Sustainability…period!

From classroom to Aruna Revolution: how Bridget's MBAN is helping make menstrual products eco-friendly

Bridget Osundiji MBAN’24 blends her passion for business, sustainability and women’s health at Aruna Revolution

Fresh off her master’s from the Sobey School of Business, Bridget Osundiji, a young powerhouse, has found her calling as a Growth Marketing Specialist at Aruna Revolution, a Halifax-based start-up reimagining menstrual care products.

Bridget’s story is not just about academic achievement. It’s about purpose, passion and the power of using business to spark meaningful change.

Originally from Nigeria, Bridget relocated to Canada to pursue her dreams of higher education and living abroad. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Landmark University in Nigeria before coming to Saint Mary's, looking for a place to not only further her education but also launch her career. The Sobey School of Business Master of Business Analytics (MBAN), with its emphasis on responsible leadership and global perspectives, proved to be the right environment for her growth.

“For me, the master's program was a reality check. I knew it would be challenging, but I wasn’t prepared for how intense it would be—it was very fast-paced. There was always something to do, like assignments, rotations and workshops. It was go go go. I realized I had to prioritize and cut out unnecessary distractions. The program was tough, but it taught me a lot.”

After graduation, Bridget joined Aruna Revolution, a company focused on creating sustainable, compostable menstrual pads made from plant-based materials.

“The MBAN program was not just about education—it was about building relationships. SMU actually really helped with that. I got the internship at Aruna originally through a networking event. A lot of my classmates were able to secure job positions through those workshops.””

Bridget displays the plant-based materials used to create compostable menstrual pads at the Aruna Revolution warehouse in Dartmouth, NS

“Michael Zhang, the director of the MBAN program, is someone who is very passionate about the department and very passionate about the students. He wants to make sure that everybody's fine, everybody gets their job, and everybody understands what's going on in class. He helped with everything I needed. I really appreciate his support.”

The MBAN provides critical knowledge but also helps students develop a deep sense of purpose—one that now fuels Bridget’s work at Aruna Revolution. She continues to thrive in her now more permanent role, helping to develop strategies that not only promote the company's products but also raise awareness about the importance of sustainable menstrual care.

Bridget was recently recognized as Tribe Scholar of the Year at the Tribe Leader Summit, an event hosted by Tribe Network. Tribe Network is a community that supports racialized individuals in entrepreneurship and innovation by providing resources, opportunities and networks to help them succeed.

Empowering women, protecting the planet

Aruna Revolution’s mission of reducing plastic waste and empowering menstruators aligns perfectly with Bridget’s values. As someone passionate about sustainability and women’s health, she feels like she’s found her calling.

“Aruna is not just offering an alternative to traditional menstrual pads—we are offering a solution that’s better for the planet and the people who use them. It’s exciting to be part of a company that’s working toward real change in an industry that has long relied on plastic.”

Compostable menstrual pads are made from cattail, soybean raw material and extracted processed corn fibers

The bioreactors shown behind Bridget process the raw materials in a chemical solution to create the pad material

The company’s innovative approach to menstrual care is a direct response to the environmental harm caused by traditional products.

“It is about more than just creating and selling biodegradable menstrual products. I believe we are part of a larger movement toward a circular economy, where every product is designed with its full lifecycle in mind—from creation to composting.”

Aruna Revolution recently secured a deal on Dragons' Den with Michele Romanow and Manjit Minhas, who offered $300,000 for a 25% stake.

Bridget’s story exemplifies the transformative power of an education that blends business expertise with social responsibility. Her journey shows the profound impact responsible leadership, paired with a strong educational foundation, can have in today’s workplace and serves as a reminder that defining success in business can be found beyond just the numbers.

““Saint Mary’s gave me the tools to pursue a career that not only drives business success but also aligns with my values. I am proud to be part of a company that’s doing important work for both people and the planet.””

— Bridget Osundiji MBAN'24

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Related:

• Master of Business Analytics

• Celebrating International Women’s Day at Saint Mary’s

• Sustainability at SMU

Saint Mary's astronomers study swarms of black holes hiding in the Milky Way’s densest star clusters

Dr. Vincent Hénault-Brunet and Nolan Dickson MSc’22

Less than a decade ago, gravitational waves originating from two black holes merging in a distant galaxy were observed for the first time. Since then, the number of such detections has steadily increased, and much effort has been devoted to understanding the astrophysical origin of these cataclysmic events that send ripples through space-time. 

Two recent studies, spearheaded by Saint Mary’s researchers, shed new light on this topic by probing the populations of black holes hiding in the globular star clusters surrounding our Milky Way galaxy. The work was led by SMU graduate students Nolan Dickson and Peter Smith under the supervision of Dr. Vincent Hénault-Brunet and done in collaboration with researchers in Spain and Australia. 

Globular star clusters are promising cradles for black holes to form, remain close to one another, and sometimes gravitationally capture each other. This can produce tight binary systems in which the two black holes spiral down to merge, emitting gravitational waves in the process. These clusters are extremely compact and can contain up to a million stars that interact through gravity. Shortly after they formed 10 to 12 billion years ago, their short-lived massive stars died and left behind black holes. But until recently, it was thought that globular clusters could not hold on to their black holes. Recent theoretical work and simulations have suggested otherwise. While some black holes may experience strong enough natal kicks to eject themselves from their host cluster promptly, and others also escape after energetic “slingshot” interactions with other black holes, it doesn’t seem to deplete the black hole population of most clusters completely.  

In their study published in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society (MNRAS), Nolan Dickson MSc’22, PhD candidate and Durland Scholar, and collaborators put these ideas on firmer ground. By carefully comparing the observed spatial distribution and motions of stars in a sample of globular clusters with detailed dynamical models, they were able to infer the presence of up to a few hundred black holes near the centre of many clusters. These black holes typically amount to less than 1% of the cluster mass in these systems, which is small but still has important ramifications.

“Although we don’t see the black holes directly, they have a subtle but noticeable effect on the visible stars, effectively injecting energy into the rest of the cluster,” says Dickson. “Other research groups around the world have reached similar conclusions, but our study is the first one that simultaneously compares models to such a wide range of observations coming from different telescopes on the ground and in space. Our models are also very fast to compute, so we can easily explore a very large number of configurations with clusters containing varying amounts of black holes and make sure we identify the models that best match all of these rich datasets.” 

