Saint Mary’s hosts annual celebration of history and heritage

From “Blackberry’s Crumble” to a LEGO version of the Fortress of Louisbourg, history and culture were on display as Saint Mary’s University hosted the 2024 Nova Scotia Provincial Heritage Fair.    

The June 6 and 7 event featured projects by 59 students who were selected at school and regional fairs across the province. The learning opportunity is designed for students in Grades 4 through 9, encouraging them to explore Canadian culture, history and heritage while gaining research and public presentation skills.

This year’s participants – some in costume – shared their knowledge on everything from Viola Desmond to “Canada’s greatest hockey dad,” Walter Gretzky. One student shared beautiful sketches of African Nova Scotian settlements, while others recreated historic church steeples and even a stretch of the Trans-Canada Highway.

“The Heritage Fair puts the spotlight on budding young researchers from across the province,” said the event’s organizer, Dr. Kirrily Freeman, Director of Outreach and Experiential Learning for the Faculty of Arts. “It’s an annual highlight here at Saint Mary’s, where the students have a chance to hone their presentation skills while connecting with the expertise of our Arts faculty and heritage partners.”

Coinciding with the 80th anniversary commemorations of D-Day operations in the Second World War, the event had half a dozen projects on military history topics. Pride in family heritage was also front and centre, with several students tracing their family roots.

The History of the North Bay Fisherman’s Co-op

Decorated with fishing nets, photos and lobster dip, a project from Antigonish indicated that history is still being made, with a placard noting, “There is a first for everything: My mom is the first female member of the North Bay Fisherman’s Co-op. She is also the first female captain of a boat where she fishes out of.”      

The student delegates and their parent chaperones arrived June 6 to set up their displays, get acquainted at a banquet, and settle into their residence rooms. On both days, the students attended podcasting and geocaching workshops, plus astronomy sessions in the Burke-Gaffney Observatory.

The Heritage Fair projects were open for public viewing on June 7, followed by an awards ceremony, both in the in the McNally Theatre Auditorium. The awards recognized student research in such areas as Indigenous and African-Canadian heritage, environmental history, equity and justice, immigration studies, sport history, and the history of science and technology. The judging panel included professionals who are active in the fields of culture, history and heritage: professors, archivists, librarians, museum curators, museum interpreters and more.

Saint Mary's University appoints new Dean of Science

Sam is a white man with brown hair and brown facial hair. He wears a Saint Mary's tshirt under a grey blazer. He sits in a sunlight room with his hands folded.

Dr. Sam Veres

Saint Mary's University is delighted to announce that Dr. Sam Veres has been appointed Dean of the Faculty of Science, effective July 1, 2024.  

“Dr. Veres brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to this pivotal role, and he will continue to build upon the exciting ventures already underway in the Faculty of Science,” says Saint Mary's University President Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray. “His thoughtful leadership will ensure the continuing growth and success of the Faculty of Science, known for its research and teaching excellence.”   

Having joined Saint Mary’s in 2013 as an Assistant Professor in the Division of Engineering, Dr. Veres has since served as Graduate Program Coordinator for the MSc and PhD in Applied Science programs. In 2019, he assumed the role of Associate Dean, Student Affairs and Supports, and most recently he stepped into the interim Dean of Science role in 2023.   

“The Faculty of Science at Saint Mary’s is an exceptional place—a place filled with exceptional people who are extremely dedicated to delivering the best scientific education available while undertaking impactful, internationally recognized, and locally connected research,” says Dr. Sam Veres, Dean of Science. “I am very excited about what lies ahead—about enabling more students to experience Science and Engineering education at SMU and supporting faculty and staff to see their ambitions become reality. We have a tremendous pipeline of new initiatives—it’s really a very exciting time for the Faculty of Science.”   

Originally from East Dover, Nova Scotia, Dr. Veres has a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from Dalhousie University and a PhD in Chemical & Materials Engineering from the University of Auckland, followed by a Killam Postdoctoral Fellowship in the School of Biomedical Engineering at Dalhousie University.   

