathered to recognize & celebrate Shirley’s accomplishment. The C-Store was transformed into a 40th Anniversary celebration complete with balloons, streamers, and cupcakes. Throughout the day, people from all different times in Shirley’s career stopped in to congratulate her. Stories were shared, gifts were exchanged, and countless hugs were had. Joe Makary, General Manager of SMU Dining, presented Shirley with a new plaque of recognition to mount on her already impressive wall of plaques, but this one displays her latest accomplishment, 40 Years of Outstanding & Dedicated Service.

When asked about her time working here Shirley states that “working with SMU Dining and Aramark has been a very fulfilling career”. She thoroughly enjoys getting to come to work each day to interact with the students, staff, and community members that pass through her store. Despite her 40 years of dedicated service with a notable perfect attendance, Shirley says she “has no plans of retiring anytime soon”.

Congratulations and thank you Shirley!

Protect your personal data: tips for Data Privacy Week

In honour of Data Privacy Week (Jan 21-27) and International Data Privacy Day (Jan 28), Anthony Fear, our Chief Information Officer, and Claire Milton, University Secretary & General Counsel, Privacy Officer, have teamed up to tell you more about the importance of data protection.

All your online activity generates a trail of data.

Websites, apps, and services collect data on your behaviors, interests, and purchases. Sometimes, this includes personal data, like your Social Security and driver's license numbers. It can even include data about your physical self, like health data – think about how a smartwatch counts and records how many steps you take.

Here are some simple, easy tips that will help you manage your personal data privacy:

Know the tradeoff between privacy and convenience
Make informed decisions about sharing your data with businesses or services:

• Is the service, app, or game worth the amount or type of personal data they want in return?

• Can you control your data privacy and still use the service?

• Is the data requested even relevant for the app or service (e.g. "why does a Solitaire game need to know all my contacts")?

• If you haven't used an app, service, or account in several months, is it worth keeping around knowing that it might be collecting and sharing your data?

Adjust settings to your comfort level
Check the privacy and security settings for every app, account, or device: generally, it's wise share less data, not more.

Start small, and over time, you'll make a habit of adjusting all your settings to your comfort. The National Cybersecurity Alliance has free resources like the Manage Your Privacy Settings page that lets you check the settings of social media accounts, retail stores, apps and more.

 Protect your data
Data privacy and data security go hand-in-hand. Along with managing your data privacy settings, follow the “Core 4”:

1. Create long (at least 16 characters), unique passwords for each account and device. Use a password manager to store each password – maintaining dozens of passwords securely is now easier than ever.

2. Turn on multifactor authentication (MFA) wherever it is permitted – this keeps your data safe even if your password is compromised.

3. Turn on automatic device, software, and browser updates, or make sure you install updates as soon as they are available.

4. Learn how to identify phishing messages, which can be sent as emails, texts, or direct messages.

From the Privacy Officer 

The University has a Privacy Policy. Take a few moments to review the Policy to learn about the University’s approach to privacy protection.  You can also review resources and information at Privacy at SMU. Protecting privacy and respecting confidentiality is everyone’s responsibility!

For more information about Data Privacy Week, visit https://staysafeonline.org/data-privacy-week/. The Privacy Officer is always available to answer questions at privacy@smu.ca 

Educators and collaborators celebrated with honorary degrees

Saint Mary’s University will bestow honorary doctorates on three educators with connections to the university community—Mingyuan Zhang, Ailan Fu and David Lane—at the 2024 Winter Convocation.

Mingyuan Zhang

Dr. Mingyuan Zhang

Dr. Zhang has an exceptional record as a scholar of Chinese language culture and folklore. Holding a Doctorate in Chinese folklore from Beijing Normal University, Beijing, Dr. Zhang has had a distinguished academic career as a Professor of Chinese Language and Literature at Renmin University, as Dean of Arts at Hong Kong Shue Yan University and most recently, and since 2004, as Dean of the School of Chinese at BNUZ.

Particularly in his role as Dean of the School of Chinese, Dr. Zhang has established the study of Chinese language and culture, including in partnership with Saint Mary’s University. His quiet, behind-the-scenes leadership has provided a supportive environment for many Saint Mary’s students, staff and faculty participating in the partnership between SMU and BNUZ. His service to the values of Saint Mary’s, and particularly to intercultural learning, makes him worthy of an honorary degree.