Peter Smith MSc’24

In a second study recently published in The Astrophysical Journal (ApJ), Peter Smith MSc’24, now a PhD candidate at the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy in Heidelberg, Germany, took this method one step further by using exotic astrophysical accelerometers. In addition to analyzing the positions and motions of stars in globular clusters, he also considered the precise timing of “millisecond pulsars”.

Pulsars are like cosmic lighthouses, rapidly rotating compact stellar remnants that emit beams of radiation out of their magnetic poles. When the beams periodically align with Earth (once per rotation, every 0.001 seconds or so for a millisecond pulsar!), pulses of energy can be detected. This makes them very precise and stable clocks. As pulsars move inside a globular cluster and are accelerated by all the stars and black holes, the measured time intervals between pulses change slightly.

“This allows us to use them as powerful probes of the dark mass inside globular clusters, in particular black holes. It’s especially helpful when not much is known about the motions of the stars, which can be difficult to measure in distant clusters obscured by interstellar dust”, comments Smith. Using this method, he and collaborators provided much improved constraints on the black hole content of two clusters that had been the subject of constant debate in the scientific community. “And things will only get better in the future, as the next generation of radio telescopes is expected to dramatically increase the number of detected pulsars in globular clusters,” Smith adds. 

These findings offer new insight and further evidence that globular star clusters can keep hold of a significant number of black holes. “It’s an exciting time to be working in this field. Following the detection of gravitational waves from black hole mergers, the study of globular clusters has experienced a renaissance”, says Dr. Vincent Hénault-Brunet. “But there is still a lot that we don’t understand. We are already working on how we can use our recent results to explore the physics of black hole formation and the birth conditions of globular clusters during the earliest stages of galaxy formation in the early universe.” 

Read more: 
 
 

• Multimass modelling of milky way globular clusters - II. Present-day black hole populations 

• Probing Populations of Dark Stellar Remnants in the Globular Clusters 47 Tuc and Terzan 5 Using Pulsar Timing 

By Dr. Vincent Hénault-Brunet

Celebrating International Women's Day

Saturday, March 8, is International Women’s Day (IWD), a global celebration of women and girls. This year, we’re challenged to amplify the voices of all women, create opportunities for women and girls and accelerate action for gender equality. Learn more about the Government of Canada’s Strength in Every Story theme and the IWD Accelerate Action theme.

Join the SMU community for uplifting events happening on campus and online in celebration of International Women’s Day, and read about the students and alumni whose leadership inspires us all.

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International Women's Day - Celebrating a Feminist Future

Wednesday, March 5
11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Loyola Colonnade

Join the Sexual Violence Support Centre team in the Loyola Colonnade to mark International Women's Day and celebrate a feminist future!

Drop by between 11-2 to honour a woman in your life, contribute to a special art exhibit and share a treat. All are welcome.

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Journalling Workshop for Black Students

Wednesday, March 5
2:30-4 p.m.
Loyola Private Dining Room, LA 298

Join the Black Student Advisor and the Sexual Violence Support Centre for a Journalling Workshop for Black students. FREE journals for the first 20 participants!

Shianne Gordon (Community Mobilization Coordinator with the East Preston Resource Centre and Community Navigator with Avalon Centre) will guide a journalling process of mindfulness and gratitude to support wellbeing.

Join us in Loyola 298 (Private Dining Room) for an afternoon of connection and reflection.

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Her Story: Empower Her

Wednesday, March 5
5:30-8 p.m.
Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre Inspiration Studio (SH 212)

Join us for a special Women’s Day celebration as we come together to honour the achievements and contributions of women across various fields.

This event will highlight how women are re-imagining success by breaking boundaries, overcoming challenges, and leading with courage, innovation, and resilience.

Meet Inspiring Speakers:

• Rashmi Prakash – CEO & Co-founder, Aruna Revolution

• Sayeda Nabila – Senior Market Manager, TELUS

• Navdeep Parmanand – Chief Curves Officer & Founder, Celebrate Your Curves

Join us for an afternoon of thought-provoking conversations, shared experiences, and powerful insights from trailblazing women redefining success in their fields. Register Here.

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Celebration of Women in Entrepreneurship

Friday, March 7
10-11:30 a.m.
Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre Inspiration Studio (SH 212)

Mark your calendars for March 7, 2025, as we come together to celebrate International Women’s Day at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre. This event is all about confidence, connection and celebration—an uplifting space to honour women entrepreneurs and change makers!

Why you should attend:

• Connect with like-minded women entrepreneurs, students, alumni and changemakers

• Be inspired by success stories from incredible women making an impact

• Engage in fun, empowering activities designed to boost confidence and self-reflection

• Enjoy delicious treats from women-owned businesses

This event is open to all students, alumni and community members, and we welcome everyone who believes in the power of women’s leadership and entrepreneurship. Register here.

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International Women's Day: Embodying Support

Monday, March 10
10 a.m.-noon
O’Donnell-Hennessey Student Centre, 5th floor common space

Join the Sexual Violence Prevention Initiative in celebration of International Women's Day at the Student Centre 5th Floor common space! Get a temporary tattoo of a purple and/or teal ribbon to show your solidarity and support for those who have been impacted by gender- and sexual-based violence.

Meet the SVPI team, get resources for available supports and grab some snacks for the day!

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Empowering Voices: A Talking Circle for Immigrant and Black Women Entrepreneurs

Wednesday, March 12
5:30-7:30 p.m.
Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre Inspiration Studio (SH 212)

If you are an immigrant woman entrepreneur, a Black woman entrepreneur, or both, we want to invite you to connect with us at our intimate Talking Circle!

This is not your typical formal event—it’s a welcoming space to exchange stories, reflect on personal journeys and build meaningful connections.

We'll gather in a cozy circle of seats, sharing our backgrounds and experiences in a warm, supportive environment. It’s a chance to feel connected, comfortable, and inspired—the perfect way to brighten up a cold winter evening.

