Spring Convocation 2024

Members of the Saint Mary’s community celebrated for academic achievement and leadership

Hundreds of graduates, alongside their families, friends and SMU supporters, celebrated Spring Convocation from May 15-17, 2024. Proud new members of the SMU alumni community filled the sunny lawn of the McNally building after their ceremonies to enjoy their special day.

Among the graduates were numerous award and medal recipients recognized for their academic distinction. The convocation program lists the recipients of the Governor General’s Gold and Silver medals, along with a list of recipients of faculty, departmental and donated awards.

Meet the Valedictorians

Six valedictorians delivered heartfelt and inspiring speeches to packed auditoriums and online audiences. Read their full biographies in the convocation program and watch their speeches in the ceremony recordings.

Alexia Jo-Ann Bourgeois
Bachelor of Commerce

Born and raised in Dieppe, New Brunswick, Alexia is a proud French-Acadien. Before her time at Saint Mary’s where she majored in marketing, Alexia played varsity soccer, earned her private pilot’s license, and is a longtime member of the Rotary Club. At Saint Mary’s, Alexia founded a club called “GalPal” where a group of student innovators developed a solution to fight against gender-based violence and sexual assault on campuses.

Nyah Sahyoun
Bachelor of Commerce

Nyah was born and raised in Saint John, New Brunswick, by her Palestinian father and Saint John-native mother. After working hard in her studies and completing three co-op placements, Nyah graduated with a double major in Marketing and Human Resource Management.

Jonathan Cornelius Mansvelt
Bachelor of Science

Jonathan’s time at SMU was spent supporting students as a teaching assistant, chemistry lab demonstrator, tutor at the SNAP Centre and President of the Campus Medical Response Team. He graduated with Honours Psychology, summa cum laude, and was presented with the Governor General’s Silver Medal, given to the top undergraduate student who graduated between September 2023-May 2024. 

Itai Kuwodza
Master of Arts, Atlantic Canada Studies

Itai is a two-time Saint Mary’s graduate, having previously completed her Bachelor of Arts degree. Her graduate thesis, titled Performing Diversity: Black Bodies in Atlantic Canadian Post-Secondary Institutions, was driven by a desire to understand how race permeates higher education and racialized learning. As a former SMU Husky, teaching assistant and coach, she is ready to begin her PhD studies at Acadia University.

Holly Kanyamunyu
Bachelor of Arts

Born in London, England, Holly’s family relocated to Halifax when she was four years old, where they lived on campus while her mother pursued her MBA at the Sobey School of Business. Her love for SMU led her to work with the Recruitment team. She also researched in the Dean of Science lab and helped to lead the African Student Society as Creative Director. She graduates with a major in Psychology and a minor in General Business.

Madison Vanderlinden
Bachelor of Arts

From Cole Harbour, NS, Maddie graduated with a double major in French and Intercultural Studies, complemented by a minor in Asian Studies. With a passion for global learning and outreach, Maddie spent her time at Saint Mary’s supporting incoming international and exchage students, volunteering and working with Students Acting for Global Awareness (SAGA) and the Global Learning & Intercultural Support Office.

Teaching excellence

Dr. Margaret McKee

Faculty were among those recognized during Convocation for their service to the Saint Mary’s community and their innovations in teaching and learning. Dr. Margaret McKee, Associate Professor of Management and Associate Dean of Undergraduate and Professional Graduate Programs within the Sobey School of Business, was awarded the Geraldine Thomas Education Leadership Award for her sustained commitment to fostering transformative learning environments grounded in principles of inclusivity, sustainability, and ethical leadership.

Dr. Valerie Creelman

Members of the alumni community acknowledged Dr. Valerie Creelman, Professor of Communication within the Department of Marketing and Communication at the Sobey School of Business, with the Father William A. Stewart, S.J. Medal for Excellence in Teaching. Students consistently praised the active, experiential, and applied learning environment she creates in her classes and her deep respect for diverse student learning needs.

Dr. David Wicks, retired Professor of Management and former Dean of the Sobey School of Business, was awarded Professor Emeritus status at Spring Convocation.

Honorary Degrees

Four people were recognized for their commitment to advocacy, diplomacy, education and community engagement and were granted honorary degrees at Spring Convocation.

Kevin Murphy BComm’92
A self-described “serial entrepreneur,” Kevin Murphy boasts extensive business experience alongside his important work in disability advocacy As the Senior Parliamentary Speaker in Canada, Murphy founded and served as the first Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities Network in 2019. Read more.

