Folia Montana Fall 2016 - Mount Saint Vincent University by Mount Saint Vincent University

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An unremitting joy President Ramona Lumpkinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opening farewell

Plant a seed. Harvest a dream. Find out what happened after one Mount alumna walked by an abandoned lot

It takes a village And one very patient man with a mission

200 LEAVES TO GO

From season to season, women create meaningful change in the world. The Riva Spatz Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wall of Honour mirrors this legacy through 700 leaves branching from one another in a network of leadership, heroism, and community. Over the past year and a half, we have honoured the names of 500 women. Now is the time for your tribute to her.

The Riva Spatz Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wall of Honour womenswallofhonour.ca

Message from the

President DR. RAMONA LUMPKIN

My Opening Farewell I’m a devoted fan of blues guitarist and singer Bonnie Raitt, and no song of hers moves me more than her haunting cover of Jackson Browne’s “My Opening Farewell.” As I move through this last year of my presidency at the Mount, that song often echoes in my mind.

Giving a welcome at our matriculation ceremony for firstyear students, speaking at our Fall Convocation, hosting our faculty and staff long-service awards – these are all events that I’m attending as the Mount’s president for the final time. I’m beginning to say (though only to myself and not yet out loud), “This is my opening farewell.” And “farewell” is just the right word to convey my feelings. My greatest wish for the Mount is that it should fare well, that it should continue to prosper as an extraordinary place to work and learn. I’m deeply grateful for the chance I’ve had to be part of this community, and I’m confident that the Mount will welcome its new president as I was so graciously welcomed. Presidents come and they go, so quickly it seems, in the life of an institution. What endures is the strength of commitment and the shared purpose that have guided the Mount over its long history and that will continue to shape its bright future.

Fall 2016

Contents

Giving Back – Making a Difference

UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT

FEATURE

Small wonders create large opportunities ALUMNAE PROFILE – JESSIE JOLLYMORE

An unremitting joy The Mount’s president has called MSVU home since 2010. Now Ramona Lumpkin is preparing to hand the reins over to the university’s next leader.

Plant a seed. Harvest a dream ALUMNAE PROFILE – DAVE MCKEAGE

Keeping a promise to young people and their families RECENT GRAD FEATURE – FATIMA SABRA

CHILD AND YOUTH STUDY

Halifax Heroes: Mount Saint Vincent child and youth studies grad fostering inspiration

New beginnings for Syrian refugees

ATHLETICS

Mount alum DeRico Symonds

STUDENT PROFILE DIFFERENCE MAKERS

Fueled by an unstoppable desire for change

Sense of community – and commitment to education – in the fabric of our DNA

Haley Myatt

GIRLS CONFERENCE

MSV GOLF TOURNAMENT

Empowering more than 130 Nova Scotia girls

A grand farewell

MPA

Celebrating our past, present and future

ALUMNAE WEEKEND 2016

Social responsibility a key focus CHILD STUDY CENTRE

CENTRE FOR WOMEN IN BUSINESS

RBC Announces GameChanging Investment DIFFERENCE MAKERS

Networks around the world

Celebrating 40 years! ABORIGINAL COMMUNITY

ALUMNAE NETWORKS

Catherine Martin shares her passionate stories of Aboriginal Women through ﬁlm

LEGACY GIVING

A lasting impact DONOR REPORT

Your generosity LIVING CHARITY PROGRAM

Traveling the world, PR Grad spreads passion for cultural communication BPR Grad spreading 9 abundance of Christmas Cheer in Pictou County

13 ENDOWMENT REPORT

Small tasks can make a world of difference 10 QUESTIONS

Mount Saint Vincent University’s Endowment

With Dr. Tamara Franz-Odendaal

Class Notes 40

Students’ Union Message 14

Retirees 41

MSV Alumnae Association 15

In Memoriam 42

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

Editor’s Note This issue of Folia Montana is about more than taking time to put our energy where our hearts, minds and missions lie. It is about the foundation on which that commitment is built. It starts at home; it is fueled by family and friends. And, for Mount alumnae, it is inherent in their education. Giving back is not on the curricula, and there are no labs to attend. But those drawn to the Mount are inevitably drawn to doing more than attending classes and cracking open textbooks. Caritas Day is perhaps the most obvious example of the university’s sense of obligation to the broader community in which it operates. In fact, it was that broader community that led to the establishment of a day of caring. In 1951, the Mount found itself searching for a place to go after a devastating fire burnt down the only building on campus at the time. People throughout Halifax opened their doors to host students and classroom lectures. The community’s response was so inspirational to the Mount community that the Sisters of Charity established Caritas Day to remember these tremendous acts of kindness. Fast forward more than half a century and you’ll find the Mount community still firmly embracing this annual tradition. This year Mount students, faculty, staff and alumnae went above and beyond to celebrate Caritas Day. Members of the Business and Tourism Society volunteered their time at Adsum House, a local women and children’s shelter, while more than 100 other Mount students participated in a community food drive. In the library, a group of volunteers knitted toques for the #25000tuques campaign to support Syrian refugees. Throughout the day, cookies, coffee and refreshments were offered up with a smile – and a thank you – by various departments. And the Mount’s Advancement Team started a new Caritas Day tradition: paying it forward. Small acts of kindness were the order of their day, including giving the public affairs office a new pot of flowers and a cake. Throughout the year, of course, Mount alumnae, staff, faculty, and students continue to give back. Some of those contributions, as you will read about in this issue of Folia Montana, are life altering. All of them are important because giving back defines who we are as an individual, a community, and a university.

donalee Moulton LIKE US, FOLLOW US AND CONNECT WITH US alumnaeandfriends

@Mountalumnae

Mount Saint Vincent University

Editor donalee Moulton Quantum Communications Managing Editor Lori Lancaster University Advancement University Advancement Alex Noonan (Co-op) Anne Thibodeau Beth Pyesmany-Arsenault Cheryl Stewart-Walsh Donna Wellard Erin Patrick Kirk O’Connell Lori Lancaster Stacey de Molitor (TD Fellow) Contributors Advancement Alexa McDonough Institute for Women, Gender, and Social Justice Archives Athletics Centre for Women in Business Child & Youth Studies Communications, Marketing & Student Recruitment Department of Education Haley Myatt Mount Saint Vincent Alumnae Association Management & Professional Administrators Group President’s Office Priya Sam Students’ Union Women’s Studies Design & Production Kim Squared Inc. Digital imaging, prepress ﬁlm and printing Transcontinental Printing Fulﬁlment Services Russell House Contact Us | Address Change | Class Notes Alumnae Relations, University Advancement Advancement House Mount Saint Vincent University Halifax, NS B3M 2J6 Canada T: 902-457-6470/1-888-MSV.ALUM (6782586) (Toll free in Canada/USA/Bermuda only) F: 902-445-3962 E: alumnae@msvu.ca W: msvu.ca/alumnaeandfriends Publication Agreement Number: 40063269

Fall 2016

UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT

Small wonders create

large

IRIS

1000x

opportunities

The university’s new marketing campaign Small Wonder speaks volumes. It exempliﬁes the remarkable beneﬁts of being part of this institution – whether as a student, an alum, staff or faculty, or community member. With each small wonder comes an abundance of opportunity. Opportunity to

EST. 1873 | HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA, CANADA MSVU.CA 2016-2017

explore, learn, grow and ﬂourish. And, also the opportunity to give back. This year’s Folia edition pays tribute to the incredible number of community leaders, supporters and advocates we have working in our midst. From work with Syrian refugees to camps for children with serious illness, the Mount connections are broad...and proud. That same spirit of giving back enriches the fabric of our University, too. Mount family members are giving back as mentors, volunteers, speakers, ambassadors and supporters. Thank you to all who are building a stronger Mount – through your time, your talents as well as your treasures. Your efforts make this ‘small wonder’ truly shine!

CONTACT US University Advancement Mount Saint Vincent University Advancement House Bedford, NS B3M 2J6 T 902-457-6470 F 902-445-3962 E alumnae@msvu.ca W msvu.ca/alumnaeandfriends

Cheryl Stewart-Walsh Associate Vice-President University Advancement

CONTACT INFORMATION CAN BE UPDATED BY USING THE ONLINE CONTACT FORM ON OUR ALUMNAE AND FRIENDS PAGE OF THE MSVU.CA WEBSITE OR YOU CAN EMAIL US DIRECTLY AT ALUMNAE@MSVU.CA.

Staying Connected has its Perks! With over 32,000 alumnae worldwide (and growing) we are bound to lose a few. Our goal, however, is to connect with our alum more frequently, so if you have made a move, it would be wonderful if you could connect with us and provide us your updated contact information – or to simply verify that we indeed have your correct details. Those alumnae who provide updated email or mailing addresses for the month of December and January will be automatically entered to win a gift of $100 to be used at the Mount Bookstore!

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

ALUMNAE PROFILE

Plant a seed

Harvest a dream In 2008, Jessie Jollymore (BScAHN ’99) walked by an abandoned plot of land in Halifax’s Uniacke Square and a seed was planted. Eight years later, Jollymore and others have harvested a dream for the youth and their families in their community. Today Hope Blooms directly engages upwards of 40 youth and their families. Youth learn how to grow food, produce and successfully market value-added products – including their nationally acclaimed salad dressing – grow a small social enterprise from the ground up, and give back to their community. They are reconnected with basics as they take the lead in planning the garden, growing the food, cooking meals for the community, building relationships with their peers and elders, and supplying their community with healthy food choices. “It’s about bringing food to life,” says Jollymore, who is executive director of the non-proﬁt organization.

Jessie Jollymore (2nd left) and members of the Hope Blooms team.

For the community dietitian, Hope Blooms is both a personal and a professional passion. Jollymore’s love of nutrition and her belief in the importance of growing food in the inner city were the foundation on which hope bloomed. “I felt I was not doing my duty by telling people who couldn’t afford it what to buy,” says Jollymore. Empowering youth is at the core of Hope Blooms. “Together we are working to impact determinants of health with youth leading the way while instilling conﬁdence and a belief that no matter how little ﬁnances you have, you can create change, build bright futures, and contribute to your community,” says Jollymore, whose personal code is “beauty and brilliance do not have a postal code.”

Participating youth also learn how to tempt taste buds. They manage and run a seasonal, organic and sustainable, farming-based, fresh herb salad dressing production and sales operation (under the helpful eyes of Hope Blooms staff). The healthy and delicious dressings, made with fresh, quality ingredients and no artiﬁcial preservatives, are a sell-out every Saturday at the Halifax Seaport Market.

Together we are working to impact determinants of health with youth leading the way while instilling conﬁdence and a belief that no matter how little ﬁnances you have, you can create change, build bright futures, and contribute to your community. Jessie Jollymore

Two years ago Hope Blooms further enriched the community when a group of youth successfully pitched their idea to expand Hope Blooms’ salad dressing business to the CBC reality show Dragons’ Den. The youth had a business plan to pitch: they asked the TV team of venture capitalists for a $10,000 loan toward building a greenhouse. In return, they offered up five per cent in royalties until the loan was paid back. Four of the show’s five entrepreneurs were hooked – and gave Hope Blooms $40,000 free and clear. For Jollymore, Hope Blooms demonstrates her belief that “when you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” There are currently 12 youth leaders involved in the organization, most of whom started when they were only six or seven. This past summer five full-time jobs were created while other youth work for honoraria. The Mount alumna says her degree in human nutrition and the advice she got from colleagues and faculty played a key role in the sowing the seeds for Hope Blooms. Jollymore encourages others to find their own way to contribute to community. “Any act of giving back, no matter how small, is never wasted,” she says. “It always makes a difference.”