What to Expect:

• Open conversations about challenges, barriers, and triumphs

• A supportive environment to learn from diverse cultures and perspectives

• Opportunities to foster new friendships and explore business growth in Halifax

Our Facilitator will be Keisha Turner BA'12, Co-Founder of Starberry Drink Co. Register here.

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Paint and Sip

Wednesday, March 19
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre Inspiration Studio (SH 212)

Come join us for a relaxing evening of creativity and tea at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre in support of local women-owned businesses! All ticket sales will go to a local woman-owned business or organization supporting women - we will do a draw at the end of the night. There will also be amazing giveaway prizes from local businesses for attendees.

There will be a tea bar with a selection of teas and snacks to keep you warm and someone to help guide you through the painting process. No experience is necessary; just bring your creativity and enthusiasm! This event is perfect for a fun night out with friends or a solo artistic adventure. Let's paint, sip, and unwind together! Register here.

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Recurring Events

EDIA Book Club

The book for the Winter Term is Inferior: How Science Got Women Wrong – and the New Research That's Rewriting the Story by Angela Saini.

The EDIA Book Club meets biweekly on Fridays from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. in Patrick Power Library room LI-135.

Remaining dates for this term: March 7, March 21, April 4

Visit the webpage for updates about which chapters to read and for more information about the book club. If you would like to be added to the EDIA book club mailing list, please reach out to Maheshi Dharmasiri (maheshi.dharmasiri@smu.ca).

Women in Sport Business Speaker Series

In this monthly online speaker series, women with expertise in the field of sport business share their insights, highlighting their important roles in the sport industry.

Next event: Tuesday, March 18 at 7 p.m. with Lindsay MacPhee DipEng’04. Register here.

Lindsay, a former chemical engineer turned entrepreneur, founded The Floatation Centre Health and Wellness in 2015. She will discuss the benefits of floatation therapy and holistic wellness for athletes.

For more information, visit the Scott McCain & Leslie McLean Centre for Sport, Business and Health website.

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50th Anniversary of Women in Varsity Sport

Former athletes, coaches and supporters gathered to celebrate the anniversary at Homecoming in October 2024

In 2024, Saint Mary's celebrated a monumental milestone: the 50th anniversary of women in varsity sports. The yearlong celebration showcased the inspiring journeys of female athletes who have shaped the university's athletic program, creating a legacy of achievement, determination and empowerment.

The highlight of the festivities took place during Homecoming in October 2024, when alumnae athletes, current student-athletes and prominent figures in women's sports gathered to celebrate the accomplishments and journey of the past 50 years of women in varsity athletics. It was more than just a celebration; it was a heartfelt tribute to the past, present and future of women's sports at SMU. Read more about the celebration and alumni highlights in Maroon + White alumni magazine.

Today, the SMU Huskies women’s teams are leading the pack!

Women’s Basketball AUS Champions 2024-2025

Women’s Volleyball AUS Champions 2024-2025

The Women’s Basketball Huskies won the 2024-2024 AUS Championships for the third season in a row! MBA student Clara Gascoigne was named the AUS Women's Basketball MVP, Defensive Player of the Year and Tournament MVP. Lucina Beaumont, Evie Hargraves and Aki Kobayashi were also recognized with AUS awards.

The Women’s Volleyball Huskies won the 2024-2025 AUS Championships, with left-side hitter Emilia Mikanovich named the AUS MVP and Playoff MVP. Grace Blaskovits was named AUS Rookie of the Year and Alena Piatukhova was named First Team All-Star.

Women’s Hockey captain Ashley Penney was recognized for her academic, athletic and community contributions with the AUS Student-Athlete Community Service Award. Abigail MacKenzie and Ava Shearer also received AUS awards.

In the Fall term, Cara Freeman was named 2024 AUS Women's Soccer First Team All-Star and Elliana Porter was named 2024 AUS Women's Rugby All-Star.

AUS award winners Clara Gascoigne, Ashley Penney and Emilia Mikanovich

Inspiring Students

Rheannon Richards BA’24 was the first woman to be awarded the Edna and Velma Thomas Kane Writers Award at last year’s Spring Convocation. She was recognized for giving back to her community as a tutor and conversation partner for newcomers. The $30,000 award was established in 2023 for undergraduate Arts students of African Nova Scotian or Black/African descent who aspire to careers in writing.

Commerce student and entrepreneur Olivian Sanderson was awarded a Dream Chaser Change Maker Award for Sociable, a mental health app for students, which she co-founded. The award provides a $10,000 scholarship and celebrates student entrepreneurs who use their businesses to address pressing social and environmental challenges. 

First-year Engineering student Mia Makhlouf received the Montreal Women’s Memorial Scholarship, which honours the memory of the 14 women who were killed on December 6, 1989 in an anti-feminist attack at the École Polytechnique, the engineering school at the Université de Montréal.

First-year student Emi Morse received the prestigious Honourable David C. Onley Scholarship Award from Canadian Hearing Services. This national scholarship is awarded to an individual who demonstrates outstanding academic achievements, resilience, and dedication as a leader in accessibility and the deaf community.

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International Women’s Day Collection at the Patrick Power Library

This year's theme, Strength in Every Story, highlights the importance of uplifting the voices of all women, especially those who continually face barriers to success. The SMU Library's International Women's Day book list celebrates women’s resilience, determination, and contributions to our past, present, and future.

Find the display on the ground floor of the library, or browse the book list online. All Library resources are free for SMU students, faculty, and staff to borrow. 

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More inspiring women at Saint Mary’s:

• Sustainability…period! From classroom to Aruna Revolution: how Bridget's MBAN is helping make menstrual products eco-friendly

• Anecia Shepherd: celebrating Black culture and women’s history through art

• Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre highlights Female Changemakers

• BComm student with focus on sustainability wins prestigious Frank H. Sobey Award

• 'A dream come true' Saint Mary's shot put star Katie Pegg set to compete at 2024 Paralympic Games 

• PWHL's Victoria Bach inspires young hockey players during campus visit

• Celebrating Women in Business: Highlights from the 2024 Conference

More events this month:

• March 6: Public reading by our SMU 2025 Writer-in-Residence Souvankham Thammavongsa

• March 12: Queer Market

• March 13: Upholding Sacred Obligations: Searching for the Missing and Disappeared Children

• March 14: Fighting for France: Secret Intelligence, War Memoirs, and How Josephine Baker Took on the British Empire

Watch as 64 students compete in The Arena, Canada’s premier pitch competition - starting March 3

The Arena is an online pitch competition running throughout March

The Arthur L Irving Entrepreneurship Centre will welcome 64 enterprising students from across Canada to The Arena, where they will compete for a total of $17,000. Modelled after the NCAA March Madness, students compete in dynamic head-to-head pitch competitions, presenting their innovative ideas to panels of expert judges.

