Office of Advancement
2017 Community Report
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2017 COMMUNITY REPORT
Office of Advancement
2017 Community Report CONTENTS: introduction 4 | PHILANTHROPY 5 | COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING 7 | ALUMNI AFFAIRS 8 | 2017 EVENTS 10 | APPENDIX I: Named Awards and Gifts 12 | ADVANCEMENT STAFF TEAM 15 |
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Introduction The Office of Advancement is an integral part of Acadia University and serves to inform and engage our key stakeholders, particularly alumni and donors. Our Communications and Marketing team share campus and alumni stories through social and traditional media. Through our Alumni office, we offer events and services at home and abroad that connect our alumni and celebrate our school’s traditions and achievements. Our Development team works to generate philanthropic support from individuals, foundations, corporations and other friends who share our commitment to the transformational student experience Acadia has provided since its founding in 1838. In all respects, 2017 was a productive and successful year for the Advancement team. We marked the end of President Ray Ivany’s term in office with a standout gala celebration and welcomed Acadia’s 16th President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Peter Ricketts during a moving installation ceremony – this important transition was an all-hands-on-deck priority for Advancement and for our Acadia Alumni association partners. We raised nearly $8 million in calendar 2017 and witnessed the start of construction on a rejuvenated science complex, the funds for which came from our generous benefactors and cornerstone investments by our federal and provincial governments. We hosted more than 90 alumni and donor events, more than any previous 12-month period, all with strong support on the communications front, where we connect with an ever-growing number of alumni and friends online. We also saw the Acadia Alumni association undertake a survey and rebranding process to serve our 35,000 alumni better worldwide.
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Philanthropy We are pleased to report that in 2017 donors invested $7.9 million in Acadia University students, faculty, and campus infrastructure. Our Development team had approximately 500 personal visits with alumni and friends of Acadia. These visits are significant opportunities to share stories of impact personally, and, in many cases, to introduce our donors to the students and faculty who benefit from their generosity. Acadia is privileged to have enthusiastic supporters in all areas of giving. Our Scholarships and Financial Assistance office added 30 named awards to an already robust list on offer through fundraising efforts and the kind consideration of our alumni and friends. (See Appendix I.) Our donors have chosen to honour family, faculty, staff, and students by creating gifts that directly support Acadia students. While no words can truly capture the difference this support makes, we were pleased to send hundreds of thank you letters written by our students as a way to personally thank donors for their generosity. 12,000,000
Gifts to Acadia University, 2013–2017
10,000,000 8,000,000 6,000,000 4,000,000 2,000,000
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
With so much support for students, faculty, and campus infrastructure, through estate gifts, direct mail, individual, corporate, and foundation giving, we believe it is important to highlight a few in particular:
The Rath Professorship in Entrepreneurship was created by Truro businessman Stuart Rath to benefit Acadia students by giving them access to expert faculty, research opportunities, and support for direct engagement
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with the business community. This gift enabled us to recognize an outstanding professor in the F.C. Manning School of Business and provide annual funds that support innovative research and engagement. The renewal of Acadia’s science complex moved full steam ahead in 2017 with lead gifts from David and Faye Huestis in support of the Innovation Pavilion – the new structure joining Elliott and Huggins Halls provides research and commercialization space well beyond Acadia’s current capacity – and from The McCain Foundation, Stephen McCain, Margie Roy, Gordon and Barbara MacNeill, and others. Student awards were enhanced through generous estate gifts by Pauline Spence (’49) and Maxine (’36) and Robert (’76, ’93) Corey, while many alumni and friends showed their gratitude to former President Ivany with gifts to the new Raymond E. Ivany Scholar-Bursary. During this quiet phase of our comprehensive campaign, the Development team was able to add support staff to its ranks, enhancing our ability to engage volunteers in fundraising efforts. We held our first campaign cabinet meeting in October, and cabinet recruitment efforts continue to bolster our outreach as we approach the public phase of the campaign. With our fundraising success to date and the momentum strongly felt by our volunteer leaders, we anticipate that our campaign launch will happen much earlier than initially planned. 6
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Communications and Marketing In June, Ray Ivany concluded his term as President and Vice-Chancellor, and was succeeded by Dr. Peter Ricketts who, in July of 2017, became Acadia’s 16th President and Vice-Chancellor. Communications and Marketing contributed to ensuring Ray’s farewell celebration in May was well-attended and that the material used both to promote the event and to recognize Ray’s legacy matched his high standards for quality. Similarly, we helped introduce Dr. Ricketts to Acadia’s various stakeholder communities over the summer, in concert with the rest of the Advancement team that organized his formal Installation during Homecoming weekend. This leadership change demanded careful public positioning to ensure continued positive momentum across all fronts — fundraising, student recruitment, and stakeholder relations. Finally, in 2017 the Communications and Marketing team within Advancement was reorganized in a distributed model that provides the President’s Office with enhanced resources geared explicitly to government, community, media and public relations while ensuring ongoing support and expertise to pursue our alumni and development priorities. Our Advancement Communications staff will be applying their considerable experience and expertise across all communications platforms to expand our reach and amplify our engagement with Acadia’s loyal and enthusiastic supporters.
