StFX Alumni News - Winter 2017

StFX AlumniNews

WINTER 2017

CONNECTING ALUMNI & FRIENDS OF St. FRANCIS XAVIER UNIVERSITY

A RING FOR ROY

NEARLY 50 YEARS OF SERVICE TO STUDENTS

Congratulations to the Class of 1967 Homecoming 2o17

Georgina Aucoin

Donald A. Beaton

Don J. Beaton

Bob Bentley

Norman Biason

Jim Bowne

John F. Cameron

John Daniel Cameron

Anne Marie Conn

Gregory Culligan

Michael Daly

Brian Donovan

Addy Doucette

Stephen Farrell

David Forgeron

Paul E. Gaudet

Clare Gillies

Anne T. Gillis

Marion Graham

Mary Hall

Austin Hawley

John Hubbard

Peggy Hubbard

Michael Kennedy

Bill Kiely

Charlie Leduc

Maureen Littlejohn

Peter Littlejohn

Louise Lorefice

Paul Lorefice

Mike Lynch

Jeannie MacDonald

Nora MacDonald

Rick MacDonald

Donnie MacIntyre

Gail MacIntyre

Hilary MacIsaac

Stan MacKinnon

Jane MacLellan

Jackie MacNeil

Anne Miriam Mattie

Michael Mattie

Douglas Maynes

Sheila McCarthy

Gerry McConnell

Dave McDonald

Peter McIntyre

Kathy McQuarrie

Peter Mombourquette

John Montague

Terry Montague

Ann-Noreen Norton

Patricia Petrie

Carolyn Rideout

Marie Rocznik

Robert Rogers

Paul Schonhart

Jim Shea

Judith Stark

Gerry Strong

Harry Trihey

Sam Webb

StFX ALUMNINEWS CONTENTS

The festive spirit was very much in the air at Xavier Gardens during the recent Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Student Carol-Off.

Feature 8

Championing Nova Scotia From researching entrepreneurial education to slow out-migration of Nova Scotians, to sitting down to Thanksgiving dinner together, StFX alumni are among those working towards a better future for the province.

Contents NewsFlash

Features 3

Athletics

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Alumni Association Update

31

Chapter News

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News Exchange

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Sod Turned!

4 It was an historic day on campus as the community gathered to mark the official ground breaking of the Mulroney Institute of Government and the Xaverian Commons.

Royal Fellows StFX faculty members Dr. Brendan Murphy and Dr. Will Sweet have been recognized as among the best in their fields.

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8 Journey to StFX Day 23 The wait is over for nearly 900 students who received their coveted X-Rings on Dec. 3.

As well, we take a look at one special journey to this moment (Page 10).

23 Visit StFX’s online alumni community, The X-Ring: www.stfx.ca/alumni StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE | DR. KENT MACDONALD ’86 ’93

PROUD OF THE IMPACT OF THE XAVERIAN FAMILY Sometimes, people ask me what I enjoy most about being President of StFX. Undoubtedly, the best parts of my day are the slower moments, when I can leave my office and walk the campus. On my walks, I revel in the beauty of our campus. I think of those who’ve walked the paths before me. And, of course, I meet and chat with the many students, faculty, and staff who remind me why I chose to come home to StFX. As our Xaverian family prepares for a quiet Christmas holiday, it’s hard to believe our students were arriving on campus just a few short months ago. Since September, the StFX community has hosted three Canadian prime ministers, a former American president, and all those who came to campus to celebrate the life of proud alumnus Allan J. MacEachen ’44.

During the fall, we applauded our researchers who received millions of dollars in research funds, cheered for employees nominated for awards, and celebrated with faculty members who were elected into the prestigious Royal Society of Canada.

Of course, every day I am witness to members of our community who do small things to consistently contribute to the improvement of our beloved institution.

On my walks, our students remind me that StFX is a community of people who care deeply about the institution – but they also remind me that StFX is not yet perfect.

I am proud of our students who raise new ideas and share their concerns in a constructive and positive manner. Now more than ever, I am reminded that we have more work to do on a number of issues – and I pledge to continue to do my very best for StFX. Many of my walks now wind up, inevitably, at the construction site on upper campus. Our buildings are more than red brick and cornerstones; they are spaces that

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enhance the learning and university experience for our StFX students. As Canada’s leading residential university, the investments we are making on campus are significant.

I remain unequivocal in my support and appreciation of every donor who gives to StFX to help us with these learning investments. The impact of the work that is taking place on campus today may not be fully understood by those living in large, metropolitan areas of the country. However, for those of us residing in rural, northeastern Nova Scotia and working at a small liberal arts institution, the economic impact of this project is significant. The ongoing fundraising effort led by the Right Honourable Brian Mulroney ’59 (at no cost to StFX) will result in over 1,000 person years of employment for local residents. We are grateful to Mr. Mulroney and his family for their unwavering support of StFX and our surrounding rural community.

As my fourth year serving StFX unfolds, I am aware that creating jobs is just one way in which StFX makes northeastern Nova Scotia a wonderful place to live and raise families. I also know that our faculty, staff, and alumni are playing a direct role in the provincial effort to revitalize Nova Scotia. This edition of the AlumniNews allows us to feature the impact of StFX and our alumni to our region of the country. It is yet another reason I remain proud of the Xaverian Family and its impact on the world around us.

Hail and Health.

Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93 President and Vice Chancellor

Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93, StFX President

NEWSFLASH WHAT’S NEW ON CAMPUS AND IN THE StFX COMMUNITY

PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON NEWEST MEMBER OF XAVERIAN FAMILY

President Bill Clinton ’17 Bill Clinton, the 42nd President of the United States, is now a member of the StFX family, after accepting an honorary degree in a special convocation ceremony in Toronto on October 3, 2017. The former president received a standing ovation from the 600 guests attending the ceremony and dinner.

StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93 and Chancellor Dr. Susan Crocker ’12 conferred the degree. The citation reads in part: “Committed to human rights, justice, and peace, President Clinton is recognized as one of the most distinguished world leaders. Described as a ‘political mastermind,’ President Clinton is also a person of ‘magnificent energy and creativity,’ and known for his eloquence, compassion and charm.

“In 2001, President Clinton established the William J. Clinton Foundation, a non-profit organization whose mission is to strengthen the capacity of people in the United States and throughout the world to meet the challenges of global interdependence. … Since that time, President Clinton has tirelessly promoted the cause of peace and global health and wellbeing, speaking regularly on issues ranging from climate change to health in the developing world.”

Mr. Clinton was at StFX in 2011 when he helped Frank McKenna ’70, former Canadian ambassador to Washington and former New

Brunswick premier, open the Frank McKenna Centre for Leadership.

“I was there in 2011 to help dedicate the leadership centre and I am inspired tonight by what you are doing,” he said. “Frank always says StFX is a university that punches above its weight.”

Mr. Clinton spoke passionately about the state of global politics during the event and later participated in a fireside chat with Mr. McKenna.

Devoted to the issue of leadership, the evening attracted leaders from business, academia, politics, and the arts, such as businessman and philanthropist Ron Joyce, former Ontario premiers David Peterson and Mike Harris, and even Hollywood stars — Maggie Q, from Designated Survivor, a show about a fictional American president.

Emily Gale ’16, a Frank McKenna Centre for Leadership ambassador, told the audience when she first arrived at StFX, she didn’t call herself a leader because she thought that title was reserved for “people more important than me.” She soon learned leadership is about much more. “Being a leader means taking initiative, listening to others, and finding ways to make your community a better place.

Being a leader in this way means sharing your passion and helping others uncover theirs.”

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NEWSFLASH l WHAT’S NEW ON CAMPUS AND IN THE StFX COMMUNITY

STFX BREAKS GROUND ON TRANSFORMATIONAL MULRONEY INSTITUTE OF GOVERNMENT AND XAVERIAN COMMONS

Participating in the official sod turning are, l-r, Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation Elder Kerry Prosper ’09; StFX Chancellor Dr. Susan Crocker ’12; Sean Fraser ’06, Central Nova MP; Labi Kousoulis, Nova Scotia Minister of Labour and Advanced Education; the Rt. Hon. Brian Mulroney ’59; StFX President Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93; StFX Students’ Union president Annie Sirois; Mike Boyd ’85, StFX Board of Governors chair; StFX Dean of Arts Dr. Karen Brebner ’90; and Randy Delorey ’00, Nova Scotia Minister of Health and Antigonish MLA On an historic day that had many looking to the promise of the future, the Right Honourable Brian Mulroney ’59, Canada’s 18th Prime Minister, took a moment to look to the past.

As hundreds gathered at StFX on September 20, 2017 for the official ground breaking of the Brian Mulroney Institute of Government and the Xaverian Commons, a $100 millionplus project heralded as the most transformational in StFX’s history, Mr. Mulroney recalled a transformational moment in his own life.

He told of approaching his father almost six decades ago with a plan to take advantage of a new apprenticeship program at the paper mill where the senior Mulroney worked. “My father’s reply is engraved in my memory,” he said in a stirring speech shortly after turning the sod to mark the construction of the $50 million Mulroney Hall.

“I know, Brian, that times are tough and we could sure use the extra money you would bring in. But I have learned one thing: the only way out of a paper mill town is through a university door – and you are going to university,” he recalled his father saying. “And that is how I

wound up at StFX.” Now, with his wife Dr. Mila Mulroney and daughter Caroline Mulroney Lapham at his side, Mr. Mulroney was back at his alma mater bringing transformational opportunities for others.

Not only will Mulroney Hall impact generations of students – including in the form of $10 million raised in scholarships and bursaries—it will provide a lasting legacy and strategic asset for StFX and the broader community for years to come, speaker after speaker noted.

“This is not a StFX story or a provincial story. This is a national story,” StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93 remarked as he said the changes will go beyond a beautiful new 95,000 square foot building. It will transform the student experience at StFX and positively impact the surrounding region, impacting students who are not here yet, who are not born yet, he said.

“This is what it means to leave a legacy. The Mulroney legacy is one we will always be indebted to here at StFX.” Dr. MacDonald thanked Mr. Mulroney and his family, the Hon. Frank McKenna ’70, and the StFX Development Office for their

“It will transform the student experience at StFX and positively impact the surrounding region, impacting students who are not here yet, who are not born yet.”

Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93

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NEWSFLASH l WHAT’S NEW ON CAMPUS AND IN THE StFX COMMUNITY

tireless efforts in securing private donor funding for the project, including the $10 million that will go toward student scholarships and bursaries and $10 million to create new endowed chairs for faculty that will address such issues as Canada-U.S. relations, women in leadership, climate and the environment and human rights.

Construction on the facility also comes with the future development of the greater Xaverian Commons project, he said.

Central Nova MP Sean Fraser ’06 and Nova Scotia Labour and Advanced Education Minister, the Hon. Labi Kousoulis both spoke on the lasting impacts the project will have on the university and on the region in terms of economic and social impacts.

towards undergraduate students.

This will provide students with remarkable preparation for further studies or for careers in the public service of all governments in Canada along with agencies ranging from the Bank of Canada to the United Nations, and will help to continue and strengthen the service StFX graduates will be able to render in so many new fields to people here and elsewhere around the world.

“This event today is a result of the unparalleled generosity and support of benefactors in the private sector here and elsewhere across the globe. It simply would not have been possible without them,” Mr. Mulroney said regarding their vital support.

He also underlined the tremendous help received for the greater Xaverian Commons project from the provincial and federal governments, which have contributed $5 million and $30 million respectively.

“This event today is a result of the unparalleled generosity and support of benefactors in the private sector here and elsewhere across the globe.”

The Rt. Hon. Brian Mulroney ’59

CULMINATION OF A DREAM “Today represents the culmination of a dream,” Mr. Mulroney said.

StFX students, he said, will now benefit from a unique opportunity at the only public policy institute at a Canadian university directed

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NEWSFLASH l WHAT’S NEW ON CAMPUS AND IN THE StFX COMMUNITY

MI’KMAQ FLAG PERMANENTLY INSTALLED AT STFX

Pictured are Tamara Cremo, Paqtnkek Chief PJ Prosper, StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93, the late Grand Chief Ben Sylliboy, and Pictou Landing Chief Andrea Paul With the sound of drum beats and scent of sage still in the air, a standing-room only crowd watched as the Mi’kmaq flag was proudly unfurled on September 7, 2017 to fly permanently on the StFX campus.

A packed crowd filled Dennis Hall for the historic ceremony, moved inside due to inclement weather. The flag will fly permanently outside the President’s office at Morrison Hall.

“It is an honour to be here for the raising of the flag,” the late Grand Chief Ben Sylliboy, who passed away in November 2017, said as he thanked everyone for coming to share in this moment of togetherness, an important ceremony that brought together members of the Mi’kmaq nation and the StFX community.

“I’m really honoured to be here, it is a long time coming. This is a start of reconciliation,” Grand Captain Andrew Denny said as he thanked StFX for raising the Grand Council flag on a permanent basis. It solidifies and cements the fact that Mi’kmaq are welcome here, he said.

Chief PJ Prosper of Paqtnkek First Nation, also a member of the StFX Board of Governors, said the ceremony symbolizes the commitment between the two, and the interest in sharing the rich

stories and cultural traditions of the Mi’kmaq people who have been here for generations upon generations.

Chief Prosper also acknowledged the leadership of StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald, who he said reached out to the Mi’kmaq nation soon after his installation.

“This is an important day for us,” Dr. MacDonald said as he talked about the journey StFX is on, and that “we still have a lot to learn.”

Dr. MacDonald thanked all those who have carried the flag in this regard, particularly members of the StFX education faculty, and thanked everyone “for having patience with us.”

StFX Aboriginal Student Advisor Terena Francis made several announcements including the news of a partnership with StFX, through the Jeannine Deveau Educational Equity Endowment Fund, to help establish an Elders-in-Residence program. She also noted the appointment of Dorene Bernard as 2017 Coady Chair in Social Justice, and the news of the establishment of the five-year, $300,000 John Jerome Paul Chair for Equity in Mathematics Education.

This research chair, created through the Deveau Fund, will be held

by StFX education professor Dr. Lisa Lunney Borden ’93 ’94 ’01.

“I’m really honoured to be here, it is a long time coming. This is a start of reconciliation.”

Grand Captain Andrew Denny

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NEWSFLASH l WHAT’S NEW ON CAMPUS AND IN THE StFX COMMUNITY

FAREWELL, ALLAN J. – HUNDREDS, INCLUDING PRIME MINISTER JUSTIN TRUDEAU, CELEBRATE LIFE OF A CANADIAN ICON

Canadian Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau speaks at a Ceremony of Life at StFX for the late Hon. Allan J. MacEachen ’44, regarded as one of Canada’s most important and respected politicians The life and legacy of one of Canada’s most important politicians, the Honourable Allan J. MacEachen ’44, was honoured as hundreds—including Canadian Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau—filled StFX’s Keating Centre September 17, 2017 for a celebration of life for a man regarded as a Canadian icon.