Donica Pottie BA’85
Her remarkable journey from a Saint Mary’s graduate to a Canadian ambassador exemplifies resilience, dedication and global citizenship. Pottie’s advocacy as a diplomat extends beyond borders in her support of human security, women’s rights and the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community, which she has publicly defended in countries where these rights are restricted. Read more.

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Lawrence (Larry) Freeman, K.C.
As a partner at Stewart McKelvey law firm, Larry Freeman has provided counsel to clients for over 40 years. He has been deeply involved in several community organizations, notably serving as a member of the Saint Mary’s University Board of Governors in 2008 and Board Chair from 2019-2022. Read more.

Karen Hudson
Local educator and community leader Karen Hudson brings an innovative approach to her role as Principal of Auburn Drive High School. In 2018, she pioneered the first Africentric Cohort in math and literacy within a public school. This groundbreaking initiative aimed to empower students by infusing Afrocentric concepts into the curriculum. Read more.

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Congratulations graduates! Visit smu.ca/graduation for more information, links to the convocation program and recorded ceremonies. Browse the full convocation photo album here.

Rheannon Richards of Dartmouth receives 2024 Edna and Velma Thomas Kane Writers Award

Rheannon Richards (right) receives the Edna and Velma Thomas Kane Writers Award from Dr. Sara Malton, Interim Dean of Arts

Rheannon Richards BA’24 was busy writing when she found out she was going to receive the 2024 Edna and Velma Thomas Kane Writers Award.

“I was sitting at the corner of my couch with my laptop, working on a big paper that was due in one of my English classes,” she says. “I got the email and I saw the subject line ‘Kane Award’ and my heart dropped into my stomach. When I read the first line, I just started crying. I was so shocked and excited. I’m a big woman of faith, so I started praying too.”

Rheannon got a heartwarming ovation on May 17 upon receiving the second Edna and Velma Thomas Kane Writers Award during the spring graduation ceremony for the Faculty of Arts. Made possible through a generous gift from Floyd Kane BA’92, the innovative award is open to undergraduate Arts students of African Nova Scotian or Black/African descent who aspire to careers in writing, broadly defined. The inaugural recipient was Trayvone Clayton BA’23 of Halifax. Valued at $30,000, it’s one of the most substantial student awards in Saint Mary’s history and one of the largest graduation awards at any Canadian university.

“I still have moments where I can’t even believe this is happening,” says Rheannon, who graduated with a major in English and a minor in Anthropology. “It’s also really meaningful to be the first Black woman to receive this award. Even with the money aside, just that I can be recognized as a representative of what this award means, that’s a huge deal for me.”

Along with her academic essays, creative projects and avid journaling, Rheannon also embodies the power of words and language through her community work. As a literacy tutor who was born in Bermuda and moved to Dartmouth at age five, she has helped both children and adult newcomers to Nova Scotia with their writing and conversation skills. As a volunteer with the English Conversation Club at Faith City Church, she enjoys using her literary skills to help people from all over the world build their confidence in using the language.     

Rheannon Richards

Also a volunteer basketball coach and former Husky, Rheannon received the USPORTS Academic All-Canadian Award in 2021 and has been a Dean’s List student every year. She has also maintained part-time jobs at the Zatzman Sportsplex front desk and on campus as a ticketing assistant for Husky games.

Rheannon is ‘extraordinarily intelligent and diligent’ and has a ‘positive effect on the world around her,’ according to award recommendation letters from several of her professors. She ‘perpetually shows herself to be intellectually curious, industrious, prepared and highly committed’ and ‘her writing has consistently demonstrated both her creative and analytical skill,’ they said.  

“Coming out of high school, I knew I wanted to go to university right away,” says Rheannon, who attended Woodlawn High School (then known as Prince Andrew High). She has commuted across the harbour throughout her time at Saint Mary’s and says living at home with her mom has helped her stay focused.

“It helps a lot to be somewhere familiar while you’re adjusting to your studies,” she says. “I had a moment at home the other day when I just looked out the window and thought, ‘Oh my gosh, I’m actually done.’ Four years … I don’t know if I want to celebrate or cry!”

She’s excited to pursue a career in the human resources field, where she hopes to also continue exploring her interests in law and teaching. This fall, she’s starting the Human Resources Management graduate certificate program at the Nova Scotia Community College, with law school a future possibility to enhance opportunities in the labour relations field.

“I think my experience studying the humanities has really prepared me for whatever comes next. It’s interesting to look back and see how my writing has improved and my ability to communicate has become so much better,” she says.