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Alumni Affairs The Alumni Affairs program at Acadia is vibrant, seeking to connect more than 35,000 alumni to their alma mater. Keeping step with previous years, 2017 saw a 33 per cent increase in events for a total of 93 with nearly 5,000 participants on campus, coast to coast in Canada and in eight other countries. Face-to-face interaction with alumni keeps the Acadia spirit alive and brings a signature personal touch to our University family around the world.
The annual gala dinner and auction in Halifax was focused on celebrating President Ray Ivany on the eve of his retirement. Hosting 850 guests, Acadia Alumni recognized Ivany with Honorary Alumnus status and highlighted his tenure with video testimonials and performances by alumni Ron James (’75, ’15 Hon) and Heather Rankin (’89, ’96 Hon). Funds raised at the event supported the Raymond E. Ivany Scholar-Bursary, the S.M.I.L.E. program, and Acadia Athletics. The large number of volunteers who helped execute this most ambitious event was central to its success. Thank you!
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July 2017 saw nearly 200 alumni from the classes of 1942, 1947, 1952, 1957, 1962, 1967, 1972, and 1977 back on campus to celebrate milestone anniversaries on Reunion Weekend. Clark Terrace was officially opened, and Acadia President Peter Ricketts enjoyed his first alumni event on campus. The annual alumni golf tournament closed out the month with 140 participants supporting student awards by playing golf in a fun-filled Acadia afternoon in the Valley. Homecoming was special in 2017 as the CariCom community hosted a “Takeover� reunion with dozens of alumni with roots in the Bahamas, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and Bermuda attending and adding excitement to this annual weekend event on campus. The Stevens Centre high-performance training centre in Athletics was officially opened, and donors were recognized at an evening reception and tour. This year also marked the development of a new brand strategy for our Association that better captures our essence and helps deliver on our promise to mobilize connections. More than 2,800 alumni participated in a comprehensive online survey which reinforced the renewed engagement of Acadia alumni members with the University and highlighted areas to enhance. Indications of trends in communications vehicles came as no surprise with the development of online tools. The Office of Advancement welcomes the opportunity to hear from alumni and to improve upon an already successful outreach and services program. 9
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2017 Events A full list of 2017 events is below and we are looking forward to a full calendar in 2018. EVENT
DATE
Campus - Corporate Sponsor Recognition Event
January 27
Bahamas Reception
February 7
Bermuda Reception
February 9
Alumni Association - Meeting
February 11
Halifax - Pub Night/Axe Throwing
February 23
Barbados Reception
February 23
Toronto - 2016 Canada’s Most Admired Summit and Awards Gala
March 2
Toronto - Business Breakfast
March 3
Halifax - AUS Basketball (M & W)
March 3-5
Campus - Tully Tea
March 5
New York Reception
March 8
Fredericton - CIS Hockey
March 16-19
Florida Luncheon
March 21
Boston Reception
March 23
Vancouver Reception
April 25
Edmonton Reception
April 26
Calgary Reception
April 27
Alumni Association - AGM
May 13
Alumni Association - Meeting
May 13
Campus - Spring Convocation
May 14-15
Halifax - President’s Gala
May 26
Ottawa - Atlantic University Alumni Pub Night
June 1
Zürich - Canadian Universities Alumni Event
June 6
Hamilton - CCAE conference
June 7-9
Ottawa - Maritime Lobster Picnic
June 10
Bahamas - Recruiting Event
June 22
Newfoundland - Reception
June 27
Campus - Summer Reunion
July 7-9
Campus - Alumni Golf Tournament
July 28
Campus - Welcome Week Move-In
September 2
Alumni Association - Retreat
September 16
Truro - Exhibition Hockey vs. SMU
September 20
Toronto - Butler Memorial Golf Tournament
September 28
Fredericton - Women’s Basketball Tournament
September 29-October 1
Massachusetts - Exhibition Hockey
September 30
Wolfville – Webster Foundation Awards Luncheon
September 15
Maine - Exhibition Hockey
October 1
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EVENT
DATE
Calgary - Men’s/Women’s Basketball Tournament
October 5-7
Quebec - Football vs. Bishops
October 7
Campus - Homecoming
October 12-15
Campus - Campaign Cabinet Meeting
October 12
Campus - Business Banquet
October 12
Ottawa - Men’s Basketball Tournament
October 13-15
Kingston - Women’s Basketball Tournament
October 13-15
Campus - Campaign Cabinet Meeting
October 12
Campus - Presidential Installation
October 13
Alumni Association - Meeting
October 13
Campus - Sports Hall of Fame
October 14
Campus - Jackson Wright Recognition Event
October 14
Campus - Stevens Centre Opening
October 14
Campus - Hockey Honour Roll
October 14
Calgary - Reception for Donors
October 20
Campus - Spicer Scholarship Luncheon
November 6
Campus - Spence Memorial Bursary Luncheon
November 6
Boston - Annual Pan-Canadian University Alumni Reception
November 6
New York - Canadian Association of New York (CANY) Reception
November 7
London - Reception
November 7
Colorado - All Canadian Universities Alumni Reception
November 9
Campus - Loney Bowl (Men’s Football)
November 13
Campus - Founder’s Day
November 14