In his research, Dr. Veres investigates structure-function relationships in load-bearing connective tissues like tendons and intervertebral discs, integrating concepts from engineering, chemistry, biology, physics and medicine. His research has provided fundamental insights into healthy tissue performance, as well as tissue development, aging, mechanical damage and disease.

Dr. Veres’ research contributions have been recognized globally. He has received the ISSLS Prize for Lumbar Spine Research three times—one of the top international accolades in spinal research, which is presented annually by the International Society for the Study of the Lumbar Spine (ISSLS). His research has been supported by grants from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), and Research Nova Scotia. 

As Dean of Science, Dr. Veres will champion excellence in teaching, learning and research, fostering growth through the development of new programs, facilities and initiatives. 

Commerce student wins Excellence Award for PRME North America Student Leadership

Adrianna is a white woman with blond hair and glasses. She holds up a certificate and is joined by two other PRME members

Adrianna Timmons, center, accepts her PRME award

Adrianna Timmons, a dedicated third-year Bachelor of Commerce student at the Sobey School of Business, has been honoured with the Excellence Award for PRME North America Student Leadership. This prestigious award is presented to a remarkable student leader who demonstrates exceptional commitment to advancing the principles of sustainability and responsible business practices, both on their campus and in the broader community.

Her deep-seated involvement with the Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) is at the heart of Adrianna's commendable achievements. This initiative, a pivotal program under the United Nations Global Compact, champions the cause of sustainability and responsible management education.

Adrianna stands in front of a yellow wall and smiles

Adrianna formed the Sustainable Business Society at Saint Mary’s

As one of two Regional Leaders for North America, Adrianna plays a crucial role in expanding the network of students focused on sustainable development. Her responsibilities encompass working with student organizations, identifying new ones to enhance the network and attending global meetings to refine and advance the initiatives of PRME Global Students. As a representative of PRME, Adrianna actively engages with and speaks at events focused on sustainability, responsibility, and development, furthering the mission of creating a sustainable global economy.

Adrianna was inspired to bring sustainability initiatives to more students at Saint Mary's after attending a PRME Student Leadership Global Forum in New York. Her participation in the forum was funded through the Linton Family Sustainability in Business Trust, established through the generosity of Bill Linton BComm’75 DComm’22 and his wife Marilynne Day-Linton. Accelerating a wide range of initiatives for students, faculty and staff, the Linton Family Trust provides critical support to expand and elevate the Sobey School’s leadership in educating the next generation of business leaders committed to sustainable business.  

Adrianna said of her trip to the PRME Global Forum in New York, "Last year, I had the opportunity to attend the forum, where I spoke with students who had successfully started sustainability societies at their schools. This gave me the courage to start the sustainability society here at Saint Mary's."  

In the Fall of 2023, Adrianna launched the Saint Mary’s University Sustainable Business Society, uniting like-minded students from the Commerce Faculty focusing on sustainability. As its founding President, she rapidly expanded the group to over 80 members in its first year. The society aims to spotlight local, sustainable businesses and entrepreneurial efforts, enhancing student engagement with Halifax's business community and fostering real-world sustainability application and networking opportunities. A notable achievement under her leadership was the organization of a "Careers in a Clean Economy" panel, drawing insights from industry leaders on sustainable business careers to 50 attendees. The Society also initiated The Halifax Green Map project, highlighting ethical, sustainable local businesses and promoting responsible business practices.

In addition to her academic and PRME commitments, Adrianna has demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial initiative and social responsibility through her endeavours outside of the university. Her creation of Accessories for Access exemplifies how she seamlessly integrates her passion for sustainable development with entrepreneurship. This venture is not just a business; it's a mission-driven effort to make a tangible difference in girls' lives in sub-Saharan Africa by funding their education and leadership opportunities.