For new students just starting out at Saint Mary’s, her advice would be to keep an open mind. “It’s good to have a plan, but it’s okay if the plan changes. Explore all sorts of different classes, get involved and build new friendships. Put a foot into as much as you can and really take advantage of the university experience because it goes fast!”   

Related

• Removing barriers to increase access to education

• Embracing the power of writing with new Kane Writers Award

• Apply for the 2025 Edna and Velma Thomas Kane Writers Award

Saint Mary’s University mourns the passing of Arthur L. Irving

The Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre at Saint Mary’s University

The Saint Mary’s University community joins business and community leaders across our region and our country to mourn the passing of Arthur L. Irving, one of Canada’s most respected business and community leaders and a prominent and visionary philanthropist.  

Arthur Irving, Sandra Irving DCL’10 and Sarah Irving, along with the Arthur L. Irving Family Foundation and Irving Oil, made a transformational gift of $5 million to the Saint Mary's University's Entrepreneurship Centre. In recognition of this investment, the centre was renamed the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre.  This generous gift showcases a deep commitment to student success, educational excellence and the development of future business leaders.  

“With the passing of Arthur L. Irving, we have lost an iconic figure in Canadian business and a highly respected son of Atlantic Canada,” said President and Vice-Chancellor Robert Summerby-Murray. “Arthur’s life and legacy exemplify entrepreneurship, business acumen and dedication to community and philanthropy. Saint Mary’s University is honoured to be home to the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre where his legacy will continue through our student entrepreneurs who are being empowered to lead change and build a better world. I want to express my condolences to the family, particularly to Sandra Irving and Sarah Irving, on the immense loss that Arthur Irving’s passing represents.”  

We invite the campus community to sign a book of condolences that will be available in the lobby of the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre on May 15.

Japanese speech nets national prize for computing science student

Liam Jay

A group photo of contestants and judges at the 35th Canadian National Japanese Speech Contest

Liam Jay had never given a speech in English, let alone in a language he was just learning. Even so, with encouragement from his Japanese Studies professor at Saint Mary’s, he competed in the 35th Canadian National Japanese Speech Contest. He ended up winning the Casio Award, one of the top special prizes at the competition, held at the Japanese Embassy in Ottawa on March 24.

“I was really nervous. That was the first speech I’ve written in any language,” says Liam, a computing science major who just finished his first year of studies. His speech focused on his love for books; he has a lot of math books and also enjoys action books, as well as Japanese and Chinese literature.

“English is my first language. Chinese is my second language, though I’m not really fluent. I’m half Chinese, so I hear it a lot at home,” he says, adding he has a better comprehension of Chinese text.  

Having grown up in Nova Scotia and PEI, Liam initially became interested in Japanese culture through music and anime films. His interest in the language soon followed as he wanted to be able to communicate better with a friend in Japan. For an elective, he signed up for the Introductory Japanese (JPNS 1100) course, designed for students beginning the study of Japanese culture and language, both written and spoken.

Dr. Alexandre Avdulov encouraged students to compete in the 26th Annual Atlantic Canada Japanese Language Speech Competition, co-organized by the Department of Languages and Cultures at Saint Mary’s and the Consulate General of Japan in Montreal, with support from the Japan Foundation and Mitsui Canada.

Students at the 26th Annual Atlantic Canada Japanese Language Speech Competition, held in early March at Saint Mary’s

“Participation in the contest is an important language learning and teaching tool, as well as the very first true achievement of a learner,” says Dr. Avdulov. “Besides language excellence and creativity, it requires discipline, diligence, bravery—all the qualities that will be so useful to our students in Japan and anywhere else all through their lives.” 

Saint Mary’s students Liam Jay, Liam Selfridge and Jacky Chiu  at the national contest

Liam and two other Saint Mary’s students, Liam Selfridge and Jacky Chiu , advanced to the national competition, which is organized each year by the Embassy of Japan, the Canadian National Japanese Speech Contest Organizing Committee, and the Canadian Association for Japanese Language Education (CAJLE). Ambassador Yamanouchi Kanji gave the opening remarks and hosted a reception for the 23 contestants at his official residence.

“It is very nice to see a Saint Mary’s student among the winners along with students from the universities with much larger Japanese programs, such as UBC, UFT, York, Western, University of Alberta, etc.,” says Dr. Avdulov. “But to me, our participants are already winners the moment they take the podium, and I am very proud of all of them. What clearly sets our students aside from other schools is not only language excellence but also the content of their speeches. They speak on the importance of culture and cultural exchanges, the value of education, social justice, racism, homelessness and so on. I can only hope they will continue to raise their voices on these subjects in any language beyond the university gates.”