Mr. MacEachen, a native of Inverness, Cape Breton, died September 12, 2017. The longtime Nova Scotia MP, cabinet minister and senator was also Canada’s first deputy prime minister.

He was one of StFX’s most notable alumni, a former faculty member and former StFX Board of Governors member. “I bring the thanks of a grateful country,” Prime Minister Trudeau said during a poignant ceremony that reflected on Mr. MacEachen’s many achievements that are part of the Canadian social fabric including the Medical Care Act, the Guaranteed Income Supplement for seniors and the Canada Labour Code.

Mr. Trudeau told a capacity crowd that included extended family, friends and many dignitaries including former Canadian prime minister the Right Honourable Jean Chrétien as one of the honorary pallbearers, that Mr. MacEachen too seldom gets the credit he so deserves for his monumental accomplishments.

“Canadians are living in the country Allan J. built, and they like it,” he said as he spoke on the achievements of the man he called a peerless parliamentarian, a man who he said was held in high esteem on the global stage. As the son of former Canadian prime minister, the Right Honourable Pierre Elliott Trudeau, the prime minister said he also brings thanks from his grateful father to Mr. MacEachen, his intimate and loyal friend and a once-in-a-lifetime minister.

Mr. Trudeau said when Mr. MacEachen entered politics, the Canada that people wanted existed only in people’s dreams. “By the time he left in 1996, it was a fact of life.” Nobody did more and certainly nobody did it better, to make that happen, he said.

Kenzie MacKinnon, Mr. MacEachen’s long-serving executive assistant; former Ontario premier, former MP and close friend, the Honourable Bob Rae; and Nova Scotia Premier Stephen MacNeil also spoke during the ceremony, bringing insight into Mr. MacEachen’s life, times and character.

Special guest, bagpiper Dr. Angus MacDonald of the Isle of Skye, piped in Mr. MacEachen’s remains, followed by an RCMP honour guard and honorary pallbearers. Other touching tributes included performances from world-renowned Cape Breton musicians Stewart and Lucy MacNeil and fiddler Ashley MacIsaac, a smudging ceremony and Mi’kmaq prayer by Elder Kerry Prosper ’09, and a Gaelic prayer delivered by Fr. Allan J. MacNeil. StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald served as master of ceremonies.

Allan J. MacEachen ’44 began his political career in 1953 and was re-elected eight times, serving as MP for InvernessRichmond and then for Cape BretonHighlands Canso. He was one of Canada’s most powerful cabinet ministers of the postwar era and held a variety of posts including holding the most senior portfolios of economic, social and foreign policy. Following his 1984 retirement from the House of Commons, he was appointed to the Senate of Canada where he remained until his retirement in 1996 at age 75. The recipient of several honorary degrees, he was appointed to be an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2008. StFX hosted The MacEachen Conference in 1996, honouring his outstanding contributions to Canadian politics. In 1997, as a lasting tribute, friends and supporters established StFX’s Allan J. MacEachen Annual Lecture In Politics Series, which has gone on to attract many great leaders to StFX, including no fewer than four Canadian prime ministers.

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NEWSFLASH l WHAT’S NEW ON CAMPUS AND IN THE StFX COMMUNITY

BEST IN THEIR FIELD – STFX FACULTY ELECTED AS FELLOWS OF THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF CANADA

L-r, Dr. William Sweet and Dr. Brendan Murphy Two StFX faculty members have been elected by their peers as new Fellows of the Royal Society of Canada (FRSC), national recognition as the best in their field.

Philosophy professor Dr. William Sweet and earth sciences professor Dr. Brendan Murphy are among 89 new Fellows inducted into the Royal Society of Canada for outstanding scholarly, scientific and artistic achievements. The two are among only four new Fellows elected from Atlantic institutions.

“This is a very formal acknowledgement of the exceptional work and contributions that Dr. Murphy and Dr. Sweet have made to their respective disciplines over many years. This award is well deserved and I applaud Dr. Sweet and Dr. Murphy on this recognition and on their distinguished careers,” says StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93. “This is a significant accomplishment and it speaks to the quality and value of our faculty at StFX. It is exceptional that StFX has had two nominees elected in the same year for this distinguished award.”

StFX Academic Vice-President & Provost Dr. Kevin Wamsley says this tremendous honour signifies the outstanding scholarly

achievements of these gifted professors, leading experts in their respective fields.

Dr. Murphy, who has taught at StFX since 1982, is best known for his contributions to understanding the supercontinent cycle, one of the most significant developments in earth sciences since the discovery of plate tectonics. He has led a wide range of study over his career in an effort to improve understanding of mountain building processes and the long-term history of global environmental change.

Dr. Sweet, who joined StFX faculty in 1990, is an internationally recognized scholar of the idealist movement in 19thand early 20th-century Britain. His careful, historically-grounded and innovative scholarship on this movement has led to a re-evaluation of the work of some of its key figures and of its bearing on contemporary political philosophy as a whole. His research has also led to new insights into the impact of idealism in East Asia, India, and southern Africa, and the promotion of intercultural philosophy.

“This is a very formal acknowledgement of the exceptional work and contributions that Dr. Murphy and Dr. Sweet have made to their respective disciplines over many years.”

Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93

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NEWSFLASH l WHAT’S NEW ON CAMPUS AND IN THE StFX COMMUNITY

CLASSICS FOR CLASSICS TO CELEBRATE 10 YEARS

Dr. Steve Baldner (front row, left) with the 2017 Classics for Classics class

You know you’re onto something good when participants rank a trip to the Grand Canyon as second to your course.

That was the review from two participants this past summer attending StFX’s annual Classics for Classics program, a popular weeklong learning event on the StFX campus, that will be celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2018.

Each year in July, alumni and friends are invited back to class to study classics of our civilization in a way that is serious, but also friendly and relaxed. There are no essays and no tests, but participants are assigned text to prepare for each morning’s discussion. StFX philosophy professor Dr. Steve Baldner leads the learning experience offered by StFX Alumni Affairs.

The joy of learning has been a strong pull.

Classics for Classics, offered at no charge for StFX alumni, began in 2009 with 30 participants and has grown every year. Last year, 69 people registered.

Participants come from across North America, ranging in age from early career to retirees.

Every year, attendees study a different philosopher. Dr. Baldner lectures every morning and has a guest lecturer from StFX faculty come in each afternoon to lecture on a related topic. As well, the program includes a banquet, social night and a reception following Friday’s last class.

“Alumni love to return to campus and Classics for Classics provides a wonderful opportunity for them to enjoy StFX, from both an educational and a social lens,” says StFX Alumni Affairs director Mary Jessie MacLellan ’87.

“The attendees just rave about the program and can’t wait to come back every year,” says Glenda Bond, StFX Alumni Affairs assistant.

She says many participants have attended every year since its inception, while some have just missed a year or so due to unforeseen circumstances.

Classics for Classics also attracts new students each year – including 17 new participants this past year.

Dr. Baldner says it’s been terrific.

“Teachers all have doubts occasionally about whether the students care about the wisdom we so liberally dispense or whether we are accomplishing any good,” he says.

“The doubts fly away each year when I meet the participants in Classics for Classics: bright, accomplished, eager students who want to understand – and to argue. I finish each year full of hope for the academic life, and this year more so than ever. I have never had so much satisfaction – or fun – from teaching as I have had this past week.”

The 10th anniversary will be celebrated July 2-6, 2018.

“ I finish each year full of hope for the academic life, and this year more so than ever.”

Dr. Steve Baldner

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BLOOD, SWEAT AND TEARS GO INTO EVERY X-RING, BUT ESPECIALLY SO WITH RACHEL ALLAN Not so long ago, Rachel Allan, an honours economics and business student, didn’t believe she’d ever wear an X-Ring. At age 18, just months before arriving at StFX as a freshman student, she suffered a devastating brain trauma when she took a hard knee to the temple that knocked her out during a high school provincial rugby game.

It wasn’t her first concussion.

She spent that June, her last month at St. Peter’s High School in Ottawa, on brain rest and the summer lying low. Doctors advised her not to come to StFX that September. She did.

“My whole life, I’ve been going to X,” she says, explaining her determination.

“I was very stubborn, being a teenager.”

Her friends were coming, and StFX had been her dream since she was a child.

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In Grade 2 when asked to draw four things on a flag that represented her family and future goals, she drew an X-Ring.

Not only did her family’s Thanksgiving dinner table regularly fill with generations of X-Ring wearers, every summer, when the family would stop at the traffic lights outside Antigonish on the drive from Ottawa to their bungalow in Big Pond, Cape Breton, her mother would say, ‘That’s your school. You’re going there someday.’

“My aunts would always tell me you need to get one of these (the X-Ring) just for the experiences you get there over four years, the accomplishment and hard work,” she says.

She followed her dream.

But it didn’t take long to realize things weren’t right. She remembers a walk across campus tiring her out, sleeping for four days straight with her roommate checking in that she was okay.

“I knew I was getting in too deep. I knew I was coming here forever, my friends were coming here. I tried, but no.”

“I had second impact syndrome,” she says.

“I couldn’t stay here. I was pretty brain dead. It was getting worse because I was in school.”

Things came to a head on October 15. Three-quarters of the way through a midterm she started blacking out. She saw a campus doctor who withdrew her.

She remembers Schwartz School of Business staff and faculty being very supportive, telling her to come back when she can.

More than lost dreams, she faced a daunting road ahead.

For months, she slept in a dark room with no TV, no computer and no phone.

She couldn’t put a sentence together, had no balance in her feet, everything in her head was wonky, she says.

“I couldn’t communicate my thoughts and I was left emotionless,” she says in an open and candid conversation.

“It was a very long process to get me to have a conversation with people.” She says she couldn’t form coherent sentences. She’d repeat herself.

“My brain swelled so bad after the second impact.”

Ms. Allan says she spent two years out of it, not engaged, with no control over her emotions. She started physio at the very bottom, she says.

Her doctors told her parents she’d likely have a permanent handicap and may not be able to do the things she did before. In hindsight, she says it was probably best she didn’t understand this diagnosis. She never gave up hope.

Working with her neurologist and physiotherapist, little by little, she started to make strides.

She has holes in her brain and will always live with the damage, she says. However, her brain restored itself in the parts that were healthy.

“The healthy part has done it all on its own without any explanation,” she says.

She works to prevent migraines and wears a heart monitor when she exercises so that she doesn’t exert herself too much.

“I’ve learned how to cope,” she says.

“I have triggers and I know my triggers. If I avoid my triggers, I do fine. Headaches will put me to bed.

“Since I’ve gone back to myself, my brain works in a different way,” she says. “I learn in a different way. Before, my learning was more oral, now it’s photographic and writing. That was a big adjustment,” she says.

Through it all she was determined to come back to school.

While her parents worried tremendously about her, they never put that stress on her or showed her their fear, she says. “They were very positive, and did everything they can to help me,” she says.

As a result, she says it was constantly in her mind that there wasn’t any reason she couldn’t do it, that she wouldn’t be able to go back to school.

Being positive and determined (she says her first words included “me do”) and being young and healthy all helped, she says.

The year after leaving Antigonish she took two economics courses at Ottawa University to see if she could apply herself and eventually return to StFX. She started working at her old job, and she started travelling.

Ms. Allan says because of her injury she can never play sports again and she felt the loss keenly. Travelling became her new hobby. She backpacked through southeast Asia, China, Malaysia and Japan.

When she started working and travelling, she began to realize there was more to life than the game of rugby, and that she should be grateful and happy.

In fact, she says the injury has given her a whole new perspective.

“I’m so appreciative, and so curious. I so just want to live and appreciate relationships and meeting new people. I appreciate being able to connect with people, being able to sit down and talk to people and learn about their outlook. I like to learn about new cultures and things that benefit your soul and body.”

In 2015, she returned to StFX. Coming back the second time, she says she knew StFX was a place where she could get help. She knew how helpful people were from her professors to the health and counselling centre.

“But it was terrifying. I can’t drop out and fail again.”

She took extra courses, made the dean’s list, and picked up joint honours. Recently, she received the Tanenbaum Canada Israel Student Exchange Scholarship and spent last semester studying in Israel.

“When I left school, I felt I was never coming back. I was so depressed.

My dreams were crushed. I fought to the very end to stay here.”

RACHEL ALLAN “I thoroughly enjoy school now when before it was literally killing me.”

As graduation approaches, she’s considering a master’s of economics or an MBA. “I never thought a master’s would be in the cards.”

When she finally slips on her X-Ring on December 3, the feast day of St. Francis Xavier, it will be surreal, she says.

She will move the silver ring she wears on her X-Ring finger that reads, “Be True to Your Dreams,” to another finger and slide on that distinctive band of gold with a raised black X. Two words inscribe her X-Ring: “Seven years.”

“I wanted an X-Ring since I was seven,” she says.

“I don’t think it will feel real. When I left school, I felt I was never coming back. I was so depressed. My dreams were crushed. I fought to the very end to stay here.”

“This wasn’t in the view. I honestly didn’t think I was capable of it. I thought it was way out of my league.”

With family and friends cheering her on, she’ll be thinking about how much she has done to get back here and get her X-Ring.

“I’ll probably cry.

“I feel very accomplished, the amount of blood, sweat and tears I did to make this happen. I will definitely feel overwhelmed.

“I definitely want my children to get an X-Ring.”

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Hailey Vidler ’15

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to FAREWELL

NOVA SCOTIA ACROSS NOVA SCOTIA, NEW COLLABORATIONS ARE HELPING REDEFINE POSSIBILITIES FOR THE PROVINCE. STFX ALUMNI ARE AMONG THOSE IN THE CHARGE, AMONG THOSE BELIEVING WE CAN BUILD A BETTER FUTURE TOGETHER. IN THIS ISSUE, WE TAKE A LOOK AT THE EFFORTS OF SOME OF THOSE ALUMNI WHO ARE WORKING TO ENSURE RESIDENTS HAVE MORE CHOICE TO NO LONGER SAY FAREWELL TO NOVA SCOTIA.

BY SHELLEY CAMERON-MCCARRON

When Hailey Vidler graduated from StFX in 2015 with a joint major in development studies and anthropology, saying farewell to Nova Scotia could have been an easy choice for the Ontario native. She’d only just started to grow roots in the province.

Not only did she choose to stay, she’s now part of a non-profit group working to ensure it’s easier for everyone to have that option.

For the past two years, as an engagement strategist with Engage Nova Scotia, an organization teaming with partners across the province to advance collaboration, innovation and self-reliance, Ms. Vidler has been getting hands-on experience in supporting Nova Scotians making change in their communities for a better future. In fact, of Engage Nova Scotia’s six full-time staff, four are StFX alumni, chief engagement officer and founding chair Danny Graham ’83, and engagement strategists Jennifer Brenton DeCoste ’03, Jeff Overmars ’02, and Ms. Vidler ’15.

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Danny Graham ’83

“I decided to stay in Nova Scotia after graduation because I saw it as a place of opportunity, especially for young people,” Ms. Vidler, a self-proclaimed Nova Scotian by choice, says.