Wolfville - IODE Annie G. Murray Scholarship Luncheon
November 15
Campus - Uteck Bowl (Men’s Football)
November 16
Campus - Academic All-Canadian Ceremony
November 18
Toronto - Canadian Tire President’s Welcome Reception
November 21
Halifax - FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 Americas Qualifiers
November 23
Campus - Giving Tuesday
November 24
Hong Kong - Guided Nature Walk
December 1
Campus - Lessons and Carols for Advent
December 2
Campus - D. Campbell Gift Recognition (Biology)
December 3
Montreal - Reception
December 5
Ottawa - Social on the Hill
December 6
Campus - Bawtree & Bernhardt Stage Naming
December 7
Halifax - Holiday Meet & Greet
December 13
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Appendix I: Named Awards and Gifts Bill Wade Scholar-Bursary. Established in 2017 by Beth Wade in memory of her husband, Bill, this award is granted on a renewable basis to an entering “all around” full-time student who demonstrates financial need and exhibits the qualities of a community leader, through volunteering, civic engagement, sports or political activities. Eligible recipients have graduated from high school in Nova Scotia, preferably in Kings County. Bill Wade grew up in Kentville and returned home a couple of years after university to join the family grocery business, developing a chain of independent grocery stores across the Annapolis Valley. An athlete and sports enthusiast from a young age, Bill was an active volunteer with teams, church, service and political organizations and local business development. He served on the Acadia Board of Governors and was a founding member of the Blueline and Red, White and Blue Clubs. Campbell Laboratory. Named in recognition of the generous support of Diane Campbell (’64) for the Biology building through the Tides are Turning Campaign, Laboratory 230 in the Biology Building is named the Campbell Laboratory. Catherine Stanley Memorial Scholarship. Established in 2017, this scholarship honours the memory of Dr. Catherine Stanley, a member of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics from 2002 until 2015. In recognition of Catherine’s love of mathematics, the scholarship will be awarded to a student who has demonstrated joy and enthusiasm in learning and teaching mathematics and statistics. Recognized for outstanding academic achievement, the recipient will also have demonstrated excellence as a department Teaching Assistant. The scholarship is awarded to mathematics majors on the recommendation of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. 12
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Catherine Stanley received awards and accolades for her achievements in mathematics throughout her elementary and secondary school years in Ontario and Australia. This continued through her three degrees at the University of Toronto. Catherine had a deep love of the absolute and outright perfection which exists within mathematics. In her words, “Teaching math at Acadia University was a career I never planned, but I found great joy in teaching. I loved my students. All of them. From first year Intro Stats to third year Number Theory. Thank you all for the honour of working with you.” Class of 1956 Bursary. Established on the occasion of their 60th anniversary of graduation, the Class of 1956 Bursary, is to be distributed to a returning student in the second term of study. Class of 1957 Bursary. A gift from the Class of 1957 on the occasion of their 50th-anniversary reunion, and further defined with specific criteria at their 60th in 2017, this bursary is granted to a second-year student from Atlantic Canada. Class of 1977 Bursary. Established in 2017 on the 40th anniversary of the class of 1977, this bursary is awarded to a third or fourth-year Canadian student in any full-time program in recognition of financial need and future potential to exemplify the Acadia spirit. The recipient is hardworking, focused, socially engaged, committed to excellence in their pursuits, and determined to gain every possible benefit from an Acadia education and to use that education to make a difference in the world. Dr. Eleanor Chu Scholarship. Established in 2017 by Dr. Robert Hiscott in memory of Dr. Eleanor Chu (’80, ’81), this scholarship is awarded to full-time undergraduate students of high academic standing enrolled in a Mathematics or Physics degree program. Born in 1950 in Taiwan, Eleanor Chu received her BSc in Agricultural Chemistry (1973) from the National Taiwan University. She then pursued studies in Physics and Mathematics at Acadia, earning a BSc (’80) and an MSc in Mathematics (’81). Further graduate studies in 13