Liam expresses his appreciation to Dr. Avdulov, teaching assistant Miyuki Embree, and Miyuki Arai of the Global Learning & Intercultural Support office for their ongoing encouragement and support in helping him improve and practise his speech. The experience has given him much more confidence in speaking Japanese, which will be helpful this fall. Liam will be taking part in a bilateral exchange program at Hiroshima University, a partner institution of Saint Mary’s since 2005.

“I’ve never travelled beyond North America!” he says. “When I come back, I’d like to take more Japanese Studies courses at SMU – and maybe even try another speech competition.”  

Saint Mary’s is the only academic institution in Atlantic Canada that has a Certificate in Japanese Studies. Offered through the Department of Languages and Cultures, it’s open to students from all faculties and programs across the university. Bachelor of Arts students at Saint Mary’s can do majors and honours programs in Intercultural Studies or Asian Studies, also unique in the region. These are both available as a minor to students across the university who can also pursue a minor or certificate in Chinese Studies or Japanese Studies. In collaboration with the Global Learning & Intercultural Support office, these interdisciplinary programs support student travel to the region, particularly to China, Japan and South Korea.

“It’s wonderful that Liam is pursuing a student exchange program in Japan," says Ms. Arai, Director of Global Learning Services. "I’m even more delighted that Liam will receive a Global Skills Opportunity (GSO) Award to support his study in Japan.

The GSO Program at Saint Mary's is funded by the Government of Canada through Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). It's exactly for students like Liam who want to develop intercultural skills while expanding horizons and making global connections.

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Related:

• Certificate of Japanese Studies

• Global Learning & Intercultural Support

Karen Hudson, Nova Scotian educator and leader, to be recognized with an honorary degree

Karen Hudson

Saint Mary’s University will recognize Karen Hudson, a noted leader in the field of education, by awarding her an honorary degree at the Spring Convocation in May 2024.

Hudson’s commitment to post-secondary learning for African Nova Scotians has been exceptional over several decades. As Principal of Auburn Drive High School in Dartmouth, NS, she demonstrates visionary leadership. With a BA in International Development, BEd and multiple Master’s degrees, Hudson brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role.

In 2018, she pioneered the first Africentric Cohort in math and literacy within a public school. This groundbreaking initiative aimed to empower students by infusing Afrocentric concepts into the curriculum. In 2019, the Learning Partnership recognized Karen Hudson as one of Canada’s Outstanding Principals for her innovative work. She has actively assisted in expanding Africentric Cohorts to other Nova Scotia institutions, including Horton High, Woodlawn High, and Citadel High.

Outstanding Community Service

Beyond her educational leadership, Hudson is deeply involved in community service. She has received the Nova Scotia Teacher’s Award, the Provincial Family Award and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal. Her passion for social justice, youth leadership, and international development drives her active participation in various organizations. Notably, she is Interim President of the Black Educators Association (BEA) and volunteers with the Africentric Learning Institute (ALI), Black History Month Committee, Indigenous and Mi’kmaq Initiative (IBM), and Cherry Brook United Baptist Church. She is the former African Nova Scotian representative for the Public School Administrators Association of Nova Scotia (PSAANS).

Hudson’s groundbreaking work in Afrocentric math programming has positively impacted African Nova Scotian students, including those at Saint Mary’s. Her commitment to addressing inequality, social justice, historical erasure, and educational disparity demonstrates her leadership and integrity.

Hudson will receive a Doctor of Civil Law, honoris causa, on Wednesday, May 15. See the convocation program for full details.

President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray expresses admiration for Hudson, stating, “Ms. Hudson’s long record of professional accomplishment reflects her commitment to academic growth, intercultural learning, and diversity excellence. Her dedication to educational equity and community service exemplifies the values of Saint Mary’s University, and her impact on students’ lives is immeasurable.”

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Spring Convocation takes place May 15-17, 2024. Ceremonies will be live-streamed via www.smu.ca/graduation.

Kevin Murphy, trailblazer in advocacy and inclusion, to receive honorary degree

Kevin Murphy BComm’92

Kevin Murphy BComm’92, a distinguished advocate for people with disabilities, will be awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Saint Mary’s University during the upcoming Spring Convocation. His significant contributions to public policy and community development have left a lasting impact.