Adrianna's blend of global perspective and local action truly sets her apart as a leader who envisions a better world and actively works towards creating it.

National Indigenous History Month 2024

A dancer in Indigenous regalia dances on campus

June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, an opportunity to learn about the unique cultures, traditions and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. It's a time to honour the stories, achievements and resilience of Indigenous Peoples, who have lived on this land since time immemorial and whose presence continues to impact the evolving Canada. June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day.

Saint Mary’s University acknowledges its location in Mi’kma’ki, the traditional land of the Mi’kmaq Nation. The Mi’kmaq flag flies proudly on the University’s campus.

Visit the online Indigenous Community hub to see news, events and resources.


Kylar sits on a staircase with his hands held together as he looks to his left

Meet the new Indigenous Student Advisor 

Kylar Johnson, a recent graduate of the Sobey School of Business, has returned to SMU and recently assumed the Indigenous Student Advisor role in Student Affairs and Services.

Kylar is from the Mi’kmaw community of Potlotek First Nation in Unama’ki and credits his time working with the Red Road project in his hometown for helping him become more in touch with his culture and broadening his knowledge. He furthered his experience volunteering at the Ottawa Inuit Children’s Centre, gaining new insight into Inuit culture.

“SMU has a vibrant Indigenous community and I look forward to fully immersing in this journey with students and amplifying their narratives within the context of the institution.”

Learn more about Kylar and his role, and follow @smu_studentlife for updates from Kylar throughout the month of June.


Creation-Centred Design: A Pathway for Problem Solvers

Friday, June 14, 2024
10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, Discovery Zone

Two side by side images of Michael wearing Indigenous regalia and Keisha wearing a blue fur coat

Join Akwekon for a hands-on workshop on Creation-Centred Design, a transformative approach that harmonizes innovation with Indigenous wisdom and perspectives. This workshop, led by Michael Maracle-Polak and Keisha Turner BA’12, will immerse you in a methodology that respects and incorporates traditional knowledge into modern design and problem-solving processes.


A book display in the library with a Mikmaq flag hanging behind it

Reading collection

The Patrick Power Library is featuring a collection of library resources for National Indigenous History 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, or accessed online using your SMU email and password.  

Browse the full National Indigenous History Month collection online.

Also, check out the library’s Indigenous Studies guide, with more book recommendations, suggested journals, databases, government information, and other resources.


A colourful image for National Indigenous History Month

Learn about the weekly themes of National Indigenous History Month 2024:

  • Environment, traditional knowledge and territory

  • Children and youth

  • Languages, cultures and arts

  • Women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people


Call for participants: First Nations athletes' transitions to university sport and everyday life

Call for Research Participants for a study on First Nations athletes' transitions to university sport and everyday life. The Scott McCain & Leslie McLean Centre for Sport, Business and Health is seeking participants ages 18+ to complete a 20-30 minute survey by July 5.
Learn more and complete the survey


Pride Season 2024 at Saint Mary's

A banner reads Celebrating Pride

Pride Season at Saint Mary’s is celebrated throughout June and July, recognizing Pride Month in June and the Halifax Pride festival in July. The pride flag will be flown on campus throughout June.

Pride is an acknowledgement of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community (two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, all other gender identities such as asexual, pansexual, and polyamorous). It spotlights the resilience, celebrates the talent and recognizes the contributions of 2SLGBTQI+ communities. Learn more about Pride Season and its origins in Canada and visit our online 2SLGBTQIA+ hub for resources at Saint Mary’s.

Join us this Pride Season in supporting and uplifting members of our #SMUcommunity!


Paint Your Pride!

Cartoon image of people painting with different colours

Tuesday, June 18
11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
The Quad outside the O’Donnell-Hennessey Student Centre

Join Student Affairs and Services in the Quad to Paint Your Pride with chalk, play fun lawn games and enjoy snacks to celebrate Pride Month alongside your peers, staff and faculty!