While that statement may seem contrary to popular narratives, she says when you spend time engaging in communities, you realize many young people are stepping up to build a better future for their communities and for Nova Scotia.

Ms. Vidler, who is currently working with local municipalities to build greater capacity for engaging citizens and on Nova Scotia quality of life research, says her work has been transformational personally and professionally.

“Being a ‘have not’ province has become an entrenched part of the Nova Scotian narrative. There is no doubt we have economic and demographic challenges facing our province,” she says.

“Engage Nova Scotia works at the root of these issues to create a culture shift towards better civic engagement and collaboration.

If we improve these conditions by focusing on the quality of life and lived experiences of people in our communities we can build a thriving province, together.”

It’s about asking how we show up as citizens in our communities, she says.

“These are similar questions I began asking myself when I was in development studies at X. That program was a deeply impactful learning opportunity that started me on a path to realizing the importance of citizen engagement when co-creating the development of our communities.”

It’s a sentiment to which Ms. Brenton DeCoste can relate.

The StFX political science graduate says when she and husband Scott DeCoste ’00 chose to return home to Nova Scotia she wanted to do her part in supporting the changes necessary at a provincial level for Nova Scotia to become a successful and thriving region where their two young boys could excel.

“We became very active in our church, supported and started small scale social enterprises and two small businesses. Working for Engage Nova Scotia allowed me to combine my volunteer passions for community development with dedicated, professional support on a much larger scale,” she says.

As part of her work with Engage Nova Scotia, she’s supporting municipalities across the province that are looking for ways to work more collaboratively with citizens to grow, from the grassroots, the hometowns and the province “we all want to live in.”

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Engage Nova Scotia’s small team has had great impact because of the network that has formed around this shared vision, she says This work and this approach is essential in this period of global growth and change, she says. “The stronger our communities are at the base, the more resilient we will be, creating a safe place to start and grow businesses and families.”

“I DECIDED TO STAY IN NOVA SCOTIA AFTER GRADUATION BECAUSE I SAW IT AS A PLACE OF OPPORTUNITY.” HAILEY VIDLER ’15 REDEFINING POSSIBILITIES

Mr. Overmars, a StFX sociology graduate who also attained a certificate in Participatory Action Research for Citizen-led Change from StFX’s Coady International Institute in 2014, is currently seconded from the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission to help Engage with highlighting an emerging new narrative for the province.

He’s been focused on recording interviews with Nova Scotians demonstrating leadership at the community level and promoting their stories to inspire others and show how each one of us can make a difference. These stories are available in the VOICES: Stories of Change podcast available on iTunes and Stitcher, and on the Engage website.

Amazing work is happening at the community level, he says, where new collaborations are redefining the possibilities for the province.

“We all have a stake in the success of our communities and our province. I’ve always been interested in community development and how everyday Nova Scotians are doing their part. I’m descended from immigrants, like all settlers, and believe a diverse province is a strong one. If I can show how newcomers and people from diverse communities are helping to create a more resilient province, I feel like I’m spending my time on something worthwhile.”

Mr. Overmars says initiatives like Engage Nova Scotia that focus on the province and its future are vital.

“THE STRONGER OUR COMMUNITIES ARE AT THE BASE, THE MORE RESILIENT WE WILL BE, CREATING A SAFE PLACE TO START AND GROW BUSINESSES AND FAMILIES.” JENNIFER BRENTON DECOSTE ’03 “Communities across the province are demonstrating the value of volunteerism, engagement and taking initiative towards improving the quality of life. More Nova Scotians need to hear these stories and take action,” he says.

“The responsibility of building our future can’t rest on government alone.”

PROMISING SIGNS “Part of what we invite people to do is to step up and not give up on the future of our province,” says Mr. Graham who came together with a group of passionate Nova Scotians who believed they could do more to form Engage Nova Scotia five years ago.

They wanted to explore the deeper systemic challenges that hold Nova Scotia back, celebrate the successes, and to see more clearly the advantages, opportunities and hurdles in front of them.

“We’ve been seeing promising signs,” he says.

As example, Engage Nova Scotia has worked with municipal leaders in Nova Scotia to help build trust in their communities.

The enthusiasm they’re receiving is gratifying, Mr. Graham says.

He says a general declining trust in government, media, businesses and NGOs, has resulted in an emerging paralysis of leadership and the rise of populism and superficiality to public discourse.

“Amongst the things we do to build trust, we work with community and municipal leaders to help understand why, when and how they should engage their citizens and we help them to understand how to do it more effectively.”

Just last month they were in Cape Breton for an event aimed at improving understanding and connections between Mi’kmaq leadership and municipal leaders, and in January, they’ll be part of a public engagement exercise within the Town of Antigonish to tap into the wisdom of citizens there.

Other examples of recent work include planting seeds that led to the creation of jobs for unemployed artisans and tech start-ups in the Annapolis Valley, and for new relationships to develop through Share Thanksgiving, an initiative that matches international students and newcomers with Nova Scotians for dinner, a chance for Nova Scotians, new and old, to sit together to connect.

More than a shared meal, the initiative builds community and helps focus on improving immigration, a goal for the future population of the province, by asking how inclusive and welcoming are our communities and institutions.

“We’re really proud of Nova Scotians on how they’ve responded and what Nova Scotians have done with just a little nudging by us,” Mr. Graham says.

“We’re just opening up the space to do things differently,” he notes.

“We’re catalyzers.”

Engage Nova Scotia’s aspiration is for more people to know the advantages, opportunities and hurdles in front of them, he says.

“We will be a more vibrant and resilient Nova Scotia if more people are stepping up to our challenges and opportunities and if we are more adaptive to change and see with clearer eyes.”

People value the quality of life here, the connections and authenticity, he says, and Engage Nova Scotia is deeply focused on measuring what Nova Scotians treasure to further improve this quality of life and to ensure that everybody gets to share in that quality of life.

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Family enjoying Share Thanksgiving together

“PART OF WHAT WE INVITE PEOPLE TO DO IS TO STEP UP AND NOT GIVE UP ON THE FUTURE OF OUR PROVINCE.” DANNY GRAHAM ’83 Engage Nova Scotia is working too to see that more of the province’s young people see the potential of the place. Quality of life is incredibly important to millennials, he says, who are more than ever able to choose where they live while they work nationally or globally.

For Ms. Vidler, another aspect that drew her to Engage Nova Scotia is the emphasis on ‘narrative’ and creating spaces for historically marginalized voices to come to the fore.

When communities have a process where they can listen to one another and uncover what they collectively value, they’re more likely to be successful when aligning across differences and building a better quality of life for everyone. Cross-sector collaboration and diverse representation from different communities is critical to the process.

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As for the influence of their alma mater?

“I knew the day that I stepped foot on campus in 2011 that there was something special about StFX,” Ms. Vidler says as a way of explaining why she believes so many grads find themselves giving back to society.

“The values of community, social justice and leadership are deeply ingrained in our identity as Xaverians. The responsibility to promote these values in aspects in your personal and professional lives continues long after you leave campus.”

Mr. Overmars says in addition to the regular academic streams, the Extension Department, Coady Institute, and the legacy of the Antigonish Movement are renowned leaders when it comes to new approaches to community, leadership and development. “It’s an inspiring place to study.”

The commitment of StFX alumni to support and foster the skills and talents of recent grads is unlike anything Ms. Vidler says she’s heard of. “Alumni mentorship and leadership has been a pivotal part of my journey to finding a job I’m passionate about,” she says.

In particular, she’s worked with Mr. Graham in various roles since fall 2015. “He is the embodiment of compassionate leadership,” she says.

Says Mr. Graham, “I find purpose in giving back. I think we all do.”

“By giving students the tools for economic self-determination, we have a real chance to upset the out-migration that has come to define rural Nova Scotia.

Young, motivated entrepreneurs could be just what Nova Scotia needs to stem this tide.”

Greg Hadley ’05 ’07 ’16

EDUCATION TO SLOW OUTMIGRATION:

GIVING STUDENTS THE TOOLS FOR ECONOMIC SELF-DETERMINATION Can education be used to slow out-migration in Nova Scotia?

That’s a question top of mind for StFX PhD student Greg Hadley ’05 ’07 ’16 of Antigonish, NS who’s examining the potential for entrepreneurship education in Nova Scotia public schools to serve as a mechanism to slow out-migration and enhance economic development.

“I am particularly interested in rural areas, as population decline and economic stagnation has threatened the stability of many, once vibrant, communities,” says Mr. Hadley, supervised by StFX education professor Dr. David Young.

“As a former public school teacher in rural Nova Scotia, I have seen what population decline has done and am keen to explore what educational avenues might help to slow this troubling phenomenon.”

Mr. Hadley says as a lifelong resident of rural Nova Scotia, it was an easy decision for him to stay in the community that gave him many positive experiences. He became a social studies teacher, delivering courses in economics, entrepreneurship, geography and history.

“It was very rewarding work, but I was continually troubled by the shift in experience many young people in rural Nova Scotia are now subject to. Many of those neighboring communities where I spent much of my childhood have largely dissolved. Schools have closed, young people have left and economic hardship is of an ongoing concern.”

As communities depopulated, he became increasingly motivated to find ways, via education channels, to disrupt this cycle.

Entrepreneurship education, in the public school context, is programming that provides students with knowledge and skills related to business creation. Usually offered as a standalone course, it’s part of

a wider business education curriculum. Its centerpiece, intensive project asks students to envision, develop, launch and successfully manage a business. This engaging and educative course is rarely offered in rural communities where small schools have limited course options, he says. As a result, many of these high school graduates leave school with no exposure to business education—a reality that usually leads to employment elsewhere.

“My research has shown me that many young people from rural communities would relish the chance to live there later in life, but sparse economic opportunities often prevent this from happening.

By giving students the tools for economic self-determination, we have a real chance to upset the out-migration that has come to define rural Nova Scotia. Young, motivated entrepreneurs could be just what Nova Scotia needs to stem this tide.”

Recently, Mr. Hadley received a 2017 Nova Scotia Graduate Scholarship, awarded to research graduates at Nova Scotia universities to help advance the economic and social well-being of Nova Scotians by investing in graduate thesis-based research in priority sections.

The award has allowed him to create a robust research plan of a truly provincial scope, he says.

“The funding will allow me to engage with stakeholders, academics and policymakers and, I predict, will open many other doors that may have remained closed by economic forces. This funding offers me a great deal of research flexibility and has been truly transformative for my work.”

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Photos:

1 Distinguished Alumna of the Year - Maggie MacDonnell ’02

Accepting the award in Maggie’s absence are, l-r, Sr. Margie MacDonnell (Maggie’s aunt) and Aurelia MacDonnell (Maggie’s mother) from presenter, Andrew Howlett ‘02, past president, StFX Alumni Association.

2 Young Alumna of the Year - Jenelle Sobey ’08

L-r, Jenelle Sobey ’08 and presenter, Nick Head-Petersen ’13, member-atlarge, StFX Alumni Association Council.

3 Chapter of the Year - St. John’s, NL Pictured, l-r, are Fonse Faour ’72, Gina Hartmann ’05 and Austin Hawley ’67 accepting the Chapter of the Year award.

HOMECOMING HIGHLIGHTS Outstanding StFX alumni were honoured, old friends gathered together once again, and fellowship could be felt across the StFX campus as Homecoming 2017 was celebrated from Sept. 29-Oct. 1.

Friday evening’s kick-off Welcome Home Dinner feted alumni shining stars: Jenelle Sobey ’08, who received the Young Alumna of the Year award; Daniel Gillis, who was awarded the Friend of StFX award; and Maggie MacDonnell ’02, honoured with the Distinguished Alumna of the Year award.

The next day, the poignant Hall of Honour ceremony recognized the student recipients of this year’s Student Alumni Recognition

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Awards and honoured members of the StFX community who have carried on the Xaverian tradition of helping others. The Hall of Honour also serves as an inspiration to current students and ensures this tradition continues. The 2017 inductees were Clifford Vincent Maxwell ’57 (posthumously), James Bernard Bowne ’67, and Hugh Frederick Hines ’87.

The weekend was highlighted by excitement and events that ranged from campus walking tours to the annual Coffee with Coady to cheering on the blue and white at a number of sporting events.

L-r, Jim Bowne ’67; and Florence Maxwell, accepting the posthumous induction of Clifford Maxwell `57; are pictured with StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ‘93 and StFX Alumni Association President Glenn Horne ’07 ‘08. Absent from the photo is Hall of Honour inductee Fred Hines ’87.

Cohen Fraser loves to visit campus and join alumni for Homecoming. He annually attends Homecoming Brunch and enjoys it so much so that he wrote about it in his school journal the following weekend.

CLASS OF 1967 PRESENTS $300,000 GIFT TO STFX DURING THEIR 50TH HOMECOMING CELEBRATIONS When the Class of 1967 returned to campus this fall to celebrate its 50th Homecoming reunion, they presented a very special gift to StFX: a $300,000 donation. The money, from the Class of 1967 Fund, is the largest class gift ever received by StFX and is to be divided equally between the Health and Wellness Renewal Project and the Xaverian Fund for Scholarships and Bursaries.

“The Class of 1967 feels that StFX was instrumental in preparing us for life and our careers. The values and life skills instilled at StFX were of immense value to each of us as we moved through life. We felt and still feel a strong sense of gratitude to our alma mater,” says Austin Hawley ’67, who

spearheaded the initiative with classmates Bill Kiely ’67 and Gerry McConnell ’67.

Mr. Hawley says the class discussed giving a gift to StFX at their 40th reunion and felt that individual pledges of financial support would be the way to go with a goal of presenting a substantial financial gift on their 50th.

He says it was a wonderful feeling to contribute to the Wellness project, which includes the Oland Centre, opened in 1967, and the Xaverian Fund. The renewable Class of 1967 scholarship will support first year students who demonstrate leadership and dedication in service to others.

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2017 HOMECOMING CLASS REUNIONS

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A MEMBER OF THE CLASS OF 1977 FONDLY REFLECTS ON HOMECOMING 2017 This past September 29–October 1 weekend, I attended my 40th anniversary Homecoming weekend from StFX. I am a business administration graduate and a proud member of the Class of ’77.

Why am I writing to the AlumniNews? I’m writing because there were so many memories from my days at X that flooded back in my mind seeing classmates again, in many cases, after 40 years. Some classmates, who are close family friends, now we stay close. But others, perhaps former roommates, teammates, etc., we have not kept in touch over the years and Homecoming is an awesome experience to rekindle the friendships.

What did I do at Homecoming? I played a round of golf with an old pal, Richard MacGillivray, at the stately Antigonish Golf Club.

I dined with great friends at their home in Antigonish surrounded by the stories of the five Ives children who attended X as did their father Doug, a member of our business class.

I caught up with those who I write to on occasion, bringing one another up on our lives, family bragging rights, and the sadness associated with losing a parent.

I took a minute to mourn the deaths of an increasing number of classmates who have died over the past 40 years since our graduation.

