Community Report
STU STUDENTS RATE FACULTY SIGNIFICANTLY HIGHER FOR EFFECTIVE TEACHING AND REPORT A MORE SUPPORTIVE CAMPUS ENVIRONMENT — NSSE 2023
OVER 25 ACADEMIC DISCIPLINES 7/10 FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS WHO APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIP /BURSARY RECEIVED ONE 99% ANNUAL FUNDING
2.5 Million IS FOR Scholarships & Bursaries THE MI’KMAQ & WOLASTOQEY BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK IS THE ONLY ONE OF ITS KIND IN CANADA
FOUNDED IN 1910 OF FACULTY HOLD THE HIGHEST DEGREE IN THEIR FIELD
It is a privilege to be part of this community and contribute to the ongoing story of St. Thomas University – a story guided by our commitment to be the leading choice for students seeking a holistic university student experience.
Our mission is to prepare each student for personal and career fulfillment. It is a living promise as each student is challenged intellectually, supported personally, and inspired to lead boldly.
This year, we have seen that mission in action through dedicated faculty, students engaging in service and leadership, and staff who ensure an experience grounded in care. Our success is also fueled by partnership with local organizations, alumni, and the business community.
Thank you for your unwavering support as we educate the next generation of leaders who think critically, act justly, and serve with compassion.
— Dr. M. Nauman Farooqi, President and Vice-Chancellor
President & Vice-Chancellor
Gifts in Action
Honouring Emily Palmer, KC
To hear Tony Palmer speak about his late wife is to understand the depth of a love that speaks to the very idea of soulmates.
Emily Palmer passed away on September 11, 2024, and her absence is profoundly felt by her husband, son, grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Emily dedicated 34 years of her life to serving her clients and community as a lawyer in Sussex, NB. She retired in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, and compassion. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from St. Thomas University in 1979 and went on to receive her Bachelor of Laws from the University of New Brunswick. In 2003, her commitment to the legal profession was recognized with a Queen’s Counsel designation. Her community involvement extended far beyond the courtroom. A devoted member of the Sussex Baptist Church, Emily served her town as mayor and deputy mayor, and as chair of the District 18 School Board. Her belief in service, leadership, and community was evident in every role she undertook.
A proud and loyal monarchist, Emily was an active member and past president of both the Sir Leonard Tilley Chapter and the Royal Chapter of the IODE.
Emily Palmer will be remembered not only for her many accomplishments, but for her strength, grace, and generosity.
In her honour, Tony has established the Emily Marie Palmer KC, Memorial Scholarship, which will be awarded for the first time this year.
Gifts of Gratitude: Two Leaders, Two Surprises, One Shared Legacy at STU
What happens when two remarkable leaders, motivated by gratitude and respect, each plan a surprise legacy gift for the other? At St. Thomas University, this heartfelt story unfolded in an unforgettable way.
Chris Forman, CEO and founder of Appcast Inc., wanted to honour his longtime colleague and friend Chris Cummins, BA ’94 — the leader who built Appcast’s Fredericton office — as Cummins prepared for retirement. A passionate supporter of education, Forman quietly created The Chris Cummins Family Bursary at STU to celebrate Cummins’ dedication to his team, community, and career.
What Forman didn’t know was that Cummins was doing the same thing. Wanting to recognize Forman’s mentorship and vision, he independently established The Chris Forman Award, celebrating Forman’s global impact in recruitment technology.
Their mutual surprises became lasting tributes to friendship and leadership. The first Chris Forman Award was presented to Chloe Gregan, while the Chris Cummins Family Bursary supported Kyra Lozier and Faith Vandermeer.
Together, these two gifts reflect the power of gratitude and the enduring connection between two leaders whose shared values will continue to inspire generations at St. Thomas University.
Remembering Arthur L. Irving
Two years ago, a transformative gift from the Arthur L. Irving Family Foundation and Irving Oil established a new entrance scholarship at St. Thomas University— the largest single donation in our institution's history. The scholarship was created in honour of former STU President Dawn Russell and in recognition of Arthur L. Irving’s lifelong commitment to education.
Mr. Irving passed away in May 2024, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of leadership, philanthropy, and dedication to Atlantic Canada. A few months later, we proudly welcomed the first recipients of the Arthur L. Irving Family Foundation Scholarship, marking the beginning of a new chapter in student support at STU.
Thank you to the Arthur L. Irving Family Foundation and Irving Oil for their extraordinary generosity. Through their support, generations of students will benefit from Mr. Irving’s enduring belief in the power of education and community.