Fall 2016

ALUMNAE PROFILE

Keeping a promise to young people and their families Dave McKeage (BPR ’95) knows firsthand that good things come to those who wait. Thanks to McKeage’s patience, thousands of youngsters throughout Nova Scotia and across Canada each year now head to Brigadoon Village for some well-deserved fun and festivity. What makes these kids so special and McKeage’s perseverance so important: they have a health condition – including cancer, asthma, Crohn’s disease – that often means regular camp isn’t in the cards for them. That realization first hit home to McKeage when he was a teenager. Diagnosed with cancer when he was only 11, the future public relations graduate went on to volunteer with the Canadian Cancer Society and later work at their Camp Goodtime. “I realized there were fewer and fewer Dave McKeage places in the province where we could rent facilities where features like a medical centre and infection control could be put in place,” says McKeage. Just as importantly, he notes, “I realized that for many young people grappling with an illness or health condition there was no one to advocate for them. No one who could offer them up a place to just be a kid like all other kids if only for a little while.” McKeage kept the idea of a year-round recreational facility that offers camp programming to children and youth living with a chronic illness, chronic condition or special need on the front burner and slowly started to turn concept into reality. After a year of interviews and focus groups with health professionals, families and project experts, a founding board of directors was established. (Three of the eight members were Mount alumnae.) It took three years for the board to give Brigadoon Village a thumb’s up – and that was time well spent, says McKeage. “A project like this is huge and with any new idea people are cautious about putting their name behind it. We couldn’t make a promise to young people and their families and not deliver.” On August 27, 2011, McKeage and his team delivered. The first campers arrived at Brigadoon Village in Aylesford, N.S., for Camp Guts and Glory, Canada’s

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first camp program for children and youth living with inflammatory bowel disease. That week lives forever in McKeage’s memory. “One of the campers asked a counsellor if Crohn’s disease was genetic. He thought if it was, then his kids could go to Brigadoon and that would be okay by him. I couldn’t have asked for better validation. It’s all I had hoped for and more.” This summer Brigadoon Village offered 13 programs with its partners. This included Camp Carpe Diem for children with epilepsy and Camp Treasure Chest, for those with lung health issues. The latest program to be offered is Camp BELIEVE, which caters to children who have a parent(s) that lives with a mental illness. That’s only some of what Brigadoon Village has to offer. “In our off-season programming this year, we will welcome more than 2,000 guests in over 30 programs. This programming serves non-profit groups, schools, associatons, family camps and various other organizations,” says McKeage. “Partnerships,” he adds, “are the foundation of Brigadoon.” McKeage, who still serves on several of Brigadoon subcommittees, credits his experience at Mount Saint Vincent and the friends he made there with helping him achieve his goal. “There’s no doubt that the Mount’s co-op program in public relations allowed me to get a great start in the business community,” he says. “Then the BPR alum community network helped me enormously.” It takes a village – and one very patient man with a mission – to build a special place for special kids.

RECENT GRAD FEATURE

New beginnings for Syrian refugees Mount alumna helps newcomers to Nova Scotia thrive By Priya Sam Fatima Sabra

Fatima Sabra still remembers immigrating to Canada when she was four years old. “It was me, my mom, my dad, my brother, and my sister – she was only a few months old,” she recalls. “My father borrowed money from his uncle so we could come to Canada. We stayed in the YMCA and my sister slept in a suitcase at the beginning.” That was in Montreal in 1989. Fast forward to now and Sabra has just finished her bachelor of education degree at Mount Saint Vincent University. As part of her program, she was a student teacher at Citadel High School. Since she was one of the only teachers there who spoke Arabic, she became an invaluable resource for the new Syrian students who recently arrived as refugees. Helping them at school quickly turned into a project that is now consuming most of her spare time, too. It all started during a class where the refugee students were all asked about their hopes for the future. “One of the students said to me, ‘I have no hope’,” says Sabra. It was that statement that made her realize these students needed much more than the basic language skills they were acquiring at the school. Soon, the students opened up to her and told her about their homes, some said they only had mattresses in their apartments. When Sabra told the teacher she was working with about some of the challenges the Syrian students were dealing with, they both agreed something needed to be done. One of the first things she tackled, with help from another teacher, was finding a prayer space for the students. Then they visited their homes and made lists of things they needed. The next step was reaching out to staff at the school and the community to get donations.

Donations started pouring in. The team, now up to three people, worked out a system of going to the refugees’ homes and making lists of what they needed. The lists were often extensive and included everything from basics like cutlery and bedding to things they hoped to have eventually like laptops. They would then triage the lists and start matching the items needed with the donated items.

We started with a couple of families and then it kind of spread and the families we started to help told their friends and we found more families who needed help and added them to the list. Fatima Sabra

As the donations began to pour in, the women quickly realized they were running out of space to store everything in their homes. Mount Saint Vincent University, where Sabra was a student, offered to donate a room and it became a place for storing and sorting all of the clothing and housewares. But that room, too, quickly began to overﬂow. When the ﬁrst refugee families were coming to Halifax, there was a temporary donation centre set up in the old Rona store in Bayers Lake. It’s something that this group would like to see again for the families that are still arriving and for those who still need the basics. “We started with a couple of families and then it kind of spread and the families we started to help told their friends and we found more families who needed help and added them to the list,” says Sabra. While the list of those who need help is growing, so, too, is the resolve these women have to help.

Fall 2016

STUDENT PROFILE

Fueled by an unstoppable desire for change By Haley Myatt

In May 2015, I was waking up with the Kenyan sunrise and the wildlife surrounding our camp, living out a promise I had made to my grade 10 self. I was here in the heat and the heart of Africa with a team of 20 other university-aged individuals from across Canada travelling with Free the Children (now known as the WE Charity). On one particular morning, my team and I were traveling to a local primary school, Emori Joi, one of the ﬁrst projects put in place by the international charity in this community. For us, it was an opportunity to see ﬁrsthand the impact our fundraising efforts can make in a community. Upon arrival, we toured the grounds, stepped inside the old school building – which resembled a metal shipping container – and ventured into the classrooms. In front of each class were signs that read “Don’t step in the garden,” “Drink clean water” and “Speak in Kiswahili/English.” The children were supposed to be on vacation, yet there were still some lounging on the grounds studying. Laughter from a few children in a classroom caught my attention. As I walked closer, I saw the sign in their classroom: “We are unstoppable.” I couldn’t help but think how powerful this moment was: here were children, learning, and becoming

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

At top: Haley Myatt wrapped in a Safari Shuka; clockwise: We Charity group on last work day; Haley on water walk with local mommas; and ﬁnished Baraka Hospital

unstoppable in their quest for an education, a reality not often within reach for Kenyan children. “We are unstoppable” became my mantra for the rest of the 21-day trip as we helped build the foundation of the new surgical wing for the Baraka Hospital, embraced the local culture, trained with Maasai warriors, and developed our own personal action plans for when we came home. I brought inspiration that underlies “We are unstoppable” back with me to Halifax. It serves as a reminder that I don’t have to travel halfway around the world to be unstoppable in my own life or my community. Since returning from Kenya, I’ve conﬁdently chosen to live with a “WE” mindset. I believe that by working together, we can empower, we can educate. We can be the change we wish to see in this world.

CENTRE FOR WOMEN IN BUSINESS

BUSINESS ON A BRAND NEW LEVEL

RBC Announces Game-Changing Investment in MSVU’s Centre for Women in Business RBC marked Global Entrepreneurship Week with a $500,000 cheque presentation to Mount Saint Vincent University in support of the Centre for Women in Business. The November 17th announcement drew hundreds of people to the McCain Centre, including many Centre members, and young, aspiring entrepreneurs who will beneﬁt from this 10-year partnership. The newly named RBC Centre for Women in Business space at Mount Saint Vincent University will also be home to the new RBC Alliance of Young Women Entrepreneurs program. Roger Howard, RBC’s Regional President, Atlantic Provinces (pictured below and at right above), called the Centre’s business training services “invaluable” to the economic prosperity of Atlantic Canada, particularly to young women and recent graduates interested in exploring entrepreneurship as a career option. When you think about the future drivers of our economy in this province, the ﬁrst thing that comes to my mind is entrepreneurs. Roger Howard

“When you think about the future drivers of our economy in this province, the ﬁrst thing that comes to my mind is entrepreneurs,” he said. “For RBC, this is a tremendously exciting opportunity to take an innovative approach to accelerate the success of women-led businesses.” Dr. Ramona Lumpkin, President and Vice-Chancellor of Mount Saint Vincent University (pictured below and at left above), said the partnership will, “build a future without boundaries, and an entrepreneurial ecosystem for women that encourages the next generation of community, business and social innovation.” “RBC’s leadership does not go unnoticed by our broader community. Their commitment to communities makes us all better, and we feel fortunate to have their important support.”

Dr. Ramona Lumpkin, Tanya Priske and Roger Howard.

Many Centre members were on hand to showcase their businesses, and to celebrate the impact the Centre has had on the business community. Several shared personal reﬂections on the Centre’s support in a video, capturing the sentiment that the Centre has been a game-changing resource for them and thousands of women since it opened with the support of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and the Mount 25 years ago. Executive Director Tanya Priske said the funding will help her team, made up of eight full-time staff, to reach even more young women with skills training, export opportunities and mentorship. “This reinforces our place as a vital resource for entrepreneurship in our region,” she said, adding that this year alone, the Centre conducted 602 business advisories and provided training and support to 1,720 women, including 404 members. “Many of our clients are young women with incredible business ideas, but they need guidance when it comes to things like business planning, access to ﬁnancing, and strategies for marketing and

Fall 2016

execution. That’s why we’re here,” said Priske.

Guests were treated to designer cookies from Noelle’s Cookies.

“RBC recognizes that we’ve played a signiﬁcant role in the business success stories that have unfolded in our region over the past two decades, and we thank them for joining us in our mission.”

One of those success stories is Faith Drinnan, a long-time Centre member who spoke during the announcement and reﬂected on what the Centre has meant to the sustainability of her business, the award-winning The Oyster Group magazine circulation ﬁrm in Dartmouth. “The Centre came into my life when the business world had chewed me up and spit me out,” Drinnan said. “Without a doubt, the Oyster Group would not be in business today if it were not for the help and support the Centre provides.” Drinnan is now stepping back from the day-to-day operations of the The Oyster Group, and handing the reins to Vice-President Jenn Taylor, a young aspiring business leader and Mount grad.

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

Guests take part in announcement.

“This is about building future leaders,” said Taylor of the funding announcement. “The Centre for Women in Business has been instrumental in providing the tools, training and connections that make business growth possible; it’s great to know that through this funding, those opportunities will be available to other young women who want to grow and succeed in business. We thank RBC for making this possible.”

DIFFERENCE MAKERS

Traveling the world, PR Grad spreads passion for cultural communication Hawa Kombian (BPR ’11) has seen a lot of the world. Upon graduation in 2011, Hawa traveled to Ghana (where her family is from) while volunteering with Youth Alive Ghana, an Action Aid initiative that aims to help street youth end the cycle of poverty within the community. At the end of her travel stint in the fall of Hawa Kombian 2012 Hawa obtained a position with the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) – Institute of Health Services and Policy Research (a federal government agency that provides funding for healthcare research across Canada) as their Communications & Knowledge Translation Officer. With her volunteer, travel, and professional experience Hawa had made the decision in 2015 to further her education by enrolling in the Master’s program in International Humanitarian Action at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. She has since charted a new course.

“I’ve had a long interest and connection in development work and my time at CIHR enabled me to connect with a community of people working in health and humanitarian work. Through training and volunteering with various aid initiatives, I was ready to shift gears and commit to a new direction in my communications career.” Currently, Hawa is in Sierra Leone as part of the work placement component of her Master’s degree. Fusing her experience in health and communications, she works with the non-governmental organization eHealth Africa, which began operations in the country during the 2014 Ebola outbreak. Hawa credits her drive in diverse endeavours to her circle of family and friends. “I’ve been surrounded by nothing by love, enthusiasm and support for my goals and that makes all the difference when pursuing a passion.” Hawa recorded her time in Ghana, and has started to blog her current adventure. You can check out more of her adventures at Under African Skies at blogspot.ca.

BPR Grad spreading abundance of Christmas Cheer in Pictou County Nicole LeBlanc’s (BPR ’10) spreadsheets of contacts and organizations ready and willing to lend a hand to help her spread Christmas Cheer in Pictou County is multiplying by the minute.