Now in its fifth year, The Arena continues to grow its national reputation and appeal, attracting applications from 37 post-secondaries across Canada, including the University of Toronto, McGill University, Queen’s University, University of Alberta, University of Calgary, University of Waterloo, as well as schools throughout Atlantic Canada. The first-place prize is $10,000; the runner-up prize is $5,000, and third and fourth-place competitors each receive $1,000.

The Arena runs fully online from March 3 to April 1 and includes six rounds of competition. The entire competition can be followed on Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn. The entire Saint Mary’s community is welcome to join in! Find match and streaming details on the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre website.

“The Arena is an adrenaline-pumping showdown where student entrepreneurs showcase their ideas and compete for the title of the nation’s top innovator,” says Michael Sanderson, Director, Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre. “This competition is transformational and lucrative—students get valuable, immediate feedback and the chance to win a total of $17,000 in prize money for their business.”

The Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre is grateful to Metronomics, The Arena prize sponsor. Metronomics was founded by Saint Mary’s University alumna Shannon Byrne Susko BComm’89 BSc’92, a successful serial entrepreneur who has been recognized as one of Canada’s Top 25 Inspirational Women Leaders and one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women.

The first round of competition starts March 3 at 1 p.m. Atlantic time and features four Saint Mary’s University students. Arts students Brad Gilmet and Stuti Sandhu, science student Samih MohamedAli and commerce student Hasib Ahmed are among the top students selected. Hasib kicks off the pitches from Saint Mary’s on Monday at 4 p.m. Atlantic time.

Visit here for details on all 64 competitors and the dates and times for each round of competition.

Fresh ideas for accounting’s future

The AC Group teams up with students to tackle recruitment challenges in the CPA industry at recent Innovation Sprint challenge 

Tezas Sethi showcasing their solutions to the AC group representatives

Pari Ajay Mehra, Iram Sheikh and Rishita Mishra present to the AC Group

SMU students Asmita Ale, Hazzaa Sujeer and Lydia Lee present to AC Group

Students brainstorming ideas

Third-place team Kathleen Murray, Angus Bonnyman (CEO of The AC Group), Nguyen Thu Trang Truong, Aquilya Smith

Participating students and the AC Group

Last week, 28 students from Saint Mary’s University, Dalhousie University and NSCC worked in teams on an Innovation Sprint. In this short, high-energy event, students collaborate to generate solutions for business challenges. The AC Group of Independent Accounting Firms Limited (AC Group) brought forward a challenge focused on addressing recruitment challenges within the CPA and accounting industry. 

The AC Group is an alliance of 13 independent accounting firms in Atlantic Canada. It facilitates the member firms' being leaders in serving the needs of owner-managed businesses in their marketplaces. 

Students heard from Angus Bonnyman, CEO of The AC Group, and Shirley Jollimore, Director of The AC Group. They provided insights into topics such as attracting high-quality applicants and increasing awareness and opportunities in the CPA and Accounting industry. 

The participating students brought fresh perspectives and creative strategies to the table, creating a win-win situation for both students and the AC Group. 

Solutions from the winning team, comprised of three business students, Hazza Sujeer, Lydia Lee and Asmita Ale, ranged from building strategic university partnerships for talent acquisition to targeted social media strategies aimed at increasing brand exposure. Reflecting on the competition, Hazza shared, “We tackled one of the biggest challenges in public accounting, which is to attract and retain top talent. It was an incredible experience being around creative and like-minded individuals to develop real-world solutions.” 

Business student Munyaradzi Matura and science student Q’Ba Richards won second place, while a team of business students, Kathleen Murray, Nguyen Thu Trang Truong, and Aquilya Smith, secured third place. 

The AC group representatives were highly impressed by the students’ professionalism and innovative thinking. Angus remarked, “We worked with a very dynamic group of students who had great ideas about how we could solve a real-world problem.” The firm was enthusiastic about implementing some of the proposed solutions. 

At the end of the Sprint, businesses choose the winning teams, with the first-place winners receiving $1,000, second-place winners receiving $700, and third-place winners receiving $300. In a unique opportunity, The AC Group also opened scholarship applications to participants and actively encouraged students to submit resumes for potential career opportunities. 

Find out how to participate in an Innovation Sprint. 

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About Innovation Sprint  

Innovation Sprint is a short, focused event that brings business and keen, creative students together to generate ideas and solutions to business problems.  During the Innovation Sprint, participants:  

• engage in time-sensitive bursts of intensive problem-solving and developing business solutions;  

• receive insightful resources and mentorship, helping them address business challenges;   

• learn how to facilitate rapid and effective outputs to challenges they may face in their business. This is a unique entrepreneurial experience that can be translated into their own chosen fields;  

• collaborate with students from across Atlantic Canada from various faculties and disciplines.  

Nine students awarded $90,000 in Tribe Network Scholarships

Saint Mary’s University graduate student Tribe Network scholars with Dr. Adam Sarty, Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies and AVP Research. Student scholars named in story below.

On February 4, members of Saint Mary’s University and The Tribe Network gathered at the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre to celebrate nine exceptional graduate students who received $90,000 in scholarships and internships provided by The Tribe Network.

In March 2024, The Tribe Network and Saint Mary’s University announced a scholarship program for Black and Indigenous students pursuing studies in commerce, computer science and analytics. To qualify, self-identified students must be studying in any discipline involving computing and analytics at the graduate level and share a passion for learning and a commitment to making a difference.

Successful recipients receive an internship opportunity and $10,000 annually, which can be applied towards tuition fees and/or support for student internships with external companies or non-profits.