The inaugural recipients — Sydney VanWart, Emily Singleton, and Mallory Thompson, all from New Brunswick — have been awarded full-tuition scholarships, renewable over four years. These students exemplify the values of hard work and academic excellence that the scholarship seeks to celebrate.
“Hard work has always been so important to me, in school and outside of school, so to be recognized in this way has been incredibly meaningful,” said VanWart.
Arthur L. Irving’s legacy will live on through the achievements of these scholars and the many more who will follow in their footsteps.
A Gift of History and Reflection
John Nowlan has ensured his father’s legacy endures by donating Alden Nowlan’s life works to St. Thomas University. The collection — which includes poetry, prose, art, and books — will be housed in a dedicated space in the Dan O’Brien Study Hall. In addition, John has established the Alden and Claudine Nowlan Bursary, an annual award for a journalism student with demonstrated financial need.
Alden Nowlan (1933–1983), born in Windsor, N.S., and based in Fredericton, N.B., was an acclaimed poet, playwright, and novelist. A largely self-taught former newspaperman, his work is known for its emotional depth, regional richness, and connection to broader literary traditions. Notable poetry collections include Bread, Wine and Salt (which won the Governor General’s Award in 1967), Playing the Jesus Game (1970), and Between Tears and Laughter (1971). He also served as writer-in-residence at the University of New Brunswick from 1969 and played a central role in the Atlantic Canadian literary community. His legacy continues through both his writing and this meaningful gift.
STUdent Success
Anthropology Students Apply RealWorld Archaeology Skills in Poland
Fourth-year Anthropology students
Jack Gallien and Trysten White gained hands-on archaeological experience at a medieval cemetery in Poland, deepening their passion for the field and receiving specialized training in human osteology and mortuary archaeology.
“This trip confirmed that archaeology is what I want to pursue, both academically and professionally,” said Gallien.
White echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the lasting value of the practical experience.
“It gave me tools for my master’s degree and deepened my love for fieldwork,” she said.
STU’s Ekaterina Pelowich Shines on International Stage
St. Thomas University is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Ekaterina (Kat) Pelowich and Team Canada, who earned the silver medal in women’s hockey at the FISU Winter World University Games.
In a thrilling and hard-fought final, Team Canada went head-to-head with Czechia, ultimately falling just short in a 2-1 overtime loss. Despite the narrow defeat, the silver medal marks an incredible accomplishment and a testament to the team’s talent, determination, and sportsmanship on the world stage.
Kat Pelowich represented St. Thomas University, the Tommies Women’s Hockey program, and her country with immense pride, heart, and excellence. Her performance throughout the tournament demonstrated not only her skill and leadership but also the spirit and values that define both our university and Canadian hockey.
Emma Rhodes (BA’20) Awarded $12,000 Ontario Arts Council Grant for Poetry
Emma Rhodes, a 2020 graduate of St. Thomas University, has received a $12,000 literary grant from the Ontario Arts Council to support her upcoming poetry collection, When Was the Last Time I Thanked My Mother.
Originally from Strathmore, Alberta, Rhodes discovered her passion for poetry at STU, where she took an advanced poetry class with Dr. Kathleen McConnell. It was there she found a supportive writing community and built lifelong connections.
"I would not be the writer I am today without the community of other writers I get to be a part of and learn from, and it all started at STU,” she shared.
Her forthcoming collection explores intergenerational trauma through personal and family history, centering on her relationships with both her queer chosen family and her biological family.
“This award is incredibly validating and reassures me of the value of my writing,” Rhodes said.
STU Students Excel at Global Human Rights Moot Court in Geneva
St. Thomas University students Jazmyne Lebel and Sydney Gallibois placed among the top 8 teams at the prestigious Nelson Mandela World Human Rights Moot Court Competition in Geneva.
After advancing through the preliminary rounds against universities from Bangladesh, Kenya, and Colombia, the STU pair reached the quarterfinals, where they were narrowly defeated by the University of Santo Tomas. Held at the United Nations Palais des Nations, the competition featured top students from around the globe and was judged by human rights experts and international tribunal judges.
STU was the only Canadian university to qualify for the in-person advanced rounds.
Lebel, a double major in Human Rights and Law, Politics, and Society, described the experience as “enriching” and credited the STU Moot Court Program for its support and impact on her development as an advocate.
Both students plan to attend law school after graduation.