Nicole LeBlanc

In its third year, the holiday campaign – Spreading Christmas Cheer in Pictou County – has grown from 400 cards in its ﬁrst year to 4,000 in its second. The goal for the third?

“Well if you follow the trend in the ﬁrst and second, I will simply add a zero and go for 40,000 cards,” says Nicole from the office of Sean Fraser in Central Nova where she is the Director of Outreach and Communication. Nicole got the idea in 2014 while visiting her grandmother Evelyn in palliative care. The emphasis became even stronger when her grandfather passed away in the hospital this past summer. “It can be lonely and a difficult time for those in care, especially around Christmas, so to be able to brighten spirits

and add a bit of joy for those who need it is what this is all about.” And many feel the same way. The local community has jumped on board fully with residents sending in batches of cards and organizations offering to be pick-up and drop-off locations. “We have such an incredible group of people – well over 100 – who help every year, and the support just continues to grow,” says Nicole. “It is very accessible in that anyone can do it. We have school classes who volunteer to create cards, write messages and some groups who have offered to host events so our elves can gather to ﬁll out cards.” LeBlanc who counts, organizes, and readies each card for distribution is asking people to send cards with a general greeting or holiday message, or blank ones that the elves can ﬁll in. Those cards will then be distributed to those who could use some cheer. The deadline for sending cards is December 7. The holiday campaign has a Facebook page, including contact details for those looking to contribute cards.

Fall 2016

DIFFERENCE MAKERS

Sense of community – and commitment to education – in the fabric of our DNA

COMING SOON The second annual Fabric of Our DNA fashion show will be held on February 24th. Mark the date in your calendar and prepare to be enthralled.

As Mount Saint Vincent’s Africentric Support Coordinator, Randy Headley (BA ’07) likes to listen to students – and help them ﬁnd solutions. So last year when students Randy Headley came to him asking, “Where are the scholarships for Black students?” Headley said. “Let’s create one.” That simple response led to an exceptional extravaganza, The Fabric of Our DNA fashion show, which featured local models, local designers, and local businesses from the African Nova Scotia community. The event, now an annual celebration and fundraiser, drew more than 300 people and brought the students one important step closer to their goal of raising $25,000 for a scholarship for individuals of African descent. Headley, who is also the Mount’s Graduate Admissions Officer, expects the scholarship will be in place within ﬁve years – and that it will resonate with alumnae of African descent around the world. “Our graduates have also asked about a scholarship. We are respecting that request,” says Headley. The fashion show, held during African Heritage Month in February, was a success on several fronts. “It incorporates so many components of celebrating African heritage,” notes Headley, who is originally from Guyana in South America and moved to Canada to complete a Business Administration degree at the Mount. “It speaks of the diverse African cultures that are represented on campus.” In addition to Headley and a team of eager and energetic students, members of the Black community came out to support the initiative. DeRico Symonds, co-founder of Future Roots, a social enterprise that trains youth to provide service to those who need assistance, hosted the show and Solitha Shortte (BBA, ’13), marketing director with Metro Care and Share,

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

Models and guests of last year’s DNA Fashion Show event.

a fundraising organization for youth education and community partnerships, served as runway director. On the runway, designs by Nicole Johnson, Duane Jones, Sarom Curtis, and Toria Aidoo were featured. Students also displayed their beadwork and other crafts while Black business owners set up booths throughout. Spotlighting designs from Black designers did more than reaffirm the creativity and the quality of fashions from Nova Scotia. It also ﬁlled an important void, says Headley. “I couldn’t ﬁnd anywhere to buy authentic African clothing.” The Fabric of Our DNA fashion show is already helping to transform that reality. “After the fashion show, a number of designers and students approached me about including their designs in our next show,” says Headley. “Our next event will be bigger and better.”

Mount conference empowers more than 130 Nova Scotia girls

Mount Saint Vincent University celebrated 2016 International Women’s Week with more than 130 junior and senior high school girls from across the province this past March. Students from rural and urban schools, community groups and youth organizations attended workshops and sessions in the Rosaria Student Centre at the Mount. “Soaring to New Heights” – the theme of the 2016 conference, was the ﬁfth Girls Conference hosted at the Mount. It’s goal was to empower girls and young women through inspiring workshops that include a range of current topics such as debunking myths around career choices for girls, women in business, Avalon Centre’s “I Don’t Owe You” campaign, online cyber safety, and exploring diversity and cultural identity, just to name a few. The 2017 Girls Conference is slated for March 3.

Child Study Centre to Celebrate 40 years! To mark its special anniversary, the Mount’s Child Study Centre will be hosting a celebration in the Multipurpose Room from 1:00-4:00 on Saturday, January 28, 2017. There will be cake, face painters and a balloon artist! Razzamatazz will be performing from 2:00–3:00.

Social responsibility a key focus for MPA Keeping several university priorities top of mind, the Management & Professional Administrator’s group (MPA) on campus had an active year on the social responsibility front. The MPA group is committed to reinforcing the Mount’s spirit of ‘giving back’ and took several opportunities to incorporate that into their work on campus this past year including waiving or reducing admission fees for events when employees brought a donation. Several great events and initiatives took place including Food Bank drives for FEED NS and the Student Resource Centre; donations for the Fountain Play Centre and Syrian Refugees; and donations of books for Chisholm Home for Children. Thanks to all for your continued support!

For more information, please contact Debbie Armstrong at 902 457-6287 or Debbie. armstrong@msvu.ca.

Fall 2016

ABORIGINAL COMMUNITY

A passion for storytelling Catherine Martin shares her passionate stories of Aboriginal women through film From MSVU Public Affairs A Mi’kmaq person of the Millbrook community in Truro, Nova Scotia, Catherine Martin’s professional and academic interests have been influenced and driven by her passion for the lives and stories of Aboriginal women – specifically that of Annie Mae Aquash – a Mi’kmaq woman and activist from Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia, who was murdered in the mid-1970s. “I love those stories of women and resistance, and resilience, and how we have brought ourselves to this place in time and society. I wanted to make films so I could tell her story.... I chose film because I felt that I could make more social and educational change through film, and that it was the natural progression from an oral tradition.”

An impressive filmography Martin completed The Spirit of Annie Mae in 2002, in conjunction with the National Film Board (NFB) – one of many projects in a filmography that in itself tells the story of an accomplished leader. As an independent filmmaker, director, and writer, Martin’s repertoire of work includes the animation film Little Boy Who Lived with Muini’skw (2004), and Spirit Wind (2000). In 2006, Martin added the NFB online documentary Bringing Annie Mae Home to her accomplishments – a film that explores the thirty-year process of solving Annie Mae

Catherine Martin

Aquash’s murder. Fittingly, Martin’s contributions to ﬁlm, television, and digital media in Atlantic Canada were recognized in March 2015 with a WAVE Award from Women in Film and Television Atlantic. In addition to her career as a ﬁlmmaker and business owner, Martin has acted as the past Chairperson of the Board of Directors for Aboriginal Peoples Television Network, and as the past

Chair of the Society for Canadian Artists of Native Ancestry. She has also played an active role in the development of many programs to advance the education of Mi’kmaq and Aboriginal women and youth, including the development of many of the policies and programs within the Canadian Cultural and Arts Institutions, and the Indigenous Black and Mi’kmaq Initiative within the Law program at Dalhousie University.

A new opportunity to inﬂuence social change “I was intrigued by [the Nancy’s Chair in Women’s Studies] position, because it, too, offers the opportunity to do meaningful work that may inﬂuence social change. I really hope that I can help bring more Aboriginal people to the Mount, and further strengthen the relationship between the Aboriginal and Mount communities,” says Catherine Martin. Accepting the position of Nancy’s Chair in Women’s Studies was a welcome back of sorts for Martin, as she previously attended the Mount as a student in the Masters of Education program. She is also a member of the Mount’s Aboriginal Advisory Committee. “I have seen real change and commitment here,” Martin says. “President Ramona Lumpkin and her team have done an amazing job, and I am very impressed and inspired by the work she has done in the Aboriginal and women’s communities. I am looking forward to having the opportunity to learn from her, and see what I can achieve in this role.”

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

LIVING CHARITY PROGRAM

Small tasks can make a world of difference Student Robyn Chase (BPR ’16) participated in the Living Charity program in February. Here in her words is a little about her experience. Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans in August 2005. Ten years later the city’s population is back to what it was before the storm, but with half the housing options. Organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity and Brad Pitt’s “Make It Right,” work hard to bring New Orleanians back home. The St. Bernard Project is another organization still working non-stop to help restore the areas the storm affected most. We were fortunate to work with the St. Bernard Project, which offers programs to help New Orleanians ﬁnd or return to homes. We assisted with their program that helps homeowners return to their previous homes by helping rebuild them. Our group worked on 5715 Vermillion Street. The house belongs to Ms. Pam. The storm destroyed her house; she and her daughter had to move nine times in the past 10 years. She was also a victim of contractor fraud and government red tape. We spent three days working on her house. This involved sanding, mudding, caulking, and priming the house. These small tasks made a huge difference in the house’s aesthetics. After 10 years of uncertainty, our group helped Ms. Pam come one step closer to moving home. Morgan Mersereau, a second-year MSVU nutrition student, said, “It was an experience that we won’t soon forget. Being able to help a family who needs it while visiting a new part of the world with people who, before this, we never knew, was humbling.” The beautiful weather allowed us to work hard while having fun and getting to know each other. Each day started with an icebreaker to help us loosen up. Heather Deck, a third-year nutrition student, said, “The trip really showed me that poverty is everywhere,

From L to R: Robyn & Emily Haley; Ellen Kelly, Annie Mckitrick, Robyn, and Katie Walsh; and the hard working team at Ms. Pam’s house

not only in developing countries, and that you don’t necessarily have to travel half way around the world to make an impact on the lives of others.” She added, “I really appreciated being able to stay with locals, as opposed to in a tourist area. This allowed me to experience what living in New Orleans is truly like and gave me a whole new perspective on life.” After each day of volunteering, we came home to a lovely home-cooked meal from the Sisters of New Orleans. I thoroughly enjoyed this trip. It was a mix of exploring, volunteering, and learning. I was able to directly help a family, tour Bourbon Street, and eat beignets at Café du Monde. How many volunteer opportunities do you come across that let you explore a city, help a family, and enjoy home-cooked meals? This trip gave me a unique perspective on volunteering. I never knew such simple tasks could make such a visible difference. In three days, we were able to see the house transform into a home. This trip has given me a whole new passion for volunteering. Small tasks, like sanding and mudding, can make a world of difference.

Fall 2016

STUDENTS’ UNION MESSAGE

QUESTIONS with

Dr. Tamara Franz-Odendaal

An example to emulate Whenever a current Mount student meets a professional, an activist, a community leader, a researcher or any other individual who proudly wears their Mount ring or displays their Mount degree, we are reminded how embedded our community is in the world around us.

Dr. Tamara Franz-Odendaal is NSERC Chair for Women in Science and Engineering, Atlantic Region, and an associate professor of biology at Mount Saint Vincent.

Tea

Tea or coffee?

PC or Mac?

Mountains or ocean?

Vampire or werewolf?

Wine or beer?

Cat or dog?

Rock or country?

Comedy or drama?

Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings?

10.

Monopoly or Scrabble?

PC Mountains

As the Students’ Union, we work in conjunction with the MSV Alumnae Association to ensure current students have a seamless transition to Mount alum. I honestly believe you never cease to be a member of this community. And once Mount alumnae venture into the professional world – creating a legacy in their path – we recognize the invaluable contribution you all provide to those who follow. Through networking, mentoring, presenting and sharing your experiences as Mount alum in the workforce, you serve as reminders that no dream is too big, as well as an invaluable resource for our community. On behalf of all Mount Saint Vincent University students, I thank you – our alum – for your continued commitment and support for our community. Your generosity is recognized, and greatly appreciated. Your inspiration is found in the incredible accomplishments Mount students complete in our community on a near daily basis. You all truly serve as the example we strive to upkeep.