Dr. Zhang will receive a Doctor of Letters, honoris causa, on January 27, 2024.

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Ailan Fu

Dr. Ailan Fu

Dr. Fu is a notable academic leader and administrator. In addition to her academic appointments as Professor of Linguistics at Central University for Nationalities, and then at BNUZ, Dr. Fu has led global engagement for BNUZ and the partnership with Saint Mary’s University. This has resulted in the exchange of students, faculty and staff between our universities over the past two decades. Dr. Fu is a well-recognized scholar in linguistics and has held visiting appointments at SMU, Hong Kong Baptist University, and the University of Texas.

Dr. Fu’s service to the community includes her work as a scholar and academic administrator at BNUZ but extends also locally to her work as counsellor on the city of Zhuhai Municipal Council. Her work for the city of Zhuhai led to the creation of the sister-city relationship between Zhuhai and the Halifax Regional Municipality. Her focus on international education and connection demonstrates Dr. Fu’s commitment to intercultural learning, a key value for Saint Mary’s University. 

Dr. Fu will receive a Doctor of Letters, honoris causa, on January 27, 2024.

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David Lane

David Lane

Tens of thousands of Saint Mary’s University students and members of the public have experienced the wonders of the night sky at the Burke-Gaffney Observatory due to the efforts of one man, David Lane, who, for nearly thirty years, has been quietly inspiring generations of children, parents, students, and teachers.

From 1992 until his retirement, Mr. Lane was employed as the Astronomy Technician and System Administrator in the Astronomy and Physics Department. Later, as Director of the Burke-Gaffney Observatory, David single-handedly automated the Observatory and made it available to the world through Twitter and Facebook. He has made significant contributions to teaching and learning at Saint Mary’s and created The Earth Centered Universe (ECU), an easy-to-use planetarium and telescope-control program, allowing institutes the ability to operate their own educational astronomy platforms for teaching astronomy.

He has also made many impressive contributions to professional astronomy, with more than 100 professional publications in the field of variable stars and telescope operations. He has been a member of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) since the 1980s and served as president of the National Chapter and the Halifax Chapter. He was recognized by the International Astronomy Union for the co-discovery of three supernovae and has an asteroid named after him!

David Lane will receive a Doctor of Science, honoris causa, on January 27, 2024.

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Convocation ceremonies will be live-streamed on smu.ca on January 26 and 27. Check our website for ceremony details.

Meet your Valedictorians for Winter 2024

Three valedictorians, selected for their leadership, campus involvement and academic success, will address their fellow graduates at the Winter Convocation ceremonies taking place on January 26 and 27, 2024. These students are the recipients of a John and Heather Fitzpatrick Valedictorian Award.

Learn more about the Winter 2024 valedictorians, and watch the ceremonies live at smu.ca/graduation.

Sheldon Bhawanie, Master of Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Sheldon Bhawanie, Valedictorian for the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research

Sheldon Bhawanie left his home in Trinidad and Tobago and arrived at Saint Mary’s after searching for the best business school in Atlantic Canada. Needless to say, the Sobey School of Business came out on top and Sheldon has never regretted his choice. His degree, a Master of Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation, has given him the foundation for a successful career and so much more.

Sheldon is currently employed at the Sobey School of Business as a Professional Development Project Manager in Graduate Career Services and volunteers as a soccer coach at the Halifax City Soccer Club. Working with students, helping them navigate their education journeys and enriching their lives has become a calling. “We are here not only to exist but also to make life better for others.”

Q&A with Sheldon

Why did you choose Saint Mary’s University?

I had attended St. Mary’s College in Port of Spain and had dedicated a significant part of my life to volunteering there. When I was looking for a good business school to attend in the Maritimes, it was no coincidence that SMU came up—I was sold! From one St. Mary’s to the next.

Tell us how you got involved in the SMU Community

I volunteer as a mentor for the Innovation Sprint events hosted at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre. I think the clarity with which I see problems can help others solve problems.

Looking back, what was your favourite Saint Mary’s memory?

I remember coming to SMU for the first time in August 2022 and just standing in the Atrium thinking that I did well to get into my program and that I had to make my mark here. I couldn’t believe I was going to be part of the tapestry of this university. That moment is etched in my memory forever.

How has the MTEI helped shape your success in Halifax?

I have made so many connections here, not only as a student but networking with other professionals in Halifax! I learned that networking is key to setting up your landing after graduation. Everyone knows someone and therefore, good connections position you for a fulfilling life.