Murphy describes himself as a “serial entrepreneur,” having ventured into diverse fields such as entertainment, publishing, advertising, restaurants, junior hockey, motor coach operations, and disability consulting. His time at Saint Mary’s University opened his eyes to a world of possibilities, inspiring him to become an advocate for accessibility improvements on campus, ensuring that the needs of students with disabilities were met.

Beyond business ventures, Murphy has held management positions with the Canadian Paraplegic Association and the Rick Hansen Foundation. His commitment extends to volunteer work, including executive board positions with organizations like the HRM Advisory Committee for Persons with Disabilities, Metro Transit Access-A-Bus Advisory Committee and Independent Living Nova Scotia. In 2012, he received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal in recognition of his dedicated community service.

Murphy’s impact reached new heights when he became the elected Member of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly for Eastern Shore from 2013 to 2021. Serving eight consecutive years as the Speaker, he made history as the first Speaker in the Commonwealth to have a significant disability. His tenure was marked by a commitment to ensuring that the voices of persons with disabilities were heard and represented in elected parliaments.

His gravitas, combined with a delightful sense of humour, allowed him to excel in his role. As the Senior Parliamentary Speaker in Canada, Murphy founded and served as the first Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities Network in 2019. This network aims to support and inspire people with disabilities worldwide to seek elected office.

Advocacy on a Global Scale

Since 2022, Murphy has been the Senior Policy Advisor to Canada’s Federal Minister responsible for persons with disabilities. His work spans critical files such as the Accessible Canada Act, the Disability Inclusion Action Plan, the Canada Disability Benefit and Medical Assistance in Dying. Through these roles, he amplifies the voices of persons with disabilities globally, advocating for policies that empower and uplift. Murphy’s commitment extends beyond political office—in 2003, he co-founded The James McGregor Stewart Society, a beacon of advocacy for public policy respecting people with disabilities. The society’s impactful work has touched countless lives, advocating for equal rights, accessibility, and inclusion.

Murphy will receive a Doctor of Civil Law, honoris causa, on Wednesday, May 15. See the convocation program for full details.

President and Vice-Chancellor of Saint Mary’s University, Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, commends Murphy’s work: “Kevin Murphy’s journey inspires us all. His leadership, advocacy and dedication to disability rights transcend borders, making our world more inclusive and compassionate.”

Currently, Murphy serves as the Federal Director of Disability and Inclusion, where he continues to champion positive change. His legacy reminds us that barriers can be overcome and that every voice matters.

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Spring Convocation takes place May 15-17, 2024. Ceremonies will be live-streamed via www.smu.ca/graduation.

Distinguished diplomat Donica Pottie to receive honorary degree

Donica Pottie BA’85

Saint Mary’s University will proudly bestow an honorary degree upon Donica Pottie BA’85, a trailblazing diplomat and advocate for human rights, at Spring Convocation this May. Her remarkable journey from a Saint Mary’s graduate to a Canadian ambassador exemplifies resilience, dedication and global citizenship.

In 1985, Pottie became one of the first Asian Studies Honours graduates from Saint Mary’s University. As one of the early students in the Asian Studies program, she embarked on a journey to China in 1983, where her passion for international affairs and cultural exchange led her to explore new horizons.

Pottie’s career with External Affairs and International Trade Canada began in 1991. Her contributions spanned various critical roles, including:

• Director of Human Security Policy (2007–2010)

• Director of Development Policy and International Financial Institutions (2012–2013)

• Director of Peace Support Operations and Fragile States Policy (2013–2015)

• Director General of Consular Operations (2015–2016)

Overseas, she served as a diplomat in China, Jordan, Cambodia and Thailand, where her tenure as ambassador to these countries showcased her commitment to diplomacy, peacekeeping and human rights. Her advocacy extends beyond borders in her support of human security, women’s rights and the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community, which she has publicly defended in countries where these rights are restricted.

In 2021, Pottie managed the Canadian contribution to a US$1.6 million UNESCO education fund for Jordan, as well as helped to negotiate a $120 million Canadian Sovereign Loan for education in Jordan. Her commitment to educational investment aligns with Saint Mary’s values.

As a Saint Mary’s graduate, she embodies the theme of modern global citizenship highlighted in the university’s Strategic Research Plan (2021–2026). Her distinguished record of achievement is complemented by personal moral integrity, and her dedication to diplomacy and human rights is truly commendable. 

Pottie will receive a Doctor of Civil Law, honoris causa, on Friday, May 17. See the convocation program for full details.