Neither

Wine B oth Country Drama Neither

Monopoly

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

Ryan Nearing MSVUSU President

ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION

MSVU Alumnae Association Hello alum! I continue to be honoured to serve as president of the Mount Saint Vincent Alumnae Association (MSVAA), representing an incredible alumnae community of over 32,000 worldwide! And our goal is simple: to foster and nourish relationships with our alumnae and friends at the same time supporting the goals of this great institution. To help guide us in that mission, I am fortunate to have alongside me 16 other committed individuals. The MSVAA Board of Directors is an active one, meeting at least ﬁve times a year and serving on various committees, including three seats on the Board of Governors for the University. I currently have the distinct privilege of sitting on the Presidential Search Committee to ﬁnd the replacement for our outgoing president and honorary alum, Dr. Ramona Lumpkin. Mount students will always be one of the Association’s main priorities and we will continue supporting their endeavours in the form of bursaries and scholarships, sponsoring events, and mentoring. We believe strongly in the notion of helping those who come after us, encouraging and nurturing a positive university experience like the one many of us had, and being able to one day return the favour as alumnae. And we will continue to remain a collective support for students. Last year, the Association made the difficult decision to retire the MSV Golf Classic, our main revenue generator. Despite the event’s successful 26-year life, we felt it was time to look at something new, something that would appeal to more alumnae across the board. This year, a special committee has been struck to determine that direction. If you have thoughts, please let us know!

Mount Saint Vincent Alumnae Association Board of Directors 2016-17 President Tracey Newman, BBA ’00 Vice President Tanya Lorimer-Charles, BBA ’89 Past President Lisa Whynott, BOA ’94 Secretary Carolyn O’Malley, BBA ’14 Treasurer Rhonda Bursey, BBA ’94 Adrienne McCann, BTHM ’06 Alison MacDonald, BPR ’88 Christine Larade, BPR ’96 Christine Qin Yang, BBA ’14 Haley Myatt, Student Representative Lynne MacQuarrie, BPR ’96 Matthew Brown, BTHM ’15 Matthew Stewart, BA ’14 Paul Gérin, BBA ’98 Robyn McIntosh, BPR ’10 Scott MacDonald, BA ’08 Trevor Poole, BA (AIT) ’10

We’ll be calling on you to stay connected this year. Maybe you could spare a couple of hours to volunteer at an event, or be willing to guest lecture, or mentor a future alum. Whatever you can give, we’ll take. Come out and mingle during Alumnae Weekend, catch a Mystics soccer or basketball game, support scholarships and special initiatives. Above all, stay connected. It is these connections that make the Mount a stronger place and keep us tied to one another as alum, and the special things that make the Mount unique. Sincerely,

Standing (L-R): Alison MacDonald, Scott MacDonald, Haley Myatt, Robyn McIntosh, Carolyn O’Malley, Matthew Brown, Adrienne McCann, Christine Larade. Front Row (L-R): Tracey Newman, Lisa Whynott, Rhonda Bursey, Christine Qin Yang, and Tanya Lorimer-Charles. Missing: Paul Gérin, Lynne MacQuarrie, Matthew Stewart, and Trevor Poole.

Tracey Newman, (BBA ’00) President, MSVAA

Fall 2016

15 5

BENEFITS OF BEING AN ALUM BE SOCIAL

SHOW YOUR

LOYALTY

There is nothing better than showing off the pride you have for your alma mater. We are pleased to offer alumnae pins upon graduation, however if it has been a few years and yours has been misplaced, let Xs know. We’re happy to send along a new one!

Sharing and receiving alumnae news is one of the best parts of our job! Connect with us and tell us what you are up to! Like us on Facebook – alumnaeandfriends Follow us on Twitter – @mountalumnae Link with us on LinkedIn – Mount Saint Vincent University

START NETWORKING Join us for events, professional development sessions and special announcements. Whether you are looking for a job change or simply looking to connect, there are many ways to build your connections and take advantage of the opportunities the Mount offers after graduation.

HELP US

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF

BENEFITS & DISCOUNTS We are pleased to partner with national and local businesses to offer alum a perk or two; everything from car and house insurance to hotel & membership discounts to magazine subscriptions.

GROW

You understand fully how wonderful it is to attend university here, so spread the word and help us build our alumnae family. Talk to the people in your life contemplating an education and encourage them to give the Mount a try! #referastudent

For a full listing of all beneﬁts, visit the $lumnae & )riends page on the Mount website – msvu.ca

ENJOY THESE BENEFITS connect with us alumnae@msvu.ca

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on the

lookout for yearbooks

Our Archives are looking to obtain copies of yearbooks or other material from the following years: Pre-1916 1917-1918 1932-1933

1950 1961-1966 1993-2005

The Archives is also looking to build its collection of athletics material, with the goal of creating a digital collection accessible to the public. Any material you have to share is welcomed. Please contact us at archive@msvu.ca or 902-457-6402.

Fall 2016

CHILD AND YOUTH STUDY

Halifax Heroes: Mount Saint Vincent child and youth studies grad fostering inspiration Tiffani Woodington, 22, who grew up in Nova Scotia’s foster care system, hopes to break down barriers and stereotypes for kids growing up in similar situations. By Yvette d’Entremont • Halifax Metro

Tiffani Woodington vividly remembers the day in high school when she was told her learning disability meant she’d never make it in university and shouldn’t even consider it. “That right there had me think, ‘I’m going to prove you wrong someday,’ ” the 22-year-old recalled. Last week, Woodington graduated from Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax with a degree in child and youth studies – and her own hero in the audience. Her foster mother Alice Hiltz of Antigonish welcomed Woodington into her home when she was a 10-monthold infant.

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

She calls Hiltz “Nanny” and credits her for shaping her life in positive ways. “I was in and out of care for my ﬁrst four years and constantly just going back to (Nanny’s),” Woodington recalled. “Then at four, I was a ward of the court in permanent custody of the department of community services and she took me and said that she would care for me for the rest of my days in care, but basically forever she is going to be in my life.” Hiltz has been a foster parent to more than 120 infants

over the years, so Woodington grew up around foster babies. She developed a passion as an advocate for foster children and was motivated to pursue studies that would enable her to help them. “I never told anyone in high school or growing up that I was a foster kid ... If people knew they never mentioned it,” she said. “I was ashamed of who I was. I was afraid that if I did talk about it I’d get stereotyped or judged or pitied and that’s not something you want. You don’t want to be pitied. My life is not a pity story.” When Woodington entered community college after high school, she became frank and open about her life as a foster child. That continued when she transferred to university. “A lot of people say to me, ‘You don’t look like a foster kid,’ and that is very powerful to me … My response is, ‘Well tell me what you think a foster kid looks like?’. And then they tell me exactly what you see in the movies,” she said.

“Other foster kids who are struggling can look at it and say, ‘I am going to do good in my life. I am not going to let stereotypes defeat me and I’m not going to let people bring me down and tell me I can’t do something.” “Kids doing drugs, kids going into jail, not doing anything with themselves, lazy, just getting government money. It blows my mind … I feel like it’s time to stand up and get rid of this negative stigma around us.” Woodington said she started sharing her story openly and publicly because she believes it’s critical foster children hear positive stories about kids in care. “Other foster kids who are struggling can look at it and say, ‘I am going to do good in my life. I am not going to let stereotypes defeat me and I’m not going to let people bring me down and tell me I can’t do something,’ ” she said. “My story is just one of hundreds of stories that needs to be shared. If we share more success stories people are going to start looking at the whole foster care

system a different way and start maybe opening their minds rather than just judging children.” Following her university graduation last week, Woodington shared her story with a local television news program. She said the positive feedback from people she has known and from complete strangers has been overwhelming. “One of the girls my grandmother had years ago and that I still keep in contact with messaged me and told me how much of a role model and support I have been for her and her life,” Woodington said. “She said ‘I couldn’t be who I am today if it wasn’t for you being so successful and showing me that I can do really well too.’ It meant a lot.’” Woodington plans to eventually pursue a degree in social work so she can have a more immediate impact on the lives of foster children. She has already made an impact with young children in care through her work at a group home. “I grew up in a household where I was loved and I was supported to do the best I could … I think (nanny’s) role modelling, her shaping me into a person that is going to be admired in life was her goal for me,” Woodington said. “She wanted me to do something good with my life and she’s always told me to be the best person that I could be. So I am just following in her footsteps basically.”

Fall 2016

unremitting

By donalee Moulton

The Mount’s president has called MSVU home since 2010. Now Ramona Lumpkin is preparing to hand the reins over to the university’s next leader. For the past six years, Dr. Ramona Lumpkin, Mount Saint Vincent’s President and Vice-Chancellor, has been living the dream. “The Mount is my dream university in terms of its mission and history,” she says. “Its focus on educating women resonated with me as a feminist. Also, outreach to the community is at the heart of the Sisters of Charity’s mission and lives on today.” As the leader of more than 600 faculty and staff sharing their academic expertise with more than 4,000 students from over 50 countries around the world, Lumpkin has now put her own stamp on learning and life at MSVU. That imprint reﬂects the unique and distinctive landscape that has imbued the Mount for more than 140 years. “Valuing the foundation of the institution and what it stands for “I connected quickly with is critical to me,” says Lumpkin. “It’s important to respect the the community. It has organic character of what is there already and shape a path that been an honour to become is congruent with where the organization has already been. There involved in community is no need to turn the university on its head.”

efforts like this.”

But under Lumpkin’s leadership, the Mount has grown. Its vision has expanded and its reality has been enhanced. “As president, I wanted to continue building on the existing momentum that makes the university singular in this country. I also wanted to explore options to further social justice and community contribution,” Lumpkin says. That exploration has led to the most successful capital campaign in the history of the Mount – the opening of the Margaret Norrie McCain Centre for Teaching, Learning and Research in May 2015. This new facility has added vibrancy, currency and optimism to the entire campus. For Lumpkin, while this achievement is significant, there are others that are equally close to her heart – and that continue to foster the spirit of community and accessibility that defines Mount Saint Vincent University past and present. A HOME FOR ABORIGINAL STUDENTS Putting the spotlight on Aboriginal education has been a priority for the Mount’s president. Lumpkin established the Mount’s first Aboriginal Advisory Committee, which brought respected members of the community together to help create a three-year action plan. One element of that plan: drawing more Aboriginal students to the university. To support this goal, an Aboriginal Student Centre was established on campus and an Aboriginal counsellor hired. Then outreach was extended into Indigenous communities. “Over four years, we went from having fewer than 30 Aboriginal students to having 150,” says Lumpkin. “I’m very proud of this, but there is still lots of room for further growth.”

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

“The Mount is my dream university in terms of its mission and history. Its focus on educating women resonated with me as a feminist. Also, outreach to the community is at the heart of the Sisters of Charity’s mission and lives on today.”

Plans are already in the works for the introduction of a Mi’kmaq language course and a strategy in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s final report. “This is and should be a long-term initiative,” says Lumpkin. “In many ways, we’re just getting started.” The university’s commitment to social responsibility also continues to be centre stage on campus – and in the Mount’s five-year strategic plan. Lumpkin, a former Fulbright Scholar, is leading a small committee of faculty, staff and students to craft what they think a social responsibility statement would look like in practice. “This will be a visible testament that we are living up to our promise,” the President says. That promise is a shared one. As part of the social responsibility efforts Lumpkin and her committee are leading, a graphic harvest was produced to engage faculty, staff and students. Whiteboards were posted around campus over several months that asked a single question at any one time and enabled people to write a response. This spring, an open session was held where everyone could see the results of the graphic harvest and contribute directly to the preparation of the draft social responsibility statement. Now after two years of work, that statement is about to go before the Board of Governors and the Senate. AT HOME IN NOVA SCOTIA When Ramona Lumpkin, who was born in Georgia and worked for many years in the U.S., assumed the mantle of President and Vice-Chancellor at the Mount six years ago, she didn’t just move to a new job. She also moved across several provinces to a new home. “I discovered that Nova Scotia is extraordinarily hospitable. My husband and I have felt so welcome here.” The community has clearly benefited. Lumpkin’s commitment to giving back extends beyond campus to the community at large. In 2014, after 25 years in her

new country and four years as the Mount’s president, Lumpkin was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada in recognition of her leadership in post-secondary education, her promotion of community-based learning initiatives and her contributions to the advancement of women. “I connected quickly with the community,” says Lumpkin, who is Chair of Engage Nova Scotia, a notfor-proﬁt that works to create opportunities for more Nova Scotians to be inclusive, embracing of change, collaborative and active in tackling the province’s challenges. “It has been an honour to become involved in community efforts like this.”