I wished that those classmates who decided not to travel to Homecoming or who just couldn’t make it for various reasons, did so, to share the joy that I experienced throughout the weekend.

Back to the good stuff. Yes, I visited the football stadium for the big game versus Saint Mary’s, but I ended up in the SUB and shared

many a laugh and memories with classmates over adult beverages.

That same Saturday evening, our Class of ’77 enjoyed a delicious dinner in the McKenna Centre within the Schwartz School of Business building, with a truly magnificent backdrop of the Antigonish highlands streaming through the windows of our dinner venue.

Later, we enjoyed an interesting “trivia” game highlighting the many funny occurrences that occurred during out time at X, as well as a few interesting stories of classmates and their accomplishments throughout their personal and professional lives.

The next morning, I attended mass at the University Chapel officiated by Fr. Gary MacPherson ’72. There was a tremendous warmth in the church as our classmates sat together to share this peaceful time together. Again, we took time to think of those who have died and mourned our loss.

After mass, over to the Keating Center for a fabulous brunch and to share handshakes, hugs, laughs and a few tears as we said goodbye again, leaving to return to our respective families at home.

To my fellow Class of ’77 mates, it was an honour to spend time with you and to those who could not attend, please make the effort to attend our 45th Homecoming in 2022. It will be here before you know it and you will be glad you did. Trust me.

Cheers Bill McDonnell ’77

Alice McVittie, Analyst

HAVING ALICE ONBOARD HAS OPENED OUR EYES TO THE CONTRIBUTIONS NEW GRADS CAN MAKE. MIKE DAVIS FOUNDER/PARTNER – DAVIS PIER CONSULTING

The Graduate to Opportunity Program provides salary contributions to small businesses, start-up companies, social enterprises and non-profit organizations to help hire a recent grad. To breathe new life into your workforce, visit NOVASCOTIA.CA/GTO

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Dr. Susan Crocker ’12 congratulates a member of the graduating class.

Dr. Susan Crocker ’12, Outreach Award recipient Dr. Norine Verberg and Dr Kent Macdonald ’86 ’93

Dr. Palagummi Sainath

MOMENTS OF CELEBRATION

FALL CONVOCATION 2017 From a little boy holding a large orange “Go Dad Go” sign to a proud daughter posting social media photos of her mother, graduating with a master’s degree, StFX’s Keating Centre filled with moments of celebration on December 2nd during Fall Convocation 2017.

Over 200 graduates, including those from StFX’s Coady International Institute’s Diploma in Development Leadership program, crossed the stage, and StFX bestowed an honorary degree on Palagummi Sainath of India, social justice advocate and a renowned photojournalist considered one of the most significant journalists of his generation. The crowd gave a standing ovation to Dr. Sainath.

StFX also honoured sociology professor Dr. Norine Verberg, recipient of the 2017 Outreach Award, and the Antigonish County Adult Learning Association (ACALA), this year’s Community Partner Recognition Award winner.

“Today we honour and celebrate accomplishments in your studies,” StFX Chancellor Dr. Susan Crocker ’12 said as she opened Convocation.

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“Do you feel the energy in this great hall?”

“This is a celebration for great work and perseverance,” StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93 said as he congratulated all graduates for their achievements.

Dr. MacDonald told the graduates that with this wonderful accomplishment also comes responsibility. He encouraged all to take a moment in the coming days to think about how they will take this gift of a StFX degree and make a difference in the world.

It was a message reiterated by Dr. Sainath in his graduation address.

We are privileged by the university education we have received, but we are also accountable, he said. “I say to you don’t be hesitant in engaging in the larger battleground.”

Coady graduate Ann Marie D. Smith of Jamaica, a leadership and organizational development facilitator/consultant currently engaged with the Caribbean Leadership Project, delivered the address on behalf of the graduating class.

Glenn Horne ’07 ’08, president of the StFX Alumni Association, welcomed all into the Xaverian alumni family.

Human kinetics professor Dr. Roy Rasmussen receives the honorary X-Ring.

Guest speaker Robyn Tingley ’96

“THE DAY HAS FINALLY COME!” SENIOR CLASS RECEIVES COVETED StFX brimmed with energy on December 3, 2017, as almost 900 students received what’s become a global symbol of StFX pride and perseverance: the X-Ring.

“The day has finally come!” StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93 said upon greeting students at the Keating Centre and welcoming all who watched the ceremony from overflow rooms and from across the globe via live-stream.

“I get asked often what makes StFX students different than others,” he said. “One of the things I’m proudest of about our students is their ability to think as non-conformists,” noting it was the leadership of such students that lead to the re-establishment of the December 3 X-Ring ceremony in 1982.

“If there’s anything the world needs today, it’s people who are willing to look at problems in a different way. And that’s what we do here at StFX.” In his remarks, senior class co-president Alex Corrigan recalled a conversation with a Coady International Institute graduate who said the most memorable learning experiences take place during discussions with others. “In that time together, we teach each other

X-RINGS

important things,” Mr. Corrigan said. “I hope when you look at your X-Ring, you’ll remember these important lessons that we’ve learned from each other.”

Emily Paige Mork introduced guest speaker, Robyn Tingley ’96, named one of Canada’s 100 Most Powerful Women by the Women’s Executive Network. Ms. Tingley encouraged students to stay true to the Xaverian values.

“Take a moment and breathe it in,” added Glenn Horne ’07 ’08, StFX Alumni Association president, who encouraged students to embrace the meaning behind their X-Rings as a symbol of justice, community and perseverance.

The honorary X-Ring, presented to a member of the StFX community who exemplifies Xaverian values, was bestowed on human kinetics professor Dr. Roy Rasmussen, who in his almost 50-year career at StFX has consistently epitomized academic excellence and inspired students and faculty alike. He received a prolonged, standing ovation.

As students departed, they tapped their new rings against a wooden kneeler from the StFX chapel, a tradition dating back to when the ceremony was small enough to be held in that space.

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CAMPUS NEWS GO OUT THERE AND GET YOUR BOOTS DIRTY: ROMÉO DALLAIRE DELIVERS PASSIONATE ADDRESS

POWER IN THE BLOOD, JUSTICE IN THE SOUL

Buffy Sainte-Marie Lieutenant-General, the Hon. Roméo Dallaire

Today’s youth have a powerful ability to help humanity, Lieutenant-General, the Hon. Roméo Dallaire—international human rights advocate and founder and chair of the Roméo Dallaire Child Soldiers Initiative—said to a standing ovation in a passionate keynote that drew hundreds of StFX students and greater Antigonish community members to the Keating Centre on September 5, 2017. He joined several StFX student speakers on the first day of classes to provide an extraordinary night of learning at XTalks, co-hosted by StFX’s Students’ Union, the Frank McKenna Centre for Leadership and the Xaverian Weekly.

“Go out there and get your boots dirty and bring that story back; come back with the sacred flame of passion that will never leave you,” General Dallaire encouraged students. “You have what we never had, the ability to influence the world,” he said as he talked about how today’s youth are already global citizens, a generation without borders, and masters of technology. The evening concluded with a donation from organizers to the Roméo Dallaire Child Soldiers Initiative.

StFX welcomed Canadian icon, singersongwriter and activist Buffy Sainte-Marie to campus on November 3, 2017 for a night of conversation entitled ‘Power in the Blood, Justice in the Soul.’ The famous Indigenous musician and activist intertwined her own life story with issues facing Indigenous communities in North America and internationally, including discussing the importance of activism, and action in creating positive change through education, health, personal development and the arts; as well as the important role of women in leading change. A Q&A followed her talk.

NEW BACHELOR OF ARTS AND SCIENCE IN CLIMATE AND ENVIRONMENT

Committee members include, seated, l-r, Dr. Dave Risk, Dr. Lisa Kellman and Dr. Andrew MacDougall. Back row: Dr. Hugo Beltrami, Dr. Shah Razul, Dr. Patrick Withey and Maica Murphy. Missing are Dr. Corrine Cash, Dr. Petra Hauf and Dr. Karen Brebner

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From learning about the chemical makeup of our environment to the political consequences to global climate change, students interested in an interdisciplinary education in both climate and the environment have an innovative, immersive new opportunity at StFX. Starting in fall 2018, StFX will offer a new, four-year Bachelor of Arts and Science in Climate and Environment, a degree that will focus on both the scientific and social dimension of the environment in the related, but distinct fields of climate and the environment. The degree will look at the physical, biological and chemical composition of the world, society’s relationship with nature, and how Earth’s energy balance affects the environment.

“This will appeal to students who want both an arts and science approach and who have very focused, interdisciplinary goals,” says Dr. Andrew MacDougall, assistant professor attached to the Climate and Environment program. “Climate and environmental problems arise from the interaction of human society and the natural world, and thus have complex scientific and social dimensions,” he says. “Every student will take classes in both climate and environment giving them a solid foundation in both streams.”

MICHAEL BOYD APPOINTED CHAIR OF STFX BOARD OF GOVERNORS

Michael G. Boyd ’85 StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93 is pleased to announce that Michael G. Boyd ‘85 has been appointed Chair of the StFX Board of Governors for a three-year term, effective July 1, 2017.

Mr. Boyd is Managing Director and Head, Global Mergers & Acquisitions with CIBC World Markets. He has served two terms on the StFX Board of Governors, starting in 2012.

“We’re delighted to welcome Mike into the role as Chair of the StFX Board of Governors. As a member of the board, he has contributed greatly, bringing his extensive knowledge and experience to many conversations. He is a proven leader and will continue to be a tremendous asset as StFX moves into the future,” Dr. MacDonald says.

Dr. MacDonald also thanked Mark Wallace ’80, President and CEO of Medgate, who Mr. Boyd succeeds as board chair, for his outstanding contributions to his alma mater.

“StFX is special. It’s a community renowned for academic excellence, and social justice and leadership opportunities.

I am honoured and excited to have the privilege to give back and to help steward the university forward as Canada’s premier undergraduate experience,” Mr. Boyd said.

Mr. Boyd joined CIBC World Markets in 2009 as a Managing

Director and Global Head of Mergers & Acquisitions. Prior to joining CIBC, he worked at Merrill Lynch Canada Inc. from 20002009 where he was a Managing Director and, since 2004, the Head of Mergers & Acquisitions. Prior to joining Merrill Lynch, Mr. Boyd was a Managing Director in the Mergers & Acquisitions group at BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. He has also worked as a strategy consultant at the Boston Consulting Group.

During his 23-year investment-banking career, Mr. Boyd has advised on numerous significant cross-border and domestic transactions involving Canadian companies. He has worked with many of Canada’s leading corporations including Barrick Gold, Sun Life Financial, Magna International, Canadian Tire, Goldcorp and Onex Corporation, among others.

Mr. Boyd received his honours in Bachelor of Business Administration from StFX and Masters of Business Administration degree from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

He also holds his Chartered Professional Accountant designation and is a member of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada.

He is married to Lisa (Dorsey) ’87. They have three children, Caroline, Laura and Ryan.

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ATHLETICS X-WOMEN RUGBY WIN 19TH AUS BANNER

The X-Women rugby team won their 19th Atlantic University Sport conference banner with a 58-21 victory over Acadia in the championship game. The X-Women went on to win the bronze medal at the U SPORTS national championship.

The X-Men football team finished in third place with a 4-4 record and lost a close 16-15 game to Saint Mary’s in the AUS semifinal playoff game. X-Women soccer hosted the AUS championship at StFX Oland Stadium but fell 2-0 to Acadia in the quarterfinals after a 5-4-3 fifth place finish in regular season play. The soccer X-Men (9-1-2) were second overall and lost a heartbreaking 1-0 decision to UNB in the AUS semifinal game. Both the X-Men and X-Women cross country teams placed second overall at their respective conference championships.

The university was thrilled to officially cut the ribbon and open ‘Coach K Court’ at the newly renovated Oland Centre main gymnasium. The court was named in honour of the legendary Steve Konchalski, X-Men basketball head coach for the past 43 years. Court dedication ceremony participants included, l-r, X-Women basketball all-time career leading scorer Theresa MacCuish ’95, StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93, Coach K – Steve Konchalski, StFX Director of Athletics & Recreation Leo MacPherson ’89, and X-Men basketball all-time career leading scorer John Hatch ’84.

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ATHLETICS

2017 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

StFX Athletics

XPLORE THE WORLD DRAW 2018

12 MONTHS! 12 TRIPS! 12 CHANCES TO WIN!

$120 PER TICKET

StFX was proud to welcome newly inducted Class of 2017 members into the StFX Sports Hall of Fame over Homecoming weekend. Inductees include, l-r, Leanne MacDonald (2001, hockey), Gail MacDougall (builder), Jim Shea (1967, football) and John ‘Bunny’ Griffin (1962, football).

Fantastic 2ND and 3RD place prizes In support of X-Men and X-Women student-athletes Purchase online: www.goxgo.ca/xploretheworld

IN THE NEWS

StFX cross country was pleased to welcome StFX alumnus and three-time Olympian Eric Gillis ’04 ’06 to the coaching staff.

Men soccer striker Dan Hayfield was named the top player in U SPORTS men’s soccer this season.

X-Men hockey head coach Brad Peddle ’99 was named head coach of the U SPORTS all-star team, set to face off against the Canadian national junior team during their selection camp.

StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

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STFX COADY INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE

2017 Coady Chair in Social Justice Dorene Bernard

COADY CHAIR IN SOCIAL JUSTICE

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“

DORENE BERNARD EXTENDING STFX’S RECONCILIATION CONVERSATIONS Dorene Bernard, 2017 Coady Chair in Social Justice, is a Grassroots Mi’kmaq Grandmother and Water Protector. From her early work, as a supporter for residential school survivors and families, to her current focus on protecting the Indigenous relationship to Mother Earth, Ms. Bernard has shown a lifelong devotion to community building and activism.

While at StFX, she has led workshops, given public lectures, conducted classes, and advised on curriculum in the Faculty of Education. A recent Water Walk at the Antigonish Landing continues Ms. Bernard’s long tradition of acknowledging the sacredness of water to Indigenous peoples.

“Ms. Bernard has extended StFX’s reconciliation conversations to the community, effectively heightening awareness to issues of justice and social responsibility, particularly as it pertains to protecting our environment and threatened natural resources,” says Dr. June Webber, Vice-President of Coady International Institute and the Extension Department.

Ms. Bernard grew up on the Shubenacadie 28

StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

“WE MADE A COMMITMENT TO OUR ANCESTORS THAT WE WOULD BE THERE TO PROTECT THE RIVER.” DORENE BERNARD

River, and is both spiritually and culturally connected to the water. “I was five when I went to residential school, and the school was right above the river. I didn’t know where it led to, but I knew it led to freedom,” she recalls.

Her community, she notes, has been both reliant on and respectful of the water for millennia—a relationship that has propelled her involvement in the protest of a natural gas storage facility on the banks of the Shubenacadie, near Brentwood. Her work has raised awareness of the perils of the facility and engaged other interest groups.