Pride-Themed Movie Night

Wednesday, June 26
6 - 8:30 p.m.
Atrium 101

The Student Success Centre is hosting a Pride-themed Movie Night! Celebrate Pride with the Peer Success Coaches and a classic movie. We’ve got a few great movie choices, and you can cast your vote when you register. Blankets will be provided. Bring a friend!


A person wearing a SMUSA tshirt and holding a rainbow umbrella waves

SMU in the Halifax Pride Parade

The entire SMU Community is invited to join SMU Alumni and SMUSA in the Halifax Pride Parade on Saturday, July 20 at 12 p.m. The group will walk the parade route and celebrate our Husky Pride!

Sign up here


SMUSA Pride Centre

SMUSA pride centre typed in colourful letters

Open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Located in the O’Donnell Hennessey Student Centre, SC 106

The Pride Centre offers a safe space for all members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. SMUSA strives to create more events and resources for students within this community on campus and wants to create a welcoming and accepting environment for all. If you are looking for a hang-out spot or place to study, check out our pride centre!


Derek is a white man wearing a bright yellow tshirt and glassses

Mental health support for queer and trans students

Students who are part of the queer and trans community may have unique experiences that impact their mental health. Sometimes, it can be easier to speak with someone who has similar experiences—enter our newest therapist in the Counselling Centre, Derek!

Derek is World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) trained and brings extensive knowledge of trans and queer mental health to the team, as well as the ability to write WPATH assessment and surgery letters for Trans Affirmative Healthcare.

Request an appointment with the Counselling Centre.


Black merchandise with colourful letters reading Without Limits

Saint Mary’s Pride Collection

The Saint Mary’s Campus Store has Pride merchandise to help you celebrate Pride Season in style!

Available at the Campus Store in the Loyola Academic Building from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., and the Bookstore in the Student Centre from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday to Friday or order online.


Check the Student Life events calendar for all upcoming events!

Related Content

 

Dianne Chiasson: forty-plus years of enduring friendship in sport

Dianne Chiasson BA’81

You won’t find Dianne Chiasson BA ’81 Hons sitting around watching other people play sports. She’s a doer, not a watcher. And an adventurous doer at that.

A multi-sport athlete at Saint Mary’s in the late ‘70s, Dianne has remained active right into her retirement years. In the decades since she graduated, she’s taken up running, biking, golf and skate-skiing. She’s completed numerous marathons, including the Boston Marathon, and has participated in many Grand Fondo biking events.

She’s always been this way - active and athletic. As a child with a father in the Air Force, her family moved around a lot—Labrador, Goose Bay, Northern Quebec—but wherever she went to school, she played whatever was presented. “If it was on offer, I tried it,” she laughs.

In Grade 7, the family settled in the Annapolis Valley, in Auburn, near the base in Greenwood. Dianne played volleyball, basketball, softball and field hockey, in addition to running track, but was soon faced with having to choose her favourites due to overlapping schedules. A sports camp in Halifax one summer helped develop her basketball and field hockey skills; these ended up being the two sports she would carry with her to university.

But excelling at certain sports didn’t stop Dianne from venturing further afield. She even tried out for her high school hockey team, even though she couldn’t skate very well. “My basketball coach wasn’t very impressed with that,” she says. “But it was fun - why wouldn’t I try it?"

Dianne displayed the same independent streak when it came time to figure out what to do after high school. She went against the grain for someone living in the Valley: “I didn’t want to choose Acadia because everyone I knew was going there.” She was drawn to the big city, so when Saint Mary’s offered her an academic scholarship, that cinched the deal.

She decided to study Political Science and became a star player on both the Women’s Basketball and Field Hockey teams. She was named Female Rookie of the Year in 1978, as well as MVP of the basketball team, and earned Female Athlete of the Year for three years running. She was also selected All-Conference on numerous occasions for both field hockey and basketball and received All-Canadian honours.