HOME AWAY FROM HOME As retirement approaches, Lumpkin is looking forward to what lies ahead. This summer she traveled to Paris and London with her grandsons. “It was a wonderful test of what it will be like to have more time,” she says. The holder of a PhD in English Literature from the University of Kentucky, Lumpkin is also part of a writers’ group with three other women. At present, she’s able to write only two or three poems a year. That will likely change. “It’s a very different kind of thinking when you’re contemplating a poem and not a memo. I’m looking forward to that mindset,” she says. What will never change is her commitment to Mount Saint Vincent University. “It has been an unremitting joy to share this time and space with the Mount community,” Lumpkin says. It has been my privilege to spend time at this wonderful university that I admire so much.”

Fall 2016

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

ATHLETICS

Mount alum DeRico Symonds always knew he wanted to contribute to his community The Child and Youth Study graduate and former member of the university’s men’s varsity basketball team was a stand-out student during his years at the Mount. Now four years postgraduation, DeRico is making his mark and others are taking note. Derico was recently named one of two 2016 recipients of the Irving and Ruth Pink Award for Youth Development and Social Justice. Established by Dalhousie’s Legal Aid Office four years ago, the award celebrates outstanding contributions aimed at supporting youth and advancing issues of youth social justice. DeRico received the award in recognition of his work to establish the Future Roots program, launched just eight months ago. Operating out of Veith House in Halifax’s north end, the program is designed to help build relationships and connect neighbours where links might not have existed previously. It does this by employing youth aged 14 to 19 to provide services to residents in the area. For example, following a snowfall, youth in the program offer early morning shoveling services to a list of customers.

young people (aged 14 to 19) looking for employment. Youth from Mulgrave Park are engaged in the program, and other youth service organizations have referred participants.

DeRico and two colleagues came together to start the program to serve the needs of the community (north end residents with mobility issues) while supporting

During an appearance on CTV Morning Live host Heidi Petracek had this to say about Future Roots: “[It’s] fairly new, but making a big impact”.

www.dericosymonds.ca/future-roots

Fall 2016

GOLF TOURNAMENT

grand farewell to a Golf Classic

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

In ﬁtting fashion on an incredibly beautiful day, members of the Mount community, loyal friends and long-standing supporters teed off for the last time as they bid adieu to the MSV Golf Classic – a tournament that has helped to build support for Mount students over 26 years.

“It is a bit bittersweet,” says Tracey Newman, President of the Mount Saint Vincent Alumnae Association (MSVAA), who along with other Board members made the tough decision to make 2016 the ﬁnal tee off. “The golf tournament was incredible and did so much over its lifetime, but we really felt it was time to look at something different.”

“It is a bit bittersweet. The golf tournament was incredible and did so much over its lifetime, but we really felt it was time to look at something different.” Tracey Newman President of the Mount Saint Vincent Alumnae Association

The ﬁnal tournament was one to remember, and offered participants a fun and interactive player experience. “We wanted to make this last one special and went to real efforts to make the on-course experience a memorable one,” says Trevor Poole, a Mount alum, MSVAA Board member, and co-chair of this year’s tournament. With an activity or refreshment on each of the 18 holes at Granite Springs, the spirited group of close to 120 staff, faculty, alumnae, friends and supporters enjoyed, reﬂected and reveled in an event that has helped the MSVAA raise funds for important activities and initiatives on and off campus. Over the

Fall 2016

last 10 years alone, this tournament has raised more than $175,000, allowing the Association to support undergraduate and graduate student scholarships, awards, networking opportunities, activities and campus improvements. “Being able to support students who are working hard towards their education and bettering themselves will always be at the heart of what we do – and we take great pride in that,” says Newman. Providing this ongoing support and finding new ways to engage the alumnae community, now over 32,000 worldwide, are priorities for the MSVAA, she adds. “We have this incredible base of people who have benefitted from being part of this university and we are looking for opportunities to bring us closer together in support of university initiatives.” A heartfelt thanks to the partners, supporters and volunteers over the years who have invested a thoughtful amount of time, energy and financial support into making this one of the best tournaments in the region. An enormous shout out to Presenting Sponsor Stewart McKelvey, who year after year supported this event and, in turn, affected the lives of Mount students in ways they will forever remember. The legacy of this tournament will always be remembered. And as the old saying goes, every ending – and in this case, grand farewell – has a new beginning.

Presenting Sponsor:

Hole-in-One Sponsors:

Longest Putt Sponsor: Irons Club Sponsor:

Grand Green In-Kind Sponsors: Putters Club Plus Sponsors:

Putters Club Sponsors:

Thank you to all our sponsors for your continued generosity and support.

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

We Salute our Teams. Thanks for joining us! Atlantic Business Interiors Clearwater Seafoods Coca-Cola Cody Family Engineered Air Enterra Proscapes Heritage Gas Halifax International Airport Authority Insurance Bureau of Canada Jazz Air Manulife Financial Morneau Shepell Mount Saint Vincent University Mount Saint Vincent Alumnae Association Nova Scotia Power RBC rcs Construction Rentokil Sandler Training Siemens Stewart McKelvey TD Insurance Meloche Monnex Theriault Financial

ALUMNAE WEEKEND 2016

The celebratory tone for this year’s Alumnae Weekend was set when six members of the BPR class of 1986, celebrating their 30th reunion, made their way into the weekend’s inaugural Welcome Reception. “We had such an incredible time,” says Mary Duffley, who along with Anne Hanrahan Perigo, Jean Marie MacKinnon, Joanne MacDonald, Judith O’Brien and Margie MacLean came together in spirited fashion to celebrate their milestone reunion. “It is the ﬁrst time we have all been together since we graduated and it was like no time had passed. We never laughed so much,” says Duffley. She was also quick to add that another reunion with her classmates is already being planned for 2017! Those moments are what coming together for Alumnae Weekend is all about. And there were many great moments including the kick-off event where the Mount Saint Vincent Alumnae Association (MSVAA) paid tribute to Dr. Ramona Lumpkin, the Mount’s President and Vice-Chancellor, with this year’s Honourary Alumnae distinction. Dr. Lumpkin is in her ﬁnal year as president of the Mount and the MSVAA was thrilled to honour her as one of their own.

Fall 2016

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

“Ramona has done so much for this university and this community,” says Tracey Newman, President of the MSVAA. “There was never any doubt that we would do all we could to make her part of our alumnae family. She is innately one of us and always will be.” Taking full advantage of a gloriously sunny afternoon on day one, members of the 50th class and above joined together for a 50th Class+ Garden Party held at the Meadows on campus. The stories and memories were abundant including the reading of a special poem Magic of Disaster written by Sister Maura Power the night of the Mount Saint Vincent ﬁre in 1951. The reveal and opening of a 1991 Time Capsule by members of the 50th class was fascinating as classmates gathered to see how much had changed over 25 years. “What an incredibly wonderful occasion,” says Susan Ringrose, a member of the college’s 50th class. “It

“Ramona has done so much for this university and this community. There was never any doubt that we would do all we could to make her part of our alumnae family. She is innately one of us and always will be.”

was such a memorable time full of smiles, hugs and shrieks of amazement that we had made it at last! The crowning moment was when we gathered outside on the patio for our class photo – it will be something we will always treasure.” Activities culminated with an alumnae brunch on Saturday morning in the Alumnae Classroom of the McCain Centre and a Maritime Beer Academy at the Auction House in downtown Halifax. Congratulations once again to those who celebrated reunion years, and we hope you will mark your calendars and join us for next year’s reunion taking place from September 15-16, 2017.

Fall 2016

ALUMNAE NETWORKS

MOUNT ALUMNAE

Gather

Mount alumnae gathered at this year’s Atlantic University Pub Night in Ottawa. Photo Credit: Jeff rey Meyer

Calgary/Edmonton, AB Alum in Calgary and Edmonton joined Dr. Ramona Lumpkin, MSVU President & Vice-Chancellor, and Anne Thibodeau, Manager of Development, for alum events this past January. Very much looking forward to hosting events in 2017. Stay tuned!

Ottawa, ON Mount alum joined over 200 alumni and friends of other Atlantic Canadian universities for this year’s Atlantic University Pub Night on June 2 at Hooley’s in Ottawa, ON. The event helped raise funds for the local school breakfast program, and to date, over $14,000 for local charities has been raised by the event over the past 10 years.

Members of the Toronto Chapter met in September. Seated: Shirley Forde (BSc ’57, MAE ’62), Arlene Steger (Hon Alum) Standing: Jean O’Neil (BA ’78), Cherry Upton (BA ’66), Gloria Springer (BEC ’79, Bed ’81), Lily Chan (BA ’61), Cheryl Stewart-Walsh (AVP, University Advancement)

Toronto, ON The very dedicated members of the Toronto Chapter came together in September of this year to discuss areas of interest and plans for the upcoming holiday season where they support a variety of charities. Cheryl Stewart-Walsh, AVP of University Advancement, joined the meeting.

Dr. Ramona Lumpkin (3rd from left), the Mount’s President & ViceChancellor, was joined by alumnae at a reception held in Bermuda in February of 2015.

In conjunction with the Toronto Chapter, the university’s Alumnae Relations department is planning an alumnae event in Toronto in early winter! Stay tuned for more details.

Bermuda Hello Bermuda alum! Please mark your calendars for an alumnae reception in Bermuda on Wednesday, February 8 at the Coco Reef Bermuda. Invitations to go out early January! We will look forward to connecting with our alum in that area and hosting a wonderful event.

Beijing, China Mount alum & friends gathered in Beijing, China, for an alumnae reception on October 23 at the Crowne Plaza Beijing Wangfujing.

Alumnae & friends joined together for an alumnae reception in Beijing on October 23. L-R: Xiaohui Yan (MSVU friend), Wendy Luther (CEO & President of EDUNova), Chen Yang (MEd ’15), Dr. Hong Wang (MSVU professor), Zheqi Yan (MScAHN ’15), Dr. Elizabeth Church (MSVU VP Academics), Steve Nemec (MSVU friend), Shihe Wu (BBA ’16), Tong Chen (BBA’14), Yenni (MSVU friend), Ashley-Jane Chow, MSVU International Business Development Consultant.

Caritas Day The Mount community will celebrate Caritas Day – an opportunity to give back started by the Sisters of Charity – on Wednesday, January 25, 2017. The day was inspired in the wake of the devastating 1951 ﬁre that destroyed Mount Saint Vincent College. The surrounding communities came together to aid the Mount in this time of need, and Caritas Day remains a time for students to give back to the community by volunteering. Alumnae throughout the world also recognize Caritas Day in warm and wonderful ways. Please keep us posted about what you’re doing this coming Caritas Day.