Enactus STU Shines at Atlantic Canada Regional Exposition with Project Spark
Enactus STU made a notable impact at the 2024–2025 Atlantic Canada Regional Exposition, earning Second Runner-Up in the prestigious Desjardins Youth Empowerment Challenge for their innovative initiative, Project Spark. The team was awarded $500 to support the project’s continued development.
“Seeing our hard work pay off was incredible,” said second-year STUdent Suzanne Shah. “Competing alongside inspiring teams pushed us to be our best.”
Fredericton Poet and STU Student Tallas Munro Releases Second
Book of Poetry, Lion
Fredericton-based poet and actor Tallas Munro, an English Language and Literature student at St. Thomas University (STU), recently released his second book of poetry titled Lion. The collection is described by Munro as a “spiritually driven” exploration of human experience.
Munro, who is in the final year of his Bachelor of Arts and the second year at STU, explains that Lion developed organically.
“I never start any project with a theme in mind, so I just started writing until I had 300 pages of text to work from, and the theme presented itself: vulnerability,” he said.
As Munro continues to develop his craft in both poetry and acting, his latest work stands as a testament to the power of vulnerability and spiritual reflection.
Faculty and Staff Success Faculty Excellence
Dr. Gül Çalışkan, a sociology professor at St. Thomas University, has been awarded the Multicultural Association of Fredericton (MCAF) Award of Excellence for her outstanding work supporting newcomers through Promise of Home, a research project that amplifies the voices of newcomers and explores themes of belonging and resilience. In accepting the award, Dr. Çalışkan emphasized the project's role in fostering inclusivity and highlighted the strength and contributions of newcomers to the community.
Dr. Michelle Lafrance Honoured with National
Feminist Mentoring Award
St. Thomas University Psychology Professor Dr. Michelle Lafrance has been awarded the 2025 Feminist Mentoring Award by the Canadian Psychological Association’s Section on Women and Psychology. This prestigious national recognition celebrates feminist supervisors who foster the growth and success of their students through mutual respect and mentorship rooted in feminist principles.
Nominated by a group of her students and colleagues, Dr. Lafrance was praised for creating empowering academic environments where students feel safe, heard, and supported. Her mentees highlighted her deep commitment to feminist ethics, mutual respect, and collective growth, noting that she consistently models feminist values in both her teaching and research.
“What an incredible honour. This is the most meaningful award I have received over the course of my career,” said Dr. Lafrance. “I am deeply touched by the moving letters that so many past students submitted for my nomination.”
Dr. Marilyn Dupré Honored for Outstanding Contributions to Social Work
Dr. Marilyn Dupré, Director of St. Thomas University’s School of Social Work, has been named this year’s recipient of the prestigious Raoul Léger Memorial Award by the New Brunswick Association of Social Workers (NBASW).
The Raoul Léger Memorial Award is presented annually to a social worker in New Brunswick who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing the practice of social work and promoting social justice within the province. Dr. Dupré’s tireless efforts to strengthen social work education and advocacy have earned her this distinguished recognition.
Since assuming the role of Director, Dr. Dupré has been instrumental in shaping the future of social work in New Brunswick. Under her visionary leadership, St. Thomas University successfully launched the province’s only English-language Master of Social Work (MSW) program. This groundbreaking initiative not only enhances the educational landscape but also prepares highly skilled, practice-ready graduates equipped to address complex social issues in diverse communities.
Community Success
Rubin & Depow Summer Study Program at St. Thomas
St. Thomas University (STU) recently hosted its inaugural Rubin & Depow Summer Study Program, welcoming high school students to campus for an enriching two-week experience. From July 7 to 18, participants engaged in archaeological coursework and hands-on fieldwork, gaining a firsthand glimpse into university life.
The program was designed for students entering Grade 12 or their first year of university in September 2025. Under the guidance of Professor Moira McLaughlin, a forensic anthropologist, students enrolled in the Introduction to Archaeology course, which combined classroom instruction with practical excavation and lab work. Activities included analyzing artifacts and human remains, conducting dating exercises, and learning about First Nations archaeology. Additionally, students explored Fredericton through
University
visits to local attractions such as the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, Boyce Farmers’ Market, Kings Landing, and the Garrison Night Market stu.ca.
Participants earned university credit through STU’s Advanced Standing Program, allowing them to accumulate post-secondary credits while still in high school. The all-inclusive program, covering tuition, residence accommodations, and meals, was offered at a cost of $1,000.