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Computer Science at the University of Waterloo saw her receive an MMath (1984) and PhD (1988). Dr. Chu’s academic career began at the University of Waterloo (1988-1991) and continued at the University of Guelph (19912008) where she was promoted to Full Professor in 2001. Dr. Chu was particularly grateful and appreciative for the wonderful, inspiring mentorship received from the faculty of Acadia University, especially Professor Fred Chipman who introduced her to the field of numerical analysis and supervised her MSc thesis. Dream Chaser Change Maker Award. Established in 2017 by three Acadia friends, the Dream Chaser Change Maker Award, is awarded annually to an outstanding student who embodies the Acadia spirit. This student embraces everything an education can offer by ambitiously supporting social and or environmental change in their local community or around the world. Having overcome adversity in their own lives, they give back to society and community through active volunteerism. The recipient will be awarded funding for their own education; to chase their dreams, as well as an opportunity to ignite change with funds donated to their choice of UNICEF education programs in developing countries. Niluka Kottegoda (’03) created the Dream Chaser Change Maker concept to help improve accessibility to education both in Canada and around the world. Close friends Chantal Pelham-Edwards (’03) and Laura Rutherford Watt (’02, ’04) enthusiastically joined the effort. As recipients of awards at Acadia, they wanted to give back to their alma mater and reward students who have qualities most meaningful to their Acadia experience. Niluka, a Vice President at Sobeys Inc., recently completed her KelloggSchulich Executive MBA based in Toronto. Chantal holds a BA in Political Science from Acadia and is Principal of Third Sector Enhancement Ltd. Laura graduated from Acadia with a BSc (Math) and a BEd and currently is teaching Secondary Mathematics and Science in Calgary. 14
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Geoffery Coulson Memorial Bursary. Established in 2017 by Rick Coulson (’08) in memory of his brother, this bursary is awarded to a student who is a Nova Scotia resident demonstrating financial need and whose parent serves in the Canadian Armed Forces. Rick Coulson graduated from Acadia with a BBA in 2008 and is currently President at Coulson Contracting in Ontario. To honour his brother’s memory, Rick established this bursary for Geoffery, who was a kind, reliable and loyal husband, father, brother and friend. Gerald K. and Hazel A. Simpson Memorial Entrance Scholarship. Gerald K. and Hazel A. Simpson Memorial Entrance Scholarship was established in 2017 by Sylvia Simpson MD (‘68) in memory of her parents. This scholarship is awarded to an entering full-time student enrolled in the BSc program in recognition of academic excellence and leadership abilities. Preference will be given to students from New Brunswick. Sylvia Simpson grew up in Fairhaven, Deer Island, New Brunswick and earned a BSc with Honours in Biology at Acadia in 1968. An MD of Dalhousie University (1973), she practiced as a Family Physician until 1980. A graduate of John Hopkins University (MPH 1981), she completed her residency in Psychiatry (1986) and was Associate Professor of Psychiatry there, and later at the University of Colorado Medical School. Sylvia spent her career on clinical treatment of, and genetic research on, bipolar disorders. Also trained as a Jungian psychoanalyst, she continues to do this work part-time. Sylvia’s parents, Gerald and Hazel Simpson, both came from large families and placed a high value on education. Hazel taught school for many years. Gerald believed in lifelong learning. He endowed the Simpson Lectures, a yearly lecture series at the Acadia Divinity College for continuing education for ministers. He also funded the Florence and George Simpson Memorial Entrance Scholarship in honour of his parents. Gordon Lummis Community Award. Established in 2017 by Gordon Lummis (’59), this award is granted on a renewable basis to an entering “all around” full-time student who demonstrates financial need and exhibits the 15
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qualities of a community leader through volunteering, civic engagement, sports or cultural activities. The lifetime involvement of Gordon Lummis in community activities started while a student at Acadia. He founded the first Acadia Winter Carnival in 1959 and started the Winter Carnival Chapel Fund which resulted in the building of a chapel at Acadia. He was also on Acadia`s first football team in 1956-57. His career was spent in business, community development and public affairs. Retiring to Wolfville, he founded the Friends of Acadia, an advocate group for positive relations between the University and the Associated Alumni of Acadia University. He was elected President of the Alumni Association and served on the Board of Governors for Acadia. Graham Daborn Scholarship in Biology. Established in 2016 by a colleague and former research student, Dr. Anna Redden (’79, ’82, ’86), this scholarship recognizes academic excellence in honours or graduate Biology students engaged in ecological research on the Bay of Fundy, preferably with the Acadia Centre for Estuarine Research, and committed to public education and community outreach. Dr. Graham R. Daborn was for three decades (1973-2004) a distinguished professor in Biology and inspiring mentor to numerous students at Acadia University. For service and ongoing contributions, he was appointed Professor Emeritus in 2009. He was the founding Director of the Acadia Centre for Estuarine Research (ACER), a facility established in 1985 to focus research attention on the Bay of Fundy. During 1996 to 2004, he co-chaired the Bay of Fundy Ecosystem Partnership and, from 2004 to 2007, he was the Director of Acadia’s Academy for the Environment. He was also instrumental in the formation and direction of the Fundy Energy Research Network and the Acadia Tidal Energy Institute. Dr. Daborn’s extensive service on boards and committees includes the Atlantic Council of the World Wildlife Fund of Canada, Canadian Water Network, NSERC, Marine Renewables Canada (formerly OREG), and the Offshore Energy Environmental Research Association of Nova Scotia. He is well known for his generosity to students, his outstanding commitment to public education 16