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

LEGACY GIVING

A lasting impact Over the past year, the Mount’s Public Relations program has witnessed an extraordinary boost as the beneficiary of two bequests (gifts in wills) from the Estates of Ruth Hammond and Ivy (Robbins) Oakley. Born and raised in Toronto, Ruth Hammond was regarded as a public relations pioneer with a career spanning more than 50 years as a teacher, journalist and public relations consultant. Among her many accolades and awards, Ruth became a member of the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) in 1956 and was the first woman to receive her accreditation in public relations (APR). In 1998, Ruth received an honorary doctorate for her work in public relations education from the Mount. She was made an honorary fellow of the CPRS College of Fellows in 2001 following its establishment. “Ruth left us on October 16, 2015 after an amazing life journey,” said Barbara Sheffield, APR, FCPRS, first woman to become national president of CPRS, and former executive director of the Communications + Public Relations Foundation. “Ruth wanted to ensure that PR practitioners would support public relations education during their careers through scholarships and awards that recognize achievement and contribution to the profession. The Ruth Hammond Scholarship established by those she mentored is a testimony to her commitment to public relations education and the leadership of women.” Ruth remembered the Mount in her will with a general bequest or specific dollar amount designated to the scholarship established in her name. “Originally established with the Communications + Public Relations Foundation, the scholarship funds have been transferred to the Mount and we hope that Ruth’s friends, colleagues, PR professionals, and previous scholarship recipients will continue to contribute to this scholarship and help keep Ruth’s passion for leadership and education alive for many years to come,” adds Barbara. A recent gift from the late Ivy Oakley, wife of PR practitioner the late Neil Oakley, Montreal, who died

Leanne Tremblay (BPR ’14), 2013 Ruth Hammond Scholarship recipient, with the late Ruth Hammond.

in 2010, and was a former CPRS national president again demonstrates the commitment to education of some of the early pioneers in the industry. Ruth Hammond and Neil Oakley were colleagues and both were committed to advancing public relations education in Canada. Ruth did her work in Ontario, through the new community college programs, and Neil, who with other colleagues such as C. Edmund Murray, Halifax, worked to put the ﬁrst four-year public relations university degree program in place at the Mount in the 1970s. Together Neil and his wife Ivy, enjoyed travelling, entertaining, building businesses, and charitable works. Neil was highly regarded by his colleagues at Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation in the Atlantic Provinces, Ottawa, and the Prairies. He was a longtime member of the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) and past national president (1976-1977) – when he championed the creation of the Mount’s Bachelor of Public Relations program. Of Beaconsﬁeld, Quebec, Ivy passed away on January 14, 2015 at the age of 85. In her will, she instructed that the residual of her estate was to be split amongst three charities, one of which was Mount Saint Vincent University for the Public Relations program her late husband had helped to establish. “Revolutionary” is how Dr. Anthony Yue, Communications Studies Department Chair describes the donation from the Estate of Ivy Robbins. “This gift will have impact for years to come and be a catalyst in elevating PR education at the Mount to the next level.”

For more information about making a gift in your will to the Mount or contributing to the Ruth Hammond Scholarship, please contact Anne Thibodeau, Manager, Development by calling 902-457-6270 or email anne.thibodeau@msvu.ca

Fall 2016

DONOR REPORT 2015/2016

your

Generosity In 2015/2016, alumnae and friends faithfully supported the University with donations totaling $1,438,197.00 for the ﬁscal year beginning April 1, 2015, and ending March 31, 2016. This commitment and generosity ensures that we continue to meet the needs of our students and remain dedicated to opening the doors of opportunity for all who want to learn. Your investment allows our students to be a part of a vibrant, socially responsible, tight-knit community that encourages big opportunities now and in the future. No matter where your gift is designated, whether it be to scholarships, bursaries and awards, to enhancing the work of our departments or programs, or to supporting annual fund or capital projects, your gift is working to transform lives and provide our students with an enriched education.

UNRESTRICTED DONATIONS Unrestricted gifts, including those designated to the President’s Fund, are intended for identiﬁed priority needs for the University. These areas include the advancement of women, Aboriginal students and scholarships, bursaries and other student support.

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

22%

SCHOLARSHIPS, BURSARIES AND AWARDS Financial support for students through scholarships, bursaries and awards can open a door of opportunity and help ensure a Mount education remains affordable and accessible for all. • Scholarships recognize and reward students for outstanding academic achievement. • Bursaries provide ﬁnancial assistance to students with demonstrated ﬁnancial need. • Awards recognize student accomplishments within various programs and departments across the University. Contributions from our donors range from donations to the University’s general scholarship and bursary funds, including a newly established endowed Graduate Studies Scholarship to the establishment of, and on-going support for, named expendable (funded yearly) and endowed (in-perpetuity) scholarships, bursaries, and awards. (Please see page 39 for more information about the Mount’s endowment.)

Unrestricted Donations

7% 22

% Scholarships, Bursaries and Awards

39% Capital Projects

% Support for Academics Departments, University Programs and Special Initiatives

32%

SUPPORT FOR ACADEMICS DEPARTMENTS, UNIVERSITY PROGRAMS AND SPECIAL INITIATIVES Donations designated to support academic departments and other programs provide Mount students with experiential learning opportunities both in and outside the classroom. Examples of initiatives and areas supported are: • Academic programs and department enhancement funds including Applied Human Nutrition, Biology, Business & Tourism and Hospitality Management, Chemistry, Communication Studies, Education, English and Psychology • Art Gallery • Athletics and Recreation – including support for varsity student athletes through the Mount Mystics Trip of the Month Lottery • Child Study Centre • The Gail and Stephen Jarislowsky Chair in Learning Disabilities • Library Acquisitions • Nova Scotia Centre on Aging • Nunavut Practicum Program • Student Opportunity Fund (gift matching fund) – an endowed fund to provide students with ﬁnancial support to participate in experiential learning opportunities outside the classroom such as attending conferences, presenting their research or studying abroad.

39%

CAPITAL PROJECTS The Margaret Norrie McCain Centre for Teaching, Learning and Research has had a transformative impact on the Mount campus. This new, state-of-theart, environmentally conscious facility incorporates innovative technologies into teaching and research spaces designed to provide a unique and personal learning experience for Mount students. As well, in recognition of the Mount’s history in the advancement of women, the McCain Centre is dedicated throughout to honouring, recognizing and telling the stories of women. A special feature in a garden setting near the entrance of the McCain Centre is the Riva Spatz Women’s Wall of Honour. Many donors continue to support this initiative and celebrate special women in their lives. To read stories of the many women or to learn how you can pay tribute to a special woman, please visit womenswallofhonour.ca. Donations also include support for future capital initiatives currently in early planning stages.

Fall 2016

thank you

DONOR REPORT

SUPPORTING MOUNT STUDENTS

Mount Saint Vincent University recognizes and appreciates the Mount community for their philanthropy. We are pleased to acknowledge the following donors who gave generously between April 1, 2015 and March 31, 2016. Individual donors are recognized by the annual donor circle or club for donations received during this period. Alumnae donors are listed with the year of their ﬁrst degree from the Mount. CHANCELLOR’S CIRCLE

SCHOLAR’S CIRCLE

Individual donors who have contributed $25,000 or more from April 1, 2015, to March 31, 2016

Individual donors who have contributed $1,000 - $4,999 from April 1, 2015, to March 31, 2016

Martha & Bruce Jodrey Margaret McCain ’05 Joanne McCrea

Cheryl Abbass Stephen Allt Sharon Avery ’96 Sonja Bata ’89 Kim Campbell ’14 Julie Carroll ’63 Joyce F. Carter & Brian Carter Margaret Casey ’12 Mary Clancy ’70 Claire Correia ’54 Joan W. Coveyduck & Clay Coveyduck Joan Craig ’07 Amanda Dean ’03 & Chris P. Lydon Rosemarie Eisner ’70 Eric Fiander Harriet Field & Christopher Field Sandi Findlay-Thompson ’85 Shirley Forde ’57 Elizabeth Fountain ’79 & Fred Fountain Sheila Fraser ’11 Larry Freeman Frederick French Kelly Gallant ’90 Gloria Hanief ’62 * Tom Hayes William Hiscock Les Holloway Roy Jamieson ’10 Janice Keefe Ramona Lumpkin Ann MacGillivary Wendy MacLeod Scott MacMillan Suzanne McCarron ’86 Bob McDonald Janet Murray ’56 & Jock Murray Edith Nelligan ’62 Ruth Nelligan ’62 Jamie Niessen ’96

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE Individual donors who have contributed $10,000 - $24,999 from April 1, 2015, to March 31, 2016 Judy & John Bragg Beth & Mike Brien Linda C Brown ’67 & Hugh M Brown Lily O. P. Chan ’61 & Paul Chan Susan Covert Wadih Fares Dale Godsoe ’97 Colin MacDonald Diane & Harold Schwartz Janis Sobey-Hames ’76 DEAN’S CIRCLE Individual donors who have contributed $5,000 - $9,999 from April 1, 2015, to March 31, 2016 Gail Asper Elizabeth Church Deborah Conter Karen & Howard Conter Carole Cushing Arlene Dickinson ’10 Sandra Macleod ’81 Johanne McKee ’54 & Ian McKee John McLennan Wilma Needham Mary O’Regan ’62 John Risley Rosemarie Sampson ’63 Judy Steele ’82 & Bruce Towler Dorothy West

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

Liz Parr-Johnston Suzanne Reynolds ’66 Darrell Roy Marilyn Schnare ’64 Suzanne Swannie Jaquelyn Thayer-Scott Sandra Wills Hannon ’81 John Yogis LEARNED CIRCLE Individual donors who have contributed $500 - $999 from April 1, 2015, to March 31, 2016 Robert Berard Taylor Bernard Sheila A. Brown Catherine Butler Bill Carr Margaret Conrad ’07 Bob Cordy Marc Courtemanche Sultan Darvesh Gay Dennis Susan Drain & Patrick Donahoe Jeanne Flemming ’65 Deanne MacLeod ’92 & Mark Forward ’93 Heather Fraser-Davey ’68 Normand Gendron ’11 Susan Godwin ’77 Amy Gordon ’97 Danny Graham Betty Guinan ’54 Tanja Harrison Annette Hill Louise Hunt ’74 Marion Joyce Frederick Kennedy Simon Kennedy ’91 & Suzanne McCarthy ’90

Judith Kiley ’70 Elizabeth Larmond-Elliot ’61 Martha Laurence ’60 M. Christine MacDonald ’89 Margaret McKim ’68 Marguerite Muise ’65 Tracey Newman ’00 Gerald O’Malley Stefanie Pavlin ’52 Margo Peddle ’52 Andrea Plato & Richard Plato Doris Ramphos Maureen Reid ’98 & Doug Reid Shelley Rowan ’82 Lara C. Ryan ’92 & Brett Ryan Karen Smyth Connie Sparks ’74 Cheryl Stewart-Walsh Tina Taylor ’92 Sandra Thomas AMBASSADORS Individual donors who have contributed $100 - $499 from April 1, 2015, to March 31, 2016 Janis Aitken ’69 Betty Anderson Elizabeth Atcheson Nancy Aust ’62 Ninette Babineau ’95 Betsy Baillie ’76 Nancy Battis ’61 Jo-Anne Belliveau ’75 Wendy Boisvert ’91 Nancy Boutilier ’75 Jean Boylan ’65 Noella Brennan Fisher ’59 David Brien ’97 Janet Brisse ’62

Judith Brockie ’63 Alan Brown Carol Bryson ’73 Geraldine Burke ’63 Holly Burridge ’90 Karen Callaghan Bev Cameron ’75 Jeanne Campbell ’63 Lily Campbell Sheila Cardone ’66 Jane Carman ’76 Linda Carnell Swinwood ’63 Carmen Chaddock ’71 Kaireen Chaytor ’76 Susan Church Yvonne Chute Phyllis Clark ’54 Elizabeth Cody ’77 Joy Collins ’84 Clarice Comeau ’63 Rose-Anne Comeau ’62 Jane Cooney Hollie Copland ’97 Michael Covert Nola-Susan Crewe Paula Crouse ’85 John Crowley Sheilagh Crowley Beth Cullen ’81 JoAnn Cunningham ’78 Donna D’Eon ’74 Barbara Darton ’96 Keith Davis ’90 Nancy Delahunt Alison DeLory ’98