The success of the program was made possible by a generous donation from Arnold Chippin of Chippin’s Limited. His support enabled STU to provide this unique educational opportunity to high school students, fostering their academic growth and preparing them for future university studies.
From Dialogue to Progress: New Brunswick’s Racialized Youth Unite for Change at 2025 Summit
High school students from across New Brunswick gathered on campus for an inspiring two-day event of connection, learning, and empowerment at the 2025 NB Racialized Youth Summit. This year’s theme, "From Dialogue to Progress: Change is Now," built upon the momentum of last year’s inaugural summit, providing a platform for youth to engage in meaningful dialogue aimed at driving real, impactful change.
The summit featured a range of workshops, speaker sessions, and collaborative activities designed to explore how conversations about race, identity, and equity can lead to tangible progress in their communities. Participants connected with peers and leaders, sharing experiences and strategies for creating a more inclusive society.
"Witnessing the collective drive to create a more inclusive and equitable future was inspiring," said Suzanne Shah, a student volunteer at the event. "As someone deeply committed to supporting racialized youth, it felt great to be part of such a transformative event."
The summit was organized by Saa Andrew Gbongbor, STU’s Cultural Diversity Coordinator, who emphasized the importance of continuing this momentum to empower youth across the province.
Shad On Campus: Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators at STU
In June, we were excited to welcome 61 talented students in grades 10 and 11 from across Canada to the ShadOnCampus experience.
This motivated group engaged in an academically demanding, intellectually nurturing, and community-focused program held on our beautiful campus. The inaugural Shad A+ program uniquely blended STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and Entrepreneurship education with expanded offerings in the social sciences and humanities.
“We were thrilled to work with Shad Canada to host the first cohort of Shad A+ students on our campus,” said President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. M. Nauman Farooqi. “Our intimate learning environment, crossdisciplinary approach to education, and emphasis on people, ideas, and values made STU a natural fit for this innovative program.”
This collaboration highlighted our commitment to fostering creativity, leadership, and innovation among Canada’s youth, preparing them to tackle the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and passion.
Meaningful Student Experience
St. Thomas University Welcomes Dr. M. Nauman Farooqi as 14th President and Vice-Chancellor
St. Thomas University recently celebrated the installation of Dr. Nauman Farooqi its fourteenth President and ViceChancellor, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter that blends rich tradition with forward-thinking innovation and a renewed dedication to transformative education.
Expressing his pride and humility, Dr. Farooqi shared, “I am proud to be part of this community of educators and deeply humbled by the confidence shown in me to lead this great institution.”
He further reflected on his connection to STU: “St. Thomas University is indeed a gem. A gem that, like many before me, I have come to admire, appreciate, and now have the privilege to polish and help shine even brighter.”
Looking to the future, Dr. Farooqi highlighted STU’s distinctive strengths as the foundation for advancing the university’s vision. “I see a university where tradition meets innovation, and every student has the chance to thrive in a changing world,” he said.
Dr. Siyabulela Mandela and Premier Susan Holt Visit STU
Dr. Siyabulela Mandela, renowned consultant, public speaker, activist, and the great-grandson of the iconic Nelson Mandela, joined Premier Susan Holt at St. Thomas University for a powerful and inspiring discussion focused on justice, reconciliation, and the critical role of youth leadership. The event drew students from Fredericton High School, Leo Hayes High School, and Oromocto High School, providing a unique opportunity for young people to engage directly with influential leaders.
Moderated by Lucia Pavon, President of the St. Thomas University Students' Union, the discussion centered on empowering the next generation of leaders and exploring actionable steps toward reparations.
During his address, Dr. Mandela shared profound insights on transforming moments of crisis into opportunities for unity and growth. Highlighting the responsibility of each generation, he noted that every group must define its purpose and then commit wholeheartedly to fulfilling it without compromise.
Premier Susan Holt echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the invaluable perspective youth bring to critical societal issues.
A heartfelt thank you was extended to Bernadette Fernandez, a proud graduate of St. Thomas University and founder of the Varanda Network, for organizing this impactful trip and event, which left a lasting impression on all who attended.
2025 Honorary Degree Recipients
St. Thomas University honoured entrepreneur and humanitarian Glenn Cooke, theatre educator and arts mentor Ilkay Silk, and advocate for the marginalized Paul Ouellet at its Spring and Summer Convocations.
