Entrepreneurship, Student Support
Emily LeBlanc
Access Ability: inclusive growth for ...
Faculty of Arts, Research, Alumni
Emily LeBlanc
Halifax Memory Maps research offers a new look ...
Sobey School of Business, Research, Partnerships
Emily LeBlanc
Health Data Analytics Symposium showcases ...
Entrepreneurship, Student Success, Media Release
Emily LeBlanc
Saint Mary's student team wins $10,000 in ...
Emily LeBlanc
Saint Mary’s University unveils ambitious new ...

Winter walking safety tips

Falling temperatures and snowy weather increase the risk of slips and falls. Follow these tips to help you navigate icy paths safely!   

  • Wear boots or overshoes with grip soles. Slick leather or plastic soles on shoes will increase the risk of slipping.  

  • When getting out of your vehicle, look down at the surface. If it’s coated with ice, you might want to try to park in a different place. Call Facilities Management at 902-420-5572 and advise of icy areas.  

  • Take care when entering or exiting vehicles and use the vehicle for support. Before standing, brace yourself with the vehicle door and seat back for added stability.  

  • Ice grippers on footwear can help you walk on hard-packed snow and ice. But be careful! Grippers become dangerously slippery and must be removed before walking on smooth surfaces such as stone, tile, and ceramic.  

  • Don’t walk with your hands in your pockets; this reduces the ability to use your arms for balance if you slip.  

  • Take short shuffling steps in extremely icy areas.

  • Place your full attention on walking. Digging in your pocketbook or backpack while walking on ice is dangerous.  

  • Test potentially slick areas by tapping your foot on them. 

  • Practice a balancing act indoors if you are unsure of your balance. Practice single-leg balance exercises (for example, stand on one foot first, then the other) near a support until you feel more confident.  

  • Slow down and take your time. Do not take risks, like climbing over snow banks.  

Reduce potential injury when falling with these tips: 

  • Roll with the fall. Try to twist and roll backwards, rather than falling forward. 

  • If you are falling backwards, tuck your chin to your chest to help prevent your head from hitting the ground.  

  • Relax as much as possible when you begin to fall. 

  • If you are carrying a load, just toss it. Protect yourself instead of the objects being carried.  

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Jacob Hanley: 2024 winner of President’s Award for Excellence in Research

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Dr. Jacob Hanley, recipient of the 2024 winner of President’s Award for Excellence in Research at Saint Mary’s.

As a global leader in the field of geochemistry and mineral resource geology, Dr. Jacob Hanley’s research conducted on campus at Saint Mary’s and nationally and internationally has been an influential force for faculty, students, industry partners and the scientific community.

Always happy to mentor the next generation of researchers, Dr. Hanley has supervised more than 50 BSc honours theses and graduate theses at SMU, with alumni moving on to successful careers in industry, government and academia. His lab’s active, varied research scope includes considerable student involvement, many industry and government funding sources, and spans a continent and centuries of data.

In a partnership with the Nova Scotia Museum, Dr. Hanley is currently engaged in an interdisciplinary collaboration with archaeologists, geochemists, and community members that may rewrite the understanding of pre-contact copper trade across North America. Using the chemical composition of copper from protohistoric sites in Nova Scotia, this research group is also tracking copper from its place of origin in 16th and 17th century Swedish mines to the Maritimes Basin of Canada, where it was repurposed by Indigenous peoples.

Another major research theme focuses on the geochemical origin of deposits of critical metals such as tin, tungsten, cobalt and lithium. Dr. Hanley’s team has developed ways of measuring concentrations of these metals at their source, deep in the Earth’s crust, by analyzing microscopic samples of trapped magma in crystals that are transported to surface during eruption. The supply of these metals is threatened, a concern that Canada has recognized as they are essential to national economic security and the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Recognized for his research excellence, Dr. Hanley has won national awards, contributed to dozens of peer-reviewed publications and has received significant research funding, including $2.6 million as Principal Investigator from industry and government sources.

His career has already been exceptionally productive, creative, and influential, and we anticipate even more interesting work from him as it progresses.

Dr. Hanley earned his PhD in Geology from the University of Toronto, where he also earned a Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) in Mining Engineering and a Master of Science (Geology). Now a full-tenured professor, he has held increasingly senior faculty roles in the Department of Geology at Saint Mary’s since 2007.

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 atsmu.ca/fgsr/presidents-award.

Saint Mary’s University unveils ambitious new Strategic Plan, “World Without Limits”

Aerial view of campus surrounded by greenery and the halifax harbour

Saint Mary’s University has launched its latest strategic plan, “World Without Limits,” setting a transformative vision for the next five years. The plan builds on the university’s strengths in student experience and in equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility while fostering community engagement and faculty and staff success. 

Vision for the future 

The strategic plan outlines five key priorities that will guide the university’s efforts: 

  1. Discovery and Learning with Purpose: Saint Mary’s commits to fostering a vibrant culture of research, teaching and learning that reflects our core values. 

  2. Healthy and Successful Community: Saint Mary’s will create a community that is accessible and inspiring, providing support and strengthening the university experience for students, faculty and staff.

  3. Sustainability: The university is committed to long-term fiscal sustainability through careful and strategic management of institutional resources, while embracing environmental sustainability in the design of buildings and shared spaces.

  4. Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility: The university will promote a safe and welcoming place of learning, working and belonging that is equitable, inclusive and accessible for Black and Indigenous people, people of colour, people with disabilities, members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and other equity-deserving groups.

  5. Community Relationships and Philanthropy:  Saint Mary’s will enhance relationships with alumni, donors, government and other community partners. 

Reflecting on the plan, President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray said, “Saint Mary’s occupies a unique position in Canada; our students and our alumni know this. We stand out by providing an exceptional student experience full of opportunity, while providing a warm and supportive environment. We will build on our distinction and grow our strengths by acting on this strategic plan.”  

A commitment to community 

Saint Mary’s University has a long-standing tradition of community engagement. The new strategic plan reinforces this commitment by promoting initiatives that benefit both the local and global communities. From collaborative research projects to a fundraising campaign to community service programs, the university aims to make a positive impact beyond its campus. 

Development of the strategic plan began in 2021 and involved 730 individuals who took the opportunity to provide input through 60 workshops and five focus groups.  

The strategic plan was endorsed by Senate and approved by the Board of Governors and is now being shared with the broader community and all of SMU’s stakeholders.  

As Saint Mary’s University embarks on this new chapter, the strategic plan serves as a roadmap for the future. By prioritizing people and sustainability while seeking to make a positive impact in the greater community, the university is poised to achieve its vision and build on its position as one of Canada’s best primarily undergraduate universities. 

Faculty and staff honored at 30th annual Employee Recognition Awards

The 30th Annual Employee Recognition Awards took place on November 22, marking special milestones and celebrating the important work of many Saint Mary’s faculty and staff. Members of the SMU community from across faculties and departments filled the McNally Theatre Auditorium to show support for their colleagues.

Hosted by People & Culture and the President’s Office, the event gives the university community an opportunity to acknowledge valued colleagues who have contributed to the richness and diversity of the university and make Saint Mary’s a special place to work and learn. Mark Moffett, Associate Vice-President, People & Culture, highlighted the importance of making the time to recognize and celebrate faculty and staff not only during this special event but also in our day-to-day work.

Forty-four faculty and staff were recognized for service milestones of 10, 25, and 35 years of service, including part-time faculty and instructors with 15 years of affiliation with the university. View the full list of recipients in the digital program.

The President’s Awards for Exemplary Service were awarded to three employees, with one receiving an honourable mention:

  • Margaret McKee – Faculty, Sobey School of Business

  • Cindy Murtha – Staff, Financial Services, Planning & Analysis

  • Brennan Daley – Staff, Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre

  • Tara Inman – Staff, Mathematics & Computing Science (Honorable Mention)

These employees were nominated by colleagues and/or students and selected by a committee. The award recognizes employees who have demonstrated outstanding service and/or who have made significant contributions to the university community beyond that normally expected for their positions.

Santamarian Awards for individual and team achievements were presented to Angie Lee of the Campus Bookstore and the SMU Security team. Melanie More-Duckworth from EIT and the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre team each received an honourable mention. These awards recognize collaboration and contributing to the creation of a respectful place of work and study within the university community; creating a positive impact through these efforts; and supporting equity, diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility while inspiring others.

Congratulations to the award recipients, who contribute in countless ways to the success of our students, our community, and our teaching and research environments. Visit the website for a full list of award recipients, and check back next fall to submit a nomination for the 2025 awards!

Accessibility Week: Allies for Access at Saint Mary’s University

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Accessibility Week: Allies for Access. Monday, December 2-Thursday, December 5, 2024.

Please join the Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility (FSC) as we celebrate Accessibility Week at Saint Mary's from December 2-5 to help celebrate the United Nations’ International Day for Persons with Disabilities on December 3. 

Accessibility information:
The Fred Smithers Centre strives to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals to engage fully. Please email fredsmithers.centre@smu.ca for accessibility requests and specific accommodations.

To learn more about accessibility at Saint Mary’s, visit the Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility.

Event highlights

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Cartoon of a diverse group of people accompanied by event information in text

Fred Smithers Centre Pop-Ups

Monday, December 2, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | The Exchange
Join the Fred Smithers Team for treats to kick off the week!

Wednesday, December 4, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | Loyola Colonnade
Visit the Fred Smithers Team in the Loyola Colonnade for treats and resource sharing!

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The Studio Presents: Accessible Word Documents & PowerPoints

Monday, December 2, 1-3 p.m. | AT 217

The Studio for Teaching and Learning provides an opportunity to learn how to create more accessible Word and PowerPoint documents. During the workshop participants will have an opportunity to work on their own document(s) and ask questions.   

Student Employment Initiative Study Session

Tuesday, December 3 & December 10, 12-2 p.m. | 5th Floor Student Centre

Join us December 3rd and 10th from 12-2 p.m. on the 5th floor of the Student Centre. Meet other SEI students and the SEI staff, work in a calm environment and enjoy some free snacks! You do not need to be enrolled in SEI to attend.

Please feel free to email sei@smu.ca if there is anything we can do to make this study session comfortable for you.
We hope to see you there!

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Accessibility Photo Scavenger Hunt

Tuesday, December 3 & Wednesday, December 4 | Virtual

Join us on December 3 & 4, 2024 for a fun, photo-fueled adventure around campus. Navigate the built environment of Saint Mary’s University and photograph as many of the following as possible:

  • Accessible building entrances

  • Accessible parking spots

  • Unoccupied accessible washrooms

  • Signs with braille or raised lettering

  • Tactile indicators (like paving/floor markings)

  • Visual fire alarms

  • Accessible ramps “Curb cuts” (dropped curbs)

  • Chair lifts or elevators

  • Grab rails

  • Seating near areas with line-ups

Once you’ve got your photos, email them to smuaccessibility@smu.ca by noon on Wednesday, December 4, 2024.

Bonus: Submit photos of 5+ items for a chance to win a prize!

Note: Your photos may also be featured in future SMU accessibility projects. Happy hunting, and good luck!

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Breakfast Club

Tuesday, December 3, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | The Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility,

Join us at the Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility on the third floor of the Student Centre for a hot breakfast to celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities!

This event is hosted by the Community Food Room in partnership with The Fred Smithers Centre!

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Allies for Access: Introducing the New Accommodations Policy at SMU (Faculty)

Tuesday, January 14, 1-2 p.m. | Virtual (RESCHEDULED)

Faculty are invited to join the Fred Smithers Team for a discussion about the new Senate-approved Academic Accommodations for Students with Disabilities Policy!

Click here to register for Academic Accommodations for Students with Disabilities

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The Studio Presents: Accessible PDFs

Wednesday, December 4, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | AT 217

Join the Studio for Teaching and Learning to explore creating more accessible PDFs using various software. Learn how PDFs are processed for various neuro-diverse experiences, explore accessibility check tools and get templates to build off accessible-ready documents. This hands-on workshop will allow participants to develop or work on their own documents, get help and ask questions.   

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Therapy Dog Drop-In

Wednesday, December 4, 2-4 p.m. | Fred Smithers Centre for Student Accessibility

Get ready for a paw-sitively amazing event! Join Meri, the St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog for a barking good time. Meri will be here to show us the importance of self-care and emotional support during a stressful time. Don’t miss out on this furry-tale event!

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Opening Up: Disclosing & Building Allyship with Friends

Thursday, December 5, 4-5 p.m. | Loyola 188

Join Peer Coach Hailey for Pizza and a discussion about how to create a supportive friend group!

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16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

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November 25-December 10, 2024

Saint Mary’s University is committed to fostering and advancing equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility on our campus. Commemorative days serve as anchors, prompting us to contemplate our collective past, celebrate our accomplishments, and work towards a better future for all. The theme of this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence is Come Together, Act Now; we invite you to join us in remembrance, unity and action on campus.

Purple Ribbon Campaign: Wear a purple ribbon throughout the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence to help create awareness and show your support for ending gender-based violence.

White Ribbon Campaign: Men and boys wear white ribbons throughout the 16 Days of Activism to speak out against gender-based violence, showing their commitment to ending violence against women and girls, promoting gender equity, healthy relationships and a new vision of masculinity.

Please join us on November 25 to place a purple and/or white ribbon on the Saint Mary’s Remembrance Tree after the Sexual Violence Prevention Initiative Speakers Series.

Events

The Sexual Violence Prevention Initiative Speakers Series

Monday, November 25

3:30-5 p.m. | Loyola 188

Highlighting community organizations that are working to prevent and respond to gender-based violence. All are invited to meet SMU Graduate student and Manager of Humane Canada’s ACT (Awareness, Collaboration, Tools) Project, Sue O’Neill, to learn about strategies for supporting survivors of gender-based violence with animals in accessing support services, safety planning and help-seeking.

Service Expo

Tuesday, November 26

12-2:30 p.m. | Patrick Power Library Community Space

Meet representatives from the Saint Mary’s Sexual Violence Support Centre as well as other community supports in place to support gender-based violence prevention and response. Information and resources for on and off-campus support will be available.

Survivor Art Workshop (students only)

Wednesday, November 27

5:30-7:30 p.m. | Loyola 181

Students who have experienced sexual and gender-based harm are invited to come share space with each other in a casual environment and participate in a gently guided art affirmation practice. 

Refreshments will be shared and supportive resources and more information about SMU Campus supports will be available.

National Day of Remembrance & Action on Violence Against Women

December 6

10:30 | CLARI Room (Atrium 340)

Join us to commemorate the lives of the 14 women who were murdered at Polytechnique Montreal on December 6, 1989, and others who have experienced gender-based violence, highlighting the increased prevalence of violence and discrimination faced by Indigenous People, 2SLGBTQI+ and gender diverse people, individuals living with disabilities and other marginalized groups. 

Human Rights Day

December 10 is a time to universally acknowledge, defend, and enjoy Human Rights and assume communal and individual responsibility for protecting, reducing inequalities and advancing these rights for ALL individuals.

2024 Theme: Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now.

What will YOU do to improve the current state of human rights globally while safeguarding the common future of Human Rights for all?

Personal Care Drive

November 25 – December 10

Please help women and children impacted by gender-based violence by donating personal care products such as deodorant, toothpaste/brushes, soap/facial wash, hair products, period products, manicure kits, journals and small children’s toys such as puzzles or books. Donations will go to a local women’s shelter, the Saint Mary’s Women’s Centre and the Sexual Violence Support Centre to support individuals who have experienced gender-based harm.

Drop off donations to any of the Purple Donation Boxes in the following locations:

  • Human Resources, McNally South Rm 111                                  

  • Sexual Violence Support Centre                                                      

  • SMUSA Information Desk                                                                   

  • Library                                                                                                     

  • SAAS Reception (3rd Floor Student Centre)                                   

  • Science Building – Dean’s Office (S221)                                        

  • Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre

  • Homburg Centre

  • Women’s Centre

  • Loyola Residence Desk

  • Student Welcome Centre

  • Sobey School – Dean’s Office

  • Arts – Dean’s Office

SMUSA Wellness Week: November 24-29

Join SMUSA and departments across Saint Mary’s for Fall Wellness Week from November 24-29, 2024. This week-long event series hosts activities geared towards mental health and well-being. Events include therapy dogs, paint night, pop-up health clinics, music, exercise sessions, massages, food and so much more. We welcome students, faculty and staff to attend as many events as they like! 

Accessibility Information
We aim to make our events inclusive for everyone. Contact SMUSA if you have any questions or concerns.

Prizes!
Wellness Week is packed with fun and engaging events this semester.  Attend as many as you can (or at least one!) for a chance to win a $100 gift card, plus other prizes. How to enter?

  1. Check out the Fall 2024 Wellness Week schedule below

  2. Make sure to sign in at every event you attend via a signup sheet or QR code

  3. Two ways to win:
    - The students with the highest attendance will win a prize.
    - Students who attended at least one event will be entered into a raffle to win a prize (every event you attend counts as an additional raffle ticket).

Results will be shared by December 6!

Sunday, November 24

RWT Book Club

Presented by the Res Wellness Team

Noon | Meet in front of the Patrick Power Library and walk to the Halifax Central Library

Monday, November 25

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Gender Affirming Care Information Session


Presented by the Pride Society, Student Health Clinic, RainBEAU Committee, SMUSA Health Plan Office and the North End Pharmacy

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | 5th Floor Common Space, Student Centre

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Matinee Movie Monday

Presented by SMUSA

2-4 p.m. | The Gorsebrook Lounge

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Eastern College Massages

Presented by SMUSA

1-5 p.m. | Library Classroom | Li 135

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Spin Class

Presented by SMUfit

5:15 p.m. | Homburg Centre, Studio C

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Writing for Mental Health: Exploring Well-being Through Poetry & Journaling


Presented by the 2SLGBTQIA+ Wellness Ambassador with The Counselling Centre and faculty members

5:30-7:30 p.m.

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Barbershop & Salon Talks


Presented by SMUSA the Interim Black Student Advisor

6-9 p.m. | LA 290

Tuesday, November 26

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Tune-sy Tuesday Mental Health Music Jam

Presented by The Fred Smithers Centre

Noon-1:30 p.m. | 1st Floor Student Centre Lobby (couches in front of the elevator)

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SVSC Services Pop-Up

Presented by the Sexual Violence Support Centre

Noon-2 p.m. | Library Community Space

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Meet Meri the Therapy Dog

Presented by The Fred Smithers Centre

Noon-2 p.m. | SC 309, 3rd Floor of Student Centre, Fred Smithers Centre

Learning Skills Workshop: Focus & Concentration

Presented by the Student Success Centre

4-5 p.m. | LA 297

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‘Sip & Paint’ hosted by Mauya The Abstract Tribe

Presented by SMUSA

6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. | Gorsebrook Lounge | SMUSA

Wednesday, November 27

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YogaLates

Presented by SMUFit

8:30-9:30 a.m. | Homburg Centre, Studio A

Laptops on a desk

Fall Finals Pop-Up with the Peer Success Coaches

Presented by the Student Success Centre

10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Loyola Colonnade | Student Success Centre

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Well Wednesday

Presented by The Counselling Centre

11 a.m.-noon | Look for the counselling team around campus

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Hygiene Kits Pop-Up

Presented by the SMU Community Food Room

11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Loyola Collonade

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STI Screening Clinic

Presented by the Student Health Clinic and the SMUSA Health Plan Office

1-4 p.m. | SC 403, Student Health Clinic

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MHA Study Session

Presented by the Health & Wellness Society, Psychology Society and the Counselling Centre

3-4:30 p.m. | Library Classroom, LI 135

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Nurture Wellness: Planting for Peace of Mind

Presented by the Gardening Society

4-6 p.m. | MAUD, McNally Main

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Kiss of Nature DIY lip balms

Presented by the Res Wellness Team

5-8 p.m. | LA 178

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Mocktail Mix Off

Presented by SMU Keep It Social

5:30-7 p.m. | AT 216

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Survivor Art Space

Presented by the Sexual Violence Support Centre

5:30-7:30 p.m. | LA 181

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Trivia Night (Holiday Movies)

Presented by SMUSA

7-8 p.m. | Gorsebrook Lounge

Thursday, November 28

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Flo Meditation + Wellness

Presented by SMUFit

11 a.m.-noon | SC 5th Floor, Student Lounge

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Therapy Dogs

Presented by The Patrick Power Library

Noon-1 p.m. | Library Classroom (Room LI135)

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Influenza (Flu) & COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic

Presented by the Student Health Clinic and SMUSA Health Plan Office

1-4:15 p.m. | SC 403, Student Health Clinic, Student Centre

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Make your own stress ball!

Presented by Career & Experiential Learning

1-4 p.m. | 4th Floor Student Centre

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Make the Most of Your Food Dollar Workshop

Presented by the Health & Wellness Society and the Nova Scotia Health Authority

1:30-3 p.m. | TBC

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Board Game Cafe

Presented by SMUSA

6-9 p.m. | Student Common Space

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Gin & Jazz Night

Presented by SMUSA

7 p.m.-1 a.m. | Gorsebrook Lounge

Friday, November 29

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Yoga

Presented by SMUFit

1-1:45 p.m. | Homburg Centre, Studio A

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Christmas Movie Marathon

Presented by SAGA and the International Student Success Centre

1-6 p.m. | Burke Theatre B

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The Science of Thriving: Cultivating Psychological Well-Being Workshop

Presented by SMUFit

1:30 - 3:30 p.m. | The Homburg Centre Classroom (HC211)

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Turning the Sexual Health Stigma Inside Out

Presented by the Res Wellness Team and the Res Consent Project

5-8 p.m. | AT 101

Wellness Resources

For more information about wellness, please visit SMUSA Wellness Resources and SMU Health, Wellness & Supports.

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Experience Ventures program brings 152 new experiential learning opportunities for students in Atlantic Canada 

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Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre Partners with the Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking to bring Experience Ventures to students across Atlantic Canada. Experience Ventures pairs students with startups and businesses nationwide – giving 2100 students real-world placement opportunities and giving businesses access to emerging talent.

The Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre at Saint Mary’s University has recently signed an agreement to be the Regional Lead Atlantic Canada partner in Experience Ventures, a national program led by The Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking at the University of Calgary and funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Innovative Work-Integrated Learning Initiative. This partnership presents 152 new experiential learning opportunities for students in

Atlantic Canada to work directly with businesses, enhancing their skill sets and gaining valuable entrepreneurial experience. – but also - There are five diverse placement opportunities, including Hackathons, Challenges, Project Experiences, Student-in-Residence, and Interdisciplinary Team Projects. In each placement, students work on real-world challenges, gaining hands-on experience while earning honorariums. Business partners get access to fresh thinking and the next generation of talent.

“Entrepreneurial thinking is essential to enriching lives and advancing prosperity in Canada,” says Anica Vasic, Senior Director of Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives at the Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking. “Our goal is to ignite an entrepreneurial mindset in students across Canada to develop the next generation of talent that will build our future. With entrepreneurial thinking as our north star, we’ve helped students across the nation step outside the classroom and gain the future-ready skills they need to thrive in the new world of work. The Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre is a recognized Canadian leader in helping nurture this entrepreneurial mindset, which is why we’re so excited to welcome Atlantic Canada into the Experience Ventures network.”

“Young people are ready to dive in, test their ideas and turn their ideas into action. That’s why we’re so proud to support Experience Ventures through the Innovative Work Integrated Learning Initiative. This is about giving students real opportunities to learn and grow, connecting them with startups and businesses from coast to coast,” says The Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth. “They’ll sharpen their problem-solving skills, gain hands-on experience and carry it forward to their future careers—whether that means launching their own business or stepping into the career they’ve dreamed of.”

How it works:

• Projects run from October 2024 to February 2025.

• Students and businesses apply through Experience Ventures at the Arthur L. Irving. Entrepreneurship Centre.

• Companies provide in-kind support.

• Both students and companies go through an onboarding process and participate in one of five types of entrepreneurial thinking placements.

“Entrepreneurship and innovation are vehicles that empower students to change the world and change themselves. Experience Ventures gives students that all-important ‘hands-on’ entrepreneurial experience, working with real businesses on real challenges and opportunities,” says Michael Sanderson, Director, Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, Saint Mary’s University. “We are excited to work in partnership with the Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking to bring these opportunities to Atlantic Canada.

 For deadlines and details on all 152 placement opportunities, please visit our website.

About The Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking at the University of Calgary

The Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking is a dynamic community centre dedicated to fostering student entrepreneurship, empowering faculty innovation, and building a network of entrepreneurial minds. Our mission is to enhance the University of Calgary’s entrepreneurial capacity, enabling our community to drive positive global change. Positioned as a catalyst, the Hunter Hub supports University of Calgary’s vision to become “Canada’s most entrepreneurial university.”

About the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre and Saint Mary’s University

The Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre at Saint Mary’s University is a creative and collaborative space open to all students in Atlantic Canada. With a focus on growth, innovation and cultivating the entrepreneurial mindset, the Centre supports students and businesses – helping both grow and prosper. In the last 5-years, more than 4,000 students and 3,000 businesses have engaged with the Centre.

Le Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking s'associe avec Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre afin de proposer « Experience Ventures » aux étudiants du Canada atlantique.

Experience Ventures est une initiative qui connecte des étudiants avec des jeunes pousses et des entreprises établies à travers le pays. Ce programme offre à 2 100 étudiants des opportunités de stage pratique tout en permettant aux entreprises de découvrir et de collaborer avec des talents émergents prometteurs.

Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre de l'Université Saint Mary's a récemment signé un accord pour devenir le principal partenaire régional du Canada atlantique dans le cadre d'Experience Ventures, un programme national dirigé par le Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking de l'Université de Calgary et financé en partie par l’initiative d’apprentissage innovant intégré au travail du gouvernement du Canada.

Ce partenariat ouvre la voie à 152 nouvelles opportunités d’apprentissage expérientiel pour les étudiants du Canada atlantique. Ils auront la chance de collaborer directement avec des entreprises, d'améliorer leurs compétences et de gagner une précieuse expérience professionnelle. Le programme propose cinq types de stages différents : marathons de programmation, défis, expérience en projets, étudiants en résidence et projets d’équipe interdisciplinaires. Ces stages offriront aux étudiants la possibilité de s'attaquer à des défis concrets, d'acquérir une expérience pratique précieuse tout en étant rémunérés. Les entreprises partenaires profiteront de l'occasion pour se rapprocher de la prochaine génération de talents et accéder à de nouvelles idées innovantes.

Déclaration du Hunter Hub

« La pensée entrepreneuriale est essentielle pour enrichir la vie et promouvoir la prospérité au Canada », déclare Anica Vasic, directrice principale des partenariats et des initiatives stratégiques au Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking. « Notre objectif est d'inculquer un esprit entrepreneurial chez les étudiants à travers le Canada. Nous sommes fiers de former laprochaine génération de talents qui bâtira notre avenir. En adoptant la pensée entrepreneuriale comme fil conducteur, nous aidons les étudiants de tout le pays à développer les compétences nécessaires pour réussir dans le monde du travail moderne. Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre est un chef de file reconnu dans le développement de la pensée entrepreneuriale. Nous sommes ravis d'accueillir le Canada atlantique au sein du réseau Experience Ventures. »

Déclaration de l'honorable Marci Ien, Ministre des Femmes, de l'Égalité des genres et de la Jeunesse

« Les jeunes sont prêts à se lancer, à tester leurs idées et à les concrétiser. C’est pourquoi nous soutenons avec fierté Experience Ventures à travers l'initiative d’apprentissage innovant intégré au travail. L'objectif est de fournir aux étudiants des opportunités concrètes d'apprentissage et de développement, en les connectant avec des jeunes pousses et des entreprises établies à travers tout le pays. Ils amélioreront leurs compétences en résolution de problèmes et acquerront une expérience pratique précieuse qu'ils pourront appliquer à leurs futures carrières, qu'il s'agisse de créer leur propre entreprise ou de décrocher le poste idéal. »

Comment ça marche :

• Les projets se dérouleront d'octobre 2024 à février 2025.

• Les étudiants et les entreprises postulent via Experience Ventures sur le site internet de Arthur L.

Irving Entrepreneurship Centre.

• Les entreprises offrent un soutien en nature.

• Les étudiants et les entreprises passent par un processus d'intégration et participent à l’un des cinq types de stages de pensée entrepreneuriale.

• Les entreprises intéressées par les prochains stages doivent postuler avant le 17 octobre sachant que les places sont limitées.

Citation du Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre

« L'entrepreneuriat et l'innovation sont des leviers puissants qui permettent aux étudiants de transformer le monde et de se transformer eux-mêmes. Experience Ventures offre aux étudiants cette expérience entrepreneuriale essentielle, en travaillant avec de vraies entreprises sur des défis et des opportunités concrets », déclare Michael Sanderson, directeur du Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre à l'Université Saint Mary's. « Nous sommes ravis de travailler en partenariat avec le Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking pour offrir ces opportunités au Canada atlantique. »

À propos du Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking de l'Université de Calgary

Le Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking est un centre communautaire dynamique dédié à promouvoir l'entrepreneuriat auprès des étudiants, à encourager l'innovation académique et à créer un réseau d'esprits entrepreneurs.

Notre mission est de renforcer la capacité entrepreneuriale de l'Université de Calgary pour favoriser un changement positif à l'échelle mondiale. Le Hunter Hub soutient la vision de l'Université de Calgary de devenir « l'université la plus entrepreneuriale du Canada. »

À propos du Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre et de l'Université Saint Mary's

Le Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre de l'Université Saint Mary's est un espace créatif et collaboratif accessible à tous les étudiants du Canada atlantique. En se concentrant sur la croissance, l'innovation et la culture entrepreneuriale, le Centre soutient activement les étudiants et les entreprises dans leur développement et leur réussite. Au cours des cinq dernières années, plus de 4 000 étudiants et 3 000 entreprises ont collaboré avec le Centre.

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Students innovate retail at Market Price Hackathon

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More than 30 undergraduate students from Saint Mary’s, Dalhousie, Mount Saint Vincent and NSCAD gathered for the two-day Market Price Hackathon held on October 30 and November 6. The event brought together talented students to take on an engaging challenge: boosting foot traffic during the winter months for an alumni-owned retail business, Market Price.  

In collaboration with the David Sobey Retail Centre and the Experience Ventures team at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, this hackathon offered students the unique chance to dive into the world of retail innovation. They were mentored by Market Price’s own dynamic founders, Matthew Smith BComm’18 and Lauren Ferguson BComm’20, who provided hands-on guidance from start to finish, as well as by retail expert Rameesh Venkat, Director of the David Sobey Retail Centre. Market Price's unique branding, inspired by a fish market, tells a visual story that students thoughtfully integrated into their Hackathon concepts. This narrative, woven into Market Price’s space and branding, served as a critical design anchor for student teams as they developed ideas. 

Students tackled their task with innovative ideas, ranging from immersive in-store experiences to community-driven events. They used entrepreneurial thinking to craft strategies that would draw in customers despite Halifax’s chilly winter. One unforgettable idea came from a student team who proposed an attention-grabbing “Break the Ice” event. Their concept? Encasing a pair of Market Price’s signature sneakers in a giant block of ice displayed outside the store during winter. Shoppers and passersby would have the chance to chip away at the ice, with the lucky first person to fully break through winning the shoes. The idea sparked excitement among mentors and students alike, showcasing the team’s creative approach to engaging the community and drawing in new customers. 

“The Market Price Hackathon was incredible!” shared one student participant. “Being able to work with real business owners like Matt and Lauren while getting direct input on our ideas really gave us a taste of the entrepreneurial world.” 

"It was great to be part of it. We learned a lot from the students, and it was really nice to get involved with the community and our alumni connection [at Saint Mary’s University]," says Lauren. “I definitely recommend other businesses participate in the Experience Ventures Hackathon, especially small businesses in the community—it really gets you involved and sparks some great ideas,” Ferguson added. 

More opportunities are coming for you! Spots are limited—find our upcoming events and sign up today here. 

Experience Ventures, powered by the Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking at the University of Calgary, enables post-secondary students to make an impact alongside real-world innovators through entrepreneurial thinking placements. Experience Ventures is funded by the Government of Canada and is delivered in partnership with post-secondary institutions nationwide. Saint Mary’s University’s Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre is the Regional Lead Atlantic Canada partner in Experience Ventures. 

Read more: Experience Ventures program brings 152 new experiential learning opportunities for students in Atlantic Canada  

Accessibility focus groups and survey

We want to hear from you!  

Please help us make Saint Mary’s University a more accessible and inclusive place for everyone! 

We invite you to share your experiences and insights by participating in a focus group and/or completing our accessibility survey.  Please consider taking part —your feedback is essential to shaping our 2025–2028 Saint Mary’s University accessibility plan. 

Focus Groups 

We will be hosting focus groups on the following dates:  

  • Monday, November 25, 3:00 pm
    On campus (details will be provided upon registration) 
    Please register before November 21, 2024   
     

  • Thursday, November 28, 10 am  
    On campus (details will be provided upon registration) 

    Please register before November 25, 2024 

    To register, please use your SMU email account to contact Jennifer Webb (jennifer.webb@smu.ca) and include the following information:  

    • full name

    • role (student, employee, other)  

    • any accommodation requests  
       

Survey 

The survey will be open on November 28, 2024. Watch for the link in the next Saint Mary’s University community bulletin!

What you need to know about a possible Canada Post strike

Canada Post has provided the following update on the current labour negotiations with CUPW:

  • While we are all hopeful that an agreement will be reached, there is a possibility that a labour disruption may occur.

  • Strike action could begin on November 15 if postal workers can’t negotiate a new contract.

  • Since a labour disruption remains a possibility, customers are encouraged to take precautions.

What this means for postal service at Saint Mary’s

  • Canada Post will not operate in the event of a full labour disruption. Mail and parcels will not be delivered and no new items will be accepted.

  • Mail and parcels currently in the postal system would be secured for the duration of a disruption and be delivered as quickly as possible when they resume operations.

  • Since Canada Post is considered an essential service, they could be legislated back to work if there is a strike.

Mail Services encourages all departments to seek out other ways to communicate and send data.

You may wish to consider:

  • Using electronic means of scan/e-mail/fax whenever possible.

  • Consider using one of our courier agreements:

    1. Local courier: All Points Courier/Medic Delivery Services

    2. UPS/FedEx: NOTE: UPS, FedEx, and other major courier deliveries to rural areas also could be affected because, in certain cases, Canada Post carries these documents and parcels for the last few kilometres of their journey.

      Dan Wile, Mail Services, McNally Main 023

If you have questions or need assistance, please contact:

Dan Wile, Mail Services, McNally Main 023
P: 420-5178
E: dan.wile@smu.ca

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Snowboarder competing for SMU and Canada at World University Games

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Tristan on a ski hill in snowboard gear

Tristan Weigelin

While many of us are dreading the arrival of winter snow, Tristan Weigelin can’t wait for it. Next week, the Dartmouth athlete heads to the Yukon for pre-season training to prepare for an international snowboarding competition. In January, he will represent Saint Mary’s University and Canada in the snowboard cross competition at the 2025 FISU World University Games in Torino, Italy. 

With little time left to prepare for the trip to Europe, the first-year Arts student is focused on training and fundraising, along with his schoolwork, as the fall term wraps up. He invites the SMU community to join him on Saturday, November 16 for a Pub Night Fundraiser at the Gorsebrook Lounge on campus. Drop by from 7 to 10 p.m. to meet Tristan, win prizes and enjoy a night out with friends. Up for grabs are winnings from a 50/50 draw, a snowboard, and two full-day lift tickets and rentals at Ski Martock.  

Tristan’s earliest experience with downhill snow sports was at age four when he first started skiing. He recalls, “Apparently, after my first ski lesson, I went up to my mom and said, ‘That was fun. When can I snowboard?’”  

He got his first snowboard at age eight and has been “shredding up mountains ever since.” His whole family has enjoyed snowboarding for years, and his younger brother Owen also races competitively.  

Tristan wears a SMU tshirt and poses with his snowboard inside the Gorsebrook pub

Tristan will host a fundraiser at the Gorsebrook Pub on November 16 to support his trip to the FISU World University Games in Italy

A member of the Nova Scotia Snowboarding Team until going solo recently, Tristan has won more than 40 medals and was the provincial series champion in 2018, 2019 and 2022. In 2023, he represented Nova Scotia at the Canada Winter Games, and he has seen success in races across the country. He appreciates the adrenaline rush of racing and the discipline and focus required to navigate the various banks, turns, rollers, jumps and other challenges of a Snowboard Cross track.   

Tristan is among six athletes representing Canada in snowboard cross at Torino, including four men and two women. They’ll have just a few days to practise on the track in Italy before the competition begins on January 13. A few weeks ahead of time, all participants will receive a CGI version of the track to study, a 3D digital model of what to expect. In the meantime, Tristan is busy with fitness conditioning, weight training and specific workouts for core strength, balance and agility.  

“Snowboarding has shaped who I am, both on and off the slopes,” he says on his Snow Athletes Canada webpage. Competing in the sport has helped to develop qualities that make a difference in school and everyday life as well, from patience and flexibility to handling pressure.   

Tristan chose Saint Mary’s for his studies because the university offered programs in both criminology and Japanese studies, and he’s also dabbling in literature and ancient studies courses during his first year.   

“I’m taking a collage of things I’m interested in,” he says, adding that he hopes to study abroad in Japan for a year while completing his degree.  

Right now, he’s balancing schoolwork with fundraising efforts to help toward $10,000 in upcoming travel costs, accommodations in Italy, coaching and race fees and equipment, plus pre-season training in the Yukon from Nov. 22 to December 2.    

Along with Saturday’s pub night on campus, two more fundraisers are coming up:  

  • Oxygen Hot Yoga and Fitness hosts a yoga fundraiser on Sunday, November 17, 1-2 p.m.; 960 Cole Harbour Rd., Dartmouth.  

  • Colleen’s Pub in Dartmouth hosts a fundraiser on Friday, December 6, 7-10 p.m., with live music by Jeff Bonang; 200 Waverley Rd., Dartmouth