Congratulations to the 2025 recipients!

• Frank Kwaku Aazore, Master of Arts in Geography

• Samuel Ebong, Master of Science in Computing and Data Analytics

• Terdoo Sylvester, Master of Science in Computing and Data Analytics

• Chidiebere Onwe, Master of Business Analytics

• Uzoamaka David, Master of Business Analytics

• Maxinne Baddoo, Master of Master of Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation

• Nana Eko Korsah, Master of Master of Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation

• Stephen Osunrinde, Master of Master of Technology Entrepreneurship and Innovation

• Papa Kwame Twumasi-Ntiamoah, Master of Science in Computing and Data Analytics

As these students embark on their educational journeys, these scholarships provide financial support and recognize their potential to make lasting impacts in their respective fields.

“Receiving this award has been a tremendous support in my academic journey,” said MA in Geography student Frank Kwaku Aazore. “The financial assistance helped cover my international travel and fieldwork expenses for my thesis research, allowing me to collect critical data collection for my study on Nature-based Coastal Adaptation in Accra, Ghana. This support relieved financial stress, allowing me to concentrate on my studies and professional development. Beyond financial support, this award has given me a sense of community and recognition, emphasizing the importance of representation and support for Black scholars in computing and analytics-related fields.”

Alfred Burgesson BA’19 BComm’19, Founder and CEO of Tribe Network, is extremely passionate about the value of education. He created the scholarship to help ensure that deserving students have access to higher education, regardless of their financial background.

Applications for the September 2025 Tribe Network Graduate Scholarship and Internship are open until February 28.

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About Tribe Network

The Tribe Network Award is a Nova Scotia provincial government-funded program to align Computer Science programs at Saint Mary’s University with initiatives to develop pathways for Black and Indigenous youth, with a particular focus on engaging African Nova Scotian and Mi’kmaq youth participating in programming through the Tribe Network and associated partners. The Tribe Network is a community of racialized people pursuing entrepreneurship and innovation. Their mission is to foster a culture of leadership, collaboration, creativity and growth for racialized individuals.

Saint Mary’s University announces Dr. Michael Khan as the next President and Vice-Chancellor

Saint Mary’s University announces the appointment of Dr. Michael Khan as its next President and Vice-Chancellor, effective July 1, 2025. Dr. Khan will join Saint Mary’s from Trent University, where he currently serves as Provost and Vice-President Academic. 

“I am very pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Michael Khan as the 35th President of Saint Mary’s University,” said Chair, Board of Governors, Alan R. Abraham Jr. BComm'80. “Dr. Khan’s extensive experience in academic leadership, his innovative approach to education, and his commitment to fostering inclusive and diverse communities make him an ideal fit for our university. We are confident that, under his leadership, Saint Mary’s will continue to achieve excellence.” 

Dr. Khan brings a wealth of experience and a diverse, international perspective to his new role. He has been Provost and Vice-President Academic at Trent since 2020. Dr. Khan’s distinguished career includes his tenure as Dean of Human Kinetics at the University of Windsor, where he oversaw the Department of Kinesiology and Athletics & Recreational Services. Prior to this, he was the Head of the School of Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences at Bangor University in Wales, U.K. 

Growing up in Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Khan’s multicultural heritage and international experiences have shaped his approach to academic leadership.  

“I am deeply honoured and delighted to join Saint Mary’s University as President and Vice-Chancellor, said Dr. Michael Khan. “Saint Mary’s is celebrated both nationally and internationally for its excellence in research, teaching and community engagement. The university’s values align closely with my own. I am committed to supporting students in realizing their goals and aspirations.”  

Dr. Khan’s extensive experience spans academic and administrative leadership, strategic enrollment management, fundraising, and creative partnerships. As Provost at Trent University, Dr. Khan has spearheaded the development of an integrative academic plan that led to the creation of numerous new undergraduate and graduate programs, postgraduate certificates, and co-op opportunities. At Bangor University, he fostered partnerships in the public and private sectors by establishing innovative, high-impact research groups. In Windsor, he led the creation of the Lancer Sport and Recreation Centre Project, a $73 million sport and recreation facility for the university and its community, and actively promoted links with healthcare and sport organizations, school boards, businesses, and charities. 

With a research background in cognitive processes underlying movement control and learning, Dr. Khan’s work focuses on the visual control of manual movements. He is also a former elite athlete with over 25 years of coaching experience and has a keen interest in talent identification and expertise development. Dr. Khan holds a Ph.D. in Human Kinetics from the University of British Columbia, an M.A. in Kinesiology from the University of Western Ontario, and a B.Sc. in Geophysics from McGill University. 

Saint Mary’s University is excited to welcome Dr. Michael Khan on July 1, 2025, and looks forward to the innovative leadership and international perspective he will bring to the institution. 

Legacy in Action: Black Brilliance - SMU's inaugural African Heritage Month opening ceremony

Sanmi Conga

Zoe Tolliver

SMU student opened the event with song

Deborah Brothers-Scott

Director, Diversity, Inclusion and Wellness

Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray

President and Vice-Chancellor of Saint Mary’s

Simbarashe Chiunda

Saint Mary’s University Students’ Association President

Anecia Shephard

First-year Arts student

Damini Awoyiga

Halifax Youth Poet Laureate

David Woods

Organizing founder of Nova Scotia’s first African Heritage Month celebrations

Colin Campbell

Director of Government and Community Relations at African Nova Scotian Affairs

The Honourable Twila Rose Grosse

Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs

Sunal Shah

Student and event emcee

President Summerby-Murray with event attendees

Sanmi Conga drummers

Damini Awoyiga shares her poem “Legacy”

David Woods with a SMU student

Attendees applaud

On Friday, January 31, members of the Saint Mary’s University community gathered for the inaugural African Heritage Month Opening Ceremony, centred around this year’s theme: Legacy in Action: Black Brilliance.  

Organised by the Black Student Advising Office and emceed by SMU student Sunal Shah, the opening ceremony saw more than 100 students, faculty, staff and community members in attendance for the event, which blended powerful performances and speeches with vibrant drumming from Sanmi Conga and a soul food meal catered by R&B Kitchen. The event was both a joyous celebration and a deep reflection on the histories, perseverance and impact of Black and African Nova Scotians. 