“Our honorary degree recipients this year set a tremendous example of the kind of positive impact an individual can have on society. Each in their own realm—in business and philanthropy, arts and education, or assistance and advocacy—have achieved much in helping to improve our province and helping others,” said Dr. Nauman Farooqi, President and Vice-Chancellor.
Summer Social
President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. M. Nauman Farooqi, and his wife, Mona Aslam, were pleased to host alumni and friends of STU for the STU Summer Social. It was a wonderful opportunity to showcase campus and thank those who support STU!
Beyond 2025
STU Alumna Sydona Chandon
Named One of Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch
Sydona Chandon, BA’22, a passionate human rights advocate and community builder, has been honored as one of Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch. This prestigious recognition was awarded by Canada International Black Women Excellence (CIBWE) at the Black Pearls Gala: HERstory in the Making.
Reflecting on the honor, Chandon said, “This award is a reminder of the power of perseverance and staying true to my values. My motivation is rooted in purpose—knowing my success can inspire meaningful change and create opportunities for others.”
Chandon emphasized the responsibility that comes with such recognition: “It pushes me to use my platform to advocate for greater equity and empowerment, especially in spaces where Black women have been historically underrepresented.”
Throughout her career, Chandon has dedicated herself to building safer and stronger communities in New Brunswick and beyond. Currently, she mentors post-secondary students across Canada through her work with the Navigators, a global ministry organization, continuing to foster growth and leadership among the next generation.
Vaughn Sturgeon Named Chair of St. Thomas University Board of Governors
Vaughn Sturgeon has been appointed Chair of St. Thomas University’s Board of Governors for a four-year term starting March 1, 2025. A 1991 graduate of STU with a Bachelor of Arts, Sturgeon is also a Certified Management Accountant and Certified Public Accountant. He leads The Warren Group, a logistics and industrial services company operating in New Brunswick and Newfoundland.
STU President Dr. M. Nauman Farooqi highlighted Sturgeon’s extensive community involvement and prior service on STU’s Board, including roles on the Executive and Finance Committees. Sturgeon also contributed to the university’s recent Capital Campaign.
Farooqi expressed gratitude to former Chair David Ferguson for his leadership since 2017, noting his significant contributions to university governance.
Facts and Figures
Where Our Students Are From
Donations at STU
Full-time Students by Province, 2024-2025 New Brunswick — 72%
Overall, STU students were significantly more satisfied with their experience at St. Thomas than their Canadian and Maritime peers were with their institutions.
NSSE 2023
STU students rated faculty significantly higher than their Canadian or Maritime counterparts for effective teaching practices.
NSSE 2023
Where is Your Money Going?
Who is Giving to STU? (% of number of donors) Friends — 45% Alumni — 34% Faculty and Staff — 15% Organizations and Foundations — 6%
Board of Governors
Ex officio
Most Rev. Christian Riesbeck, B.Soc.Sc, STB, MDiv
– Founding Member
M. Nauman Farooqi, BSc, MBA, PhD
– President and Vice-Chancellor
Kim Fenwick, BSc, MA, PhD
– Provost and Vice-President (Academic and Research)
Appointed
Stacey Couturier, BA, BEd, CPHR
Ellen C. Desmond, BA, LLB, MSW, LLM, KC
Nicole Deveau, BA, MPA
Marlene Floyd, BA
Daniel McCarthy, BComm, FCPA, DComm
Sister Mary Beth McCurdy, BA, BTh, MA
Brian Murray, BA, BEd, MEd
Hon. Graydon Nicholas, BSc, LLB, MSW
– Chancellor
Daniel Stevenson, BBA, LLB, LLM (Tax) (Oct. 2027)
Vaughn Sturgeon, BA, CMA, CPA)
– Chair
Stephanie Underhill Tomilson, BA, BEd, MEd
Stephen Ward, BA, MA, PhD
Faculty
Michael Dawson, BA, MA, PhD
Dev Gupta, BA, MA, PhD
Marcea Ingersoll, BA, BED, MEd, PhD
Alumni
Melissa Wah, BA
Stephanie Underhill Tomilson, BA, BEd, MEd
Brianna Workman, BA, MPA, JD
Students
Kate Haché
Mishael Robinson
Observers
Jeffrey Carleton, BA, MA
– Senior Advisor to the President
James Culligan, BBA, CPA, CGA
– Vice-President, Finance and Administration
Jodi Misheal, BA, BEd
– Vice-President, Advancement and Alumni Relations
Ana Lucía Pavón
– President, Students’ Union