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on environmental issues, and his many professional contributions to not-for-profit agencies and community groups. Honours received include the 1993 Visionary Award of the Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine Environment and the 2002 Outstanding Science Champion Award of the Discovery Centre of Nova Scotia. Hansford Family Scholar-Bursary. Established in 2017 by Gordon Hansford (’51) in memory of his father Cecil Hansford, this bursary is awarded to a full-time student preferably majoring in economics or history, in recognition of academic excellence and financial need. From Annapolis County, Nova Scotia, Cecil Hansford was the son of English immigrants. In 1915, he and two brothers went to war for Canada, only two of them returning in 1919. After mining in Ontario, Cecil came back to Nova Scotia and settled in Wolfville where he opened a barber shop and served on the Town Council, the School Board, and the Wolfville Legion. During WWII in 1940, he served as Staff Sergeant at Camp Aldershot, taking time off in 1945 to run as a candidate for the CCF party against MP Lorimer Illsley. Cecil’s son Gordon followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the armed forces in 1941 at the age of 17. On his return he attended Horton Academy and then completed three degrees at Acadia University – BA in Economics and History (1951), BEd (1952), and MA in Economics (1953). His teaching career saw him educate students at Central Kings High School, Halifax Community College and Kentville Community College, now a campus of Nova Scotia Community College. Gordon’s wife, Helen was also a teacher in Queens and Kings Counties, Nova Scotia. Jackson Circle. The Wright family and their friends, working in partnership with Acadia University, have raised funds to create a gathering space on campus, that students, faculty and community members will enjoy. The space 17
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will also serve as a memorial to the late Jackson Wright. A young boy who came from a long line of Wright family members who graduated from Acadia University. The space will commemorate the Wright family and their relationship to the University. The site selected for this memorial park is situated on the corner of Highland Ave. and Main St. This is where the University connects with the community of Wolfville. It is considered a high traffic area that would attract many visitors. One of the most symbolic shapes for life, family, and love is a circle. Its shape is inviting, calming, and inclusive. A circle has no end or beginning, representing unity and harmony. At the core of this design concept is the shape of a circle. Surrounding this circle are two curved sitting walls. The placement of these walls aim to invite you into the circle. This invitation is a symbol of the Wright family opening up to the community and the University to share in both their loss and their legacy. This is a gathering space for people to share laughter, conversation and silence together. To give respect to the Wright family and recognition of their personal loss, but also their long relationship with Acadia University. Jane’s Again Bursary. Established in 2017 by Jane’s Again Inc. in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, this bursary is awarded to a full-time female student who is a parent. Jane’s Again, a women’s consignment clothing store was opened in 2008 by Jani MacDonald. Located on Main Street in Wolfville, Jane’s Again and their partners, value and are committed to giving back to the community annually in support of women and children. John ‘Junie’ Hiltz Memorial Scholar-Bursary. On the occasion of its 65th reunion, the Class of 1952 elected to demonstrate support for the University by allocating the amount of $25,000 from its Class Fund to establish an endowment in perpetuity, the disbursement from which shall be used to fund the John ‘Junie’ Hiltz Memorial Scholar-Bursary as a tribute to their 18
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classmate. The scholar-bursary will be given annually, on the recommendation of the Director of Athletics, to a well-rounded student-athlete, playing any varsity sport, entering any year of study at Acadia University. The recipient will have demonstrated, or show promise of, a high level of leadership as an athlete and contributing member of his or her community (i.e. volunteerism, student government, or student life on campus). Langley Family Bursary in Business. Established in 2017 by Ross and Tracy Langley, this renewable bursary is granted to an entering student in the School of Business who is also a varsity athlete, in recognition of academic achievement and financial need. Eligible recipients have graduated from high school in Atlantic Canada. Tracy (Robertson) and M. Ross Langley are graduates of Acadia University. Ross completed his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree in 1984, and Tracy completed a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in 1983. After her BA, Tracy