Ms. Bernard led a Water Walk to the site of the natural gas storage facility in 2016, “and we’ve been there since. Somebody’s always been there.”

“We made a commitment to our ancestors that we would be there [to protect the river],” she says.

At StFX and within Coady, Ms. Bernard sees plentiful opportunities to expand students’ understanding of Indigenous culture and rights, and to ensure that “we write our history into the fabric of Canadian history, where it has been dismissed.” It is essential to include the proper narrative of Indigenous people in our education, she says. Ms. Bernard hopes that the StFX community continues to embrace opportunities to engage with contentious and difficult issues.

DIPLOMA IN

ADULT EDUCATION National Program of Excellence

Canadian Association University Continuing Education

DUE TO ALL THE CHANGES BEING IMPLEMENTED BY CANADA POST

PLEASE MAKE SURE THE ALUMNI OFFICE HAS YOUR CORRECT MAILING ADDRESS ALUMNINEWS IS PUBLISHED TWO TIMES PER YEAR. DON’T MISS OUT!

Excellence is what St. Francis Xavier University’s Diploma in Adult Education is all about. It is the #1 choice among adult educators and HRD professionals. Now in our 37th year.

It is available to you in major centres across Canada or ask about our in-house programs.

Our 2018 schedule includes Halifax, Ottawa, Toronto, Winnipeg, Regina and Calgary.

Limited enrollment – 30 seats per module www.sites.stfx.ca/adult_education_diploma/ Email: dipaded@stfx.ca Toll-free: 1-800-563-7839 Fax: (902)867-2486 Business hours: 9 am to 4:30 pm AST

BE SURE YOUR MAILING ADDRESS IS CORRECT WITHIN OUR SYSTEM.

ALUMNI@STFX.CA

DO YOU KNOW AN OUTSTANDING

XAVERIAN? Classics for Classics Back by Popular Demand:

Your invitation to return to the classroom, without examinations!

The Name?

We call this program “Classics for Classics,” because we study those great works that only improve with age, and we’re teaching them to those great alumni who have some similar characteristics!

This year, Dr. Steve Baldner will lead us in the study of John Stuart Mill’s Utilitarianism.

Tuition?

We charge a modest fee of $100, but this fee is waived for all alumni. This is our chance to do something for you! (tuition deposit is refunded to alumni after course completion).

Residence?

On campus accommodations are available.

Single: $84 plus tax per night.

Double: $132 plus tax per night.

Date?

July 2-6, 2018. The first class meets at 9:30 am on Monday, July 2, 2018.

The StFX Alumni Association asks you to think about the outstanding StFX grads and friends of the university in your life. Each year, we recognize the accomplishments and contributions of very special members of the StFX family through the Alumni Awards of Excellence and the StFX Hall of Honour at Homecoming. But deserving candidates cannot be considered for these honours without nominations. That’s where we need your help.

For more information and nomination information, go to www.stfx.ca/alumni.

The Hall of Honour recognizes alumni whose lives, achievements and contributions reflect the StFX tradition of helping others. The Awards of Excellence recognize outstanding achievements in the following categories: Distinguished Alumnus/A Young Alumnus/A Friend Of StFX (non alumni)

Limits?

We may have to limit enrolment to keep the class size optimal for discussions.

It’s advisable to reserve early.

Reserve a Place?

Please contact Alumni Affairs: alumni@stfx.ca, 902-867-2186

More Information? Glenda Bond, 902-867-2186, gbond@stfx.ca

NOMINATIONS ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED. DEADLINE FOR NOMINATIONS IS APRIL 30, 2018.

StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

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LETTERS

Motorcycle in a crate leads to a blind date The Alumni Affairs office sends many invitations in the mail each year. We’d like to do our part to reduce this paper usage and redirect postage costs to alumni programs by sending invitations by email to our grads whenever possible.

It was late winter/early spring in 1967 when it arrived unceremoniously on StFX campus. Not just anywhere on the campus, but in Confusion Square. It was very appealing to Mike Lynch’s curiosity not only for what it was (a homemade wooden crate), but mostly for what was inside it, a Honda motorcycle!

One morning while trekking to engineering class, he decided to find out who the owner was, if such a person existed.

In quick order, guided by his native Caper curiosity, he learned that the owner was one Harry James Trihey, a fourth year graduating business student from Montréal. Mike learned that in a moment of reflective regret, realizing he was to graduate without ever have setting foot on Cape Breton, HJ phoned his dad and got him to ship his bike.

What Harry didn’t know was that unlike springs elsewhere, those in Nova Scotia and certainly on Cape Breton Island, are slow to bloom, especially along the Cabot Trail. However, using his Montréal Irish charm, Harry convinced Mike that an attempt to journey the trail was warranted. Optimism soon overrode pragmatism and together they traveled by motorcycle to Sydney where Mike would pick up his motorcycle. Road conditions were dicey, a mix of slush and chilly rain.

Unfortunately, the weather never did break and the Cabot Trail trek was canceled. Instead Harry convinced Mike (a non-graduating student) that he should travel to StFX and participate in the festive graduating exercises. Off they rode together on their bikes. Arriving safely in Antigonish, they began celebrating. Little did they know what momentous circumstances lay ahead.

Approximately midweek Harry phoned Mike to explain that a double date had been arranged with two girls from town, one by the name of Marilyn.

Mike and Marilyn eventually married in 1969 and have developed a close and enduring friendship with Harry and his wife Josie over the past 50 years. Trips to Montréal have been reciprocated by trips to Nova Scotia and Cape Breton. The extended families have also developed and maintained a close relationship.

It is to be noted that the youngest daughter of Mike and Marilyn is now a student at StFX. She is entering her third year in the music program leading to a music therapy degree.

Both Mike and Harry were back on StFX campus for Homecoming 2017.

Mike Lynch ’67 30

StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

We can only do this if we have a current email address for you.

To make sure we do, please send an email from your address to alumni@stfx.ca with the subject line ‘save trees’ and we’ll make sure our email invite list is up-to-date.

Thank you! The air feels fresher already!

CELEBRATE SEPTEMBER 28-30, 2018

ALUMNINEWS IS PUBLISHED TWO TIMES PER YEAR. DON’T MISS OUT! BE SURE YOUR MAILING ADDRESS IS CORRECT WITHIN OUR SYSTEM.

ALUMNI@STFX.CA

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION UPDATE l GLENN HORNE ‘07 ‘08, PRESIDENT

OPPORTUNITIES TO WORK AND GROW TOGETHER “Nova Scotians need to understand and embrace the significant opportunities we now have to build a better future — ‘daunting’ in the sense that to succeed in this effort we will need to do things differently and to change old attitudes that limit our capacities to come together in common cause.”

– The Report of the Nova Scotia Commission on Building Our New Economy In February 2014, the Nova Scotia Commission on Building a New Economy released its report. The report outlined in grave detail the economic and social precipice on which we stand. It gave all Nova Scotians a choice – one of action – and an opportunity to right our ship. The message was stark but clear: Now or Never.

In the almost three years that have passed many Nova Scotians have answered this call to action. You find several of their stories in

these pages. If Nova Scotia is to right its ship, StFX and our alumni will play a leading role.

From the applied research being conducted by earth science professor Dr. David Risk’s Flux Lab, to the movement being led by Engage Nova Scotia under the leadership of alumnus Danny Graham, to the university and local community finding opportunities to work and grow together, each of these activities contributes to the revitalization of our province.

All alumni can play a role helping revitalize this province in meaningful ways.

For instance, alumni residing in Nova Scotia can take their own steps to answer the call to action, celebrate those who do and contribute to shifting the public discourse and attitude to one of constructive progress.

Alumni who reside outside the province, can refer potential students to StFX. Every action, big or small, counts.

I’d also like to acknowledge the outgoing members of the StFX Alumni Council who have given so generously of their time and talents. It is the commitment and action of these volunteers that makes us the most engaged alumni network in the world!

Laurie Oakes ’79, Sue Chisholm ’92, and Nick Head-Petersen ’13, on behalf of all alumni, thank you!

Hail and Health!

Glenn Horne ’07 ’08 President, StFX Alumni Association X

FROM ALUMNI AFFAIRS l MARY JESSIE MacLELLAN ’87, DIRECTOR

TEAMWORK HELPS CREATE MEMORABLE XAVERIAN EXPERIENCES

L-r, Helen Mattie, MJ MacLellan ’87, Alisha Grant ’00 ’03 and Michelle White

Fall is a fabulous time of year at StFX. There is no shortage of excitement as we welcome so many to campus, including students, alumni and friends. We celebrate the season with a host of events and this year was no different with Welcome Day, the permanent raising of the Mi’kmaq flag, the Mulroney Hall sod turning ceremony, Homecoming, the always wonderful

Christmas tree lighting, Fall Convocation and of course, our X-Ring ceremony on the Feast of St. Francis Xavier. Our days are busy as the alumni team helps plan these celebratory milestones. We do not do it alone. Through the collaboration and hard work of many departments and individuals on campus, we’re able to host these significant events. I would

like to take this opportunity to thank our campus partners who work closely with us to create experiences for our students, alumni and friends. Whether it be Helen Mattie from our Sodexo Food Services team accommodating our request for last-minute additions or Cory MacPherson from our Conference Services group coordinating room set-ups and tear downs, there are so many staff members who consistently make it happen. Our connections with our campus partners make our work so much easier. We are truly lucky to work with such a committed group of true Xaverians. I am also pleased to welcome Alisha Grant ’00 ’03 to our team. Alisha returned to her alma mater in August to take on the role of special event coordinator to our team. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Michelle White for her years of service to Alumni Affairs and wish her well in her new position as a stewardship officer in the university’s Development department.

Hail and Health!

Mary Jessie MacLellan ’87 Director, Alumni Affairs X

StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

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ALUMNI HAPPENINGS CANADIAN RETAILING LEGEND ANNETTE VERSCHUREN ’77 INSPIRES TORONTO BUSINESS LEADERS

CLASS OF 2018 – STUDENTS HELPING STUDENTS

Dr. Robert Francis ’66, CEO of Medcan, Annette Verschuren ’77, Dr. Tim Hynes ’84 and Paul McKenna ’93, Vice President, Investment Advisor, Richardson GMP Limited, Toronto

This past spring, X-Connects@King & Bay hosted their latest Leadership Series networking event in Toronto. The group brings together StFX grads making an impact in all facets of Toronto’s business community and invites inspirational speakers who have risen to the top of their field to tell their story and how their time at StFX and the connections they made contributed to their success.

The event took place at the MedCan facilities where Dr. Robert Francis ’66 again generously hosted the group. The group was thrilled to have Canadian retailing legend Annette Verschuren ’77 as featured speaker. Ms. Verschuren engaged the crowd through absorbing, funny and inspiring stories as she recounted her impressive journey from Cape Breton farm girl to the pinnacle of success on Canadian and global stages.

Senior class co-presidents Alex Corrigan and Rachel LeBlanc are encouraging fellow graduating students to support the Class of 2018 bursary, which will support refugee students at StFX. This new bursary is part of the Xaverian Fund, which has a goal to provide more than $2 million for student scholarships and bursaries at StFX every year. All proceeds from 2018 X-Rings sold at the X-Ring Store on campus will support the class bursary. To support, visit stfx.ca/ classof2018.

STUDENTS HELPING STUDENTS

RUGBY REUNION

BASc Health students at StFX are shown helping at L’Arche Antigonish during their Thanksgiving celebration. Coordinator Dr. Edwin DeMont is creating new opportunities for BASc Health students, including reaching out to alumni to mentor students and share leadership experiences for inclusion in upper level innovation courses. For more info please see, sites.stfx.ca/health/

The summer of 2017 saw the return of rugby alumni to campus to celebrate 50 years of rugby. The weekend event was full of activities honouring those responsible for the rugby program’s success from the 1960s to the present day.

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StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

Rachel LeBlanc and Alex Corrigan

PRESIDENT’S RECEPTIONS PICTOU

It was a great evening of sharing (pictured on left) and StFX campus updates in Pictou County in June as the local alumni chapter hosted a President’s reception, which featured a panel of current students and a recent alumni who shared their thoughts and stories about what life is like as a StFX student with visiting alumni and friends.

Pictured on the right, are chapter president Paul Fraser ’82, panelists BSc human kinetics graduate Ryan Washburn ’17, Bachelor of Science in Nursing student Aran MacDonald, Bachelor of Business Administration student Shelby MacLellan, Bachelor of Arts student Brent Turnbull, and StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ‘93

CORNER BROOK ST. JOHN’S

SAINT JOHN MONCTON

As we travel with StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald to our many chapter areas, we are pleased to meet so many alumni and see the difference they are making in their communities. Xaverians are engaged in so many ways, from the St. John’s chapter donating

warm clothing to a local shelter and alumni in Moncton and Saint John working to create community. We were also pleased to visit local high schools, such as Corner Brook Regional High School, St. Bonaventure’s College and Waterford Valley High School.

StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

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CHAPTER NEWS

ANTIGONISH/GUYSBOROUGH

THE STFX CONNECTION REMAINS STRONG Volunteers play an integral role within our chapter network. Whether it be leading a chapter, organizing a community outreach initiative, making nametags or picking up supplies, there is no shortage of volunteer roles to take advantage of. We have new chapters sprouting up around the world and we are also fortunate to welcome a few new chapter presidents in existing chapters. The spirit of volunteerism is strong within the greater alumni network and much of that is thanks to volunteering opportunities we have all had as students. That notion of giving back to our community continues with us as we transition from students to alumni. If you are interested in volunteering with the Alumni Association, get in touch with your local alumni chapter. They would love to have you on board!

Jessica MacLellan ’12, Programs Coordinator, Alumni Affairs Contact your chapter president for upcoming X-events in your area.

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StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

ANTIGONISH/GUYSBOROUGH, NS The Antigonish/Guysborough alumni chapter held its annual student welcome at Chisholm Park just across from The Wheel in Antigonish this past August. Under sunny skies, Wheel pizza was served while incoming students were entertained with trivia questions from members of StFX’s O-Crew. Lots of prizes were given out and students had a chance to ask questions about Welcome Day and about what to expect those first few days on campus.

This annual student welcome is an important time for our local alumni to thank our students for choosing to stay and experience all that StFX has to offer.

This year we were fortunate to have amongst us Mary Jessie MacLellan ’87, Director of Alumni Affairs, Stephanie Brennan ’16 from Recruitment, Robert Proctor ’91, Manager of Safety & Security, Katrina Ferrari and

FLORIDA Maggie MacGinnis, X Patrol members, Krista McKenna ’97, Manager of Varsity Athletics & Communications, and eight members of the national champion StFX X-Women rugby team. Laurie Boucher ’88, Town of Antigonish Mayor, was also present to help us welcome the new students. Mike Hassin from the Wheel even took time to come out for a group picture. We had over 20 new students drop by and take in this event. On behalf of all local alumni, I would like to wish good luck to all our local students.