SMU student Zoe Tolliver opened the evening with moving renditions of “O Canada” and “Lift Every Voice,” the Black National Anthem. Quiet voices through the crowd lifted alongside her as participants stood in unity, setting the tone for the event. 

“We are here today to celebrate African Heritage Month, and it is important that we not lose sight of the fact that we are seeing attacks on EDIA. This backlash is often rooted in anti-Black racism,” said Deborah Brothers-Scott, Saint Mary’s Director, Diversity, Inclusion and Wellness, during her welcome. “We find ourselves in challenging times. It is important that we stand together united in creating more equitable, inclusive and diverse spaces.” 

President and Vice-Chancellor Robert Summerby-Murray reflected on the meaning of legacy, celebrating both the African Nova Scotian community and those who have joined from places of African descent worldwide. “As we think of that word—legacy—we are building on the past and the foundation laid by many within this room,” he shared. “But it also tells us that we have a responsibility to use that foundation to build the future, and everyone in the SMU community has a role in projecting that legacy forward for a better and brighter future together.” 

Saint Mary’s University Students’ Association President Simbarashe Chiunda took in the crowd as he stepped to the podium. “I have never been more proud to be Black,” he proclaimed. He explored the significance of legacy and brilliance, highlighting the rich history of the African Nova Scotian community and the vast African diaspora. “As students, we represent the future of this legacy,” he said, reflecting on the Black excellence he sees at SMU, from students and student leaders to entrepreneurs, artists, and advocates. “Let us honour our ancestors by taking action to support each other and build a world where Black excellence is not just recognized but celebrated. Because Black history is not just history. It is now, it is here, and it is us.” 

First-year Faculty of Arts student Anecia Shephard delivered a powerful spoken word performance. She guided the audience through an introspective journey depicted as a dream, where a messenger dove from her ancestors led her through Black history, identity, and legacy. Her words painted a vivid picture of struggle, resilience and hope, embracing the strength of those who came before her and her role in shaping the future. “We are the present, written for future minds,” she declared. 

Halifax Youth Poet Laureate Damini Awoyiga took the stage with a spoken word piece celebrating the unbreakable spirit of Black history. Her poem “Legacy” traced a lineage of strength from freedom fighters to cultural figures, recognizing the struggles, sacrifices, and victories that shape both the present and future. “We are the legacy. Straight from the ashes, voices like thunder,” she intoned, embracing the power of the present while honouring the past. 

The event’s first keynote speaker, David Woods, reflected on the personal and collective journeys of Black and African Nova Scotians. A multidisciplinary artist and the organizing founder of Nova Scotia’s first African Heritage Month celebrations in 1992, Woods delivered a moving performance speech titled “Notes from Beloved,” a call for self-love in the face of oppression. “Out yonder, they don’t love your hands,” he recited, describing Black flesh that weeps, dances and endures. “Love your heart above all, for this is the prize.” 

Following his performance, Woods intertwined personal narratives and historical accounts, highlighting the No. 2 Construction Battalion, Canada’s first and only all-Black battalion, and the Caribbean immigrants who settled in Cape Breton to work in the steel mills and coal mines, alongside individual accounts of journeying to and settling in Nova Scotia. “These are stories that were hidden and erased,” he emphasized. “By them coming to light, they have enriched not only Black folk but all Canadians. The challenge of this month is to extend them. Extend them to the spaces where you are.” 

The second keynote speaker, Colin Campbell, Director of Government and Community Relations at African Nova Scotian Affairs, shared a recorded address from Twila Grosse, Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs, before unpacking the meaning behind Legacy in Action: Black Brilliance. He highlighted the extension of the UN’s International Decade for People of African Descent, underscoring the global call to action for recognition, justice, and development. 

With his final thoughts, which concluded the 2025 African Heritage Month Opening Ceremony, Campbell echoed the evening’s recurring lament: “Standing on the shoulders of Black brilliance was paved with a price by generations.” He closed with a call to action, reinforcing the sentiments imbued by each speaker and performer throughout the night. “Let us commit to advocate, educate, and celebrate—not just during African Heritage Month, but every day. Together, we will ensure that the brilliance of our community shines for generations to come.” 

Taking action to support Indigenous Students

Members from Eastward Energy visited Saint Mary’s campus to discuss the new Indigenous Opportunities Bursary with student advisor Kylar Johnson

New bursary offered in September 2025 in partnership with Eastward Energy

Saint Mary’s University is proud to announce a new bursary aimed at supporting Indigenous students, thanks to a generous donation from Eastward Energy. The Eastward Energy Indigenous Opportunities Bursary will provide financial assistance to five Indigenous students each year for the next five years. This initiative will help alleviate barriers to post-secondary education and empower future leaders within Indigenous communities.

"As an Indigenous Student Advisor, my role is to be a bridge—connecting students to the resources they need to succeed,” said Kylar Johnson BComm'23, Indigenous Student Advisor. "This bursary not only helps Indigenous students financially but also affirms the commitment of the university to provide them with the support they need to thrive. It is a tangible, real-world example of creating change. By creating these opportunities, we are reinforcing the importance of community and reconciliation, ensuring that Indigenous voices are heard and valued throughout the university experience."

“Supporting Indigenous students is an important step toward building a more inclusive future,” said Kristen Wilcott MAEC'21, Manager of Government Relations at Eastward Energy. “This bursary underscores our dedication to fostering opportunities and partnerships with First Nations communities. I hope it encourages students to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in their communities.”

A partnership grounded in shared values

Saint Mary’s University and Eastward Energy share core values of reconciliation and a commitment to fostering inclusive education.

The connection goes even deeper—several members of the Eastward Energy team are alumni of Saint Mary’s, including Ashley MacDonald BComm'11, Vice-President of Finance, and Allison Coffin MBA'13, Director of Regulatory and Government Relations. Partnering with Saint Mary’s was a natural extension of their shared commitment to diversity, making this collaboration a personal and meaningful step in advancing Truth and Reconciliation.