completed a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Dalhousie University in 1986. Ross graduated from Dalhousie in 1989 with the combined degrees Juris Doctor (JD) and MBA, and in 2015 with a Master of Laws in Business Law degree from Osgoode Hall – York University. Ross played varsity football while at Acadia and was a member of the 1981 National Championship team that won the Vanier Cup under Coach John Huard. Linda J. Johnston Award in Theatre Performance. Established in 2017, the Linda J. Johnston Award in Theatre Performance is granted to a returning student majoring in Theatre Studies who exhibits passion for theatre and intends to continue with studies or a career in performance, directing, or teaching theatre. Linda Johnston grew up in Sydney, Nova Scotia and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She came home to Acadia where she earned a BSc degree in Recreation Management and Psychology in 1980 but spent most of her time and energy in Denton Hall, and U Hall as a performer and director. Her career has 19
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been predominately in the healthcare sector as a therapist at the Nova Scotia Rehabilitation Centre, and Executive Director of both the Abilities Foundation of NS and the Atlantic Division of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Atlantic Canada. Linda concluded her career as Development Officer for Dalhousie University. She is involved in local theatre and her church, but as the Life President of the Class of 1980, she has never forgotten to “stand up and cheer” for Acadia. This award is a 60th birthday gift from Linda’s husband, Bill Brydon. Lois Barkhouse Gilson (’39) Scholarship. Established in 2017 through an estate gift from Lois Barkhouse Gilson (’39), this scholarship is awarded in recognition of academic excellence. From Parrsboro, Lois Barkhouse Gilson earned a BSH at Acadia where she was the treasurer of the Home Economics Club and a member of the varsity basketball team. She furthered her education with an MA at Columbia University. Lyman Baxter Harvey Memorial Scholar-Bursary. Established in 2017 through the estate gift of Dr. Lyman Harvey, this scholar-bursary is awarded to an entering or returning student from the Municipality of the District of West Hants, Nova Scotia in recognition of academic excellence and financial need. Dr. Lyman Baxter Harvey grew up in Worcester, Massachusetts, a descendant of Planters from Hants County, Nova Scotia. He earned a BSc in Biology from Acadia in 1938 where he studied pipe organ, then completed an MDCM at McGill in 1942. After serving in the Royal Canadian Army Medical Corps in Canada, he studied ophthalmology at Northwestern University (Chicago). He practiced and taught medicine in Illinois and served as a medical missionary in India. From his retirement in 1979 until his death in 2009, Dr. Harvey lived in Hants County. Margaret E. MacKay (’72) Bursary. Established in 2017 by Margaret E. MacKay, this bursary is granted annually to a full-time student majoring in Biology who demonstrates financial need as well as creativity through artistic endeavours. The recipient demonstrates financial need and is 20
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preferably from Pictou County, Nova Scotia. Margaret MacKay grew up in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia and graduated from Acadia with a BSc in Biology in 1972. She taught school in Halifax and Pictou County while pursuing her love of painting. Value: $1,000 Matthew Kennedy (’06) Memorial Bursary. Established in 2016 by family and friends of Matthew Kennedy, this bursary is awarded to a student in any year who is majoring in history and has financial need. Matthew and his wife Lindsay (Connolly) graduated from Acadia in 2006 and 2007 respectively, and moved to Calgary where he worked as a Private Banker for TD Bank. Matt enjoyed hockey and softball, fishing and outdoor life at his cottage, and most of all his wife and daughter Ella. Mike Gillen Memorial Award. Established in 2017 by an anonymous Alberta corporation. To be awarded to a returning Acadia football player. The recipient must be in good academic standing and displays dedication through leadership, perseverance, commitment to hard work and general love of life. The recipient will be chosen by the Director of Athletics in consultation with a football committee. Mike Gillen was a vital member of the Acadia University Axemen football team from the time he arrived on campus in 2002 until his departure in 2006. As a running back, punt returner and a team captain, Mike always lived up to the #1 on his jersey and inspired his teammates on a daily basis with his energy, positive attitude, and his genuine concern for everyone involved with the Axemen football family. Mike was a once in a generation leader. Rath Professorship in Entrepreneurship. The Rath Professorship in Entrepreneurship was established in 2016 by Stu Rath to endow a fund which will be used to support an existing tenured or tenure-track faculty appointment, or such new positions the School of Business may be authorized to fill, with an initial term of 3 years. The holder of the Rath Professorship will be determined by the Vice President, Academic, in consultation with the Director of the F.C. Manning School of Business, and in accordance with the University’s policies on endowed professorships. 21