“Dianne was an immensely talented and hard-working athlete, but someone who didn’t draw attention to herself and her own accomplishments,” says Kathy Mullane, who served as the coach of both women’s field hockey and basketball at the time. “She was our top player and won most of the athletic awards in her years at Saint Mary’s, but was incredibly humble. She was someone you wanted on every team, just a consummate team player, fitting in with everyone and so consistent in her play and positive attitude.”

In addition to her accomplishments on the field and the court, Dianne also excelled academically. She earned a full academic scholarship each year at Saint Mary's, accumulating 14 A's in 15 courses and was interviewed for a Rhodes Scholarship.

Dianne hiking at a waterfall

Once she graduated, she worked for a year in the Registrar’s Office at SMU before moving west to work for a small oil and gas company. After five years in Calgary, the East called her back home, and she returned to Halifax to secure a job with the Office of the Auditor General of Nova Scotia. Her political science degree came in handy, as did the Intro Accounting course she’d taken and liked at Saint Mary’s. Dianne got her accounting designation and spent the rest of her career working as an auditor.

During those years, she stayed connected to Saint Mary’s and enjoyed volunteering her time as a scorekeeper for the women’s basketball games. She marvels at the opportunities that now exist for young women to continue playing sports after university graduation. And she has a piece of advice for the new players coming up:

“Enjoy every minute of it because it goes by so fast.”

Forty-plus years later, the thing that Dianne cherishes the most are the friendships she still has with a handful of the other women on those Huskies sports teams. “After all these years, we still get together, and we still enjoy each other’s company,” she says. “Our friendships are the thing that remain and are something I am most proud of.”

By Renée Hartleib

Measuring the impact of social innovation in Nova Scotia

Saint Mary’s University professor and students receive Mitacs fund to study community projects

Dr. Chantal Hervieux and a team of graduate students will study the social innovation impact of Inspiring Communities

Across the globe, there is growing enthusiasm and support for social innovation and community-based projects that address critical issues such as climate change, equity, employment opportunities and newcomer integration. How can we determine if these projects have a lasting impact beyond their immediate benefits? Can social innovation truly transform societal systems and contribute to a better world?

These essential questions are at the heart of Dr. Chantal Hervieux’s research. As the Director of the ImpactLab at the Centre for Leadership Excellence in the Sobey School of Business, Professor Hervieux has been awarded a substantial Mitacs grant of $255,000. Her mission: to study Inspiring Communities, a Nova Scotia-based not-for-profit organization, and gain a deep understanding of social innovation, its approach, processes and impacts. Given its active involvement in the community, Inspiring Communities serves as an ideal test case and model for others.

Since 2018, Inspiring Communities has played a crucial role in supporting communities across Nova Scotia, from Digby to Cape Breton, using an equity-centred systems change approach. They aspire to build equitable, thriving communities through connecting communities, creating collaborative partnerships, measuring impact and maintaining a strong and sustainable core. By partnering with this organization, Dr. Hervieux aims to document and map their practices, ultimately sharing valuable insights globally.

Anacapri LeBlanc, a Master’s student in Women and Gender Studies, agrees that innovation in Nova Scotia deserves to be highlighted.

“Here, we have a not-for-profit that wants a rigorous assessment to know what’s working, what are strengths and what are the weaknesses in their process. They are very invested in helping Nova Scotians.”
— Anacapri LeBlanc, MWGS student

Anacapri LeBlanc

Jocelyn Li, Co-Executive Director at Inspiring Communities, emphasizes the organization's commitment as an intermediary organization to supporting equity-deserving communities, including historical African Nova Scotian communities, Indigenous people, racialized newcomers, neurodivergent people and people of differing abilities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. The organization relies on developmental and other evaluation methods. By sharing their data archives, they aim to chart their progression from evaluation techniques to program models that better serve their equity-deserving members and community groups.