President and Vice-Chancellor of Saint Mary’s University, Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, commends Ms. Pottie’s unwavering commitment. “Donica Pottie is very deserving of this honorary degree. Her exemplary service as a diplomat and advocate has made a lasting impact on the world, championing human rights and equality.”

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Spring Convocation takes place May 15-17, 2024. Ceremonies will be live-streamed via www.smu.ca/graduation.

Larry Freeman, K.C. to be recognized with honorary degree for significant community involvement

Larry Freeman

Saint Mary’s University will confer an honorary degree upon Lawrence (Larry) Freeman, K.C., recognizing his exceptional contributions to the legal profession, community and public service. As a well-known Halifax lawyer, Freeman’s dedication has left an indelible mark on Nova Scotia.

Freeman’s commitment to community and public service spans decades. His tireless efforts have improved the lives of countless Nova Scotians. As a partner at Stewart McKelvey, Atlantic Canada’s first and largest regional law firm, Freeman has provided counsel to clients for over 40 years. His expertise in banking, financing, commercial lending and corporate law has made a significant impact.

Freeman has been deeply involved in the community and Canadian culture. His memberships in the Canadian Bar Association, the Community Leadership Advisory Council, and the Heart & Stroke Foundation demonstrate his commitment to well-being.

Notably, Larry joined the Saint Mary’s University Board of Governors in 2008 and served as the board Chair from 2019-2022. His role provided invaluable insights into the university’s strengths, challenges and opportunities.

Freeman’s journey in higher education began at Dalhousie University, where he earned his Bachelor of Commerce in 1970 and his Bachelor of Laws in 1973.

Freeman will receive a Doctor of Civil Law, honoris causa, on Friday, May 17. See the convocation program for full details.

President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray said, “Larry Freeman’s passion for addressing issues of inequity, social justice, and building strong relationships has left an indelible mark. As we celebrate his achievements, we recognize the profound influence he has had on our students and Nova Scotia.”

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Spring Convocation takes place May 15-17, 2024. Ceremonies will be live-streamed via www.smu.ca/graduation.

Sharon Rajaraman: a legacy of giving back

Sharon Rajaraman

Nine league championships. Five-time Atlantic Coach of the Year. CIS Coach of the Year. And a coveted bronze medal at the CIS Championships in 2003. The list of Sharon Rajaraman’s accomplishments and contributions to Atlantic Canadian field hockey and Saint Mary’s sports is long. But what that list doesn’t include are the countless lives touched.

For the last 32 years, Sharon has been a constant on the sidelines of the Huskies women’s field hockey team, dedicating her life to the support of young women athletes.

Katie Baker, retired Captain of the Canadian National Field Hockey team, who represented Canada at the Pan American Games and the Commonwealth Games, was one of these young women. In fact, Sharon had the foresight to recruit Katie as a standout high school student playing on grass in PEI.

“Sharon recognized my potential and through her leadership, worked with my strengths, built my confidence, and instilled values in me that I brought forward in my leadership of the Canadian team and international career,” says Katie. "She is absolutely tireless in her efforts to inspire young women to reach their full potential and has had a huge impact on my life.”

Sharon’s own field hockey journey began at Dalhousie, where she was a decorated Varsity women’s field hockey athlete, earning All-Star status at both AUAA and CIAU and being named team MVP. She also represented Nova Scotia at numerous National tournaments and was named to the Team Canada Women’s Field Hockey National squad in 1982 and 1983.

After graduating in 1985 with a Bachelor of Recreation Degree, Sharon was appointed as an assistant field hockey coach at Dalhousie before being recruited by Saint Mary’s in 1987. Her part-time position became full-time in 1992, and Sharon has been with the Huskies ever since.

She feels lucky to have had many mentors at Saint Mary’s over the years, including the very first woman coach ever hired by the University—Kathy Mullane—and also Soccer Coach Roy Clements and Athletic Director Larry Uteck.

“Sharon’s contribution to Saint Mary’s University and field hockey is exceptional,” says Kathy Mullane. “She has worked so hard to keep field hockey alive and is widely recognized as the reason that field hockey remains a sport at both the Atlantic (U Sports) and at national levels.”

In addition to her outstanding work ethic, Sharon has a unique coaching philosophy. “Anyone who’s ever played with me knows I don’t consider myself the main decision-maker. I’m one of the team,” she says, adding that each member of that team, even those that sit on the bench most of the season, are equally important. “And the only way we achieve success is to decide things together.”

Coach Sharon Rajaraman with the 1993-1994 Women’s Field Hockey team. Photo: SMU Huskies

At the beginning of each season, Sharon asks the players to write down a personal goal, as well as a team goal for the year ahead, and then share them aloud. “Everyone hears what each other’s goals are and we work together to achieve them.”