Louanne Devanney ’79 Ken Dewar Joan Driscoll ’59 Margaret Driscoll ’57 Pamela Duncan ’77 Nancy Dyer ’60 Anne-Marie Ellis ’72 Margaret Ellis ’76 Michelle Fach Margaret Ferguson ’94 Edwina Fitzgerald ’50 Jill Flinn ’57 Donna Forest-Robertson ’62 Lee Anne Forward ’90 Michael Forward Paul Forward ’87 Stephen Forward Ruth Fox ’75 Amy France ’81 Simone Geddry ’63 Genevieve Gilbert ’63 Mary Gilroy ’62 Allan Goodman Hayley Goodman Mary Goodman ’78 Jane Gordon David Graham John Graham Janice Graham-Migel ’78 Susan Gunn ’68 Charlotta Hachey ’79 Gwen Hampe ’59 Heather Hanson ’06 Kimberly Harnish ’81 Missy Harnish ’69

Jean Hartley Elizabeth Hartnell ’70 Don Hatcher ’92 Elsie Henderson ’91 Marguerite Henderson-Davis ’73 Becky Hong ’89 Mary Inez Grant ’69 David Inkpen Kelly Jacques Brian Jessop Sandy Jolly ’75 Barbara Jones ’55 Ramona Joseph ’91 Betty Kennedy ’89 Patricia Kirby ’85 Janet Kline ’71 Jean Knickle ’51 Lori Lancaster ’97 Helen Landry ’54 Patricia Leader Suzanne LeBlanc ’77 Janet LeBrun ’63 Lori Leger ’81 Sharon Lloyd ’65 Paulette Luft ’66 Pat MacCagno Anne MacCleave ’80 Gayle MacDonald Helen MacDonald ’03 Terry MacDonnell ’74 Joy MacKay Williams ’75 Valerie MacKinnon ’65 Oriel MacLennan Elaine MacNeil ’63 Roderick MacNeil Tanya MacNeil ’97 Ainslie MacNeil-Campbell ’75 Mary MacPhee ’67 Angela MacRae ’65 Agnes MacSween Rachel Martin ’79 Raymond McCurdy ’88 Rose McGinn ’41 Betty McIver ’71 Jen McLaren ’82 Terri Milton Sharon Driscoll & Sheldon Mitchell Aftab Mohammed ’80 Sean Moore ’04 Mary Morash ’93 Alleyne Murphy ’97 Dana Murray ’54 Linda Murray ’68 Ethel Nelson ’81 Anne Nestman Matthew Nichols ’90 Carolyn Nobes ’97 Fernando Nunes Genie O’Connell ’65 Patricia O’Connell Carolyn O’Malley ’14 Dianne O’Neill Stan Orlov Iris Owen ’68 Christopher Palmer ’88 Cathy Partington ’63 Timothy Pattison Madeline Patton ’77 Linda Pike ’90 Mary Pothier ’69 Patricia Quinn ’61 Marion Reid ’02 Hazel Reyno ’64 Ellen Richards ’69

Sheila Richardson ’63 Marie Riley ’65 Susan Ringrose ’66 Joanne Rivest ’86 & Dayle Harrington ’80 Cheryl Robinson Elizabeth Roscoe ’71 Barbara Ross ’76 Marilyn Ross ’85 Barbara Ryan Gladys Savard ’52 James Sawler Marie Scagliola ’65 Barbara Shea ’55 Nancy Sheehan ’56 Dorothy Smith ’60 Marietta Snetsinger ’91 Ron Stewart Maura Sullivan ’67 Conrad Taylor Errol Taylor ’89 Anne Thibodeau Diane Tinkham ’73 Theresa Tobin ’81 Erin Tomlinson ’04 Barbara Turner ’80 Cherry Upton ’66 Jackie Van Amburg ’92 Shirley Vaughan ’75 Ann Vessey ’92 Gennie Vest ’62 Wendy Vrooman ’95 David Wainwright Barry Waldman ’84 Kathryn Watt ’82 Peggy Watts Alex Waugh Gisela Westphalen ’92 Lola Wheeler ’60 Florence Whitby ’51 Patricia A. Whitman ’64 & David Lemon Lisa Whynott ’94 Mary Wilkie ’65 Marilyn Wilson ’74 Caroline Wolfe Stewart ’90 & Ron Stewart Katherine Younker ’82 Patricia Yourkavich-Moore ’74 Mary Yurkiw ’69 Patricia Zinn ’67 FRIENDS Individual donors who have contributed up to $99 from April 1, 2015, to March 31, 2016 Cicely Alfonso ’63 Gail Allen ’73 Gladys Ascah ’69 Susan Baker Terry Bartlett ’49 Constance Beardshaw ’91 Joyce Beaton Diane Bell Yvonne Bennett ’66 Barbara Berringer ’02 Patricia Bonang ’59 Isabel Bonnyman ’35 Mary Buote-Potts ’05 Joanne Burns-Theriault ’03 Elaine Burrows ’74 Pat Butler ’85 Joan Caron ’60

Fall 2016

Anne Caudle ’82 Mary Ruth Cochrane ’80 Angelina Comeau ’54 Linda Cook ’89 Mary Lou Coolen ’67 Gail Creaser ’06 Sheila Crummell ’79 Claudia Cruz Mabel Davis ’84 Marion Dell ’67 Ruth Dewis ’75 Patricia Dill ’64 Pamela Fancey ’91 Evelyn Faulkner ’81 Ann Finlayson ’68 Laurie Flindall ’76 Lorraine Floody ’79 Mary Foley ’65 Linda Fougere ’91 Michelle Gailey ’80 Corinne Gilroy Theresa Glasgow ’99 Connie Glube ’98* Deborah Gosbee ’78 Danielle Goyette ’06 Gail Hersey ’70

Elizabeth Hessian ’82 Elizabeth Hicks Donna Hillier ’88 Zondra Hubley ’61 Aine Humble Michelle Innes ’10 Valerie Jenkins ’92 Alan Joyce ’93 Monica Kangley ’58 Shannon Kehoe ’06 Claire Keindel ’51 James Kelly ’97 Anita Kingdon ’63 Claudia Kingston ’98 Jean Larsen ’65 Johanne Leclerc ’60 Hope Lemoine ’10 Gary Logan ’02 Kate MacDonald Sandra MacKenzie ’96 Shirley MacKenzie ’76 Calum MacLean Donald Maclean Donna MacNeil & Jack MacNeil Dawn MacNutt ’05 Paula Mayich Fran McDonah Roland McDonah Francine McIntyre ’82 Christine McNeille Donna Meagher-Stewart ’70 Jeannette Melanson ’63 Victoria Mitchell Mary Morash ’80 Erin Murphy ’04 Lem Murphy ’85 Elizabeth Nickerson ’87 Deborah Norris ’79 Mary O’Connor-Hayes ’65 Marie O’Malley ’52 Mary O’Neill Sharon Parker ’71 Olive Pastor ’86 Mary Payne ’65 Betty Peterson ’00 Lynda Phelan ’75 Terri Pothier ’42 Margaret Power ’71 Gertrude Purdy ’89 Kim Raine ’82

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

John Reid Sharon Ross ’80 Pat Ruotolo ’65 Mary Sargeant ’79 Diana Schwartz Jane Sedgwick Mary Shea ’67 Dinah Simmons ’79 Linda Smith ’65 Deborah Sowerby ’76 Silvie Springer ’79 Margaret Swan ’89 Pamela Sweet Smith ’74 Ruth Tannous ’61 Linda Thistle ’97 Michelle Thomason ’99 Rod Tilley Alexandra Tsedryk Patricia Uthe ’89 Dorothy Walsh Durocher ’59 Dianne West ’65 Lise Wilhelmy-Steele ’83 Susan Woelber ’80 Shirley Yabsley ’81 Gina Young ’82 Gloria Younker ’81 George Zinck ’76 CORPORATIONS, FOUNDATIONS AND ORGANIZATIONS Africentric Support Group Alumitech Ltd Atlantica Mechanical Contractors Inc. BMO Financial Group Brien Family Foundation The Burton Charitable Foundation Canadian Hospitality Foundation Caregivers Nova Scotia Association Clearwater Fine Foods Inc. Communications + Public Relations Foundation Community Foundation of NS The Gail Asper Family Foundation Inc Halifax Chamber of Commerce Halifax Protestant Infants’ Foundation

The Harris-Taylor Family Foundation Harrison McCain Foundation Haynes - Connell Foundation The John and Judy Bragg Family Foundation Knowledge First Foundation Mainland Nova Scotia Building & Construction Trades Council MQM Quality Manufacturing Ltd. MSV Alumnae Association MSVU Child & Youth Study MSVU Faculty Association MSVU Students’ Union Nova Scotia Power Inc. Power Corporation of Canada RBC Foundation RBC Royal Bank rcs Construction RES Publica Royale Floors and Surfaces

Isha Davis (In Memoriam) Scotiabank Sisters of Charity – Halifax Sisters of Saint Martha of Antigonish TD Bank Group The Johnson Scholarship Foundation Tourism Education Alliance of The Maritimes Trinity United Church Venture Communications ESTATES The Estate of Dean Salsman The Estate of Ivy Robbins Oakley The Estate of John Knodell The Estate of Mary M. Young The Estate of Patricia Keene Marial Mosher Charitable Trust 1873 SOCIETY Marking the year the Mount was founded, the 1873 Society recognizes those who have notified the University of their intent to include the Mount in their estate plans. The individuals listed have provided consent to be recognized as an 1873 Society Member. The Mount acknowledges with gratitude our alumnae and friends whose commitment extends beyond their lifetime. Diana Carl Jane L. Cook & David Marcogliese S. Lynn Coveyduck ’96 Brenda Hattie ’01 Janet MacMillan ’81 Judith M. Newman Carolyn Nobes ’97 Elizabeth Parr-Johnston M. Jane Phillips Barbara Pike Rosemarie Sampson ’68

MYSTICS SOCIETY The Mystics Society recognizes alumnae making their first gift to the University within two years of graduating with their first degree from the Mount. Kim Campbell ’14 Brian Carter Corinne Gilroy Alex Harding ’15 William Hiscock Kelly Jacques Carolyn O’Malley ’14 GIFTS MADE IN HONOUR** Julie Carroll ’63 Susan Covert Marguerite Hagarty ’67 Joyce Kennedy The Honourable John McCallum Diane Tinkham ’73 GIFTS MADE IN MEMORY** Winifred Brown Katie Buttons Mary Canavan Isha Davis ’04 Randall Fisher Catherine Godwin ’61 Margaret Godwin ’36 Virginia Gray Jean Inkpen ’47 Jim James MacAulay Florence Kanary ’89 Carmel MacFarlane ’71 Roy Martin Joan McCarthy Dyrick McDermott ’94 Ryan Murray David Singer Lillian Wainwright ’93 Roberta Way-Clark Mary Willms

* We are saddened by the loss of our friends and community members ** These lists do not include gifts made specifically to the Riva Spatz Women’s Wall of Honour. To read stories and view the pictures of the many women, please visit womenswallofhonour.ca. While we have made every effort to ensure accuracy, please accept our apologies for any error or omissions. Please contact University Advancement at 902.457.6470 or email giving@msvu.ca if you believe an error has been made. Alumnae donors are listed with the year of their first degree from the Mount.

The Advancement & External Relations Committee of the Mount’s Board of Governors advances the University’s mission and vision and supports institutional priorities and objectives by promoting sound relationships between the University and its communities, including alumnae, donors, government and broader community partners.

ADVANCEMENT & EXTERNAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE FOR 2015-2016: Sharon Avery (Chair) RBC Dominion Securities

Angela Surrette Knightsbridge Robertson Surrette

Rob Batherson Colour

Wendy Vrooman Sandler Training

Amanda Dean Insurance Bureau of Canada

Paul Whyte MSVU Student

Doug Doucet rcs Construction

Sr. Evelyn Williams Seton Spirituality Centre

Kelly Gallant MSVU Barbara Hughes Community Volunteer Dr. Ramona Lumpkin MSVU Jolene Mahody Chorus Aviation Tracey Newman Workers’ Compensation Board Shelley Rowan Workers’ Compensation Board Dr. Cornelia Schneider MSVU Cheryl Stewart-Walsh MSVU

Fall 2016

Mount Saint Vincent University’s Endowment April 1, 2015 – March 31, 2016

Without the support of our alumnae and friends, much of the ﬁnancial aid provided to support students at Mount Saint Vincent University would not be possible. Assistance from scholarships, awards and bursaries diminish the ﬁnancial burden so many students face, allowing more time to focus on what is most important—learning. I can speak for all Mount students when I say that this kind of support and commitment is integral to our success at University. – Ryan Nearing, President, Mount Students’ Union

An endowment is often referred to as

“the gift that keeps on giving.”