Dr. Hervieux’s work, alongside that of the student researchers, will play a pivotal role in strengthening the evidence base for their programs. Anandalakshmi Anathara Prasenan, a student in the Sobey School of Business Masters of Business Analytics program, highlights the unique opportunity provided by the Mitacs-funded project.

Anandalakshmi Anathara Prasenan

“I chose Saint Mary’s because of its collaborative approach to research, emphasizing local community engagement. Through this project, I gain knowledge about not-for-profits and Atlantic Canada, and benefit from Professor Hervieux’s guidance.”
— Anandalakshmi Anathara Prasenan

Over the next two years, twelve graduate students from Saint Mary’s University will receive internships to conduct research within local communities across Nova Scotia. These students, drawn from programs such as Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Business Administration, and PhD studies, will apply their academic methods to real-world scenarios. They will also participate in training workshops, learning innovative impact assessment methodologies developed by the Centre for Leadership Excellence’s ImpactLab. This approach delves deep into systems and interactions, allowing researchers to trace the path of impact and understand where and how it occurs.

Prasenan and LeBlanc with Dr. Hervieux

Dr. Hervieux underscores the significance of studying Nova Scotian communities in the context of global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality. In this tumultuous world, Nova Scotia stands out as a beacon of resilience and innovation.

Interim Dean Mark Raymond notes the impactful collaboration between Saint Mary’s University, Inspiring Communities, and dedicated graduate students, “Their collective efforts promise to advance social innovation and contribute to positive change in Nova Scotia and beyond.” 

Saint Mary’s wins Enactus National Social Entrepreneurship Competition

The Enactus Saint Mary’s team wins the 2024 Enactus National Champions

The Saint Mary’s Enactus team will represent Canada at the World Cup 2024 in Astana, Kazakstan this October

Congratulations to Enactus Saint Mary's students for being named the 2024 Enactus National Champions! The Enactus Canada National Exposition, held in Toronto from May 14 to 16, featured teams from 49 institutions across Canada.

Enactus Canada is a registered charity providing programs to inspire post-secondary students to initiate and operate socially and environmentally positive enterprises. This is the first time the Saint Mary’s team has taken the top prize. As a result, the team is thrilled to be representing Canada at The Enactus World Cup 2024 in Astana, Kazakstan, from October 2 to 4, 2024, with teams from 33 different countries.

In addition to receiving the top honour, the Enactus Saint Mary’s team was named National Champions for two topic challenges, the Innovation and Impact Challenge and the TD Entrepreneurship Challenge, while achieving National Runner-up status in the Canadian Tire Environmental Sustainability Challenge. Additionally, individual recognition came for team member Courtney Dingle, who was named Project Manager of the Year. This achievement is a direct result of their unwavering dedication and the development of impactful projects that address pressing social and environmental issues.

Exemplifying Innovation and Sustainability

Enactus Saint Mary's success stems from a commitment to fostering positive change through two key projects:

  • Plastarch: This pioneering business tackles the escalating problem of plastic waste by offering a sustainable alternative for restaurant food packaging and utensils. Their solution lies in an affordable, durable and food-safe bioplastic crafted from an unexpected source—potatoes slated to be discarded. Plastarch not only mitigates plastic pollution but also promotes a circular economy by finding a valuable use for food waste.

    A team representing Plastarch won the Innovation Cup, which was organized by the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre in the fall of 2023.

  • Square Roots: This initiative addresses the twin issues of food waste and food insecurity. At the farm level, 30% of harvested produce is dumped into landfills due to cosmetic imperfections despite being perfectly healthy. Square Roots rescues this "imperfect" produce that would otherwise be discarded, offering it at affordable prices to those facing limited access to healthy food. The team recently received a $100,000 investment from the Government of Nova Scotia for expansion, and they aim to expand to more than 50 locations across Canada and the US by 2026.

Measurable Impact Through Passionate Effort

The team's relentless efforts and exceptional presentations impressed a panel of esteemed Canadian CEOs who recognized the projects' potential to generate significant social, economic and environmental impact in Nova Scotia. Notably, Enactus Saint Mary's has demonstrated their success in the past year through:

  • People: creating four jobs, empowering 27 entrepreneurs, and providing access to nutritious food for 6,300 individuals.

  • Planet: a substantial 130,025 pounds of food waste diverted from landfills, a remarkable reduction of 88,055 kilograms of CO2 emissions, and conservation of 19,226,926 litres of water.

  • Prosperity: fostering entrepreneurial spirit by launching three new businesses and generating $337,246 in revenue.

Reflecting on the team's success, Enactus Saint Mary's Co-Presidents Susan MacInnis and Paige Bigelow BComm’24 said, "We are incredibly impressed by the team's dedication and resilience over the past year. Each member has contributed their time and creativity to establish new social enterprises and innovate existing ones. Placing first at the Enactus Canada National Exposition for the first time in Saint Mary's history could not have been possible without the support from all the members and alumni who are part of the Enactus Canada Network, Saint Mary's University, and most of all, the community. As we prepare to represent Team Canada at the World Cup in October, we are honoured and excited to continue our impact, fueled by collaboration and a shared commitment to positive change."

Recent SMU graduate Kylar Johnson takes new role as Indigenous Student Advisor

Kylar Johnson BComm’23, Indigenous Student Advisor 

Saint Mary’s is pleased to welcome Kylar Johnson, a recent graduate in the Sobey School of Business, back to SMU. He has recently assumed the Indigenous Student Advisor role in Student Affairs and Services.

Kylar brings a unique student perspective, having experienced pre-pandemic, remote learning, and the return to in-person learning during his undergraduate degree. During these varied student experiences, Kylar was very active within the SMU community. In addition to helping to re-establish the Drama Society after the pandemic, Kylar served as President of the Indigenous Student Society and assisted in bringing the Mawio’mi celebration back to SMU with the return of in-person learning.

After his convocation, Kylar secured a role working with Mi’kmaw Kina’matneway as a post-secondary navigator, where he developed cultural events and programming to support Indigenous students transitioning to life in post-secondary education in Mi’kma’ki. “The role helped me gain valuable insight on what students are going through, worrying about or trying to navigate as they first enter university life,” Kylar notes. “I remember feeling lost as a new student at SMU, but the support I received from the Indigenous Student Advisor and President of the Indigenous Student Society really helped me feel comfortable on campus, and I felt like SMU was a place where I could settle down.”

Kylar is from the Mi’kmaw community of Potlotek First Nation in Unama’ki and credits his time working with the Red Road project in his hometown for helping him become more in touch with his culture and broadening his knowledge. He furthered his experience volunteering at the Ottawa Inuit Children’s Centre, gaining new insight into Inuit culture. “These roles sparked my interest in learning more about other Indigenous cultures and opened me up to interactions that I wouldn’t have otherwise experienced,” Kylar describes. “SMU has a vibrant Indigenous community and I look forward to fully immersing in this journey with students and amplifying their narratives within the context of the institution.”

The Indigenous Student Advisor role supports and engages Indigenous students throughout their time at SMU. The Advisor provides guidance, develops community programming and helps to bring culturally respectful perspectives to light through reconciliation initiatives, advocacy and community-centered relationship building.

“When I saw the Indigenous Advisor Role, I felt compelled to apply,” explains Kylar. “For Indigenous students, this role is one of the first key interactions they’ll have at SMU and will serve as their connection between school and home. Having experienced the benefits of Indigenous mentors when I was a new student, it’s important to me to ensure the advisor role continues to be available to current and future students.”

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

Margaret McKee holds a framed certificate. She and Karen Grandy stand on stage in academic robes.

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.


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.


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 is receiving a framed award from Dr. Sara Malton.

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!”   

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