Nicole LeBlanc-Proctor ’91 ’93 ’12 FLORIDA On March 11, 2017, the Florida alumni chapter held its annual gathering at the Heritage Oaks Golf and Country Club.

The event started with a meet and greet followed by mass celebrated by Fr. Patrick Wilson of St Martha’s in Sarasota. Heritage Oaks provided a nice luncheon that all

enjoyed. Our St. Francis Xavier University guests included our President, Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93 and his wife Mary Ellen MacPhee ’87 ’05 along with Iain Boyd ’75, Chief Campaign Officer for the Xaverian Fund, and Maria Hartery ’87, Planned Giving Officer. Dr. MacDonald provided an update on StFX activities since our last meeting and future endeavors at the university. At this year’s gathering, we had alumni representation from the Classes of 1951 through 2005 (apologies if I missed a year). With our 50/50 raffle, auction, generosity of our alumni and the efforts of our committee members Dr. Michael MacKinnon ’57 and his wife Mary, Flora Maria MacDonald ’58, Dick Dumais ’57, Dick ’65 and Shelia Johnson, and Anne Marie Gorman ’71, this year we were able to send over $1,000 to our Florida Bursary Fund. The funds are used to assist students who need financial help during the year.

We received heartfelt thank you notes from the two students who received the funds

expressing their gratitude. Bursaries awarded in 2017-18 will be in honour of Fraser Muir ’46. Fraser passed away in July 2016 and he exemplified the ideal Xaverian spirit. Fraser will be greatly missed. We have confirmed that our next annual Florida alumni gathering will be Saturday, March 10, 2018 at the Heritage Oaks Golf and Country Club in Sarasota. All StFX alumni and friends are invited to join us in the warm Florida sunshine next March.

If you would like to have your name added to our email distribution list to receive information on this event, please contact the Alumni Office at alumni@stfx.ca or call 902-867-2186. My contact information is mkachorn@msn.com or call 813-962-3549.

Kathy Achorn ’71 STRAIT HIGHLANDS On August 29, 2017, the Strait Highlands chapter was pleased to host a President’s reception for local alumni members along

STRAIT HIGHLANDS StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

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CHAPTER NEWS

LONDON with friends of the university. StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald was in attendance and brought news of campus happenings to the gathering. There were several new and current students in attendance. A $100.00 gift envelope was donated to new students to assist with the start of their university year. The evening provided an opportunity to share university stories, hear about future plans for the university and celebrate our alma mater!

Guests enjoyed an evening of good food, conversation and friendship all in the spirit of our fine university! We are also now on Facebook – like our page, Stfx Alumni Strait Highlands Chapter.

Flo Campbell ’83 ’84 ’05 LONDON, ON On June 17, 2017, the London alumni chapter welcomed the Class of 2021 as they hosted their annual BBQ and student send-off at the home of Roger ’89 and Joanne Campbell ’88 ’89. We were fortunate to have great afternoon weather and a fabulous turn out of new students, parents, current students, members of our wonderful O-Crew and a number of alumni.

The evening was full of ‘Xperience Sharing,’ advice and just getting to know new friends.

The alumni presented students with their X swag to get them started on their collections. We wish the Class of 2021 all the best in their studies and future endeavours. For all alumni in the area, keep checking on the Facebook page as information for potential events occurring 36

StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

in the area will be posted. Our next event is planned for December 2 as we celebrate StFX Day with a chapter dinner at McGinnis Landing in London. Also, please feel free to check us out on our Facebook page at Facebook - St. F.X. Alumni - London Area Chapter or email us at londonchapter@stfx.ca.

while also strengthening my ties to Moncton is something that I am thrilled about. Please feel free to reach out if you have any ideas or suggestions for our Moncton chapter. My email is willis.molly@ midlandtransport.com. I can’t wait to get to know you all!

Roger Campbell ’89

Molly Willis ’17

MONCTON, NB My name is Molly Willis and I am so excited about being one of the new leaders for the Moncton alumni chapter! I am originally from Fredericton, NB, and just recently moved to Moncton after graduating from X in May 2017 with a degree in business administration. My time at StFX brought many amazing experiences and relationships into my life, and being able to stay involved with the university

YUKON A small group of Yukon alumni ventured out on a chilly November 8, 2017 to welcome Dr. Carole Roy, associate professor, StFX Department of Adult Education.

Dr. Roy was in Whitehorse to meet with prospective students and to host an information session for the new StFX Master of Adult Education program to be offered at Yukon College, Ayamdigut Campus. The program will begin in

YUKON

CHAPTER NEWS

EASTERN CAPE BRETON Whitehorse next June with a three-week face-to-face introduction to the program, the remainder of which will be done by distance. One of the Yukon StFX alumni who previously completed the Master of Adult Education degree is Margaret Dumkee ’09, now Dean of Applied Science & Management Division with Yukon College. Margaret served as a local host for Dr. Roy, who introduced her to other graduates of the education program, and some local alumni, while enjoying the beautiful venue of the Yukon College Hilltop Bistro. Thanks to Maggie and the

Yukon College students working at the bistro! We look forward to Dr. Roy returning next June.

Jamie Mooney ’88 EASTERN CAPE BRETON On August 20, 2017, the fifth annual alumni barbecue and student send-off was held at the home of Larry ’84 ’85 and Wendy Andrea in Hillside Boularderie, Cape Breton. In addition to alumni, new students and their parents are invited to make connections with their peers as well as staff from the university

to learn more about the university and Antigonish. On Dec 3, 2017, StFX alumni from the chapter joined the congregation at Lady of Fatima in Sydney River for mass with a social immediately afterwards. In addition to this, local alumni also attended the taping of Mass for Shut-Ins on Nov 28, 2017, which was aired on StFX Day for those who are unable to attend. Finally, plans are in place for the annual “X-Rings in the New Year” event to be held in January.

Paulette McKenna ’82 and Christopher MacKinnon ’02 ’09

ST. JOHN’S

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AMHERST/SACKVILLE ST. JOHN’S, NL This was definitely an exciting year for the St. John’s chapter. We won the Chapter of the Year Award and we are so honoured.

Co-president Gina Hartmann ’05 was present at Homecoming to receive the award at the Welcome Home Dinner alongside Austin Hawley ’67 and Fonse Faour ’72.

Allison and Gina would like to thank all of our volunteers, StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald, the Alumni Office and Alumni Council for their support. We had a great send-off in September. We went to Easter Seals and enjoyed their wall climbing facilities. It was such a great experience.

Three new students joined alumni and families who were happy to share their experiences and meet the new Xaverians. It was great to see how much Easter Seals does for the community of St. John’s. In the summer, the chapter went to Ronald McDonald House to cook supper for the residents. Six of us took over the kitchen to cook chicken burgers, toss salads and offer up dessert. It was so wonderful to see the great things the Easter Seals association is doing for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. We would like to thank Penney KIA for sponsoring the event. In October we hosted a president’s reception with Dr. MacDonald with nearly 30 attendees.

It was a great turn-out and we turned it into a cold weather clothing drive. We are so excited for lots of activities for the upcoming year. We encourage Newfoundland alumni to contribute to our scholarship fund, which

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will help students from our province attend StFX. For more information on how to donate contact Lynn O’Donnell or email: scholarships@stfx.ca Gina Hartmann ’05 and Allison Stamp ’08 AMHERST, NS/SACKVILLE, NB We had a nice gathering in Amherst for our annual student send-off. VP Advancement Murray Kyte ’87, Student Success Leader Jenna Downey ’14 ’16 and Schwartz School of Business Dean Dr. Tim Hynes ’84 attended from StFX. Murray presented Bill Durant ’60 with his 50-Year pin, as Bill hadn’t been able to attend his 50th homecoming in 2010.‎ Blaise Dobbin ’90 and Barry Anderson ’68 CALGARY, AB – Well, we did it! After almost a full year of preparation, we hosted Signal Hill in concert on November 16th, 2017 in Calgary.

Over 400 StFX alumni and friends braved the cold and came out to dance the night away to our favourite east coast songs and classic hits. For a few hours, it felt like we were back at the Inn, surrounded by all our friends, laughing, singing and of course, toasting “sociable” as loud as we could.

Special guests StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93 and Chief Campaign Officer Xaverian Fund Iain Boyd ’75 were in town to celebrate with us; there was no

better way to kick off the holiday season and get everyone excited for the StFX Day Pub Night and Mass celebrations held in Calgary on December 3. Looking back on all the successful events of 2017, the StFX Calgary alumni chapter would like to thank everyone who has supported the chapter by attending, organizing and volunteering throughout the year. From lobster boils to the annual Stampede party, we are thankful to have the involvement of such an engaged group of StFX alumni in our city. We look forward to a new year filled with special events and celebrations that will continue to bring our StFX community together. If you are interested in volunteering with the chapter, please email us at calgarychapter@stfx.ca.

Hail and Health!

Alexia Tedesco ’09

ALUMNINEWS IS PUBLISHED TWO TIMES PER YEAR.

DON’T MISS OUT! BE SURE YOUR MAILING ADDRESS IS CORRECT WITHIN OUR SYSTEM.

MARY COYLE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF STFX’S MCKENNA CENTRE, APPOINTED TO SENATE OF CANADA

StFX AlumniNews

MANAGING EDITORS Mary Jessie MacLellan ‘87 Email: mjmaclel@stfx.ca Kyler Bell Email: kbell@stfx.ca ASSISTANT EDITOR Shelley Cameron-McCarron Email: sacamero@stfx.ca WRITER Shelley Cameron-McCarron DESIGN & PRODUCTION Andrew Conde Email: aconde@stfx.ca

Mary Coyle

Congratulations to Mary Coyle, executive director of StFX’s Frank McKenna Centre for Leadership and former director of the Coady International Institute and StFX Vice-President, who has been appointed to the Senate of Canada by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Ms. Coyle was one of two appointments announced on Dec. 4, 2017. Also named to the Senate is Mary Jane McCallum of Manitoba.

“A long-time champion for women’s leadership, gender equality, and the rights of Indigenous Peoples, Mary Coyle has forged a distinguished career in the post-secondary education and non-profit sectors, with a focus on international and local development,” said the announcement from the Prime Minister’s Office.

Ms. Coyle joined StFX in 1997, serving as Vice President and Director of the Coady International Institute, a centre of excellence in community-based development and leadership education. During her tenure, the Coady grew significantly, enhancing its global education and innovation agenda and expanding programming for women, youth, and Indigenous peoples.

Since 2014, she has worked as the executive director of the Frank McKenna Centre for Leadership, a centre devoted to developing student leadership. She also continues to work as an advisor and facilitator for various organizations, including the Haitian Centre for Leadership and Excellence and the Friends United Indigenous Arts and Culture Initiative.

Ms. Coyle played an instrumental role in the establishment of the Stephen Lewis Foundation, the Roméo Dallaire Child Soldiers Initiative, and the Indian School of Microfinance for Women, the announcement says.

She holds a diploma in French Language from the Université de Besançon in France and a Bachelor of Arts in Languages and Literature with a major in French and a minor in Spanish from the University of Guelph.

After working for the Ministry of Commerce and Industry as a Cuso International cooperant in Botswana, she earned a Master of Arts in Rural Planning and Development at the University of Guelph. She subsequently worked as a rural development advisor in Indonesia and later to support two State Islamic Universities develop their community engagement strategies.

Prior to joining StFX, she spent a decade as executive director of Calmeadow. Ms. Coyle helped the organization pioneer the creation of the world’s first commercial micro finance bank, BancoSol, in Bolivia and establish the First Peoples Fund to provide micro loans to First Nations and Métis communities in Canada.

She has three daughters and six grandchildren.

NEWS EXCHANGE EDITOR Glenda Bond Email: gbond@stfx.ca ADVERTISING INQUIRIES Glenda Bond Phone: (902) 867-2186 Fax: (902) 867-3659 Email: gbond@stfx.ca DEADLINES SUMMER ISSUE copy deadline April 15 for June mailing WINTER ISSUE copy deadline October 15 for December mailing AlumniNews is published by St. Francis Xavier University Alumni Affairs and Communications two times annually for alumni and friends of the university. Views expressed are those of the individual contributors or sources quoted.

Contents, copyright © 2015 by St. Francis Xavier University. Subscriptions to AlumniNews are available to the public for $21 a year, single copies $7. Letters to the editor are welcome. Address correspondence to: AlumniNews St. Francis Xavier University PO Box 5000 Antigonish, NS B2G 2W5 Email: alumni@stfx.ca Phone: 902-867-2186 Personal Information: St. Francis Xavier University gathers and maintains records of personal information for the purposes of admission, registration, provision of educational services, ongoing contact with students and alumni, and soliciting support for these and other University activities. The collection, use and disclosure of personal information by the University is governed by the Nova Scotia Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, S.N.S. 1993, c.5. Information provided to the University from time to time will be maintained in the University’s records. The personal information provided may be used by University personnel and disclosed to third parties as required or permitted by applicable legislation or in accordance with the purposes for which it is collected. If you wish to have your contact information removed for the purposes of any mailings to alumni from St. Francis Xavier University, the Alumni Association or our Affinity Partners, please send us a note using the contact information on this page.

StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

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A mentor to me is the most valuable thing For they can make you believe the most unbelievable things.

They can take you to places you never thought you’d go, And make you believe that you run your own show.

For when you give, you get a hundred tenfold, And it’s something you carry until you are old.

When caring and coaching is birthed in your blood Your goodness and caring comes out like a flood.

But the one thing I know from my wife and two sons, Is all that anybody wants is your time and your love.

And when you give freely without care or strife, You’ll see how much mentoring can change a life. ~ From a poem written by Wade Smith ’89

WADE SMITH’S INSPIRATIONAL LEGACY REMEMBERED IN NEW STFX SCHOLARSHIP Wade Smith ’89 made a life of helping others, always encouraging others to be their best, and serving as a role model for his family, in his community, and for young people.

Now the inspirational legacy of Mr. Smith, remembered as a devoted husband, father and family man to his wife Sherry and sons Jaydan and Jaxon, and a respected educator, administrator, mentor, community leader and advocate for Africentric education, is being remembered at his alma mater through a new scholarship that bears his name.

In June, during the annual StFX President’s Gala ceremony, Director of Development Wendy Langley and X-Women basketball coach Augy Jones proudly announced the establishment of the Wade Smith Memorial Scholarship for African Nova Scotia Youth, established through the donation of $50,000 from the Jeannine Deveau Educational Equity Endowment. The scholarship has since grown to over $155,000 through gifts from other private donors.

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StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

The scholarship honours Mr. Smith who passed away on June 2, 2017 at the age of 50 after a short battle with stomach cancer. Mr. Smith was principal of Citadel High School in Halifax, NS, a former X-Men basketball star, and a 26-year staff member at the StFX basketball camp.

“He would be pleased to know his name will continue to provide post-secondary education opportunities for young students from his community,” longtime friend and former X-Men teammate Mr. Jones said.

“Thank you to Jeannine Deveau and to Bill and Jeannine Gunn for making this happen,” Ms. Langley said.