SMU Indigenous Student Advisor Kylar Johnson BComm’23 with Allison Coffin MBA'13, Kristen Wilcott MAEC'21 and Ashley MacDonald BComm'11 of Eastward Energy

 A lasting impact for Indigenous students

“As an institution, we are committed to supporting Indigenous students and fostering stronger community connections,” said Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, President and Vice-Chancellor at Saint Mary’s University. “This significant gift will have a lasting impact, empowering Indigenous students to reach their academic potential. Saint Mary’s University remains dedicated to eliminating disparities and promoting inclusion, core pillars of our strategic plan. This bursary is a key step in realizing those values as we strive for a world without limits.”

“This effort is aimed at reducing financial barriers for Indigenous students pursuing higher education,” said John Hawkins, President at Eastward Energy. “This initiative reflects our continued commitment to Indigenous youth. As many of our team members at Eastward are Saint Mary’s alumni, we are pleased to partner with them. By supporting the next generation of leaders, we hope to contribute to reconciliation and the shared prosperity of our region.”

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Quick Facts

• The Eastward Energy Indigenous Opportunities Bursary will be awarded for the first time in the Fall of 2025.

• The bursary will award $1,000 to five students each year for the next five years.

• Self-identifying Indigenous students can learn more about bursaries, scholarships and awards.

• Eastward Energy is a Nova Scotia-based company that provides natural gas distribution services across the province.

Learn More

• Indigenous Community | Saint Mary's University

• Indigenous Student Advisor

Master's theses round-up: African Heritage Month

Exploring themes of Black and African heritage, identity and justice

February is African Heritage Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of people of Black and African descent. To mark this month, the Patrick Power Library is highlighting the work of Saint Mary’s graduate students whose research explores themes related to Black and African heritage, history, identity and social justice.

A Master’s thesis represents years of dedication, inquiry and original scholarship, and we’re excited to showcase these contributions to academic knowledge. This collection of graduate student theses offers valuable insights into a diverse range of subjects studied by Saint Mary’s students. More student theses can be discovered in the University Archives’ online Institutional Repository.

Read on to discover the work of our student scholars!

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"Entering the workforce in Halifax: Strategies and coping mechanisms among the African migrant community"
by Priscilla Armah, Master of Arts in Geography, 2021

This study examines the job market experiences of Sub-Saharan African migrants in Halifax, using Bourdieu’s habitus and Labour Market Segmentation theory. It explores strategies, barriers like racism and systemic discrimination, and coping mechanisms, highlighting how interconnected individual, group and systemic factors shape labour market integration.

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"Forced/coerced sterilization of HIV-positive women in the Southern African region in the context of reproductive justice and intersectional gender-based violence"
by Ogechukwu Chinenye Chukwudozie, Master of Arts in Women and Gender Studies, 2024

This study examines the forced sterilization of HIV-positive women through the lenses of reproductive justice, the intersectionality framework and feminist content analysis, highlighting how poverty, age, education and racism increase vulnerability. The author amplifies victims' voices and expands intersectional scholarship in Africa, emphasizing overlooked factors in the oppression of HIV-positive women.

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"Whose revolution is televised?: Young African Nova Scotian women respond to sexual politics in hip hop culture & everyday life"
by Alecia Green, Master of Arts in the Joint Women’s Studies Programme, 2007

This qualitative study explores how young African Nova Scotian women interpret Black female body representations in hip-hop videos. Using a Black socio-feminist lens, interviews with university students reveal critical media literacy, counter-hegemonic views shaped by academics, divinity, and community, and a belief that Black female beauty comes from within.

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"Presence and perseverance: Blacks in Hants County, Nova Scotia, 1871-1914"
by David Wayne States, Masters of Arts in Atlantic Canada Studies, 2002

In the early 19th century, Black refugees from the U.S. settled in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, facing harsh conditions and discrimination. This thesis traces the efforts of Black families in Hants County to adapt to these circumstances and improve conditions for their offspring's future success. States argues the agency shown by these people would result in the generations following them achieving a level of competency not thought attainable by the immigrant generation.

"The experiences and challenges of Black entrepreneurs in Halifax, Nova Scotia"
by Gabriel Nimoh, Master of Arts in Geography, 2022

Using the mixed embeddedness model and intersectionality theoretical framework, this study explores the experiences, motivations, barriers and coping strategies of Black entrepreneurs in Halifax. Findings highlight market opportunities, financial constraints, racial discrimination, and the role of mindset and social support in overcoming challenges. This study seeks to assist policymakers and practitioners in developing informed decisions that promote inclusion in the Canadian business environment.

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"In vivo facial tissue depth measurements of African Nova Scotian children for 3-D forensic facial reconstruction"
by Meaghan Alexandria Huculak, Master of Science in Applied Science, 2021

Partnering with the African Nova Scotian community, this student researcher collaboratively created the first African Canadian facial tissue depth database for identifying missing children. Using ultrasound technology on 54 participants (ages 3–18) showed age, sex, and nutrition contributed to tissue depth. This student’s thesis discusses the application of the findings in multiple forensic contexts.

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"Performing diversity: Black bodies in Atlantic Canadian post-secondary institutions"
by Itai Ashley Kuwodza, Master of Arts in Atlantic Canadian Studies, 2024

Kuwodza argues that the Black student experience in Atlantic Canada is explicitly limited by racist practices. The thesis traces the historical roots of exploitation and analyzes how colonial legacies, racial biases and economic disparities have contributed to the marginalization of Black individuals in Atlantic Canadian education and sport.

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"Where are the black female faculty?: Employment equity policy failures and the overrepresentation of whiteness"
by Isalean Phillip, Master of Arts in Women & Gender Studies, 2018

Philip’s thesis critiques employment equity and diversity practices at two Atlantic Canadian universities, using intersectionality and critical race feminism as theoretical frameworks. Through critical race feminist discourse analysis and interviews with Black women scholars, Philips analyzes the persistence of systemic racism and sexism, highlighting how the institutionalization of liberal feminist equity policies, diversity discourses and white patriarchal hegemony all sustain institutional practices of racialized gendered omission, erasure and misrepresentation.