Called a master strategist with a keen technical mind, Sharon has always been a top-notch recruiter. Her teams often had the highest percentage of outstanding players meeting the requirements as Academic All-Canadians, and many of her players went on to play for Canada. These days, she works equally hard to encourage the women athletes who have been in the program to come back to the Atlantic region and stay involved in a coaching capacity at the university or high school level, keeping the line of mentorship alive.

Despite her enormous accomplishments, Sharon is a humble person who prefers to share the limelight. One of the people she credits with the success of the field hockey team is Thomas Kochanoff, SMU’s Strength and Conditioning Coach. “Thomas has worked with most of the female sports teams at Saint Mary’s and has gone above and beyond, helping several of the women’s teams in winning AUS Championships and also working individually with athletes from Saint Mary’s who have been selected for Canadian national teams.”

Over the years, Sharon’s achievements weren’t all on the field. She and her husband, Dr. Mal Rajaraman, a radiation oncologist, also raised three sons, all of whom went to Saint Mary’s, with two of the three playing soccer. She also had a critical role in successfully building a 16-team indoor league at the high school level in Nova Scotia and has coached at the national level, working with the Canadian team at the Indoor Masters World Cup in Hong Kong in 2019. In addition, she has extended her talents to Field Hockey Nova Scotia, acting as their President and the AUFH (Atlantic University Field Hockey) as their League Chair for many years.

After 32 years, Saint Mary’s has become a kind of second home to Sharon. She lives just a few blocks from the school, knows someone in every department, and each year recruits members of her team to volunteer their time at charity events such as the Run for the Cure and the annual Blue Butterfly fundraiser for thyroid cancer. Through her example, she has taught Saint Mary’s students the value of volunteering and the importance of giving back. This year, Saint Mary’s celebrates the 50th anniversary of women in varsity sport and the many women who have contributed to successful athletics programs at the university.

“Saint Mary’s has been very good to me over the years,” she says. “As long as I can, I will continue to give back.”

By Renée Hartleib

Saint Mary's Sexual Violence Advisor receives national award

Dee Dooley

Saint Mary’s University is pleased to acknowledge and celebrate Sexual Violence Advisor and part-time faculty member Dee Dooley, who was recently honoured as a recipient of the 2024 Courage to Act Awards in the area of Student Research.

A national project by Possibility Seeds, Courage to Act is a federally funded initiative to address and prevent gender-based violence on Canadian campuses. The Courage to Act Awards are designed to recognize exemplary work pertaining to gender-based violence.

Dee Dooley has made impressive strides in tackling gender-based violence in her capacity as Sexual Violence Advisor at Saint Mary’s since the role’s inception in 2021. In addition to contributing to the updated and expanded Sexual Violence and Harassment Policy and a full overhaul of the Sexual Violence Support Centre website, Dee has supported countless initiatives alongside the student-led Sexual Violence Prevention Initiative (SVPI) team, educating on bystander intervention, harm reduction, consent and healthy relationships.

The Sexual Violence Prevention Initiative at SMU is an important component of the Nova Scotia Student Sexual Health and Safety Educators, alongside peer educators across NS. Collectively, the NS Student Sexual Health and Safety Educators group received their own recognition by the 2024 Courage to Act Awards under the area of Student Initiative for their work as a student group advancing sexual and gender-based violence prevention.

Sexual Violence Prevention Initiative (SVPI) team at Saint Mary’s

“Gender-based violence is a pervasive issue that too often resides within post-secondary campuses,” notes President Robert Summerby-Murray. “Saint Mary’s is committed to being part of the solution, and we are proud of the notable achievements on support, education and prevention we have taken in recent years, much of which is largely due to the initiatives of Dee and the SVPI team.”  

In addition to her capacities at Saint Mary’s, Dee Dooley is also a doctoral student at Ontario Tech where she is leading a research project called “SCORE - Sports: Changing our Role in Education.” The project has been devised based on research that is indicative of an increased risk of sexual violence in post-secondary athletics, which points to an absence of educational interventions in prevention and support. Through SCORE, Dee seeks to engage athletes at Saint Mary’s, St. Francis Xavier University and Acadia University to “support a community-centred approach to creating responsive sexual violence prevention education for post-secondary student-athletes.”