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The $1-million endowment will provide salary support and an annual discretionary stipend provisionally set at $2,500, rising with the value of the endowment to a maximum of $5,000 (to be revisited each term), to the faculty member holding the Rath Professor in Entrepreneurship. An annual report will be provided to the Donor by the Rath Professor outlining teaching and research activity conducted throughout the year. Raymond E. Ivany Scholar-Bursary. Established in 2017 by alumni and friends in grateful recognition of Raymond E. Ivany’s extraordinary contribution to Acadia as President and Vice-Chancellor 2009-2017, on the occasion of his retirement. The Raymond E. Ivany Scholar-Bursary is to be awarded to an entering domestic or international student in any full-time program on the basis of academic achievement, financial need, and future potential to exemplify the Acadia spirit. In particular, the successful applicant will be hard-working, focused, socially engaged, committed to excellence, determined to gain every possible benefit from an Acadia education and to use that education to make a difference in the world. Selection will be made by a special panel on the basis of an essay and/or interview. Rev. E. Gideon Corey Scholarship. Established through the estate gift of Maxine Corey in memory of her husband, the Rev. E. Gideon Corey Scholarships are awarded in recognition of academic excellence to students preferably from New Brunswick. Rev. Ellis Gideon Corey, born in New Canaan, New Brunswick, was a graduate of Horton Academy and Acadia University with a BA Theology (’38) and a BDiv (’40). After a medical discharge from the RCAF during WWII, he worked with the YMCA Auxiliary War Services in Halifax, NS. In 1942 Rev. Corey married Maxine Westcott (BSc Home Economics ’36). His full-time pastorates included Tracy Mills, NB; 22
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Hantsport-Falmouth, NS; St. George, NB; Edith Ave. Baptist, Saint John, NB; Chipman, NB and Paradise-Clarence, NS. Following retirement, he did interim pastoral work and was pastor emeritus of Lawrencetown United Baptist Church, NS. He served on the Board of Governors of Acadia University, the board of trustees of Acadia Divinity College and represented the NB District of the Canadian Bible Society. Rev. Corey died in 1994. Maxine (Westcott) Corey was born in Freeport, Nova Scotia and graduated from Acadia in 1936 with a BSc in Home Economics. She served as a dietitian at the Toronto General Hospital and was superintendent of the Wartime Housing Commissary in Halifax. Raising a family, Maxine also taught at the Middleton Regional High School in Annapolis County, and she was a leader in organizations such as the United Baptist Women’s Missionary Union, New Horizons, the Women’s Institute, the Red Cross, Meals-on-Wheels, VON, CNIB, and the Canadian Cancer Society. Maxine died in 2011 at the age of 96 after a long, healthy and fulfilling life. The Coreys’ two sons were graduates of Acadia: James (BSc ’70) and Robert (BSc ’76, BA ’93). Rev. E Gideon and Maxine Corey Scholarship. Established through the estate gift of Robert Corey in memory of his parents, the Rev. E. Gideon and Maxine Corey Scholarships are awarded in recognition of academic excellence to students in any academic program. Rev. Ellis Gideon Corey, born in New Canaan, New Brunswick, was a graduate of Horton Academy and Acadia University with a BA Theology (’38) and a BDiv (’40). After a medical discharge from the RCAF during WWII, he worked with the YMCA Auxiliary War Services in Halifax, NS. In 1942 Rev. Corey married Maxine Westcott (BSc Home Economics ’36). His full-time pastorates included Tracy Mills, NB; Hantsport-Falmouth, NS; St. George, NB; Edith Ave. Baptist, Saint John, NB; Chipman, NB and Paradise-Clarence, NS. Following retirement, he did interim pastoral work and was pastor emeritus of Lawrencetown United Baptist Church, NS. He served on the Board of Governors of Acadia University, the board of trustees of Acadia Divinity College and represented the NB District of the Canadian Bible Society. Rev. Corey died in 1994. 23
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Maxine (Westcott) Corey was born in Freeport, Nova Scotia and graduated from Acadia in 1936 with a BSc in Home Economics. She served as a dietitian at the Toronto General Hospital and was superintendent of the Wartime Housing Commissary in Halifax. Raising a family, Maxine also taught at the Middleton Regional High School in Annapolis County and she was a leader in organizations such as the United Baptist Women’s Missionary Union, New Horizons, the Women’s Institute, the Red Cross, Meals-on-Wheels, VON, CNIB, and the Canadian Cancer Society. Maxine died in 2011 at the age of 96 after a long, healthy and fulfilling life. Following in his parents’ and brother James’s footsteps in attending Acadia University, Robert Corey earned two degrees, a BSc (Math) in 1976 and BA in 1993. Sharon Roscoe Scholarship in Chemistry. Established in 2017 by Dr. John Roscoe, Class of 1965, in memory of his wife, Dr. Sharon Roscoe, Professor Emeritus of Chemistry at Acadia University. To be awarded to an entering full-time student majoring in Chemistry who has shown outstanding academic promise at the high school level. The Anthony A. Smith Scholar-Bursary. As a student at Acadia, Anthony