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Funmilayo Chioma Adegoke, Bachelor of Commerce

Funmilayo Adegoke, Valedictorian for the Sobey School of Business

Funmilayo Chioma Adegoke, from Lagos, Nigeria, earned a Bachelor of Commerce with a double major in Accounting and Computing and Information Systems. Her keen interest in the intersection of technology and finance motivated her to pursue these fields, and she is enthusiastic about exploring how technology can transform the accounting world.

Q&A with Funmilayo

Why did you choose Saint Mary's University?

I chose Saint Mary’s because of the Sobeys School of Business and its esteemed reputation as one of the top business schools in Canada.

What was your experience coming to Halifax as an International student?

Transitioning to life away from my family was a new experience, but SMU made it smoother than I expected. The assistance I received encouraged me to get involved and support other students as they transition into the SMU community. I worked with the International Centre and Residence Programming Team to help organize holiday-themed events, offering students on campus during the Christmas break a 'home-away-from-home' experience.

What other ways did you get involved with campus life?

I had many opportunities to get involved on campus, including as a member of the Commerce Society and African Society. I volunteered with the SMU Community Food Room and as a Cultural Assistant for the Language Centre, which paved the way for a rewarding job opportunity.

My first job on campus was with the Patrick Power Library, where I gained invaluable experience. In my second year (during the pandemic), I served as a Resident Assistant, supporting students facing unprecedented challenges and was honoured with a Flexible Leadership Award for my contributions during that time.

Which instructor had the most significant impact on you?

I've been lucky to encounter a few exceptional professors during my academic journey. Professor Charles Baxter sparked my interest in accounting, while Professor Vasiliki Athanasakou helped me gain a new perspective on the subject. Both have been invaluable mentors to me.

What are your goals for the future? How did Saint Mary's help set you on this path?

I am working towards my CPA and have found the CPA prerequisite courses offered by Saint Mary’s to be very helpful in achieving my goal. The resources provided by SMU have enabled me to explore my diverse interests and pursue a second major in Computing and Information Systems.

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Celina C.J. Rolle, Bachelor of Arts

Celina Rolle, Valedictorian for the Faculty of Arts

Press on and persevere. This is the message Celina Rolle wants to emphasize in her valedictory words of wisdom to fellow graduates. “Though we stand on top of this hill, many more are waiting to be conquered,” Celina says in her address, which opens and closes with inspiring passages from the Matthias Barr poem “Persevere”.

Celina works as a foreign service officer with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in The Bahamas. She came to Halifax from Nassau to pursue a Bachelor of Arts with a major in Global Development Studies, building on her previous studies in law and criminal justice at the University of The Bahamas.

Q&A with Celina

Why did you choose Saint Mary’s? After researching different universities, I found that Saint Mary’s stood out the most to me. Its commitment to ensuring that everyone feels welcome resonated with my values. It was also a plus to know several people who have either attended or are currently enrolled at SMU.

What was your favourite course? The Mind-Body Problem (PHIL 2328). After taking this class, I’m still grappling with the question of whether the mind is contained within the brain. It pushed me to think creatively and consider alternative possibilities.

Which instructor had the biggest impact on you? Jean-Blaise Samou, my instructor for Africa: Contemporary Development Issues (GDST 4462). The main responsibility of professors is to encourage students to think critically. However, he went beyond that by motivating us to explore the backgrounds of the authors whose readings we were required to study. This helped us understand how their personal experiences influenced their writing. I have since applied this approach to all my classes and even in my personal life, resulting in a significant impact on my way of thinking.

What will you miss most about Saint Mary’s? I am going to miss every one of my friends dearly. From the moments of pure joy and laughter that we shared to the deep conversations we had, I’m grateful for the time we spent together. I will always cherish those memories.

How has your experience at Saint Mary’s helped shape your future goals? Through interacting with a diverse range of people from different walks of life, I have learned how to communicate effectively, collaborate with others, and appreciate different perspectives. SMU's curriculum is designed to instil a strong work ethic. The rigorous coursework and deadlines taught me to manage my time wisely and work efficiently under pressure. These skills have been very useful in my career, where I am required to handle multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines. Next, I would like to obtain my master’s degree.

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Winter Convocation takes place on January 26 and 27, 2024. Watch the ceremonies live at smu.ca/graduation or on our Facebook page.