Experience Ventures students help Osprey Inspirations on their mission to increase housing stability

From November 20, 2024, to January 8, 2025, four teams of Experience Ventures students worked with Osprey Inspiration, gaining exceptional entrepreneurial experience on a highly relevant business design challenge. With a mission to help make home ownership dreams a reality, Osprey Inspiration is focused on providing educational programs and financial assistance while connecting prospective buyers with reputable builders and property development corporations. Osprey partnered with the Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre and the Experience Ventures program to tap into current and creative thinking from Saint Mary’s students on how to make their vision a reality.

The journey began in November with an in-person kickoff meeting and comprehensive briefing from Osprey Inspiration. From then on, students tackled complex problems remotely, demonstrating teamwork skills and exceptional dedication, even during the holiday season. The flexibility of the challenge’s structure allowed participants to balance academic responsibilities while engaging in real-world innovation on one of our most concerning societal challenges.

Each group had a particular area of focus and was supported throughout by an industry mentor. Students were challenged to develop innovative fundraising ideas, comprehensive business and marketing plans, social impact assessment and a robust digital documental framework.

On January 8, each team presented their plans and recommendations to the entire Osprey Inspiration board of directors. Their thoughtful and well-articulated solutions received resounding support and praise and reinforced the value of bringing students and businesses together to tackle real-world challenges and opportunities.

“The Experience Ventures program was incredibly valuable from a learning standpoint, especially because it introduced me to knowledge and perspectives outside my psychology major. Another highlight was the experience I gained from working in a team. Along the way, I was surrounded by unique individuals with whom I worked to overcome challenges and deliver the best possible products. That experience was both challenging and rewarding, and I am very grateful for all the insights and skills I gained,” said Sara Zivaljevic, BSc student.

Osprey’s president of the Board of Directors, Derrick Chan, said “Osprey Inspiration had the privilege of collaborating with Saint Mary's University on a business challenge. We were very impressed with the students' teamwork and innovative solutions to their challenges. The final products were exceptional, showcasing out-of-the-box thinking from a younger generation and providing valuable insights. The Saint Mary's staff were also instrumental, acting as mentors and offering real-world guidance. We will now integrate the information, data and presentations into our future strategic planning. A huge thank you to Saint Mary's and all the faculty and students who participated in this valuable business challenge.”

Each participant received a certificate of completion and an honorarium, recognizing their hard work and achievements. Beyond these tangible rewards, students walked away with invaluable experience, stronger resumes, and a sense of pride in their contributions to a meaningful cause.

Interested in making your mark? Experience Ventures has more opportunities this semester. Visit the website to discover how you can get involved.

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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. EV is funded by the Government of Canada and is delivered in partnership with post-secondary institutions nationwide.

Former Huskies basketball star McMillan goes pro

Alain McMillan BA’24 currently plays for the Arras Pays D’Artois Basket Féminin in France

Small but mighty. That’s how Saint Mary’s graduate Alaina McMillan BA’24—who stands at five foot six—describes herself. As the Huskies women’s basketball point guard from 2018-2024, her stats bear that out. She led the team to two championships and earned AUS all-star, AUS MVP, and Team MVP multiple times each. All told, she scored 1,419 points while wearing the maroon and white jersey.

According to her Saint Mary’s coach Scott Munro, Alaina is one of the top athletes he has ever coached, leading the team to more wins and a higher ranking each year. “Alaina arrived at a time when we needed a tremendous competitor and she pushed herself and the team to give their best every single day,” he says. “She was greatly respected by her teammates, and her ability to lead grew throughout her career.”

It’s this work ethic and enthusiasm that have propelled Alaina into the big leagues, specifically onto the roster of one of France’s professional women’s basketball teams—Arras Pays D’Artois Basket Féminin. Since September 2024, Alaina has been living in northern France in the city of Arras and enjoying the perks of European living while getting to play the game she loves.

“Playing overseas basketball is definitely much different than the North American style of play,” says Alaina. “My game has changed a lot.” Add to that the fact that she is being coached in the French language. “Thank goodness I’m a visual learner!” she laughs. “Once we run through things once or twice, I catch on right away.”

Her life in France is a long way from the Dominican Republic, where she was born. It’s also a long way from Brantford, Ontario, where her family moved when she was five years old. There, her Dad enrolled her in every sport imaginable, wanting her to get a feel for what she most enjoyed.

Within a few years, it was clear that Alaina’s sports would be soccer and basketball, where she consistently played above her age group. By the time she reached high school, her energy was focused on shooting hoops, and she was rewarded with recruitments for both a prep school and an AAU team. She spent her summers touring around the States getting exposure to scouts from the NCAA, the highest collegiate level of women’s and men’s basketball globally.

Her ultimate goal was to play Division 1 basketball, and it seemed she was well on her way there—winning two back-to-back OSBA (Ontario Scholastic Basketball Association) championships. But a broken ankle put an end to her D1 dreams.

That’s where Saint Mary’s comes in. “Scott Munro reached out to me and offered me something I couldn’t turn down—a chance to make an impact.” That impact was the opportunity to play point guard, spend a lot of time on the court, and be a leader. When she looks back on her time with the Huskies, it is with disbelief at the kind of career she had.

McMillan was named AUS all-star, AUS MVP and Team MVP multiple times during five seasons with the SMU Huskies

“It was incredible having a coach who believed in me from the get-go. Scott’s confidence in me never wavered, so I could just keep improving.” She is also proud of her own determination and the hard work of the whole team, who began to feel like family, especially during the COVID years. “As a point guard, my number one goal was to help my teammates gain confidence and become better players. When I got to witness them succeed, it brought me so much joy.”

Alaina’s contract with Arras Pays D’Artois Basket Féminin ends at the end of May, but she is keen to continue using basketball as an opportunity to travel and gain life experiences. Working with her agent, she will explore all her options for next season.

However, one thing is for sure: she will return to Canada this summer to play with the Maritime Women’s Basketball Association on the Halifax Thunder team and, of course, catch up with family and friends. “My family has been my main support system since being away and that’s helped with the homesickness,” she says. “They are extremely proud and happy that I get to travel and continue to play the sport that I love. And I can’t wait to see them again!”

By Renée Hartleib