Smith rose as a leader amid his peers in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on campus and was known to hold great affection for his alma mater. After graduation and upon returning to the Bahamas, he devoted his spare time to the development of the country’s youth, mentoring them through sport and in organizations such as Junior Achievement, often doing pro bono training with students preparing for accounting certification. Anthony sought no recognition for his contribution to his fellow Bahamians but was known to be quietly generous with those in need. As an act of gratitude and respect – and to follow his example – his friends and fellow Acadia alumni have established the Anthony A. Smith BBA ‘01 Scholar-Bursary as a memorial tribute. The scholar-bursary, valued at $1,000 annually, will be awarded to a Bahamian 24
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student in full-time study in any discipline at Acadia who demonstrates both academic achievement and/or promise and financial need. The Blair and Jay Thomson Memorial Award. Established in 2017 by Jay Thomson, Axemen Football 1977-1980, is in honour and memory of Jay’s father, Blair Thomson for his lifelong support of Jay’s football youth development. To be awarded to a returning football player in recognition of their leadership, community involvement, positive communication skills and good academic standing. The recipient will be chosen by the Head Coach of the varsity football team and the Director of Athletics. The F. Pauline Spence and W. Merle Spence Memorial Bursary. The F. Pauline and W. Merle Spence Memorial Bursary is awarded annually to a student entering or returning to complete a Bachelor of Education degree. Along with financial need, the recipient must demonstrate qualities of leadership and/or have added to the quality of life of others through campus or community activities. Preference will be given to a student from Nova Scotia. The award is on the recommendation of the School of Education and may be renewed at their discretion. The bursary is made available through the kindness and generosity of Mrs. Pauline Spence and in memory of the late W. Merle Spence. Mrs. Spence was a graduate of Acadia University in 1949 (BSH) and had a long and distinguished teaching career in Nova Scotia. The Peter Donat Visiting Artist Endowment. Originally established in 2001 through the generosity of Dr. Peter Donat (B.Sc 1949, BA 1950, DCL 1994) and family, the Endowment was revised in 2017 to enhance the benefits it provides to students, faculty and the community. The Peter Donat Visiting Artist Endowment supports travel, accommodation and honoraria for notable actors, directors, playwrights, musicians, and lighting designers to visit the Acadia campus to meet with and mentor students, to 25
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interact with faculty, and to conduct a master class, performance, and/or public presentation. Visiting artists will be selected by the Dean of Arts or designate, and invitations can be made on an annual or biennial basis.   The Robin Hennigar Leadership Award. Established in 2017 by Robin Hennigar. The recipient(s) will demonstrate leadership and motivational skills to his team. Factors for consideration include an individual who works hard, shows commitment and persistence, puts the team first and displays a commitment to community. The William Hall Heritage Scholarship. Awarded by Acadia University and Valley African Nova Scotian Development Association (VANSDA) to provide financial assistance for two African Nova Scotian youth residing in the Annapolis Valley (from Windsor to Digby) so that they will be encouraged to continue their post-secondary education at Acadia University immediately following completion of graduation requirements set by the Nova Scotia Department of Education. Acadia University will provide matching funds up to $1,000 to each recipient, to a maximum of two awards annually, on notification from VANSDA of the name(s), high school(s), and contact information of the recipient(s) no later than 30 June. Scholarship funds will be credited to the student’s university account in two installments (September and January), once they are registered as a full-time student.
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Advancement Staff Team (as of December 31, 2017) Melanie Coleman (’13)
Ian Murray (’88)
Administrative Assistant
Executive Director, Alumni Affairs and Advancement Strategy
Britney Foote (’17) Finance Assistant
Nancy Handrigan (’92) Executive Director, Philanthropy
Brett Hatfield (’14) Development Assistant
Len Hawley
Oonagh Proudfoot (’93,’06) Senior Alumni Officer
Scott Roberts Executive Director, Communications and Marketing
Fred Sgambati (’83)
Marketing and Development, Athletics
Coordinator, Advancement Communications
Stephen Healy (’08)
Sandra Symonds
Coordinator, Systems and Stewardship
Events Coordinator
Melanie Jackson (’99)
Cassandra Tremain
Coordinator, Branches and Events Alumni Affairs
Coordinator, Systems and Stewardship
Debbie MacMillan Events Coordinator
Manager, Communications and Marketing
Rod Morrison
Clancy Waite (’15)
Vice-President, Advancement
Communications Assistant
Sherri Turner
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Office of Advancement Acadia University 512 Main Street, Box 40, Wolfville, Nova Scotia, B4P 2R6 advancement@acadiau.ca