Among the tributes that followed his passing came a statement from Basketball Nova Scotia on his contribution and influence. “Wade cannot be replaced.

As a player his accomplishments on the AUS, CIS and international stage were impressive and his legacy as mentor, leader, coach and educator will resonate within the basketball community forever. We take

heart in knowing that many of the players and coaches whose lives Wade touched so deeply, warmly and personally will rise to try and fill his sneakers.”

In March, Mr. Smith spoke of the importance of mentors in a speech at Mount Saint Vincent University.

“Giving back was never a choice in my life. Giving back was an obligation — to my community, to young kids coming up after me,” he said at the time. “I try to tell young people that you can make yourself extraordinary by doing the ordinary because if you’re extraordinary to someone, that’s enough. Famous people were once ordinary — they just believed in something.”

Sons Jaxon and Jaydan participated in StFX basketball camps for numerous years, and oldest son, Jaydan, is now a freshman at StFX and playing basketball on his father’s former team.

UPCOMING EVENTS Check out www.stfx.ca/alumni for a complete listing of upcoming events and up-to-date details.

MARCH 10, 2018 Alumni Reception * Sarasota, Florida

JULY 2-6, 2018 Classics for Classics Antigonish, NS

*Make sure your seasonal address/ SEPTEMBER 28-30, 2018 email is on file with us so that you Homecoming Antigonish, NS don’t miss the invitation

OBITUARIES MARK ALEXANDER The StFX community is saddened to learn of the death of Mark Alexander, a professor in the StFX Department of Business Administration in the 1970s. In addition, he was one of the leaders of the Atlantic Labour Education Centre in the StFX Extension Department.

Mr. Alexander was a generous contributor to scholarships and bursaries for StFX students. He passed away on June 27, 2017 LOU DUGGAN StFX was saddened to learn of the death of University Librarian, Lou Duggan, who passed away on June 25, 2017. Mr. Duggan was a leader in library services throughout the Maritimes.

DR. ANN SHERMAN ’77 The StFX community was saddened by the death of former education faculty member Dr. Ann Sherman ’77 on August 2, 2017. Dr. Sherman became a StFX faculty member in 1996. While at StFX, she helped move education from a department to a school and became its director.

She was StFX Service Learning coordinator from 1999-2004, and a strong leader as the program expanded under the first McConnell Family Foundation grant.

DR. JOHN MACPHERSON StFX was saddened by the death of Professor John MacPherson on September 19, 2017.

Dr. MacPherson joined the StFX Department of English faculty in 1961, and became a full professor in 1968. A mentor to many students, he specialized in Shakespeare and Renaissance literature. He was StFX’s Ceremonial Officer for decades and was the mover behind establishing a more formal ceremony for the feast day of St Francis Xavier and formalizing the X-Ring ceremony. He received an honorary X-Ring, voted on by students, in 1994.

ALLAN J. MACEACHEN ’44 StFX was saddened by the death of the Hon. Allan J. MacEachen ’44 on September 12, 2017.

Mr. MacEachen is regarded as a Canadian icon (please see more on page 7.) The longtime Nova Scotia MP, cabinet minister and senator, was also Canada’s first deputy prime minister.

Mr. MacEachen was one of StFX’s most notable alumni, a former faculty member and former StFX Board of Governors member.

Man’s ’98 Man’s ’11 Man’s ’15

REGISTERED NURSES

Applications are being accepted until June 30 for classes beginning in September. The Post RN-BScN program was awarded accreditation by the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN) in 2013.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Individual Nursing Courses • N483 Pallia3ve Care Nursing Cer3ficate in Gerontological Nursing • N490 Forensic Nursing Cer3ficate in Con3nuing Care Nursing • N497 Computers in Nursing

Toll-­‐free: 1-­‐800-­‐565-­‐4371 Email: distance.nursing@sGx.ca

hIp://sites.sGx.ca/con3nuingeduca3on

MASTER OF EDUCATION PROGRAMS AT StFX

PART-TIME DISTANCE PROGRAMS Students may complete Master of Education programs in Educational Administration and Leadership or a variety of Curriculum and Instruction areas. These part-time programs require one month of study on campus in July. The remainder of the program can be completed online over a two-year period. These programs may be completed by coursebased, project, or thesis routes.

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR FULL-TIME GRADUATE STUDY StFX admits a limited number of full-time graduate students annually who wish to develop capacity in teaching/leadership or applied research. Students are paired with faculty who provide them with internship opportunities related to university teaching and field experience in the BEd program and/or research. Students who choose the research-based option may have the possibility of participating in funded research programs in collaboration with full-time faculty.

LOST X-RINGS LOST Man’s ’79 Man’s ’89 Woman’s ’97

Distance Education Programs for

Woman’s ’10 Woman’s ’11 Woman’s ’17

Contact the Alumni Office at 902-867-2186 or alumni@stfx.ca

For more information or to receive an information package, contact Continuing and Distance Education: Tel: 1-877-867-3906 or (902) 867-3906 E-mail: med@stfx.ca

StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

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NEWS EXCHANGE Send News Exchange items to Glenda Bond, Alumni Affairs Office St. Francis Xavier University, PO Box 5000, Antigonish, NS B2G 2W5 Phone: (902) 867-2186 • Fax: (902) 867-3659 • Email: alumni@stfx.ca Lucie Croft July 6, 2017

Jonathan Croft ’09 and Danielle Deveau ’09 Colin Seamus MacDonald

’40s

Grace Bush ’49 was recently the subject of a profile in Hakai magazine entitled, “The Scientist who reads a lost history in the mud.’ The article focuses on Dr. Bush, a paleocologist, an expert in the history of landscapes, who did what others couldn’t – teased out the mystery of Chesapeake Bay. When scientists discovered that the Chesapeake Bay was dying in the 1970s, Dr. Bush and her students and colleagues set out to find out why.

’60s

Congratulations to Arthur J. LeBlanc ’64 who has been appointed Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia.

Grandson of Rick Macdonald ’67 Carol Lake Shotokan Karate Club Labrador West

Frank Saville ’71 ’72, 5th dan black belt with the Shuseki Shihan Frank Woon-a-Tai, 9th dan black belt Maggie Claire Marie Spafford September 12, 2017

Amanda Pashkoski ’06 ’08 and Keith Spafford ’08

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John Power, QC ’64 was recognized as a new life member of the Law Society of New Brunswick at the 2017 Annual Banquet, which took place in June at the Algonquin Resort in St. Andrews. Life membership is given to members of the Law Society in good standing for 50 years.

Terrance MacGibbon ’68 will be inducted into the Canadian Mining Hall of Fame in January 2018 during the 30th Annual Dinner and Induction Ceremony in Toronto. The event is a celebration of Canada’s global mining leadership and the outstanding individuals who have led the industry to where it is today. After graduating from StFX, Terry had a long and successful career with nickel giant Inco. With 30 years experience under his belt, he went on to build four substantial mining companies: FNX Mining, Torex Gold Resources, TMAC Resources and INV Metals.

He acquired non-core assets from

StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

major producers for each of his companies, starting with past-producing properties in Ontario’s Sudbury Basin for FNX, and made a series of discoveries later developed into seven mines.

Along the way, he earned a reputation as a financially astute entrepreneur, innovator, and all-round positive role model for the Canadian mining industry.

’80s

Harold O’Connell ’83, currently a chief superintendent in the RCMP, was recently transferred to Singapore.

He is serving as the director capacity building at Interpol Global Centre for Innovation. He is joined by his wife Valerie (Middleton) O’Connell ’85.

Their two sons, Ryan ’14 and Patrick ’13, both StFX grads, are residing in Ontario and Alberta.

Rick Benson ’83, Director of Spiritual and Religious Care in Saint John, NB, has recently published a book about grief, loss and life transitions, My Chaos Searching for My New Normal.

This book is available on Amazon, Indigo and www.rickcbenson.com.

Tony Watson ’88 attended the 70th CFA Institute’s Annual Conference in Philadelphia in recognition of being named its 2015 volunteer of the year. Cited were efforts in continuing education, volunteer mobilization, event management, the CFA institute’s scholarship program, launching the Hong Kong Society of Financial Analysts (HKSFA)’s Best Research Report Competition, and taking over as interim HKSFA Managing Director.

The HKSFA is the CFA Institute’s fourth largest affiliate society. The CFA Institute consists of over

135,000 members across 149 societies worldwide.

’90s

Dr. Jennifer Kuzmicz ’93 has been named the 2017 Family Physician of the Year by the Saskatchewan College of Family Physicians.

Dr. Kuzmicz has been an MD since 1999. She completed post-graduate training in the Regina Family Medicine Residency Program in 2001 and earned her Canadian Certification in Family Medicine that year as well. Dr. Kuzmicz joined the Academic Family Medicine practice in 2002.

Dr. Kuzmicz has approximately 750 active patients. In addition to her teaching practice and outpatient work, she maintains use and privileges to the Family Medicine and Palliative Care Units and practices low risk obstetrics.

She was the Clerkship Coordinator for the Family Medicine Regina site and since February 1, 2013, she has been the Regina Family Medicine Residency Training Coordinator. She received her Fellowship in Family Medicine from the CCFP in 2014. Dr. Kuzmicz and her husband, Travis Sulewski, have two children; Lucas and Veronica

’00s

Sandy Cooper ’02 launched Active Aging NL in May 2017 as a way to help the people of Newfoundland and Labrador take an engaged approached to aging well. The response has been terrific and may be something other alumni would be interested in hearing about.

Sarah Ann Chisholm ’06 sang at an event for David Foster around Canada 150. She also sang a Celtic song in Irish Gaelic that she co-wrote for a film at the afterparty for the concert. The event was a fundraiser for the Canadian College of Performing Arts and she says organizers presented Mr. Foster with a “Legends” award.

Dr. Janet McMordie ’08, a sport medicine physician in Ontario, was selected to be one of five physicians with Team Canada at the FISU Summer Games (university level athletes) in Taiwan from August 19-30. This is the second largest games in the world after the Summer Olympics. She was selected from hundreds of sport medicine physicians in Canada.

Jesse Van Gestel ’09 graduated with a business administration degree and went on to do a master’s in business in Grenoble, France, before working for a company in Victoria, BC for the past five years. He has now moved back to the east coast to open Charts Café in Wolfville, NS. The café offers lunch options and baked goods accompanied by local North Mountain coffee. Jesse does all his own cooking and baking for the café, serving up baked goods, soups, salads and sandwiches.

Local artists regularly perform, and he invites all those in the area to stop by.

July 29, 2017

September 3, 2016

Brianne ’12 Jonathan Bonaparte ’10 wedding

Amanda Pashkoski ’06 ’08 and Keith Spafford ’08 wedding

Élise Painchaud, January 20, 2017

Lost Shores Gran Fondo in Guysborough, Sept 9, 2017

50th Homecoming reunion and 50th wedding anniversary

Jerry ’ 67 and Jan Strong August 12, 2017

Laura Sanders ’05 and Philippe Painchaud

Elizabeth Shaw MacGillivray ’77, Chrissy MacIsaac Arbuckle ’77, Lynn MacGillivray Connolly ’84, Edie Shaw Ewald ’85 and Margaret Shaw Chernosky ’73.

Dekker Huber, Jack Squires & Claire Jessome

Class of 1995, mini reunion

Laura (Bond) ’10 and Justin Selig ’10 Baddeck, Summer 2017 Virginia Huber (MacEachern) ’07, Brianne Squires (MacKinnon)’08 and Victoria Jessome (MacEachern)’08

Angela Cluney, Trina (Boyle) Hope-Ross, Karen (MacLellan) Webster, Sharon (King) Manson, Deanne (MacDougall) Beaton, Jane Walsh, and Karen (MacNeil) Curry.

Class of 2007, BSc Human Nutrition

Harbr employees

Ashley Brioux (Ben & Clara), Sara Squires (Beckett & Colton), Teri Emrich (Rory & Eloise), Jensen Thomas (Danielle & January 2018 baby)

From L-R: Sarah Pyke, Jeff Kielbratowski ’ 08, Ashley Keilbratowski, Dave Kim, Duncan Pulsifer ’ 08, Mike Ouellette, Candace DeLorey ’14

Children of Sean ’93 and Carla Gillis and Thea ’96 and Mark Campbell. L-r, Nate Gillis, Sean Gillis, Mairin Campbell and Alli Gillis.

StFX alumni celebrate the Christmas tree lighting in Boston.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Oxford University, England

Back, l-r: Heidi MacDonald ’17, John McKenna ’89, Megan Bond ’16, Mike Wirvin ’90, Tory Novakova ’11. Centre, l-r: Sandra Hatch ’05, Colin Brennan ’10.

Front, l-r: Diana Graham, Shana Brennan ’10, Lori Wirvin ’90

John Jefferson ’92

Alex Miller ’16 and sister Emily Miller’ 14 StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

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NEWS EXCHANGE St. Bonaventure’s College 2017 Alumni Tie Ceremony

East End of Rundle Mountain Canmore, AB, 2017

Pitbulls

Archbishop Martin Currie ’64, 1st year student Grace Moffatt and Seamus O’Regan ’92

Brook Lenser ’13 and Alex MacDonald

Nathan, Mark, Dizzle ’12 catching up at five-year homecoming.

Dietitian’s of Canada annual conference in St. John’s, NL, June 2017

Future alumnus, Landon MacKinnon

L-r, Jensen Lutes ’07, Shannon Robichaud ’16, Carlee Shaw ’16, Amy Lank ’17, Selby Rowein ’1, Alexis Gran ’17, Melissa Chisholm ’17, Sonya Kupka ’95, Catriona Wilson ’81, Danielle MacIntyre ’14, Laurie A. Wadsworth (faculty), Dean Simon ’17, Jane Stevenson ’17, Jacqueline Cote ’17, Nicole Grewal ’16, Jackie Spear ’95, Jennifer Wood ’13 and Melissa Hardy ’13.

Sheralynne (Deveaux) MacKinnon ’11

Jill, Gareth, Eric, Aaron, Quoi, Kaitlin, Brenna, Allie, G, Mark, Herb, bringing it together for all the Mac Dawgs out there (‘12)

Canadian College of Performing Arts

Captain William Spry Community Centre, Spryfield, NS

September 30, 2016, Ottawa

Sarah Ann Chisholm ’06 sang at a Canadian College of Performing Art event for David Foster

Julie MacLean (MacDonald) ’05 with Louis and Luke, Vanessa Clermont (Carroll) ’05, with Stella Rose, and Lisa Webb ’04, with Spencer.