It is this research, and, as the Honourable Brian Wong, Nova Scotia’s Minister of Advanced Education noted, Dee’s “continued commitment and leadership […] shown in [her] work on the Post-Secondary Violence Prevention Committee”, that has garnered Dee the accolade of the 2024 Courage to Act Award.

Saint Mary’s University appoints new Dean of the Sobey School of Business

Dr. Michel Delorme

Saint Mary’s University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Michel Delorme to the position of Dean of the Sobey School of Business, effective July 1, 2024.

“Under Dr. Delorme’s leadership, the Sobey School of Business will build on its position as one of Canada’s most established and respected business schools and the business school of choice for students aspiring to lead with purpose,” said Saint Mary’s University President & Vice-Chancellor Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray.   

Dr. Delorme brings more than 12 years of experience in leadership positions in business schools, nationally and internationally, and over 25 years of experience in higher education. He has extensive knowledge of accreditation processes, developing international partnerships and facilitating university teaching, research and leadership. Currently serving as Dean of the Faculty of Management at Laurentian University, Dr. Delorme has also served as Director of Simmons University School of Business, USA (AACSB accredited); Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at Burgundy School of Business, France (AACSB and EQUIS accredited); Vice Dean for Academic Affairs at ESDES, the Business School of the Catholic University of Lyon, France (AACSB accredited); and Vice Dean for Knowledge Development and Research at Rennes School of Business, France (AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS accredited). 

“This distinctive leadership position represents an excellent opportunity to help develop students’ potential, guide their personal and professional lives, and prepare them to become authentic and conscientious leaders of tomorrow,” said Dr. Delorme. “I am honoured to take up this position as Dean of the Sobey School, one of Canada’s most accredited and highly regarded business schools.” 

Dr. Delorme looks forward to getting to know the Saint Mary’s community and is impressed by the university's strong reputation, supportive student experience, excellent resources and quality of life in Halifax. He sees opportunities to contribute to the institution's growth, appreciates the support from the Sobey family and values the dynamism of the people at Saint Mary’s. 

The Sobey School of Business is one of Canada’s oldest, most respected and comprehensive business schools, with undergraduate, graduate and executive professional development programming.

Distinguished Delegation Award for Model UN group

SMU’s team represented The Bahamas at Model UN in NYC

SMU delegates at the National Model UN Conference

Saint Mary’s team received the Distinguished Delegation Award

Model UN team in the airport heading to New York

Team dinner at Benihana

Wesley Brouse had been to New York City twice before, but the third time was a charm, as a member of the Saint Mary’s University team at the National Model United Nations conference.

“Going to the UN General Assembly for the NMUN closing ceremony was truly a dream come true,” says Brouse, a finance major who will graduate with his Bachelor of Commerce degree in May. “Getting to sit in the same seats that UN ambassadors from all around the world sit in, surrounded by students from all over the world, felt surreal.”

Saint Mary’s delegation of 10 students represented The Bahamas in the annual UN simulation, coming home with a Distinguished Delegation Award, the equivalent of a silver medal. The team from Dr. Marc Doucet’s Model UN course included students in the Faculty of Arts and the Sobey School of Business, with five political science majors, two finance majors and students from the management and marketing programs.

“Few other delegations were as well prepared as our team was, and that was all thanks to Dr. Doucet,” says Brouse. “Although no one on our team had ever done Model UN before, he ensured we were all experts at it by the time we got to New York. We could not have won the award without him.”

Other highlights of the week in New York included a seminar about the various paths to UN employment and a team dinner at Benihana in Midtown Manhattan.   

“This year’s delegation should be very proud of their award,” says Dr. Doucet, a professor in the Department of Political Science. “Representing a small nation is always a challenge at NMUN. The Bahamas is known to ‘punch above its weight’ at the UN, but our delegates had to compete against larger delegations, with some having considerable past Model UN experience.” 

Brouse learned about the Model UN opportunity from a friend and jumped at the chance to be a part of it this year. With a keen interest in international politics and international law, he figured the Model UN course would be a great way to enhance his knowledge in these areas.

While at the NMUN conference, students from Saint Mary’s participated in a number of committees, simulating the work of the General Assembly’s First, Second and Third Committees, the UN Environmental Assembly (UNEA) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The topics they tackled ranged from the “Relationship between Disarmament and Development” to “Preventing Violence and Discrimination Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity” and “Environmental Sustainability in the Textile and Fashion Industries.”

The conference was attended by thousands of students from more than 175 universities and colleges worldwide. In the Distinguished Delegation category, only four other Canadian universities were recognized this year: the University of Ottawa and McGill, McEwan and Brock universities.