Mount Saint Vincent University’s Endowment is the result of many years of philanthropy through which donors have supported programs and initiatives ranging from scholarships, bursaries and awards to program or departmental support, including academic chairs. At March 31, 2016, the market value of the Mount’s General Endowment was $23,504,580.

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

An endowment fund is a capital fund established by a donor and merged with other funds as party of the university’s general endowment portfolio.

Endowment Management

Spending Rate for 2016-2017

The Endowment Management Policy, approved by the University’s Board of Governors, sets out the guidelines and procedures to ensure that endowment funds are being invested to protect existing funds and attract future endowments as well as maximize student support today and for generations to come. This policy is reviewed at least once every two years. For the past 12 years, the Fund Manager of the Mount’s endowment has been Jarislowsky Fraser Limited. This investmentcounseling firm which is known for its low-risk approach has, with a focus on long-term capital preservation, navigated the University’s endowment through the volatile markets of recent years. The University’s Investment Committee, a standing committee of the Board of Governors, is charged with financial oversight of the Fund Manager and compliance with the Board’s Investment Policy which creates a framework and sets benchmarks to maximize real, long-term returns for the Mount’s endowments and provide for long-term growth while protecting against shorter term fluctuations.

For the fiscal year 2015-16, the previous year’s spending rate of 4.0% has been maintained. To alleviate large fluctuation in spending commitments, the University’s Endowment Management Policy requires the spending allocation to be calculated using a percentage of the moving average of market value of the preceding three fiscal years ended March 31. This policy also stipulates the spending rate be reviewed each year and range between 3.5% and 5.0%.

Endowment Over Five Years 2012 – 2016 The following chart reflects the market value of the University’s General Endowment Fund over the past five years at March 31 of each fiscal year end. Fund fluctuations are due to fund performance, spending allocations, and donor investment.

2011-12 $16.9M

2012-13 $18.4M

2013-14 $21.0M

2014-15 $23.8M

2015-16 $23.5M

Fall 2016

CLASS NOTES

1970s Robert Henman (BA ’79), a part time faculty member with Family Studies, recently published a book “Global Collaboration: Neuroscience as Paradigmatic” resulting from 4 years of research into the methodology of neuroscience. Well done, Robert!

alma mater, but my office is a few doors down from my old dorm room in Evaristus. I really feel like I’ve come full circle!” Congratulations to Rachel Bailey (BPR ’84) who was re-elected as mayor of Lunenburg, NS, in October of this year. Rachel Bailey

1990s

1980s

Laura Gillham (BPR ’93) was recently appointed as the new VP of Development and Community Relations with the IWK Foundation, the organization where she began her career 22 years ago as part of the IWK Telethon team.

Janet MacMillan

As part of its 40th anniversary celebrations in September, NATIONAL Public Relations honoured one of its key builders, NATIONAL Atlantic Partner Janet MacMillan (BPR ’81). Janet was one of three to receive the company’s Order of NATIONAL, whose recipients have contributed extensively to the firm’s growth, shown exceptional leadership skills and helped champion the practice of public relations. Janet was instrumental in opening offices in St. John’s and Saint John, in addition to Halifax. Christine McLean (BCS ’83) joined the Mount this past summer as a new faculty member in Child & Youth Studies. Christine graduated from the Mount 33 years ago and lived in Evaristus (3rd floor) during her first year. After a career in the early childhood field (mostly in Newfoundland), Christine says “I find myself not only back teaching at my

Matt Robinson’s (BEd ’98) poetry collection, Some Nights It’s Entertainment; Some Other Nights Just Work was recently released by Kentville, NS’s award winning Gaspereau Press. Matt will be touring with his new book.

Shout out to Allan Gates (BPR ’09) and his business partner on the launch of Huddle Today – a digital business-news journal focusing on New Brunswick and the broader Maritimes. Huddle seeks to show, not tell, the stories of entrepreneurs doing their part to boost the regional economy.

2000s Congratulations to Adrienne McCann (BMC ’06) and husband Patrick on the birth of their son, Karson Fredrick James McCann! He was born January 2nd at 5:05am weighing 8lbs 8oz.

Allan Gates

Congratulations to Tracey Newman (BBA ’00), current president of the Mount Saint Vincent Alumnae Association, and her husband, Keith MacKay on the birth of their son, Joshua Charles, on January 23, 2016, weighing 7lbs 6oz.

Gary Logan (BA ’02) was appointed to the Peggy’s Cove Commission, which serves to make planning and development decisions to help preserve the unique, scenic beauty and integrity of Peggy’s Cove.

Patrick Sullivan (BBA ’85) was named the new President and Chief Executive Officer of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. Patrick is presently the managing partner of Break It Group, where he consults for national and international businesses on growth strategies.

Greg Ivany (BMC ’08) was recently appointed General Manager of the brand new Holiday Inn Express & Suites St. John’s International Airport Hotel. Congrats, Greg!

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

RETIREES

Farewell hugs and special thank yous 2010s Now Flanker Press has recently cently published the second novel of Samantha Rideout (BPR ’15) – The People Who Stay. A huge congrats to Samantha from all of us in the Mount community – where she also teaches Public Relations!

We are very proud to recognize our special Mount staff and faculty who are celebrating their retirement. The incredible wealth of knowledge and talent shared within our Mount community is impressive. Bidding “Often when you think you are at the end of farewell to those retiring is never something, you are easy, but we are ever so grateful at the beginning of something else.” for the hard work, memories, and friendship they have given. Fred Rogers American television host

Congratulations to the following Mount faculty and staff who retired from the University over the last year. We thank you for your dedication and wish you a world of happiness in the time you’ve earned for yourselves.

Poet Budge Wilson (DHumL ’12) published a new collection of poetry, After Swissair, in which she chronicles the days, weeks, and months after the crash near her home. Budge is also a recipient of The Order of Canada (2004) and the Order of Nova Scotia (2011). After Swissair is her 34th published book; she turned 89 in May of this year.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently appointed Wanda Thomas Bernard (BA ’75), CM, to the Senate. Wanda is a founding member of the Association of Black Social Workers and current chair of the Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women.

YEARS OF SERVICE

RETIREES

1970-2016

Diane Tinkham, Health Services – Student Experience

1976-2015

Ilya Blum, Mathematics and Computer Science

1985-2016

Carmel French, Child and Youth Study

1990-2016

Theresa Glanville, Applied Human Nutrition

2001-2016

Charlie MacDougall, Central Heating – Facilities Management

2001-2016

Sharon Baker, Information Technology (Academic)

A NOTE TO OUR EXCEPTIONAL RETIREES

Congratulations to Matt DeCourcey (MPR ’10) who in October 2015 was elected as the youngest ever member of parliament for Fredericton, NB.

The Mount Saint Vincent Alumnae Association is delighted to recognize retiring staff and faculty as honourary alumnae. We would love to stay connected, so please reach out to University Advancement to receive alumnae communication in the future. You can reach us at alumnae@msvu.ca.

Fall 2016

IN MEMORIAM

With thoughtful reﬂection, we remember and recognize our fellow alumnae and members of the Mount community whom we have lost over the year. Please note that only those individuals for whom the alumnae offi ce was notiﬁ ed are mentioned.

1930s Marion (Scott) Lytle ACAD (’37) July 11, 2015 1940s Catherine “Kitty” Kelley BSC (’40), CBB (’75) March 19, 2016 Sister Eva O’Connor (Joseph Francis) BEC (’41) July 2, 2016 Jean (McFarland) Trainor ACAD (’42), BEC (’46) October 24, 2015 Sister Margaret Harvey (Thomas Maria) BSC (’45), BA (’54) February 11, 2016

Gloria Hanief BA (’62) June 12, 2016

Velma Helen (Wadden) Astle BA (’71), BED (’72) September 27, 2015

Sister Geraldine Kelly (Ethel Thomas) BA (’62) January 22, 2016

Corinne Mary McPherson BED (’71), BA (’68) September 17, 2016

Nora (Buckley) Connors BA (’64) May 22, 2016

Sylvia Jacques Toulon BSD (’79) February 15, 2016

Isha (Simmons) Davis BBA (’04), MED (’15) March 24, 2016

1980s

Dr. Josephine Johnson DHumL ’10 October 17, 2010

Sister Carmelita Currie (Michael Marie) BSC (’64), BA (’68) March 8, 2016 Andrea (Mailman) Murphy ACAD (’65) August 26, 2016

Sister Margaret Mary Molloy BA (’49), EUD (’52), BLS (’52) November 7, 2015

Sister Louise Bray (Mildred James) BA (’66) July 28, 2016

Dorothy L. Grady BA (’52), EUD (’52) July 19, 2015

Sister Clare Ashe (Wilfred Mary) BA (’68) January 15, 2016

Marguerite Peddle BSC (’52) May 2, 2016

Phyllis (Mosher) Cipolla BSC (’68), BED (’68) April 20, 2016

Sister Elizabeth Hayes (Regina Marie) BA (’53), MSC (’62) March 21, 2016

Beatrice L. (Gribble) Smith BED (’68) November 16, 2015

Ruth M. A. (McAuley) Baxter ACAD (’59), BA (’89) May 27, 2015 1960s Sister Anna d’Entremont (Mary Virginia) BA (’60), BED (’63) August 26, 2016

2000s

Marilyn Patricia (Johnston) Desrochers BED (’78) May 24, 2016

Joan A. (Beck) Walker BSC (’65) April 9, 2015

Sister Regina Mary McLean BA (’53), BED (’56), MAP (’63) August 27, 2016

The Honourable Constance R. Glube, OC DHumL (’98) February 15, 2016

Margaret M. (Kane) Samson BSCN (’62) January 19, 2016

Theresa Mulrooney BSC (’47) February 26, 2016

1950s

1990s

Annabel Nickerson BSCN (’69) November 3, 2015 1970s Ghislaine (Thibault) Doucette DOA (’70), BSA (’86) May 12, 2016 Eileen Marie (Theriault) Sharp BA (’70), BED (’71), MED (’81) March 30, 2016

Folia Montana The Magazine for Mount Alumnae and Friends

Patricia May (Sweet) Morse BCS (’80), MAC (’11) March 4, 2016 Betty M. Hall BA (’83) November 8, 2015 Teresa Cherry Mantin BA (’83) November 28, 2015 Dr. Roberta Waye Jefferson BA (’84), CGN (’84), DHumL (’95) November 21, 2015 Mary-Lynn Baltzer BA (’85) February 13, 2016 Archbishop James M. Hayes DHumL (’85) August 2, 2016 Mary Catherine Levatte BPR (’87) October 1, 2016 Janet Mary Brown BOA (’89) January 20, 2016 Florence Marie (MacLean) Kanary MED (’89) January 22, 2016 Dr. Thelma McCormack DHumL (’89) May 21, 2016

Thressia (Hudson) Dale BBA (’00) August 7, 2016

Mount Community Lucian Bianchini February 19, 2016 Dr. Patricia Canning November 18, 2015 The Honorable Lorne O. Clarke May 21, 2016 John “Jack” Craig October 11, 2016 Dr. Vernon Driscoll April 9, 2016 Carolyn Fiﬁeld January 1, 2016 Dr. Randall Craig Fisher March 3, 2016 Abe Levanthal March 21, 2016 Joyce Rafuse June 17, 2016 Kendra Lee (Muir) Power October 6, 2016 Marguerite Wagstaff May 17, 2016

with alumnae and friends

We take great pride in staying connected with our alumnae. Please take the time to update your contact information. alumnae@msvu.ca msvu.ca/alumnaeandfriends

e @mountalumna al umnaeandfrien ds (Like Us!) ent Mount SaintsiVitync Univer

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