Shanel Raney ’10, Sarah MacDonald ’10, Nigel Menger, Kelsey O’Brien ’10, Lindsay Pereira ’10, Kelsey Chapman ’10 Leslie Slaunwhite’10

DECEASED Allan J. MacEachen ’44 James Benedict Beaton ’46 Herbert Alexander “Alex” MacDonald ’46 Lauchlin Anthony Chisholm ’49 Afra Caesara McVicar ’49 Henry Joseph Presutti ’49 Mark Benedict Kingston ’50 Mary Genevieve “Gen” Gillis ’51 Leo Vincent Harvey ’51 Murvin Edward McInnis ’53 John Preston Murphy ’53 Rev. Donald Douglas MacDonald ’53 Malcolm Jerome MacDonald ’54 Andrew Nicholas ’54 Dinos Athanas ’56 John Francis Bourchier ’56 Thomas Beck Davis ’56 44

Fr. Lloyd Cornelius Dwyer ’56 Fabian Cornelius Farrell ’56 Fr. Joe Ambrose MacNeil ’56 Wallace Murray ’56 Robert Henry O’Brien ’56 William T. “Bill” Houghton ’57 Cornelius William McGillicuddy ’57 Claude C. McNicoll ’57 Gerald “Gerry” Joseph Doucet ’58 Roland “Doc” Richard ’58 John Archie MacKenzie ’58 George Eden Boyd ’59 William S. Davis ’59 Robert G. “Bob” Haley ’60 Raymond “LaBombe” Levesque ’60 John Augustine MacNeil ’60 Carlo Guiliani ’61

StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

Mary Patricia “Patti” MacDonald ’62 Judy Scott (MacNeil) Walsh ’62 Philip H. Grondin ’63 Angus Ronald Beaton ’64 Robert M. “Bob” Napolitano ’64 Dr. Gregory Baum Hon Deg ’65 Sr. Mary Donalda MacDonald ’68 Anne Lorraine (MacLellan) Durand ’69 Frances Joy (MacIver) MacInnis ’69 ’70 Marion Burke ’70 Norman Paul “Hoddie” McNeill ’70 Sr. Marilyn Costello ’72 Harold James “Jimmy” MacPherson ’74 Bernard Patrick “Bernie” O’Rourke ’74 John Piercey “JP” MacDonald ’74 ’75 Bruce Everette Sarty ’77 Dr. Linda Ann “Annie” Sherman ’77, former faculty

Gerard Anthony “Gerry” Zitoli ’78 Patricia Delaney ’81 Beverly Ann (Farrell) Renny ’81 James Scott MacGillivray ’82 Peter Alexander MacDonald ’85 James David Matthews ’85 Wade Holly Smith ’89 Helen (Purcell) DeCoste ’95 Judith Charlene (Anderson) Jackson ’95 Rev. Edward “Chad” Honneyman ’01 Gerald (Gerry) Doucet, ’58, HonDeg ’12 Rodney Touche, Coady Mary Ellen MacEachern, Xavier Jr. College Prof. John Alexander MacPherson, former faculty Genesta Theresa DeWolfe, former staff

Shopping for premier X-gear just got easier!

www.stfx.ca/xstore

X-GEAR ONLINE STORE OPEN NOW Alumni, family, students and friends can now purchase quality university merchandise online from the StFX Campus Store.

Madeleine, Leah, and Courtenay McCarron, daughters of David McCarron and Shelley Cameron-McCarron, assistant editor and writer, Alumni News.

X-Gear is the perfect gift for anyone!

Visit often to discover new items as they are added to the store.

SHIRTS STARTING AT

$12!

WHERE ARE YOU?

H

ow important is it to keep in touch with your alma mater? Plenty! At StFX, there’s so much going on – from alumni road trips to student send-offs each summer in cities and towns across the country and beyond.

If we don’t have your current contacts, we’re not able to send out event notices, alumni mailouts, or the AlumniNews magazine, mailed free of charge three times a year to StFX alumni and friends. If you’re plugged into the StFX network, you can stay in touch with friends, find mentors, visit the Alumni website, and keep up-to-date with all the details of Homecoming, and chapter events in your area. We’d like to reconnect with some of those with whom we’ve lost touch. If you have a current contact or information on any of the following alumni, listed by decade, please contact:

Records Researcher, St. Francis Xavier University 1-888-739-0031 • records @stfx.ca Daniel Irving Alder ’63 Joan Bakos ’63 John William Baxter ’63 Emile Danien Bergeron ’63 Robert Joseph Bouchard ’63 Frederick Joseph Boudreau ’63 Clarence Sutherland ’63 Michael A Toupin ’63 Louise C Trahan ’63 Ray Tremblay ’63 Peter D Waldo ’63 Malcolm Joseph Chisholm ’68 Rebecca F Chiu ’68 Creighton C Cormier ’68 Frances J Crawley ’68 Frances Ann Gaudet ’68 John Peter Gorman ’68 Andre Lagault ’68 Jean-Paul A Langevin ’68 Valerie Estelle Davis ’73 David Joseph Denis ’73 Maurice F FitzGerald ’73 John Alexander Fraser ’73 Frances Mary Gottschall ’73 Joseph Lawrence Greaney ’73 Bernadette Mary Holland ’73 James E Jamieson ’73 John R MacDougall ’73 Norman P MacDougall ’73 William Angus MacDougall ’73 C Joanne MacFarlane ’73 Carol Anne Rita MacKinnon ’73 Jean Elizabeth MacKinnon ’73 Michael Aloysius MacNeil ’73 Joseph Ambrose MacPherson ’73 Hugh Charles Wilson ’73 Mary Elizabeth Wilson ’73 Kwok Seng M Wong ’73 Brenda L Alexander ’1978 Aji Wahid Araji ’78

Anne Denise Boyd ’78 Daniel Joseph Boyd ’78 Cyril Bradbury ’78 Hugh P Mellon ’78 John Gordon O’Neill ’78 Catherine I O’Sullivan ’78 Hamid Farkhondi ’83 Carolyn Ginger Fillier ’83 F James Hendra ’1983 Elaine P Janz ’83 Laura Margaret Johnston ’83 Sung Gi Kim ’83 George Lambert ’83 Mona Darlene Landry ’83 Stephen Philip Landry ’83 Donald Charles Lynch ’83 Angus Duncan MacDonald ’83 Craig Stephen MacDonald ’83 Elizabeth L Warren ’83 Andre P Weingartshofer ’83 Bonnie Kathleen Weyman ’83 Kimberley Mae M Wilson ’83 Judy Ann Aucoin ’84 Saad Mohammad Abu-Draz ’88 Carol Anne Brinkman ’88 Patrick Burke ’88 Anne Elizabeth Tracey ’88 Michael Gordon Travis ’88 William Joseph Urquhart ’88 Jocelyn Margaret Valley ’88 Mahmoud Joma Abu-Jayyab ’93 Alias Ali ’93 Richard William Armstrong ’93 Martina Chiasson ’93 Kim Elizabeth Chisholm ’93 Reid Matthew Doucette ’93 Angela Jane Marie Doyle ’93 John Edward Vandewiel ’93 Ann M Wallington ’93 Elisabeth Mariann AbiDaoud ’98

Barbara J Adams ’98 Terri Kathleen Amos ’98 Elizabeth Mary Turpin ’98 Andrew Vytautas Tyler ’98 George Vamvounis ’98 Matthew Wilfred Wagner ’98 Brian Daniel Clifton ’03 Kimberly Michelle Connors ’03 Michelle Andrea Cormier ’03 Sau Fan Lee ’03 Elizabeth Ann Lees ’03 Meredith Anne Letain ’03 Nadine Catherine Sara Livingstone ’03 Lisa Nicole Long ’03 Rebecca Marie Ostrikoff ’03 Erika-Ann Christine Therrien ’03 Peter James Thompson ’03 Sonam Tshering ’03 Stephanie Elizabeth Turnbull ’03 Deborah L Aker ’08 Kristy Laine Andrew ’08 Sarah Jane Louise Archibald ’08 Emily Vanessa Burke ’08 Roslyn Elizabeth Chalmers ’08 Wenfei Chen ’08 Bryan Mervyn Bowers ’13 Caroline Jennifer Carmichael ’13 Alfredo Michael Dix ’13 Caitlin Susanne Gallagher ’13 Sandra Paulette Irving ’13 Riiny Mayout Ngot ’13 Ryan William Arthur Reynolds ’13 Chenlu Shi ’13 Samantha Johanne Theriault ’13 Yue Zhang ’13

www.stfx.ca/xstore StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

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!

S T S O P A I D E M L A I C O S R U O Y ST! O P U O Y N E E H W ❤ W X F T LUMNI AND #S FXA

G @ST A T O T T E G R O F T ’ N DO

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StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

JOIN US IN HALIFAX FOR AN EVENING OF GREAT COMPANY, FOOD, AND FUN. ALL FOR A GREAT CAUSE! On April 6th, 2018, we will “Celebrate Making a Difference” by hosting our first StFX National Dinner EAST in Halifax, NS, in support of student athletic scholarships and bursaries!

EAST

StFX NATIONAL DINNER Celebrate making a difference

Halifax 2018

Previous National Dinners were hailed as “one of the major business fetes of the year” by the National Post, and this inaugural event promises to be another outstanding evening.

Join us for this special evening that will include many business, government and community leaders.

FRIDAY, APRIL 6, 2018 · HALIFAX Pier 21 · Reception 6pm · Dinner 7pm Keynote by Dave Carroll, singer/songwriter and advocate for organizations founded on ‘compassionate design,’ followed by a concert by Sons of Maxwell.

Table of Eight: $2,000 l Individual tickets: $250 For information on sponsorship, table or ticket purchases visit StFX.ca/2018NDE or contact Claire Kelly, ckelly@stfx.ca, (902) 867.2359.

StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

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FROM UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT l MURRAY KYTE ’87, VICE-PRESIDENT, ADVANCEMENT

THEN AND NOW, StFX IS A SPECIAL PLACE TO COME TO UNIVERSITY Recently, I was walking around the StFX campus with my son Sean, a student here in his fourth year. It was early November, a crisp cool evening where you could see your breath.

We were in the parking lot beside the Chapel, behind Chillis/MacNeil, facing toward the space that used to be Nicholson Hall (soon to be Mulroney Hall). Sean was telling me how excited he was (“pumped”) to be getting his X-Ring in a couple of weeks and that his X-experience has been incredible (“awesome”). As a parent, and an alumnus, I was proud and excited for him.

I was also proud of StFX—that the university experience here had been so incredible for my son, much as it had been for me 30 years earlier.

At that moment, I looked at the building ahead of me where I used to do my laundry (now the campus security office), and still further to the right, the space where the

old Memorial hockey rink was located, now home to the Physical Sciences building. I was frozen in time, picturing the many cool crisp evenings when my housemates and I would do laundry and head over to the old barn and play a game of shinny. I think some of us lived in that rink.

Those were wonderful times. I couldn’t help also thinking—here we are some 30 years later, and my son is experiencing the same kind of feelings that I had. Much has changed over that time, but StFX remains an incredible place to come to school to learn, be challenged, have opportunities to grow, lead, meet people from across the country and around the world and develop into confident, academically strong, socially engaged young adults. A look through the pages of this magazine will certainly tell you that.

If it’s an experience of remarkable growth one is looking for, then StFX

FRAME IT IN

TYLE!

StFX DEGREE & PHOTO FRAMES For a detailed view of the frames or to order online, visit www.stfx.ca/frames or contact the Alumni Affairs Office 902-867-2186 | alumni@stfx.ca

48

StFX ALUMNINEWS l WINTER 2017

remains a special place to come to university, and be proud that you are a member of the family.

Hail & Health

Murray E. Kyte ’87, M.Ed, LL.B, B.B.A Vice-President, Advancement X

X-RING STORY l ALUMNI OFFICE

HAPPY ENDING FOR X-RING “My X-Ring story is a pretty good one now that I have a happy ending,” writes Erine MacDonald ’13. “It was four days before my 24th birthday and we had gone out for dinner. My boyfriend and I came back to our Halifax apartment to find we had been robbed. Everything that could have been taken was and we were in total shock. I remember telling him that night that the only silver lining was that they had not taken my X-Ring.

We decided to go to the beach the next day in Lawrencetown and relax. I remember thinking to myself, ‘well, you better take your ring off because you don’t want to lose that too.’ In hindsight, my ring never leaves my finger so this was a terrible choice.

When we were leaving, I pulled the keys out of my bag and heard a “ping” on the ground. Not thinking, I assumed it was a quarter.

It only took 15 minutes in the vehicle to realize the ring wasn’t on my finger or anywhere in my bag. We turned around immediately and walked up and down the boardwalk with no luck. I posted a Kijiji ad with a reward, but no luck. I even went back to the beach with two different people who kindly offered to search with their metal detectors.

It was a sad birthday to say the least. I ended up buying another X-Ring as I assumed this one was lost. I bought a silver one as I still reserved hope that my gold one would find me some day. To the person who found it, I am so beyond grateful for your honesty and compassion. The world has few people willing to remain honest, not claim personal profit and return what was lost. If possible, I would like to reward you as no good deed should go unnoticed. Most certainly though I believe wholeheartedly in karma and know for a fact that this good deed will be blessed in more ways than just my reward. Thanks a million times over.” ~ Erine MacDonald ’13

Connect StFX to the next generation of leaders.

As alumni, you can play an important role in helping talented students from your community learn about StFX. And it’s never been so easy to do.

Our StFX Alumni website provides you with helpful tips, links and tools, all designed to help you share with our StFX Admissions Team.

Make a difference in someone’s life.

Visit www.stfx.ca/refer or contact us to get started.

ADMISSIONS AND RECRUITMENT Toll Free: 1-877-867-StFX l E-mail: admit@stfx.ca l www.stfx.ca

Chart the best course for your life in the years ahead.

Start with preferred insurance rates.

On average, alumni who have home and auto insurance with us save $400.*

Home and auto insurance program recommended by

Supporting you... and St. Francis Xavier University.

Your needs will change as your life and career evolve.

As a St. Francis Xavier University Alumni Association member, you have access to the TD Insurance Meloche Monnex program, which offers preferred insurance rates, other discounts and great protection, that is easily adapted to your changing needs. Plus, every year our program contributes to supporting your alumni association, so it’s a great way to save and show you care at the same time. Get a quote today!

Our extended business hours make it easy.

Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

HOME | AUTO | TRAVEL

Ask for your quote today at 1-888-589-5656 or visit melochemonnex.com/stfx The TD Insurance Meloche Monnex program is underwritten by SECURITY NATIONAL INSURANCE COMPANY. It is distributed by Meloche Monnex Insurance and Financial Services Inc. in Quebec, by Meloche Monnex Financial Services Inc. in Ontario, and by TD Insurance Direct Agency Inc. in the rest of Canada. Our address: 50 Place Crémazie, Montreal (Quebec) H2P 1B6.

Due to provincial legislation, our auto and recreational vehicle insurance program is not offered in British Columbia, Manitoba or Saskatchewan. *Average based on the home and auto premiums for active policies on July 31, 2014 of all of our clients who belong to a professional or alumni group that has an agreement with us when compared to the premiums they would have paid with the same insurer without the preferred insurance rate for groups and the multi-product discount. Savings are not guaranteed and may vary based on the client’s profile. ® The TD logo and other TD trade-marks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank.