Alumni News - Summer 2019

StFX AlumniNews

SUMMER 2019

CONNECTING ALUMNI & FRIENDS OF St. FRANCIS XAVIER UNIVERSITY

RHODES SCHOLAR LIAM ELBOURNE ’19 IS OXFORD BOUND, ONE OF ONLY 11 CANADIANS TO RECEIVE THE PRESTIGIOUS AWARD THIS YEAR.

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StFX ALUMNINEWS CONTENTS

On June 25th, the StFX campus community gathered on a beautiful sunny day to bid a fond farewell to outgoing president, Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93, who finishes his term in July.

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Remarkable Rhodes Story Academic. Athlete. Community champion. Liam Elbourne ’19 has enjoyed remarkable achievement since coming to StFX. Now, he is one of only 11 Canadians to be named this year as a Rhodes Scholar.

Contents NewsFlash

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Athletics

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Alumni Association Update

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Chapter News

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News Exchange

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Basket Work Is Out Of This World A traditional miniature Mi’kmaq basket handcrafted by Shanna Francis ’17 blasts into space aboard Soyux MS-11, representing the Mi’kmaq people.

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Fifty Years of Women’s Athletics As StFX women’s varsity athletics celebrates a major milestone, we look back over some of the history and highlights of the past 50 years.

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Farewell, Dr. MacDonald The StFX community thanks Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93 as he finishes his term as StFX’s 18th president.

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22 Visit StFX’s online alumni community: www.stfx.ca/alumni StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

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

REFLECTIONS, AND A LOOK AHEAD As many of you may know, my favourite time of day is the early morning. Coffee often in hand, I enjoy the stillness of being on campus, before students and faculty arrive, and the paths between residences and Morrison Hall become crowded.

Perhaps, I think I am simply trying to preserve the calm that belies the organized chaos of the rest of the day, when inboxes ping and iPhones vibrate furiously.

Through it all, I remain in awe of the number of successes we have here at StFX on a weekly basis.

This edition of the AlumniNews showcases some of those successes, including some of the many accomplishments of our students and faculty. As an example, I hope you enjoy learning more about our latest Rhodes Scholar, Liam Elbourne. Liam’s success is a tangible reinforcement of StFX’s lifelong commitment to academic excellence. We have long been admirers and supporters of his work in the classroom, on the soccer pitch, and as a student leader. When we have students like Liam who conduct research that connects historical rainfall rates to the likelihood that an emperor would be assassinated – featured in The Economist, we’re confident that our academic ship is on an even keel!

Those quiet mornings also allow me to look forward, and think about what is ahead. In that context, this edition of the AlumniNews celebrates the 50th anniversary of women’s varsity athletics at StFX. I cannot wait until Homecoming

this fall, when our phenomenal women’s rugby team – national champions again last season – take centre stage on the Saturday afternoon.

For many of you, a StFX without women’s varsity athletics seems like the distant past, but it is not so long ago that Morag MacDonald wrote a Xaverian Weekly column called Sports in Skorts, wherein she asked: “Can our girls adapt themselves to the rugged rules and required physical stamina that men’s [sport] has always demanded?” That was 1966, and the women of Mount Saint Bernard were on the cusp of joining the men of StFX. In October, 2019, I think you’ll see – convincingly – that “our girls” have not adapted to men’s sports; they’ve blazed their own trail.

As much as I’m looking forward to attending Homecoming 2019, I must confront the reality that I will do so as the former President of StFX. StFX is home for me. My parents walked this campus in the 1950s. I met Mary-Ellen here in the 1980s, and all four of our children have had the privilege of attending StFX over the past decade. In 2014, I returned to my alma mater as the 18th president – something I can only define as my dream job.

The past five years have offered incredible highs and many wonderful challenges.

Mary-Ellen and I have made friendships with people who have treated us like family, and I have been so proud to travel the world on behalf of our university.

Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93, StFX President

But, the time had come for me to consider what it would mean to commit to another term at the helm. Given that my area of research interest is presidential leadership, I know how critical it is for a university president to be aware of when the time has come to pass the torch.

For me, that time is now.

After many conversations with MaryEllen this winter, we concluded that this is the right time for someone else to step forward and lead our university. MaryEllen and I will miss being at StFX, but we remain committed to being deeply engaged and supportive alumni. In the days ahead, we look forward to spending more time together, continuing our charitable work in Mexico, and visiting StFX often. We also look forward to crossing paths with many of you, as we all continue to support and promote this fine university. Until then, on behalf of the MacDonald Family, I thank you for your wonderful support over the past five years. I will always be grateful to the Board of Governors for giving me the honour of serving StFX as President.

Farewell - Hail and Health,

Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93 (right) and Mary-Ellen MacPhee ’87 ’05 at Arisaig Beach

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Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93 President and Vice Chancellor

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

DOUBLE WIN: TWO SCHWARTZ SCHOOL STUDENTS AWARDED $25,000 SOBEY AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS STUDIES

Emma Logan ’19 It’s good news, times two. Emma Logan and Liam Elbourne, both StFX Gerald Schwartz School of Business students, have each been awarded $25,000 as recipients of the 2019 Frank H. Sobey Awards for Excellence in Business Studies. They’re among eight exceptional business students, studying at Atlantic Canadian universities, to receive the award this year. It’s the first time StFX has had two recipients of this prestigious award in the same year. “I am truly honoured to join the alumni of the Frank H. Sobey Award and proud to do so as a Schwartz School of Business student,” says Ms. Logan, from Halifax, NS. She says the opportunities she’s had at StFX have been beyond what she imagined coming here four years ago. “My experience and success at StFX would not have been possible without the incredible community of students and faculty

Liam Elbourne ’19 that I am surrounded by. This award opens up so many doors for me and feels like the greatest launch into my post-grad pursuits to being successful in business.” Mr. Elbourne, also form Halifax, recently graduated with a joint honours degree in business and economics. In November 2018, he was named as StFX’s newest Rhodes Scholar. “I am absolutely thrilled to have won the Frank H. Sobey Award for Excellence in Business Studies,” he says. “For starters, being recognized as one of the top business students in Atlantic Canada amongst so many other driven and talented individuals is a tremendous honour. Additionally, this award provides me with the financial freedom to get the most out of my next steps after graduating from StFX.”

LINDEN MACINTYRE ’64 DELIVERS ALLAN J. MACEACHEN LECTURE IN POLITICS

Linden MacIntyre ’64

Well-known journalist and author Linden MacIntyre ’64 drew a standing-room only crowd on January 24th as he delivered the 2019 Allan J. MacEachen Annual Lecture Series in Politics at StFX. His talk, which drew rave reviews, was entitled “Whatsoever things are lies: Twilight time for truth and liberty.” The annual lecture series was established in 1996 through the generous support of friends and associates of the late Hon. Allan J. MacEachen ’44. Over the years, speakers have included four former Canadian prime ministers as well as distinguished academics, politicians, journalists and a justice of the Supreme Court. Mr. MacIntyre is best known as the award-winning former co-host of CBC’s The Fifth Estate as well as an internationally bestselling novelist.

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

ENTREPRENEURIAL AND EMPLOYMENT SUCCESS

StFX’s FluxLab, led by earth sciences professor Dr. Dave Risk ’02, and with many alumni within its ranks, has enjoyed entrepreneurial and employment success generated from its research. Currently the FluxLab consists of 16 individuals, comprised of undergraduate and graduate students, professional technicians and research associates.

Their work is in gas measurement for renewable and fossil energy, and for arctic studies. Over the past decade, the group has also launched two spinoff companies: the first, Eosense (previously Forerunner Research), was created a decade ago by then graduate students, Gordon McArthur ’08, ’13 and Dr. Nick Nickerson ’07 ’09,

and Dr. Risk, and was fueled by the need for better ways to measure and understand environmental gases; and the most recent is a methane analytics company called Arolytics with offices in Halifax and Calgary. Current members of the FluxLab pictured are, top row, l-r, Mark Argento ’21, Kim Taylor ’17, ’19, Dan Wesley ’22, Jack Johnson ’17, ’19, Katlyn MacKay ’15, ’17, ’22, Chelsie Hall ’06, ’09, Renee McDonald ’19, Martin Lavoie, Dave Risk ’02, and Sara Murrin ’20. Bottom: Isaac Ketchum ’20, Jennifer Baillie ’14, Billy Garrison, Nadia Tarakki ’19, Evelise Bourlon, Tara Hanlon ’19, and Ellen McCole ’20. Absent, Kersten Landry.

STFX STUDENTS PRESENT AT PRESTIGIOUS LITERARY THEORIST CONFERENCE IN GERMANY

Pictured, seated in front, l-r, Alejandra Torres, Jessica Morrison, Laura Blinn and Jennifer Aftanas. Back: Emma Hofland-Burry and Renée Proctor

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It’s one thing to study literary theorists in class, it’s another thing altogether to present your work, network and ask questions of those same experts as a participant at a prestigious international conference. That’s the rare opportunity afforded to four StFX students—Jennifer Aftanas, Laura Blinn, Emma Hofland-Burry and Jessica Morrison—who accompanied StFX English professor Dr. Mathias Nilges to Germany in May to present at “Reading In The Age Of Trump: The Politics And Possibility Of Literary Studies Now,” at the Obama Institute for Transnational American Studies at Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz, Germany.

Additionally, English honours students, Renée Proctor and Alejandra Torres, both supervised by Dr. Nilges, attended as conference organizers. Ms. Proctor also presented. “The fact that the event only includes notable academics, and not even graduate students, makes it all the more significant that four of our undergraduate students will participate and present their work,” says Dr. Nilges, a conference organizer, who agreed to take the four students who wrote the strongest papers in his upper-level course, “Contemporary Literary Theory” with him to the conference. His colleagues in Germany agreed to add a special panel for StFX students.

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

StFX ACADEMIC VP AND PROVOST NAMED INTERIM PRESIDENT

Dr. Kevin Wamsley, StFX Academic Vice-President and Provost, has been named interim StFX President, effective August 1, 2019, the Board of Governors has announced.

“Dr. Wamsley’s leadership and unwavering commitment to our academic mission has supported our faculty and greatly contributed

to the exceptional learning experience we offer,” Board of Governors Chair Mike Boyd ’85 said. “His time serving as an ex-officio member of StFX’s Board of Governors, a member of the Executive and President’s Council, leading the academic portfolio, and his more than 30 years of post-secondary experience have provided him with an in-depth understanding of the complexities and opportunities related to running a world-class institution such as ours. I look forward to working with Dr. Wamsley during this time of transition.”

Mr. Boyd also thanked outgoing president Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93 for all he has done over the last five years. “He is a true Xaverian and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”

Dr. Wamsley said with new academic programming being introduced and world-class facilities such as the Brian Mulroney Institute of Government and Mulroney Hall opening in the fall, StFX is in the midst of tremendous momentum. “I consider it an honour to continue with the great work, initiated by Dr. Kent MacDonald and others, while the search for a permanent president is underway.”

Dr. Wamsley, who joined StFX in 2015, is an award-winning teacher and celebrated researcher. He holds a BA (honours) and MA from Western University and a PhD from the University of Alberta, where he held a Killam Doctoral Scholarship. Recently, he accepted a request to renew his term as StFX’s Academic Vice President and Provost, serving the campus community for another six years, effective August 1, 2020.

A Presidential Search Committee has been established and is in the beginning stages of a process that is expected to take several months.

ORGAN DONOR UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH ACCEPTED AT ATLANTIC PHILOSOPHY CONFERENCE

StFX honours philosophy student Jamie Samson (right) pictured with a visiting speaker, Dr. Eleonore Stump of St. Louis University

Jamie Samson, a StFX honours philosophy student from Louisdale, NS, has been working on the topic of organ donation as part of her honours thesis in philosophy for only six months, but the quality of her research has been so high that her paper was accepted and she presented at the Atlantic Region Philosophers Association meeting. The only undergraduate student to present at the conference, her paper ‘The Ethics of Organ Donation,’ argues the need for donor organs for transplants is great and, since few are available, Canadian society ought to take greater steps to see that organs are available. Instead of the current ‘opt in’ system, she argues it would be ethical, and perhaps ethically obligatory, to revise to an ‘opt-out’ system.

Ms. Samson’s research was initially funded through an Irving Research Mentorship Award, offered through StFX’s Frank McKenna Centre for Leadership.

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

PUBLICATION, PRESENTATION FOR HONOURS NURSING WORK ON MI’KMAQ WOMEN’S EXPERIENCE IN ACCESSING PRENATAL CARE IN RURAL NOVA SCOTIA

L-r, Dr. Joanne Whitty-Rogers, Laura Burns, Dr. Cathy MacDonald and Dr. Debbie Sheppard-LeMoine Laura Burns wanted to gain a better understanding of Mi’kmaq women’s experience in accessing prenatal care in rural Nova Scotia so, as an honours nursing student in StFX’s Rankin School of Nursing, she focused her undergraduate research work on the topic.

The quality of that work stood out—so much so that it’s been accepted as an article in a respected journal and for presentation at

an international conference. Her research was accepted for publication in Advances in Nursing Sciences. The article will be published in the June 2019 print issue, and became available online in December 2018. In addition, in October, Ms. Burns, of Antigonish, NS, presented this research at the 44th annual conference of the Transcultural Nursing Society Conference in San Antonio, Texas.

STFX PROFESSOR AWARDED $100,000 GRANT TO EXPLORE HOW TO IMPROVE COMMUNITY-BASED SEARCH AND RESCUE IN CANADA’S NORTH

Dr. Peter Kikkert

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StFX’s Dr. Peter Kikkert, the Irving Shipbuilding Chair in Arctic Policy at the Brian Mulroney Institute of Government, has received a $100,000 grant to explore how to improve community-based search and rescue (SAR) and emergency response capabilities in the Kitikmeot region of Nunavut. Dr. Kikkert, who teaches in StFX’s Public Policy and Government Program and in the History Department, received the highly competitive Early Career Faculty Grant from the Marine Environmental Observation Prediction and Response Network (MEOPAR). With maritime activity increasing throughout the waters of the Canadian Arctic—everything from local small craft carrying hunters and fishers, to cruise ships, vessels supporting resource development, and pleasure craft—effective community-based SAR and emergency response capabilities have never been more essential, Dr. Kikkert says. Carrying out research in the North can be very expensive and this work would not be possible without the grant, he says. “It’s absolutely essential to do this research, to be in the community, listening to and learning from the actual practitioners on the ground. This grant has opened that door, providing for travel, the hiring of community research associates and translators, honorarium for participants, and other workshop costs.” The amount of funding also means Dr. Kikkert will be able to take two StFX undergraduate student research assistants with him to the North each year of the project. This year, third year students Marcus Cuomo (political science) and Brenna Martell (aquatic resources) will accompany Dr. Kikkert to Nunavut in August to complete the community portion of the project.

THE RIGHT HONOURABLE BRIAN MULRONEY ’59 HONOURED FOR EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC SERVICE AND GLOBAL LEADERSHIP; DELIVERS POWERFUL PRESIDENTIAL EULOGY

The accolades and awards keep coming for the Right Honourable Brian Mulroney ’59, Canada’s 18th Prime Minister. In recent months, the StFX alumnus has twice been honoured internationally for excellence in public service and global leadership, as well as receiving favorable and widespread attention for the powerful presidential eulogy he delivered at the state funeral for former U.S. President George H.W. Bush.

Emotional. Stirring. Rooted in long-lasted friendship. Those were just some of the words used to describe the eulogy Mr. Mulroney delivered at the state funeral for Mr. Bush as the 41st president was laid to rest in December 2018 in Washington, D.C. The two leaders had formed a close friendship during their terms in office that continued through the years. During his moving remarks, Mr. Mulroney spoke eloquently about Mr. Bush’s legacy and the impact he had not only on the United States, but the world.

Mr. Mulroney had enjoyed a visit with Mr. Bush just a few months earlier when he was in Kennebunkport, Maine on September 28, 2018 to be honoured as the 10th recipient of the George Bush Award for Excellence in Public Service. The award, which recognizes an

individual’s or group’s dedication to public service at the local, state, national or international levels, was presented by the George Bush Presidential Library Foundation. Previous award recipients include German Chancellor Helmut Kohl; Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev; U.S. Senator Edward M. Kennedy; California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger; Reverend Bill Graham; Secretary Bob Gates; President Ronald W. Reagan; Her Highness Sheikha Moza Bint Nasser of Qatar; and U.S. Senator Bob Dole.

A third prestigious accolade for Mr. Mulroney came in April 2019 when the former Canadian prime minister was awarded the James A. Baker III Prize for Excellence in Leadership from Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy in Houston, Texas. The award honours his decades-long career as a global leader and visionary.

At StFX, the campus community is looking forward to the official grand opening of the Brian Mulroney Institute of Government slated for September 2019. The facility itself will open by mid-June and tours will be available after that time by arrangement through the Campus Tours office at (902) 867-4964 or email visit@stfx.ca

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ALUMNI PROFILE

Shanna Francis ’17

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MI'KMAQ TEACHER'S MINIATURE BASKE

As far as secrets go, Shanna Francis ’17 had an exciting one to keep—Canadian astronaut David Saint Jacques had asked if he could bring one of her handcrafted, traditional miniature Mi’kmaq baskets with him, as a representation of the Mi’kmaq people, when he blasted into outer space aboard the Soyuz MS-11.

“I couldn’t believe it. It was overwhelming, it was very surreal and I had to keep it a secret for over a year. I had a year to think about it, and I was still speechless when it happened. I had no words, I was so happy,” says Ms. Francis of Eskasoni, NS, a teacher who graduated from StFX with a B.Ed. degree, and is one of the last remaining Mi’kmaq basket makers who specializes in miniature sizes. At 26, she is also one of the youngest.

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“I felt happy. And I felt a little bit of sadness. Basket making was always a way to bond with my father (the late Paul Francis).

He passed away in 2010. I really wanted to be able to tell him. But overall, I felt happy.

It was overwhelming. I was very honoured and excited. It literally felt out of this world, something that I made with my hands from a tree just went out of this planet.”

Ms. Francis says she still feels awestruck when she thinks about it. Mr. Saint Jacques blasted off into space on Dec. 3, 2018—on StFX Day—and will be in orbit six months.

She believes the basket will be donated to a museum upon his return.

“I smile and look up and think that it could be anywhere,” she says.

The basket is circular, crafted from wood

from a black ash tree, and is about the size of a toonie. It stands about half-an-inch, and is in the style her father used to make, a fine, delicate basket, she says.

“It was the perfect size, it has no weight, it’s minimal, but it’s a big deal,” she says.

Ms. Francis was living in Truro and working as the language coordinator for the Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq when she was approached about the opportunity.

“I couldn’t believe it. I didn’t know if it was for real,” she says when she received a Facebook message from Melody Googoo, wife of Christopher Googoo, CEO at Ulnooweg Development in Truro.

Ulnooweg has a partnership with the Canadian Space Agency and they had gotten in touch as Mr. Saint Jacques wanted

ETS ARE LITERALLY OUT OF THIS WORLD to take something with him into space that represented the Mi’kmaq people. The item had to be small. The Googoos knew Ms. Francis made miniature baskets.

It’s a skill she started to learn when she was about seven years old, working with her dad, a noted basket maker. She says it was a way they bonded. “He could make anything,” she says. “His specialization was miniature things.

“It’s therapeutic for me. It’s very relaxing.

It’s hard. It’s frustrating. But when I’m done, I’m so proud of it.

“Whatever I’m going through, I put into that basket.”

Ms. Francis admits that when finished, it can be hard to part with the basket, which she can work on for 10 hours at a time. She

operates Kisitaqn Basketry (Kisitaqn means creation in Mi’kmaq) and does sell some of her work. But it’s not her main focus. She also donates some for fundraisers in her community.

As one of the last traditional basket makers, Ms. Francis tries to offer workshops and sessions to inspire others to take up the craft. She is a fluent Mi’kmaq speaker (she didn’t speak English in her home as a child) and works to maintain Mi’kmaq traditions.

After finishing her degree, she also worked as an instructor at StFX teaching Mi’kmaq 105, a three-credit course focused on the history, culture and language.

“It’s my overall person,” she says. “I always promote the language, the basket making, promoting what I know and do. I work

really hard to make our culture cool to younger kids.”

She says she’s pleased to notice efforts in the last few years have helped make the culture stronger.

It was also another reason she was pleased about her basket blasting off into space. She was happy to represent the Mi’kmaq people.

Reaction has been terrific. “My Facebook shut down for eight hours. It blew up,” she says.

“Everyone was ecstatic, and congratulated me and thanked me on behalf of the Mi’kmaq people. It was so nice.”

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Liam Elbourne ’19

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STANDING ON THE

SHOULDERS of GIANTS LIAM ELBOURNE IS OXFORD-BOUND AS STFX’S LATEST RHODES SCHOLAR

BY SHELLEY CAMERON-MCCARRON

If you were to look inside the X-Ring of Liam Elbourne ’19—scholar, athlete, community champion and StFX’s latest Rhodes Scholar—you will find six simple words, a one-line phrase, an inscription that carries much meaning.

“Standing on the shoulders of giants,” is written inside the distinctive band of gold with the raised black X, a phrase he first saw stamped on British £2 coins; a phrase that resonated with him since the moment he read it.

Today, it means even more.

“All the giants are the role models, and the friends who have lifted me up, so that I have gotten to see further.

This never really would have been without them,” says Mr. Elbourne, 23, of Halifax NS, speaking in reference to the late 2018 announcement that he was named a Rhodes Scholar, one of only 11 Canadian recipients to receive the prestigious honour this year.

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The scholarship, valued at over $100,000 and offering full funding for post-graduate studies at Oxford University, is widely regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious international scholarship programs. Recipients are extraordinarily accomplished young people with outstanding scholastic records, who undergo a rigorous application process.

“It’s crazy. It’s absolutely incredible,” Mr. Elbourne says when asked what it feels like to be recognized as a young leader of outstanding intellect and character.

“I never would have imagined this. I didn’t even have an entrance scholarship when I came to StFX.

GOOD ROLE MODELS “I’m feeling pretty lucky to have so much support here that really made this all possible,” he says, thoughtfully considering the question and all that has happened over the past five years since he enrolled at StFX. “If I had gone to a larger university, I could have easily gotten lost in the crowd. I knew I wasn’t where I wanted to be academically, I needed people’s support. I needed good role models.”

Those role models, those friends, he says, he found in abundance at StFX. It’s a place where he has certainly thrived. As a student in StFX’s Gerald Schwartz School of Business, Mr. Elbourne has won a

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$25,000 2019 Frank H. Sobey Awards for Excellence in Business Studies, was the top ranked business student at StFX in the 2017-18 academic year with a 94.25 per cent average, and garnered international attention for his research.

Last June, he presented his research paper “Shocks to Military Support and Subsequent Assassinations in Ancient Rome,” co-authored with former StFX economics professor Cornelius Christian, at the Canadian Economics Association annual conference, the only active undergraduate student to present in a regular session at this national event. Since then, the paper has been published in the international peer-reviewed journal Economics Letters, which has published the work of many past Nobel Prize recipients, and articles about the research have appeared in some of the world’s leading outlets, including The Smithsonian magazine, The Economist and The Telegraph.

EXCELLING ON SOCCER PITCH, COMMUNITY All the while, Mr. Elbourne, who graduated from StFX in May with a joint honours degree in economics and business, played varsity soccer, a midfielder who captained the X-Men for the past three seasons and was a key player in leading StFX to consecutive second place finishes in the league standings. He is a former AUS all-star and was the 2014 AUS rookie of the year. Among other honours, he is a four-time U Sports academic all-Canadian.

“IF I HAD GONE TO A LARGER UNIVERSITY, I COULD HAVE EASILY GOTTEN LOST IN THE CROWD. I KNEW I WASN’T WHERE I WANTED TO BE ACADEMICALLY, I NEEDED PEOPLE’S SUPPORT. I NEEDED GOOD ROLE MODELS.” LIAM ELBOURNE ’19

While excelling academically and athletically, he volunteered extensively too, in many ways, flipping that coin around to become the mentor and leader, the shoulder on which others stand.

He served three years as president of the StFX German Society, and as vice-president of the StFX Economics Society, helping build a mentorship program connecting students with StFX’s highly successful economics graduates. He has twice been a teaching assistant in the Economics Department and has offered tutoring in courses in business, economics, and math.

He’s become an advocate too for the prevention of sexualized violence, serving as the lone male panelist for a Contextualizing #MeToo panel discussion organized by the StFX Women’s and Gender Studies department in late 2017. He co-designed and co-facilitated workshops in StFX residences during the 2017-18 winter semester aimed at educating students on issues of consent and sexual assault. In September 2018, he was keynote speaker at the Antigonish March in Respect for Women and he was featured in the Antigonish Women’s Resource Centre’s initiative called ‘16 Days of Activism on Gender-Based Violence.’

REMARKABLE STORY It’s all part of a remarkable story since coming to StFX. Mr. Elbourne is the first to admit the classroom wasn’t always his top priority. That honour belonged solely to soccer.

In fact, he came to StFX as an athlete, chasing a lifelong dream to play soccer professionally.

It’s a goal he’s held since childhood, leaving the east coast and Halifax Grammar School to move to Vancouver to play in the Vancouver Whitecaps residency program, finishing his Grade 11 and 12 attending Burnaby Central Secondary.

After a stint playing soccer in Sweden, he eventually found his way back to hometown Halifax. That’s when he came to visit StFX. “The team really sold me on the school.”

He enrolled in the Gerald Schwartz School of Business, and quickly fell in love with economics. It surprised him how much he liked it—but it was a pleasant surprise.

“It’s a very logical field. Everything has to be grounded in the numbers and the logic behind it. I was really drawn to that.

“I fell into a great department,” says Mr. Elbourne modestly.

“Coming to university without a clear idea of what field of study I might like to pursue, I feel quite lucky to have landed in one of the top undergraduate economics programs in the country. Not only is the teaching exceptional, but the StFX Economics Department provides students the opportunity to pursue research with their professors. Without the guidance and support of Dr. Christian and the department, the incredible summer that I just had wouldn’t have been possible.”

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DISCOVERING A NEW PASSION

RELATIONSHIP BUILDING

More than just an incredible experience, he says participating in research made him think he’d like to become a professor. “That’s now my dream to complete a master’s and PhD and work in academia, to teach.”

He says he still loves soccer, but he found his interests changed over the years.

Looking back to his first year at university, he says he never would have imagined he would be selected as a Rhodes Scholar.

“My main focus was soccer and I didn’t really know what it meant to be a good student or to make an impact in the community. StFX turned out to be the perfect place for me, and for that reason I feel extremely grateful.

“My coaches, professors, and other individuals at the university were wonderful mentors to me. I was surrounded by great friends on my soccer team, along with academic programs that challenged me in many different ways. Most of all, though, I think of my parents, sister, and partner who have supported me in every way imaginable.”

He describes StFX as a very kind place, and a place where you can’t hide, where people doing outstanding things are celebrated, are visible. “It’s very easy to reach out. I think the community here is quite special. That was so important to me.”

The conversations and connections that StFX fosters has meant a lot to him, including the opportunity to develop close relationships with many different people. It’s where he found much inspiration.

He saw standout students and realized what was possible.

“I saw these people, and they are awesome. There are so many brilliant students here,” he says, noting how he looked up to upper class students—such as Cole Grbavac ’16 an honours BBA grad and former X-Men hockey assistant captain who was among an elite group of student athletes honoured nationally as a Top Eight Academic All-Canadian, a Sobeys Award of Excellence in Business Studies and Onex Corporation Gold Medal winner—as well as amazing students and great role models among his own classmates, students and friends he speaks very highly about.

“We challenge each other, and compete with each other, and support each other,” he says. “There’s a camaraderie there too that the professors have fostered.”

He developed relationships with faculty members too such as Dr. Christian, who Mr. Elbourne says was not only a professor he really enjoyed learning from, but also sparked the idea of Oxford. Dr. Christian had done his master’s work there and spoke highly about the experience.

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“OVERALL, HAVING THINGS TO JUGGLE IS A GOOD THING. IT MAKES ME QUITE STRICT TO DO WHAT I HAVE TO DO IF I ONLY THIS WINDOW TO DO IT IN. THERE ARE A LOT OF BENEFITS TO BEING BUSY.” LIAM ELBOURNE ’19

“He helped me believe that it was possible.

“The entire economics department has been outstanding,” he says.

He mentions StFX Athletics Director Leo MacPherson (who facilitates the StFX Leadership Academy, where Mr. Elbourne was honoured as a Leader of Distinction) as a great mentor as well.

German professor Marlis Lade has also been “a powerhouse,” he says. “I learned a lot from her.”

As president of the StFX German Society, Mr. Elbourne helped bring speakers of renown to StFX. In addition, he led the opening of two year-long Exhibitions of Indigenous Art at StFX. The first was created in honour of the permanent installation of the Mi’kmaq flag on the StFX campus in October 2017, and its success was such that a second exhibition was encouraged by the university.

All of these involvements, he says, stemmed from relationships developed at StFX.

BENEFITS OF BEING BUSY With so much on the go, he says learning to prioritize his time has been key, and something he’s gotten better at each year. He also found key lessons in soccer.

“I always put so much into sport,” he said. “I found there were many transferrable skills.”

For instance, he found he could transfer how strategic he had been about training to be being strategic about his studies. And being competitive definitely helped. “You see what you can do, and think, I can do a little better next year.

“Overall, having things to juggle is a good thing,” he says. “It makes me quite strict to do what I have to do if I only have this window to do it in. There are a lot of benefits to being busy.”

As for advice for other students?

“The biggest thing for me was finding people to look up to and then speaking to them. That’s been my greatest help since I’ve been here.”

Those experiences, those friendships, are what he sees when he looks at his X-Ring, newly received on StFX Day, Dec. 3, 2018.

Prior to this, he admits he had always looked more forward to graduation and was never one to be overly excited about the X-Ring ceremony—until he slipped that ring on.

“Now that I have one, and it’s on my finger, it makes me think of the people here, the role models, the mentors, the friends.”

StFX, he says, has meant everything.

“It seriously flipped my world around that I would never have expected to have happened.”

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CELEBRATING StFX women’s varsity athletics is marking a major milestone this year—its 50th anniversary—and there’s much to celebrate, from the pioneers who paved the way to endless personal victories, from success on the Olympic stage to a string of national championships.

Highlights and advances are many in the five decades since the female student-athletes of Mount Saint Bernard officially merged under the StFX umbrella in 1969, combining the two programs, and ultimately becoming what is today know as the StFX X-Women.

Celebrations to mark the milestone will be front and centre during StFX Homecoming 2019, including at the Saturday afternoon athletic game on Oct. 5th at the Oland Centre field, which will spotlight the X-Women Rugby team—the current 2018 national champions and a powerhouse dynasty with six national titles to their credit since 2006.

In true ‘Friday Night Lights’ fashion, the X-Men Football game will be played under the lights on Friday evening, Oct. 4.

“Homecoming is the perfect time to kick-off this momentous anniversary year, as we will have several former varsity athletes back on campus taking part in their class reunions,” says StFX Alumni Affairs director Shanna Hopkins ’01.

“Before the rugby game on Saturday afternoon, we have the opportunity for both former and current athletes, coaches, fans and

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50

sponsors to gather and reflect on the progress of our women’s varsity programs over the past 50 years. We look forward to celebrating the successes of the remarkable women who have worn the X-Women jersey.”

StFX Athletics & Recreation Director Leo MacPherson ’89 says the university has seen tremendous growth and development of female sports at StFX over the past half century.

“I appreciate the heavy lifting of early pioneers like Jane HanleyMacGillivray and Peggy Gallant ’69 as they have helped pave the way for the success of our current female student-athletes and teams,” Mr. MacPherson says.

“I am most proud of the improvements in coaching and financial support of our female sports, which has allowed StFX to produce many conference and national champions and several studentathletes who have had the opportunity to represent our country in international competitions.”

Women’s athletics has a rich history on the StFX campus, starting with the many successful teams who played at Mount Saint Bernard.

Jane Hanley-MacGillivray, inducted into the StFX Sports Hall of Fame as a builder, is recognized for pioneering the development of women’s sports at a time when intercollegiate sport expanded in

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YEARS

OF WOMEN’S VARSITY ATHLETICS AT STFX

Atlantic Canada. A gifted basketball player herself, she coached the Mount Saint Bernard College women’s basketball team from 1964-68 and in 1965, she became the first director of women’s sport at Mount Saint Bernard. Playing under the new international rules for the first time, something Ms. Hanley-MacGillivray was instrumental in orchestrating, the 1964-65 season was pivotal in the development of women’s sport, her Hall of Fame citation reads.

She recalls the Mount had very successful teams and always played several sports, funded by and under the support of the Congregation of Notre Dame. She recalls the teams only had one gym that they could use, the parish centre, which was heavily used by a number of groups. Practice would sometimes not start until 9 or 10 p.m. at night.

The Mount Saint Bernard transition to StFX came at a time when women on campuses throughout Canada were demanding greater access to better facilities and a more scientific approach to coaching, says retired StFX human kinetics professor Peggy Gallant ’69.

“As well, on many campuses it was decided that for efficiency a program for both men and women under one director made good sense. The Oland Centre was brand new and the first person to combine men’s and women’s athletics under one director was Father George Kehoe.”

Prof. Gallant, a member of both the StFX and Nova Scotia sports halls of fame, a former coach, tireless advocate, and national ‘Most Influential Women in Sport’ award recipient, says the highlight for her has been to witness the growth and development of women’s sport on the StFX campus over the past 50 years.

“In 1969, we offered volleyball, field hockey, and basketball. Today, we offer varsity programs in rugby, hockey, soccer, basketball, track and cross country. At the club level, we have women’s curling, rowing, field hockey, and dance, as well as open cheer, ultimate, swimming, badminton and equestrian. The expansion of league play, the addition of university national championships, recruitment of players, improved facilities and equipment, increased media coverage and coaches that only coach one sport, are all positives,” she says.

Prof. Gallant says further highlights came with the births of women’s soccer, rugby and hockey. All three sports played an exhibition schedule before becoming sanctioned as full varsity sports.

These exhibition games with sister institutions were haphazard and often difficult to arrange, she says, because facilities to play in and on were difficult to arrange without some formal agreement.

“Becoming an AUAA/AUS sport made scheduling so much easier.

Soccer had its inaugural championship in 1986-87. Rugby became

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HISTORY & H 1986 X-WOMEN SOCCER TEAM The 1986 X-Women soccer team won the first-ever conference soccer title for StFX and was the first-ever AUS-sanctioned conference championship victory for any female sports team at StFX.

2006 X-WOMEN RUGBY TEAM The 2006 X-Women rugby team became the first female team at StFX to win a national championship. The X-Women claimed the gold medal by beating Guelph 10-5 to capture the history-making championship banner.

Ghislaine Landry ’10 EXTRAORDINARY SUCCESS Ghislaine Landry ’10 Arguably the most prolific female athlete to wear the blue and white, Ghislaine Landry’s success on the rugby pitch is extraordinary. A fourtime CIS All-Canadian and two-time CIS Player of the Year (2008, 2007), Ghislaine was the 2006 CIS rookie of the year on the national champion X-Women team. The StFX female athlete of the year in all four of her years at StFX (2006-2010), she was also a four-time AUS MVP, threetime CIS tournament all-star and won a pair of CIS silver medals. She still holds multiple AUS scoring records and incredibly scored a try in every single AUS regular season game she played over her four year career. Ghislaine has gone on to enjoy immense success on the national and international rugby stage as a member of the Canadian Rugby Sevens team – and still competes today, travelling the world for sport. She is the all-time leading point scorer (1057) in World Rugby Series history and was nominated for World Rugby Women’s Sevens Player of the Year in 2017. A gold medallist at the 2015 Pan American Games, she was a key player on the Canadian squad that took home the Olympic bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Games. Ghislaine captained Canada at the 2018 Rugby World Cup and is currently the top points scorer on the 2019 World Series after two rounds.

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LAVINIA (GOUGH) CARREAU ’01 The 1999 and 2000 AUS Runner of the Year, Lavinia led the X-Women cross country team to their first conference title in 2000 and raced to the individual AUS championship title in 1999 and 2000. A four-time AUS all-star, she was honoured as a 1999 CIS first team All-Canadian and was an individual silver medalist at the CIS national championship. Lavinia earned second team all-Canadian status in 2000 and was a two-time StFX female athlete of the year.

DANIELLE GOULET ’03 In her five years at StFX (1998-2003), Danielle was part of two AUS hockey championship teams and played a valuable role in leading X-Women rugby to four consecutive conference championships. The 2002 AUS rugby MVP, Danielle was a two-time CIS All-Canadian (2001, 2002). Danielle was the 2001 and 2002 StFX female athlete of the year, and was recognized as a CIS tournament all-star four times.

fully sanctioned in 2002. The corresponding date for hockey was in 2000-01. In all three cases, the X-Women teams were well established during exhibition play.”

Along with her many other responsibilities, Prof. Gallant was also the driving force who brought women’s soccer to varsity status in 1980.

Finding funds, a field to practice on and spectators to support was less than easy. Six years later, few things had changed, but Prof. Gallant did not give up. She led the X-Women to StFX’s first AUAA (now AUS) women’s soccer championship in 1986. This title was the first ever AUS-sanctioned conference championship victory for any female sports team at StFX. The team would go on to become the first women’s team inducted into the StFX Sports Hall of Fame.

Laurie Boucher ’88, current mayor of Antigonish, former StFX manager of recreation, and a member of that 1986 StFX championship team, remembers as a student-athlete how she and her teammates would walk through town with all their equipment to practice on Columbus Field as they didn’t have a place to practice on campus. After practice, they’d walk back with their gear. “We’ve come a long way,” she says. “It doesn’t mean we don’t have a long way to go…It’s going to take a long way to get to equity.

“It took strong women to play, but it also took leadership to get to where we are today. And we can’t stop,” says Ms. Boucher, who notes it’s essential to have both women and men advocating for women’s rights.

Leona Williams ’72 ’73, former varsity volleyball athlete, concurs.

“We’ve come a long way,” she agrees, but notes there is still more to do. She says one crucial element is to have strong mentors and role models, including female coaches.

“Women athletes can nowadays walk around with a lot more pride on their shoulders,” Ms. Williams says. “There is a lot more opportunity for women, to participate, to train, to attend clinics and move ahead in their sport. We’ve come a long way in terms of opportunity and coaching.”

Current X-Women hockey forward Sarah Bujold, a U SPORTS national player of the year two seasons ago, and a Canada National Team Fall Festival invitee this year, says if it wasn’t for the girls who first put on the jersey at StFX, she would haven’t been able to have the career she’s had so far. “I believe the program’s success has been built upon the dedicated coaching staff and every female player who has

HIGHLIGHTS THERESA MACCUISH ’95 Theresa graduated as the all-time leading scorer in CIAU women’s basketball history, amassing over 2000 points during her five year career (1991-95, 1997). The 1992 national CIAU Rookie of the Year, she was named AUS MVP in her second season and was selected as an AUAA 1st team all-star five times and an All-Canadian twice. Theresa led the X-Women to their first (and only) AUS title in 1997 and was a four-time StFX Female Athlete of the Year.

LEANNE MACDONALD ’01 The first X-Women hockey player to be inducted into the StFX Sports Hall of Fame, Leanne was a four-time conference champion and four-time AUAA all-star. She was the first X-Women hockey player to receive All-Canadian status in 1999, then followed up with All-Canadian recognition again in 2001. A two-time CIAU tournament all-star and the team’s most valuable player in 2001, Leanne served as captain of the X-Women and was the AUAA conference most valuable player in 1999.

been a part of the program thus far.”

She says their program has enjoyed enormous success, winning the AUS conference 10 times in their history, the most in the AUS, and have competed at the U Sports championships 10 of the last 15 years.

“We made history at the 2011 CIS championships by securing the firstever silver medal for an AUS team, as well winning a bronze medal in 2013 and a fourth place finish in 2015.”

Prof. Gallant says as soccer, rugby and hockey achieved varsity status, the move to greater equity in men’s and women’s sport was underway and long overdue. While budgets were always tight at the time, the university decided to fund these sports to the best of their ability.

Prof. Gallant says annual discussions among the coaches of female teams, as well as at the athletic advisory committee level, were often about the allocation of leadership awards, precursors of athletic scholarships. Women’s teams for the most part did not have access to these awards.

She says while Dr. Carson Duncan was overseeing the administration of athletics on campus in the late 1990s and early 2000s, slowly but surely steps were taken to address the imbalance in allocating scholarships between male and female teams.

Despite the growth in women’s sports on campus, Prof. Gallant says there still exists systemic problems throughout female sport at all levels that must always be considered.

“The sexualization of the female athlete, lack of female coaches, problems with attracting and maintaining females to coaching, inadequate and poor media coverage, difficulty in attracting sponsorship, poor spectatorship, trash talk, and hazing are but a few.

Although many of these concerns are not unique to women’s sport and may exist on the male side of the program, they are more prominent in girl’s and women’s sport.”

What more should be done to help promote women’s sports?

“I would like to see the mentoring of our female athletes to enter the coaching milieu. Also our female athletes should be celebrated as role models. The university should promote the benefits of sports for women and support the positive experience of sport participation for our athletes. Winning a championship is wonderful, but that is not and should not be the only goal for our teams. The educational experience and leadership training received through sport participation should continue to be emphasized.”

PATRICIA (MACDOUGALL) WHITE ’97 Patricia was a standout with the X-Women soccer team for five seasons (1993-97). The 1993 AUAA rookie of the year, she went on to earn AUAA all-star status three times, and was named the 1996 AUAA MVP. She was honoured twice as a CIAU All-Canadian as she captained the X-Women team for two seasons and also lent her talents to the X-Women hockey team.

DIANE ORSINI ’71 Diane, a tremendous basketball player, entered the StFX Hall of Fame as a three-time team most valuable player, two-time team high scorer, and one-time league high scorer. Diane was a team leader and role model, and X-Women basketball captain for three years. To acknowledge her outstanding four year athletic contribution, she was the inaugural recipient of the StFX athletic ring, now StFX’s female athlete of the year award.

Peggy Gallant ’69

AS STFX WOMEN’S VARSITY ATHLETICS CELEBRATES 50 YEARS, HERE’S A LOOK BACK AT SOME HISTORY, HIGHLIGHTS AND QUIRKY FACTS: QUIRKY FACTS • Isn’t it odd? All six X-Women Rugby national championship titles have been won in even-numbered years—2006, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016 and most recently in 2018.

• Successful decade—the X-Women Cross Country team won seven AUS conference titles from 2000 to 2010 under the direction of head coach Bernie Chisholm, and won the CIS national bronze medal in 2007.

• In the 22 year existence of the AUS women’s hockey league, the X-Women have won more conference titles (10) than any other school.

• In the 21 year history of the AUS women’s rugby league, the X-Women have been crowned conference champions every year with the exception of 2015.

Under the direction of head coach Mike Cavanagh, the X-Women have only lost an incredible four games in AUS rugby regular season and playoff competition over the past 20 years! In 125 games played (119-4-2) that’s an impressive 95.2 win percentage!

• StFX hosted the 2006, 2009 and 2010 CIS women’s hockey national championships and the 2012 CIS women’s rugby championship to sold-out crowds.

• The 2011 X-Women became the first AUS women’s hockey team to take home a national CIS medal when they claimed silver.

• In 2017 the X-Women curling team won the first ever AUS curling championship for StFX.

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PRESIDENT’S CLUB GALA 2019 Two words. Thank you.

That was the simple, yet heartfelt message shared at the 45th annual President’s Club Gala, held June 1, 2019 at the Charles V. Keating Centre, both to supporters and friends of StFX and to Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93 who finishes his term as StFX President and Vice-Chancellor in July.

During the gala evening, which annually celebrates and thanks supporters, StFX recognized President’s Club members who have reached new 10-year, 20-year, and lifetime milestones.

This year, the evening also included a special tribute to Dr. MacDonald, who led StFX for the past five years.

“Tonight, we express our deep gratitude to you, whose generosity makes it possible for StFX to remain one of Canada’s finest universities,” Murray Kyte ’87, Vice President, Advancement and the evening’s master of ceremonies, said in opening remarks.

Director of Development Wendy Langley ’92, who led the recognition of new patrons during the ceremony, spoke of how truly blessed StFX is to enjoy the friendship and support of so many. “Thank you for all that you do for StFX,” she said as she noted the tremendous impact President’s Club members have made—since its inception members have donated over $184 million to StFX.

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THANK YOU, DR. MACDONALD

The night also celebrated Dr. MacDonald.

“It is of course bittersweet that we are using this evening to laud Kent’s accomplishments,” Board of Governors Chair Mike Boyd ’85 said as he paid tribute to Dr. MacDonald.

“StFX is a better place because of your hard work and leadership.”

Dr. MacDonald, who received a standing ovation both before and after his remarks, highlighted accomplishments from the past year, and had his own thanks to share. In particular he recognized the continuing support of donors for all they do for the university.

He also thanked members of the clergy, the Sisters of St. Martha, the Congregation of Notre Dame, alumni leaders, faculty, staff, students, the Board of Governors, the university’s leadership team, and his family.

Mr. Kyte also thanked Bishop Brian Dunn, Vicar of the Founder and StFX Board of Governors member, who will also depart Antigonish as he was recently named by His Holiness, Pope Francis, as Coadjutor Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Halifax-Yarmouth.

Highlights during the evening included a musical performance

by Shane Arsenault ’19, a display of art from the StFX’s permanent collection, and a rousing, trademark “Go X Go!” cheer led by Fr. Stan MacDonald ’54, himself recognized as a new 10-Year Xaverian Patron.

STFX CELEBRATES SUPPORTERS AND FRIENDS, HONOURS OUTGOING PRESIDENT DR. KENT MACDONALD, AT 45TH ANNUAL PRESIDENT’S CLUB GALA

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STFX THANKS, SAYS FAREWELL TO ITS 18TH PRESIDENT,

DR. KENT MACDONALD The StFX community is bidding farewell to its 18th President, Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93, who finishes his term in July 2019.

Dr. MacDonald’s accomplishments during his five year tenure as president are many, says StFX Board of Governors Chair Mike Boyd ’85.

“Kent has dedicated himself tirelessly to leading StFX and has done a tremendous job in the role as president. His strengths are many, yet one that stands out for me has been his ability to personally connect and communicate with our students, a group that he cares deeply for,” Mr. Boyd says. “This was reflected in his decision to create and launch the Xaverian Fund—a $50 million endowment for student scholarships and bursaries which, in part, has increased access to higher education for those who could not afford such an opportunity.”

Mr. Boyd says Dr. MacDonald and his team have had significant accomplishments, including establishing the university's 2017-2022 Strategic Plan; supporting the development and launching of new academic programs; launching the $110 million Xaverian Commons Project to improve academic and social spaces on campus; bringing the Brian Mulroney Institute of Government to fruition; and, most recently, balancing the university's budget.

“On behalf of the entire StFX community, I thank Kent for his leadership and unwavering dedication to this wonderful institution.

He is a true Xaverian and I know he will continue to be a great friend

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and supporter of StFX in the future,” Mr. Boyd said.

“I am very proud to have been president during a time when we launched new and exciting academic programs—the lifeblood of any educational institution—and have raised millions of dollars to help underwrite critical university priorities,” Dr. MacDonald said.

Dr. MacDonald spoke of many personal highlights during his time as president, including witnessing the first cohort of students to receive scholarships and bursaries from the Jeannine Deveau Educational Equity Endowment Fund; seeing nursing faculty and staff move into the Elizabeth and Tom Rankin School of Nursing; working closely with donors and the Students’ Union to begin the creation of the Amelia Saputo Centre for Healthy Living; hosting the President’s Colloquium series in StFX residences; and after years of effort, securing a multi-million annual increase to StFX’s operating budget from the Province of Nova Scotia.

“However, my proudest achievement during my time at StFX,” he says, “was the creation of the Xaverian Fund, a $50 million endowment for StFX student scholarships and bursaries. Five years ago, that goal was unimaginable. Yet we dared ourselves to dream big.

Today, we have almost achieved our goal. Many have given in support of our students, yet I hope more will continue to do so; access to StFX’s quality education and outstanding learning environment changes lives and communities.”

CELEBRATING NEW HORIZONS STFX GRADUATES OVER 900; AWARDS HONORARY DEGREES TO DR. STAN KUTCHER, CONGREGATION DE NOTRE-DAME. Work hard. Have fun. Try to make the world a better place.

That was one of the messages shared with members of the Class of 2019 on May 5 as StFX graduated over 900 students during morning and afternoon ceremonies at Spring Convocation held at the Charles V. Keating Centre.

StFX also awarded two honorary degrees. Dr. Stan Kutcher, a leading psychiatrist and professor, and member of the Senate of Canada, was honoured for his work in helping manage major mental illnesses in youth, while the Congrégation de Notre-Dame (CND) was recognized for its work in the value of liberating education to create a more just society.

A number of faculty were also honoured, including the designation of Professor Emeritus bestowed upon psychology faculty Dr. Peter Henke and Dr. John Edwards; the Outstanding Teaching Award presented to education faculty Dr. Jennifer Mitton-Kükner and Dr.

Chris Gilham, and psychology professor Dr. Karen Blair; and the President’s Research Award to English professor Dr. Mathias Nilges.

“To the Class of 2019, what can I say, you have been an exceptional group of students,” President Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93 said as he extended a warm StFX welcome to all.

In officially opening convocation, StFX Chancellor John Peacock ’63 extended his sincere congratulations, and asked graduates to consider StFX’s long tradition of social justice. “My hope is that in addition to whatever occupation you take up, you give thoughtful consideration to how you too can make a difference in helping with some of the challenges we face in society today.”

Senior class speakers included Sarah Comandante of Calgary, AB and Karen Nembhard of Jamaica.

Laurie Oakes ’79, ’80 brought greetings on behalf of the StFX Alumni Association.

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CAMPUS NEWS STFX STUDENTS LEAD PANEL DISCUSSION AT WUSC INTERNATIONAL FORUM

ENGLISH PROFESSOR RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS INTERNATIONAL HONOUR

L-r, Travis Radtke, Angelique Gakulu, Dr. Maria Soledad Paz-MacKay, Priscilla Panchol and Kristen Stephens StFX students, making change in their communities and on campus, participated in two panel discussions when they attended the World University Service of Canada’s (WUSC) annual International Forum in Ottawa, ON January 25-27, 2019. Attending the forum were StFX WUSC president Kristen Stephens, WUSC treasurer Travis Radtke, Carter Julius, Priscilla Panchol and Angelique Gakulu along with StFX modern languages professor and WUSC faculty advisor Dr. Maria Soledad Paz-Mackay. The success of the first StFX Refugee Awareness Day, which the WUSC group co-organized on campus on Nov. 20, 2018, led organizers of the national event to request the StFX group take part in a plenary session.

Development studies student Priscilla Panchol of Kenya, who came to StFX through WUSC, also took part in another panel presentation.

PHILOSOPHY PROFESSOR’S BOOK A FINALIST FOR PRESTIGIOUS PROSE AWARD

Dr. Maureen Moynagh The excellence of StFX English professor Dr. Maureen Moynagh’s scholarly work has been recognized with a prestigious international award for her essay published in the African American Review. Her article, “Speculative Pasts and Afro-Futures: Nalo Hopkinson’s Trans-American Imaginary,” was singled out as the best of the year, receiving The Joe Weixlmann Prize for the Year’s Best Essay in 20th and 21st Century African American Literature in the African American Review.

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W E L L S P R I N G 25TH ANNIVERSARY

StFX philosophy professor Dr. Christopher Byrne has been recognized internationally for the quality of his scholarship. Dr. Byrne’s new book, Aristotle’s Science of Matter and Motion, published by the University of Toronto Press in 2018, has been named a finalist in the philosophy section of the PROSE (Professional Scholarly Excellence) awards for 2019 given out by the Association of American Publishers. These awards honour scholarly work of extraordinary merit that make a significant contribution to a field of study in a given year.

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Wellspring Centre is marking a major milestone—its 25th anniversary on campus. To celebrate, Wellspring is looking to collect your favorite stories to display at their anniversary celebration!

Please send 250-500 words maximum submissions to akolen@stfx.ca before September 1, 2019

RENOWNED EDUCATOR DELIVERS NINTH ANNUAL AGNES CALLISTE AFRICAN HERITAGE LECTURE

STFX STUDENTS AWARDED SCHOLARSHIPS TO STUDY AT NETHERLANDS PARTNER UNIVERSITY

StFX students, l-r, Iris Magill and Brenna Wilson Dr. George Sefa Dei Dr. George Sefa Dei, considered by many as one of Canada’s foremost scholars on critical race and anti-racism studies, delivered the ninth annual StFX Agnes Calliste African Heritage Lecture on Feb. 28. His address was entitled “Black Like Me: Reframing Blackness for Decolonial Politics.”

The annual lecture is organized by StFX’s Department of Sociology in honour of the late Dr. Agnes Calliste, a retired StFX sociology professor who left an impressive legacy at the school where she worked for nearly 30 years.

Brenna Wilson and Iris Magill are looking forward to a unique new international study opportunity in the Netherlands at StFX partner exchange university, HAN University of Technology—as scholarship recipients. The two StFX human kinetics students have each received the HAN University of Technology Summer Program Scholarship, valued at €1,620 or $2,445 CAD, that offers StFX students the opportunity to study at the HAN Faculty of Health and Social Studies for their 2019 Summer School: Health, Social Work and Sport.

FIRST ANNUAL SR. MARGARET MACDONELL PRIZE IN GAELIC POETRY

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

The StFX Alumni Association is currently looking for two at-large members to sit on their council.

For more information or to express your interest, please email Shanna Hopkins, shopkins@stfx.ca

OCT. 4-6, 2019

Celtic Studies chair Dr. Michael Linkletter ’95 (right) presents the inaugural Sister Margaret MacDonell Prize in Gaelic Poetry to first prize recipient Brìan MacLeòid ’17 (middle) and second prize winner Goiridh Dòmhnullach ’92. Deborah Moffatt (not pictured) received third prize.

StFX’s Department of Celtic Studies, in partnership with the Clan Donald Lands Trust from Scotland, has announced an annual Gaelic poetry competition named in honour of Sister Margaret MacDonell ’54, CND, former department chair and lifelong Gaelic champion.

Celtic Studies chair Dr. Michael Linkletter ’95 says Clan Donald Lands Trust wanted to sponsor a poetry prize in North America and thought StFX’s Celtic Studies Department should host it. “They like to name their prizes after prominent members of Clan Donald, so I suggested Sister Margaret MacDonell. She is a native Gaelic speaker from Judique, Cape Breton, is professor emerita in Celtic Studies at StFX, and has a PhD in Celtic Languages and Literatures from Harvard University. She is well known for her publications on Gaelic poetry in North America, including her highly regarded book The Emigrant Experience: Songs of Highland Emigrants in North America.”

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ATHLETICS JOANNA ALPHONSO AND KAION JULIEN-GRANT NAMED 2019 STUDENT-ATHLETES OF THE YEAR

X-Men football receiver Kaion Julien-Grant and X-Women rugby prop Joanna Alphonso accept the 2019 StFX Student-Athlete of the Year awards.

Joanna Alphonso is an education student from Ajax, ON who wrapped up a five year career with the X-Women rugby team, earning AUS all-star status for the fifth consecutive year and receiving honours as a U SPORTS All-Canadian for the fourth consecutive time. A co-captain on the X-Women squad that took home their sixth national championship banner, she has won three U SPORTS national gold medals, one bronze medal and four AUS championship titles, and was the AUS most valuable player in 2017, 2016 and 2015. She earned U SPORTS tournament all-star status for the second time this past fall and finishes her career sixth on the AUS all-time career scoring list with 195 points.

Kaion Julien-Grant is a fourth year human kinetics student from Toronto, ON. A receiver/returner on the X-Men football team, he led the AUS conference this season in receptions (49), receiving yards (638) and receiving touchdowns (five). He was honoured as the AUS conference MVP as he helped the X-Men win their third AUS championship title in the past four years. A conference all-star as both a receiver and a kick returner, he received U SPORTS first team all-Canadian recognition on both offense and special teams, his third consecutive time being named a first team all-Canadian.

In four seasons played, he now sits sixth in the AUS record books in career all-purpose yards (4,563) - more than any player in StFX school history.

STFX COMMUNITY X-CELLENCE AWARD WINNERS The recipients of the 2019 StFX Community X-Cellence awards were Kelsey Ellis (X-Women soccer) and Riley Jennings (X-Men track & field) in recognition of their outstanding community initiative and involvement, volunteer experience and extracurricular contributions outside of their varsity and academic experiences.

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ATHLETICS

HOCKEY, BASKETBALL AND TRACK & FIELD TEAMS WRAP UP SEASONS

The X-Men hockey team had a lengthy playoff run that saw them defeat Acadia in the AUS quarterfinals and Saint Mary’s in the semi-finals before bowing out to UNB in the conference championship series. The X-Men lost to the same UNB squad in the U SPORTS national semi-final game, but regrouped to defeat Saskatchewan 5-1 to bring home the U SPORTS bronze medal.

The X-Women hockey team finished second in the AUS conference in regular season play and went on to defeat Saint Mary’s in the semi-final playoff series. In a close championship final series with St. Thomas, the X-Women lost two games to one and did not advance to the national championship.

The X-Men basketball team finished fifth in AUS regular season play and advanced to the AUS quarterfinal game but fell to rival Cape Breton. The X-Women basketball team failed to make their AUS playoffs this season.

The X-Women track & field team placed second at their respective AUS championship, while the X-Men track & field team was third overall. StFX athletes won five individual and four relay AUS track & field events at the conference championship and took home a total of 26 medals.

CELEBRATING ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

StFX Athletics had a record-high 96 U SPORTS Academic All-Canadians for the 2017-18 season—those student-athletes who have achieved an 80 per cent average or above while consuming a year of eligibility competing for a varsity team.

StFX Director of Athletics & Recreation Leo MacPherson ’89 noted, “These Academic All-Canadians are masters at balancing a demanding varsity sport commitment and community outreach

activities, while at the same time achieving excellence in their academic endeavors. Their accomplishments are very impressive.”

The Athletics Director’s awards for academic achievement, presented to the top StFX male and female academic student-athletes were Amy Graham from the X-Women hockey team and Rhodes Scholar Liam Elbourne from the X-Men soccer team.

StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

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STFX COADY INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE

Katie Fleming: Classmates and friends of Katherine Fleming ’85 worked with her family members to establish the Katherine Fleming International Development Award at Coady International Institute. Coady will celebrate 20 years of the award at Homecoming 2019

Katherine Fleming’s brother, George Fleming Jr., and son, Alex Zutt present Grace Arach the 2018 Katherine Fleming International Development Award at Coady International Institute.

Idah Nambeya was the 2005 recipient of the Katherine Fleming International Development Award from Coady International Institute.

KATHERINE FLEMING AWARD TURNS 20 As a 2005 Coady International Institute graduate, Idah Nambeya has fond memories of her time at StFX, especially Homecoming celebrations. At that year’s Coffee with Coady event, Ms. Nambeya received the Katherine Fleming International Development Award while studying in the institute’s Diploma in Development Leadership program.

“I feel honoured for that and will forever appreciate Coady,” Ms. Nambeya says.

“The award made it possible for me to have an opportunity and gain the knowledge I gained.”

Katherine (Katie) Fleming ’85 died at her home in Tanzania in May 1999 at age 35. Ms. Fleming had dedicated her life’s work to overcoming child poverty in Africa.

At the time of her death, she worked for the United Nations Children’s Fund.

Ms. Fleming’s family and StFX classmates established the award, which annually grants a bursary to a deserving woman leader from Africa to attend a program at Coady.

Dave Bernatchez ’85 and Kevin McGilly ’86 were among those who reached out to Ms. Fleming’s family to ask about

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organizing a memorial tribute.

“It was felt that this would be one of the best ways to continue the work to which Katie had dedicated her life,” Mr. Bernatchez says. Ms. Fleming’s commitment and passion toward economic empowerment of women and children began while she was at StFX. Mr. Bernatchez says she was a natural leader willing to take on serious issues and was involved in University Senate and Students’ Union.

“Katie was very knowledgeable about social justice and global issues and took it upon herself to make others aware, and encourage action to address them,” he says.

“These were part of her studies, but also came from the mentorship of Father [Edo] Gatto and other professors at the university.”

Mr. McGilly wrote a tribute to Ms. Fleming in the fall 1999 StFX AlumniNews. He described how Coady and the Antigonish Movement were her inspiration. As a Rhodes Scholar, she continued her studies in economic development. Later she worked as an assistant to Stephen Lewis, then serving as Canada’s Ambassador to the United Nations, before joining UNICEF. Twenty years later, the bursary has

supported 19 African women who, like Ms. Fleming, have a passion for social justice and are leaders in their communities.

Mr. Bernatchez says those involved in establishing the award, and helping it to grow as the costs of education increase, wanted to ensure that Ms. Fleming’s life story, “her qualities, character, her deeds and achievements, continue to inspire young people at StFX, at Coady, and beyond.

“Each [recipient] has been an exceptional person, doing great things for their communities and the causes they have championed. Hearing their stories, and what the award means to them, inspires us, and gives us some satisfaction that our efforts to honour Katie by enabling others, has been achieved.”

Coady International Institute will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Katie Fleming Award during Homecoming 2019.

To learn more, or to contribute to the Katherine Fleming International Development Award, email ltinkham@stfx.ca or call 902-222-4983.

DIPLOMA IN

ADULT EDUCATION National Program of Excellence

Canadian Association University Continuing Education

DUE TO ALL THE CHANGES BEING IMPLEMENTED BY CANADA POST

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

Excellence is what St. Francis Xavier University’s Diploma in Adult Education is all about. It is the #1 choice among adult educators and HRD professionals. Now in our 38th year.

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

Our 2019 schedule includes Halifax, Ottawa, Toronto, Winnipeg, Regina and Calgary.

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

BE SURE YOUR MAILING ADDRESS IS CORRECT WITHIN OUR SYSTEM.

ALUMNI@STFX.CA

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W E L L S P R I N G 25TH ANNIVERSARY

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

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

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

Wellspring Centre is marking a major milestone— its 25th anniversary on campus. To celebrate, Wellspring is looking to collect your favorite stories to display at their anniversary celebration!

Please send 250-500 words maximum submissions to akolen@stfx.ca before September 1, 2019

Thank you! The air feels fresher already!

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

The StFX Alumni Association is currently looking for two at-large members to sit on their council.

For more information or to express your interest, please email Shanna Hopkins, shopkins@stfx.ca

StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

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LETTERS

X-RINGS AROUND THE WORLD

GREETINGS FROM EGYPT Maria Gillan ’06 ’17, a M.Ed. graduate with a focus in nursing and health education, is pictured here in Marsa Alam, Egypt. “You never know where those X-Rings will find themselves,” she says.

LORDS OF THE RING L-r, Sid Taylor ’74, Barb (Gillis) Taylor ’76, Eileen (Foley) MacDonald ’74 ’75 and Bob MacDonald ’76 stopped in front of Mt. Ngauruhoe (Mount Doom from the Lord of the Rings series) to display another famous ring. They were doing the 20km Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike in New Zealand when they stopped for the X-Ring photo op.

THANKS TO STFX, A COMMUNITY OF CARE Dear Xaverian community, I have often thought about what to say to all those who honoured Kevin (Fraser). Ironically, it was very difficult to find words to describe the effect the outpouring of support had on our family, especially since Kevin was never at a loss for words. Although our lives have been considerably altered, there is some solace in knowing the impact Kevin had on others during his time at StFX. During this challenging time, StFX has demonstrated that it is a community of care. The number of people who donated to Kevin’s Corner, sent us messages, wrote cards and supported us, made it clear how important he was to many of you. Receiving the honorary X-Ring and attending the ceremony in Kevin’s honour was something I will always remember. Knowing that he was valued by others as much as we valued him brings us some peace. Kevin truly did live the values of StFX, integrity, dignity, truth, and respect for all. His connection to the community was obvious in the number of hearts he reached and the relationships he built with many of you. Kevin had no idea the influence he had on the lives of others, which truly does make him a Xaverian at heart. We wanted to take the time to thank all of you for recognizing Kevin, supporting us, and bringing us into the Xaverian family. We will be forever grateful and connected to the university. Most importantly we want to thank you for making his time at StFX something he loved, and for being his friends.

Quaecumque Sunt Vera,

HELLO FROM BALI Scott MacDonald ’76 is pictured here during his recent trip to Bali.

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Anne Armstrong The Armstrong and Fraser families​

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION UPDATE l MARC RODRIGUE ’08, PRESIDENT

THE LEADER WITHIN Just over 125 years ago, some of the first graduates of St. Francis Xavier University met in Antigonish one weekend for the purposes of discussing how alumni could give back to their alma mater. As the record tells us, they shared stories, shared laughs, and shared an indelible love for the people of StFX and its potential. Before leaving that weekend, those in attendance founded the St. Francis Xavier University Alumni Association, an organization and network I am proud to be a part of today.

As we chart our course through the next 125 years, we recognize that nothing is inevitable: not the founding and success of StFX, not the growth of the university into an internationally-recognized institution, not the foresight of its tremendous leaders, and not the ongoing support and strength of our alumni network. It has taken the hard work and leadership of so many throughout history. And as it has since its founding, the association has been a key partner to the university, and a part of its successes—raising funds, bringing new

students to Antigonish, and keeping Xaverians connected coast to coast to coast, and around the world.

For our part, we thank all alumni who have taken the time to give back, and to donate their time and support to our association. From our past presidents, including our immediate past president Glenn Horne ’07 ’08, to our Alumni Council members, to our chapter presidents and executives and volunteers, these outstanding Xaverians have left us a legacy to sustain and to build, and we are excited to do so.

This past year, in recognition of that legacy, the Alumni Council has made its biggest ever gift to the university. As part of a new upper campus commons project, Alumni Plaza, commemorating alumni and the Alumni Association, will overlook StFX Stadium from beside Nicholson Tower.

We invite you all to join us at its official opening this Homecoming, and to join in the legacy by contributing to the Alumni Association today.

Marc Rodrigue ’08

On a final note, on behalf of the Alumni Association, I wish to thank and recognize the tireless efforts of StFX’s outgoing president, Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93.

Dr. MacDonald has been a true friend and valued partner of the association, and an alumnus of whom we are all tremendously proud. We wish him the very best on the next stage of his career and commend him on adding a vibrant and inspiring legacy for our current and future Xaverians.

Hail and Health!

Marc Rodrigue ’08 President, StFX Alumni Association X

FROM ALUMNI AFFAIRS l SHANNA HOPKINS ’01, DIRECTOR

SMILE, YOU’RE AT X

June 28 marks a significant day of change in the Aker family, says Shanna, as “our mother Jane Aker works her last day on campus.” For 45 years, Jane assisted and guided thousands of students at StFX, her second home. Pictured when Jane received the honorary X-Ring in 2016, are l-r, Jeff Hopkins, Shanna Hopkins ‘01, Jane Aker ‘16, Bub Aker, Shirlyn Donovan ‘05 and Sean Donovan ‘09 ‘11.

As the song goes, “The times they are a changin’.” Since returning back to campus in the fall, one of the first things I noticed was I no longer remembered campus like I thought I did. I mean, I recognized most of the buildings, but there were new ones too, and departments and offices that had moved locations. When I left StFX,

Somers Hall and Power Hall were the new residences and the Keating Centre was the newest building on campus. Over the past 18 years, buildings may have changed, some staff and faculty may have changed, but I’ve found that there are so many things that have remained the same. I am talking about the reasons that we chose to

come here and why we love StFX: the small class sizes, the staff and faculty who know you by name, the social opportunities that exist both on campus and in the community, and the academic and athletic excellence. It only takes a quick stroll around campus to bring back the flooding nostalgic feelings and you instantly smile because you are back at X. This fall, StFX will officially open the doors to the Brian Mulroney Institute of Government, a building that will totally transform the appearance of campus. Homecoming 2019 will also mark the official opening of the Alumni Flag Plaza. We’ll be hosting the official flag raising for the plaza on Saturday, Oct. 5 at 11 a.m., and if you’re planning to be back on campus, we invite you to join us.

Hail and Health!

Shanna Hopkins ‘01 Director, Alumni Affairs X StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

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ALUMNI HAPPENINGS

2019 ALUMNI RECOGNITION AWARD WINNERS

Katelynn D’Albertanson, 1st Year

Victoria Morley, 2nd Year

Megan Fraser, 3rd Year

Liam Elbourne ’19, 4th Year

Congratulations to Katelynn D’Albertanson, Kelowna BC; Victoria Morley, Collingwood, ON; Megan Fraser, Pictou County, NS; and Liam Elbourne from Halifax, NS, who have been selected as the 2019 recipients of the annual Alumni Recognition Awards. Each student wrote an inspiring essay about their road to StFX, their involvement within StFX and the local community, and the influence they believe StFX will have on their life after graduation.

ALUMNI PLAZA This fall, at Homecoming 2019, we will officially open our Alumni Plaza. The plaza will be located on upper campus just outside of the Nicholson Tower and Bloomfield Centre area and will become a gathering place for students for years to come. If you plan to be on campus for Homecoming, we would love to have you for our official opening on Saturday, October 5th at 11 a.m.

ALUMNI CHAPTER PRESIDENTS – REGIONAL MEETING

In June, we hosted our StFX Alumni Association Council along with our chapter presidents from Atlantic Canada on campus. These groups met for two days to share best practices and get updates from different campus departments so that they can be informed with the most up-to-date information when they host alumni events. The chapter presidents met with members of StFX’s Development and Recruitment teams as well as this year’s incoming Senior Class co-presidents Taylor Kennah and Jonas Lawrence as well as incoming Students’ Union president, Cecil Vanbuskirk. The alumni groups concluded their visit back to campus by attending the 2019 President’s Gala, an event that honours our donors, but also this year provided us the perfect backdrop to formally say good-bye to Dr. Kent MacDonald ’86 ’93.

PRESIDENT’S RECEPTIONS This year we visited our nation’s capital just in the midst of Winterlude. We had a fabulous turn-out of alumni and friends who joined us for a reception at Dow’s Lake. We heard campus updates from Dr. Kent MacDonald followed by an impromptu singing of Hail and Health led by Deacon Al Ritchie ‘63. In April, we ventured west to celebrate with our alumni in Edmonton, AB at a reception hosted by Roger ’86 and Jane ’88 Smith. After Spring Convocation wrapped up, we took to the roads and concluded our President’s Receptions for the season. We had three great evenings with alumni, friends and prospective students as we visited Charlottetown, Saint John and Fredericton. All three events were filled with great conversations, sharing of many memories and stories, and expressing our gratitude for all that Dr. Kent MacDonald has done for StFX throughout his five year term. On behalf of our alumni worldwide, we wish both he and Mary-Ellen the best of luck in the future! President’s Reception photos are on page 37.

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StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

2019 HALL OF HONOUR

Dr. Leo H. Killorn Sr. ’45

Walter Edward Chambers ’68

Helen Castle ’56

Basil Ludlow ’69

The StFX Hall of Honour recognizes members of the StFX community who have carried on the StFX tradition of helping others. The Hall of Honour serves as an inspiration to current students to ensure this StFX tradition continues.

The 2019 inductees Dr. Leo H. Killorn Sr. ’45, Walter Edward Chambers ’68, Helen Castle ’56 and Basil Ludlow ’69 have promoted StFX and its ideals through involvement in their communities.

Join us on Saturday, October 5, 2019 during our annual Homecoming celebration, as we honour these worthy recipients.

SOMETHING FOR

EVERYONE AT HOMECOMING 2019

WELCOME HOME DINNER SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2019

Whether it’s your reunion year or not, be sure to include the Welcome Home Dinner in your plans for this fall. Catch up with old friends and rediscover your X-Spirit on campus. Enjoy a lovely meal and great atmosphere in the Keating Centre.

WELCOME HOME DINNER 6 pm Reception • 7 pm Dinner • 9 pm Pub Night featuring Terry Kelly Welcom Home tickets are $50 each, includes Terry Kelly Pub Night Pub Night Tickets only $10. Limited tickets available

THE PRESTIGIOUS ALUMNI AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE WILL BE PRESENTED AT THE WELCOME HOME DINNER.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION EASTERN CAPE BRETON

Ashley Ward ’04 Young Alumna of the Year

Archbishop Martin William Currie ’64 Distinguished Alumnus of the Year

Wellspring Friend of StFX

Linda MacDonald Xaverian Spirit Award

Eastern Cape Breton Chapter of the Year

TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS: (902) 867-2186 | alumni@stfx.ca | www.stfx.ca/alumni StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

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CHAPTER NEWS

EASTERN CAPE BRETON

CONNECTING WITH FELLOW XAVERIANS The StFX alumni community prides itself on the ability to connect alumni around the world and, in turn, keep the StFX spirit alive anywhere that alumni gather. This is apparent as our chapters host events small and large in an effort to keep alumni engaged with the university. We are so grateful for the many volunteers that make chapter events and initiatives happen. If you are feeling homesick for StFX, consider reaching out to your local chapter, they would love to hear from you.

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

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STRAIT HIGHLANDS, NS On December 3rd, the Feast of St. Francis Xavier, Morag Graham ’68 hosted a gala evening for the Strait Highlands alumni chapter at her home in Judique. The evening began with mass, concelebrated by Father Allan MacMillan ’91 and Father Gene Morris ’91. Music was provided by Cathy Hawley ’64 and Bill MacDonald. Readings were by Marion Graham ’67 and Donald Holder ’90.

Following mass, the alumni prayer was read in unison. Next was a rousing rendition of the Hail and Health song led by Fr. MacMillan. A Nova Scotia tartan blanket, donated by the university, was raffled, which resulted in raising $200, which will provide a bursary for a student from the area who will attend StFX. It was a lovely get-together where everyone reminisced and caught up with everyone’s current news.

Flo Campbell ’83 ’84 ‘05

TORONTO TORONTO, ON Our Toronto alumni got a little taste of the East Coast when the Trews came to visit in February! We enjoyed a fun-filled evening at the Danforth Music Hall, reminiscent for some of our attendees to the Trews rocking Orientation Week at X not too many years ago. With summer in full swing, look for our annual outing to the Rogers Centre for a Blue Jays game, and the always-exciting student send-off in August. The chapter is pleased to welcome new and returning executive team members, including our new VPs, John Whelly ’11 and Keegan Whelly ’11. We’re looking forward to many more fun times in Toronto with our X Alumni and friends. Have an event idea or want to get involved with the chapter?

Send us an email: stfxtoronto@gmail.com.

On behalf of all the Toronto X alumni, congratulations to the Class of 2019!

YUKON A cross section of alumni from Whitehorse were joined by Matthew Went ’01 from Faro, who happened to be in town to celebrate StFX Day as well as his birthday!

Also congratulations and thanks to Stephen Roddick ’07 on his election to City Council.

Thanks also to those alumni who came out in support of Braeburn Lake Summer Camp as “X-Men” characters for the Winterval Santa Claus Parade on December 8. I hope that blue dye came out ok! The Federal Minister of Rural Economic Development, the Honourable Bernadette (O’Hagan) Jordan ’84, made a visit to the Yukon in early March to announce joint federal and territorial funding for highway improvements. A small, but dedicated StFX welcoming committee was able to assist Minister Jordan and a few other delegates in their brief, but productive visit north. A good time was had by all.

Nancy Ling ’05

James Mooney ’88

STRAIT HIGHLANDS

AMHERST, NS/SACKVILLE, NB Area alumni gathered on December 2nd, 2018 to celebrate the Feast of St. Francis Xavier, as they have each year for the past 20 years! Our numbers and faces vary from one gathering to the next, but our spirit and dedication to connecting with our Xaverian family holds true. As always, we shared food and drink, stories and news exchanges, fun and laughter. We even got a jump on planning our summer send-off event, so stay tuned for gathering invitations local alumni, new incoming Xaverians and your families! Pictured in the photo are, l-r, Blaise Dobbin ’90, Michelle (MacGillivray) Dobbin ’91, Veronica Richards ’87, Brandon McLellan ’17, Barry Anderson ’68 and David Milner ’66.

Blaise Dobbin ’90 Barry Anderson ’68

YUKON StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

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CHAPTER NEWS

OTTAWA OTTAWA, ON After a successful StFX Day, which included a pub night with 50+ in attendance and a mass at St. Patrick’s Basilica, the Ottawa alumni chapter and its newly appointed executive have been busy planning lots of activities for the upcoming year. In February, we welcomed StFX President Dr. Kent MacDonald to a well-attended President’s Reception at Dow’s Lake. We hosted alumni and friends ranging from grad years in the ’50s to ’18, in addition to parents of current students. Plans are well underway for the summer, including a boat cruise along the Ottawa River on June 22, and the annual golf tournament on July 8. If you are looking to get involved or require any information on chapter activities, please send us an email! We can be reached at ottawachapter@stfx.ca. You can also

AMHERST/SACKVILLE

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StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

follow us on Facebook (StFX AlumniOttawa Chapter (Official)), Twitter (@ StfxOttawaAlum) and Instagram (stfxottawachapter) to stay up-to-date on chapter news and events. Hail and Health!

Zak Lewis ’14 & Kathleen Sheridan ’15 MANITOBA Five Manitoba alumni (and guests) gathered on Sunday, December 2, 2018 to attend the “MANDELA Struggle for Freedom/Lutte pour la liberté” exhibition at the Canadian Museum of Human Rights in Winnipeg.

Pictured enjoying the afternoon event, l-r, Marie Lacey ’85, Kennedy MacLean ’69, Joan (MacDonald) Pawlikewich ’65, Michelle Tomchak ’87 and Guy Roy ’65.

MANITOBA LONDON, ON Members of the London alumni chapter enjoyed an intimate, but energetic St. Francis Xavier Day dinner on the Feast Day itself, Monday, December 3rd at a local Kelsey’s Restaurant. It was a wonderful occasion to recount stories of our X-days and to reconnect with old friends and new.

Members took this opportunity to thank Roger Campbell ’89 outgoing president of the London alumni chapter for his six years of dedicated service to our chapter.

Hail & Health, Dan Belliveau ’88

Marie Lacey ’85

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

PRESIDENT’S RECEPTIONS OTTAWA CHARLOTTETOWN

SAINT JOHN EDMONTON

FREDERICTON

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ALEXIS MACDONALD JOINS STFX DEVELOPMENT TEAM

The StFX Development Office is pleased to announce that Alexis MacDonald ’99 has joined the team as the Senior Development Executive based out of Toronto, ON, where she is focused on meeting StFX’s alumni and prospective donors across Ontario and beyond.

Alexis is a StFX alumna herself. She holds a Bachelor of Arts with first class honours in psychology from StFX, as well as a masters in public administration from Dalhousie University. As a StFX student, she was a recognized leader on campus, serving as Students’ Union vice president, Plessis residence director, and a member of the X-Women rugby team.

For the past 20 years, Alexis has dedicated her professional career to philanthropy, global issues, and women’s rights. She worked for several

years at the Coady International Institute running their internship program, then she moved to Toronto to work with Stephen Lewis, Canada’s former Ambassador to the United Nations. As the Director of External Relations, Alexis was instrumental in building one of Canada’s most reputable international charities, the Stephen Lewis Foundation, where she helped raise millions of dollars to support communitybased organizations in Africa responding to the HIV and AIDS crisis.

Alexis says her experience at StFX was life-changing. “StFX provided me the opportunity to learn how to become a woman leader and make the connections between what I was learning in the classroom and apply it to a global context. StFX’s offerings—like Immersion Service Learning—are unparalleled across Canada,” she says.

“We are thrilled to have Alexis back working for StFX. I know how special this university is to her, and she cannot wait to see and meet with alumni and friends of StFX who feel the same way,” says Director of Development Wendy Langley ’92.

In her new role, Alexis will seek out grads and non-grads alike, to explore meaningful ways to give back to the university and enable more students to be able to access this exceptional undergraduate experience.

“Giving to StFX makes a tangible impact. Whether you want to consider establishing a bursary or scholarship in your name, or in honour of someone, or learn how you could support a specific initiative that is close to your heart, I would love to have that conversation with you.”

Alexis MacDonald can be reached at (647) 884-2659 or by email at apmacdon@stfx.ca.

6THANK YOU!8 This calling term, StFX’s Annual Giving Program raised $495,000 through the generosity of our alumni, parents and friends—proof that each and every gift is important and can truly make a difference. I want to say a huge, heartfelt thank you to the thousands who participated.

Please know your generosity has a significant impact on the lives of both students today and the students of tomorrow. Every gift is greatly appreciated. Both I and the students employed through this important program look forward to chatting with you in the fall.

Donations to the Annual Giving Fund can be made anytime online at www.stfx.ca/give or by calling toll-free at 1-888-222-0227.

Hail and Health, Cathy Fraser ’94 Annual Giving Coordinator cfraser@stfx.ca

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

JULY 1-5, 2019 Classics for Classics, Antigonish, NS AUGUST 8, 2019 Alumni Reception, DiProfio Estate Wines, Jordan Station, ON OCTOBER 3, 2019 St. Martha's Alumni Annual Dinner, St. Ninian Place, Antigonish, NS Tickets can be purchased at Janet's Canteen, St. Martha's Hospital, Main Floor or from Janet Gottschall 902-863-9414.

Last date for ticket sales is Friday, September 27, 2019.

OCTOBER 4-6, 2019 Homecoming, Antigonish, NS

Distance Education Programs for

REGISTERED NURSES Applications are being accepted until June 30 for classes beginning in September. The Post RN-BScN program was awarded accreditation by the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN) in 2018.

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing • Certificate in Gerontological Nursing • Certificate in Continuing Care Nursing

OBITUARIES

• Stand alone Nursing Courses • N490 Forensic Nursing • N497 Computers in Nursing • N483 Hospice Palliative Care Nursing

Editor’s Note: This issue of the AlumniNews will be the last issue to feature slightly longer obituaries. We will continue to carry a list of deceased alumni in each issue.

JOAN GERALDINE MILLS ’46 StFX was saddened by the passing on December 23, 2018, of Joan Geraldine Mills, former nursing professor at StFX. Described as a dedicated professional and role model, she was recipient of an honorary life membership with the Atlantic Region of the Canadian Association of University Schools of Nursing; honorary membership in the Registered Nurses Association of Nova Scotia and the College of Registered Nurses of Nova Scotia; Certificate of Recognition for faithful years of service to St. Martha’s School of Nursing; and Lifetime Membership in StFX University Alumni.

ALEXANDER (ALEX) JOSEPH MACADAM ’45 The StFX community was saddened to learn of the death of Alex MacAdam on Dec. 20, 2018. In 1955, he accepted a faculty position at StFX and became the first physical education director, creating and implementing the physical education program for the university. He was chair of the physical education department as well as athletic director from 1956-66. He coached men’s varsity boxing, basketball, soccer, and track. During his years at StFX, he was the Maritime Intercollegiate Lightweight Boxing Champion, and presided over the University Amateur Athletic Club. In 1981, he was inducted into the StFX Sports Hall of Fame.

CLAIRE GRACE The StFX community was saddened to learn of the passing of Claire Grace on December 10, 2018. Claire had worked for over 38 years at the Angus L. Macdonald Library, retiring in 1996. She loved her time at the library helping students and faculty.

AUSTINA NEWSOME The StFX community is saddened to learn of the March 31, 2019 death of Austina Newsome, former senior lab instructor in the Biology Department where she taught first year labs from 1974-2003. Austina was married to Dr. G. “Buck” Newsome, biology faculty member from 1974-2006. He passed away in 2013 and that year two red oak trees, one for each of Austina and Buck, were planted in front of J. Bruce Brown Hall commemorating their long-term contributions.

MARY LEONA MORRISSEY The StFX community is saddened to learn of the death of Mary Leona Morrissey, former faculty in StFX’s Department of Human Nutrition, on April 6, 2019. She taught at StFX from the late 1970s until the early 1990s.

Toll-free: 1-800-565-4371 Email: distance.nursing@stfx.ca Stfx.ca/DistanceNursing

MASTER OF EDUCATION PROGRAMS AT StFX

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

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

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

StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

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NEWS EXCHANGE Katia Marie Grace Doroshenko January 1, 2019

Natalie ’16 and Daniel Doroshenko ’18 Amelia Jane Petitpas November 12, 2018

’50s

Richard Cashin ’58 received the province of Newfoundland and Labrador’s highest honour in January 2019 when he was among 10 inductees invested into the Order of N.L. during a ceremony held at Government House in St. John’s. He was a lawyer, politician and union leader, who ran the Food, Fish and Allied Workers Union from 1971 until his retirement. He was also elected three times as Member of Parliament for St. John’s-West throughout the 1960s.

’60s

Vicky MacLellan ’07 ’09 and Kevin Petitpas Abigail Menger November 2018

Kelsey O’Brien ’10 and Nigel Menger Coady Joseph, January 12, 2017 Caleb Alexander, August 9, 2018

Bernie Constantin ’69 ’90 was awarded the distinction of Honorary Fellow at St. Mary’s University in Calgary, the university’s highest honour, awarded annually at convocation.

Honorary Fellows are inspiring individuals whose uncommon vision, boundless energy and indefatigable spirit reinforce the Catholic intellectual tradition of liberal arts and sciences, and who have been instrumental in shaping St. Mary’s. Bernie Constantin, the 2018 Honorary Fellow, holds a special place in St. Mary’s history, the award says. She was the first full-time employee, serving at the pivotal point in time when the foundation of St. Mary’s was being laid. It is fair to say that without her efforts over a remarkable 14 years, the university would not exist today.

’70s Teena (Shea) Grace ’99 and Howard Grace ’98 40

Anne Emery ’74 recently launched the 10th book in her Collins-Burke mystery series.

Though the Heavens Fall was rated as “one of the finest reads of 2018.”

StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

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

She has just finished the first draft of number 11, Postmark Berlin.

Jim Ryba ’76 finally retired from a career of over 40 years in law enforcement, giving service to others, where he rose through the ranks to lieutenant, patrol commander, and finally second in command. He graduated from the FBI National Academy, in Quantico, Virginia and became his agency’s prosecutor. He has five children. He is enjoying his retirement on the Cape with his wife and sipping his morning coffee overlooking the water. Additionally, he has four grandchildren that keep him busy when they come to visit. He is currently engaged in substitute teaching at a local high school. He has very fond memories of StFX and would welcome and invite his floor mates of Cape Breton, 4th Gillis Hall, to come and visit him stateside. jimryba1@gmail.com

’80s

Dorothy Lander ’81 has written a book entitled, “The Peoples Photo Album: A Pictorial Genealogy of the Antigonish Movement.”The book is a tribute to the StFX Extension Department on its 90th anniversary, as well as many unsung heroes at StFX, in Antigonish, and the surrounding community. The book features over 800 photos and had over 150 contributors to the album.

The Peoples Photo Album can be purchased online through Harp Publishing at www.harppublishing. ca, or by contacting Harp Publishing, The People’s Press publishers and editors Dorothy Lander & John Graham-Pole at harppeoplespress@ gmail.com.

Bernadette Jordan ’84 has been appointed a new federal cabinet

minister by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who named the Nova Scotia MP, representing The South Shore-St. Margarets, the minister of rural economic development, a new portfolio. Ms. Jordan, who was first elected in 2015, was sworn in during a ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa on Jan. 14, 2019. She has already served as the chair of the fisheries committee as well as parliamentary secretary to the minister of democratic institutions during her three-and-a-half years in office.

She was also elected by her peers as chair of the Atlantic Liberal caucus.

Aicam Chuong ’89 has been a nurse at Holland Bloorview for over 30 years—first as a student, then working with children hospitalized there with complex medical conditions and acquired brain injury. She was recently profiled in Bloom magazine, in an article entitled, “With Aicam on the case, hospitalized kids have fun.”

’90s

Seamus O’Regan ’92, the MP for St. John’s South-Mount Pearl, was appointed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as the minister of indigenous services, and sworn in during a ceremony held Jan. 14, 2019 at Rideau Hall. He had previously served as the minister of veterans affairs.

Michael MacPherson ’91 affectionately known as “Mac” to students, staff and families, was chosen as the ‘Principal of the Year’ by the Catholic Principals’ Council of Ontario (CPCO). Mr. Macpherson currently serves as the principal at St. James Catholic

School and previously served at Our Lady of Lourdes.

Dean Simon ’95, ’15, ’17, a Mi’kmaw from Flat Bay, NL, is Canada’s only practicing First Nations male registered dietitian.

He participated in a pilot project at StFX for First Nations graduates in the Bachelor of Human Nutrition.

He was placed in First Nations communities in Unama’ki (Cape Breton) and Labrador for his one year internship. Neither Mr. Simon or the Aboriginal Nutrition Network of the Dietitian’s of Canada were able to identify any other First Nations male registered dietitians currently practicing in the country, he says. There are currently 13,000 registered dietitians in Canada with less than 300 males.

John Antle ’95 was awarded an Outstanding Principal Award from The Learning Partnership in February 2018. The nomination came from his colleagues and he was honoured to receive such a prestigious award. He was flown to Toronto, ON to attend a four day conference at the Rotman School of Business for Executive Leadership.

He attended a gala dinner where he was presented his award along with 39 other “Outstanding Principals” from across the country.

John is currently the principal of Exploits Valley Intermediate in Grand Falls-Windsor, NL, where he resides with his wife and two sons, Ian, 16, and Ryan, 13.

’00s

Sean Gibson ’04 has been appointed as the first-ever chair of the Federation of International Lacrosse (FIL) Athletes Advisory Commission (AAC). He was appointed to a three-year term in December 2018.

A five-time captain of the Irish National Lacrosse Team with 78 international caps to his credit, he leads a six-member commission responsible for representing the voice and perspective of athletes within the FIL governance structure.

A multisport athlete who excelled in lacrosse, soccer and volleyball while growing up in Canada, Mr. Gibson has competed in three World Indoor Lacrosse Championships, three World Lacrosse Championships and three European Lacrosse Championships, earning a silver medal in the 2012 European Championship. His 78 international caps make him the most–capped player in the history of Irish Lacrosse and among the leaders worldwide. Following his graduation from StFX, he moved to Ireland and immediately became involved with Ireland Lacrosse. In addition to his accomplishments as a player, he has been instrumental in furthering the growth of lacrosse throughout Europe. He now resides with his wife, Eva, and newborn daughter Joey in Oslo, Norway, where he works in the maritime freight sector as an enterprise architect for Klaveness AS, where he is responsible for leading digital transformation and aligning business initiatives with technology.

Lucas Meyer ’07, a reporter and anchor for Toronto radio station Newstalk 1010 and an Antigonish native, was recently a guest voice on The Simpsons as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. His spot-on impressions earned him the role in the episode entitled, ‘D’oh Canada.”

’10s

Sean Smyth ’10 from The Study Academy in Toronto, ON has been selected as one of this year’s Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellows in recognition of his commitment to geographic

education. The 2019 Fellows, a group of 45 educators from the United States and Canada, will embark on global expeditions on board the Lindblad Expedition ships National Geographic Explorer, National Geographic Endeavour II, National Geographic Orion and National Geographic Quest to enhance their geographic knowledge with hands-on, field-based experiences that they will bring back to their pre-K–12 classrooms, communities and professional networks.

Stephanie Bertsch ’10 ’12 is celebrating exciting news in her career. She says she took a huge risk in leaving her continuous contract in a rural community and moved for love. After securing part-time employment in St. Albert and starting her masters in education, all in 2017, she has officially signed her contract for continuous employment with her new school division and has been invited to participate in a Pipe Ceremony on Treaty 6 Territory.

Laura Greenwood ’12 and John G. MacLellan ’11 have announced their engagement. Laura practices music therapy in Halifax while John is a chartered accountant and runs a successful kombucha company. The wedding will take place this fall.

Julia MacPherson ’12, vice principal of Tugaalik School in Naujaat, is the recipient of this year’s Nunavut Teachers’ Association Award for Teaching Excellence, presented in Iqaluit on April 6. “Julia has worked tirelessly on behalf of the students and staff of Tugaalik, and previously at Tusarvik as well before the new school was constructed in Naujaat.

Her commitment to the education programming in Naujaat is exemplary,” reads a release from the Nunavut Teachers’ Association.

Caroline Berlo ’13 has been promoted to audit manager at EY

Bermuda Ltd. Craig Stevenson ’13 has recently released his first album, Water’s Gate, alongside his fiancé, Victoria Williams.

Spencer Pomeroy ’14 is on the Canadian National Team for canoe slalom and is making a push for the 2020 Olympics.

Keirsten (Wilson) McCullough ’15 graduated from Med School at University of Calgary in June, 2018 and is currently doing her residency in Lethbridge, AB. Sam Wilson ’15, a jazz guitarist, debuted her first full-length album, Groundless Apprehensions, on April 5. Self-described as post-bop modern jazz, the recording showcases her improv abilities and solid composition skills. She also finds herself collaborating with some of Nova Scotia’s top jazz musicians on her first full-length album. A neat thing to note is Sam was greatly influenced by her jazz studies and her professors at StFX, and one of her former professors, Paul Tynan, is featured as part of her quintet on the album.

Alan Syliboy LLD ’17, a celebrated Mi’kmaw artist, returns with a new story about friendship and the importance of traditional knowledge in Ki’kwa’ju Kaqtukowjik | Wolverine and Little Thunder, A Story of the First Canoe | A’rukwaqn wjit Amkwesewey Kwitn.

The children’s picture book is described as a universal story of friendship and problem-solving, as well as a contemporary invocation of traditional Mi’kmaw knowledge, reinforcing the importance of the relationship between the Mi’kmaq and eel, a dependable year-round food source traditionally offered to Glooscap, the Creator, for a

successful hunt.

Julie Lohnes-Cashin ’17 co-founded a charity 11 years ago, Tusarnaarniq Sivumut Association - Music for the Future (www. musicforthefuture.ca), that provides music instruction to Inuit youth in Nunavut. They currently visit five different communities in Nunavut three times per year (12 weeks of the year) and work with more than 250-300 youth during each visit. The workshops provide a positive, creative outlet for youth, encouraging healthy development and improving mental health.

Future StFX alumnus!

Henry Melanson, 20-month-old son of Michael Melanson, Jr. ’05 and Morgan MacQuarrie in Perth, Australia, and grandson of Michael Melanson ’78.

Donnelly Archibald ’10 and Eliza Lockier welcomed a baby girl, Matilda Joyce Archibald, on April 6, 2019.

Charley Patrick Douglas November 15, 2018 Ceileigh Gail April 23, 2007

Aimee MacDonald ’02 And Allison MacLennan

StFX graduates pictured at the July 28, 2018 wedding of Leo ’12 and Chanelle Sullivan (a recent MasterChef Canada contestant) include, l-r, Patrick Sullivan (uncle) ’62, Greg Coulas ’12, Deny Sullivan (brother) ’16, Garrett Jubenville ’12, Ross Watt ’12, Claire-Roussel Sullivan (mother) ’93, Leo Sullivan (groom) ’12, Jean-Claude Sullivan (brother) ’15, Martin Sullivan (father) ’83, Adam MacDonald ’12, Mark Bout ’12 and Mark Muller ’12.

StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

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Emerson Douglas Ives, June 10, 2018

William John Marshall, November 15, 2018

Trina Ives (Tait) ’10 ’13 and Mike Ives ’08 ’14

Peter Marshall ’13 and Cate Mackenzie ’14

Dani Irene Gouthro, October 24, 2018

Engagement: Jordan McKenzie ’12 and Adrienne White ’12

Leigha Gouthro ’03 and Wendy Gouthro Greg Gouthro ’73 proud X grandfather

L-r, Marc Furlotte ‘81, Ashley Ward ‘04 and Evan MacEachern ‘11 cycling the Alps.

Pictured here are Terry `54 and Irene Wolff with their granddaughter Rochelle `12 and her husband Jonathan Colin Arthur.

KPMG Christmas Party, l-r, are Andrew Foster ’17, Rebecca Struther ’17, Chelsea King ’14, Lou Velocci ’97, Kyra Stevenson ’14, Meghan MacDougall ’18, Christi Joyce ’18

April 2, 2019, Utah, USA

Keirsten (Wilson) ’15 and Brett McCullough ’15 April 2, 2019, Utah, USA

Katie Arbuckle ’03 wagered a friendly bet on the Loney Bowl game with former SMU Athletic Director “Doc” Murphy.

StFX defeated SMU 33-9.

The StFX spirit was shining in Nassau, Bahamas as StFX Academic Vice-President & Provost Dr. Kevin Wamsley and Erica Moore, Acting International Admissions Specialist, Recruitment & Admissions, hosted a student reception there for incoming students who were starting at StFX in September 2019.

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StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

Beaming old boys after their playoff win at Toronto Cricket, Skating and Curling Club - league goes from October to February. The players, l-r, are Peter Brydon, lead; Bill MacKay, vice; Don Kawaja ’54, skip; Lorne McDonald, 2nd.

Tim and JoAnne (LeBlanc) MacDonald ’86 send X-Ring greetings all the way from the beautiful city of Kotor, Montenegro.

Joseph Odhiambo ’94 successfully reached the Mount Everest Base Camp (5,300m) in Nepal on April 14, 2019 and managed to raise $3,300 (and counting) for the education of kids in Nairobi, Kenya. His main motivation for the expedition was to raise awareness and funds for secondary and postsecondary kids in the Mathere slum of Nairobi, Kenya through a registered Canadian charity, the CME Trust. He was born in Nairobi and has been a strong supporter of this cause. His trip blog is found at https://cme2019.blog/.

StFX AlumniNews

Sojung Shin ’16, Yanick Evola ’00, Bobby Reed ’06 and Manos Volikakis ’05 have all been reunited in South Korea at the 3rd annual Chadwick Hockey Camp, which is held in collaboration with a professional hockey program (Vancouver Canucks the first year and Hockey Canada women’s program for two years.)

Bobby Reed and Manor Volikakis are running the only international school hockey program in Asia. The Chadwick Hockey program has been running for seven years.

Meghan (O’Gorman) Hayes ‘09 and Kevin Hayes were married February 16, 2019 in Maui, Hawaii, with a number of StFX alumni in attendance. X grads at the wedding included, l-r, Angie Baldin ’81, Jarret MacDonald ’08, Ceileann Regan ’09, Peter O’Gorman ‘78, Meghan (O’Gorman) Hayes ’09, Danny Jones ’81, Rachel (MacDonald) Platt ’09, Erica O’Gorman ’10, Phil Grace ’09, Claire O’Gorman ’08, Andrew Bullied ’10, Bill Saunders ’81, and Elsie (Perry) O’Gorman ’79.

MANAGING EDITORS Shanna Hopkins ’01 Email: shopkins@stfx.ca Kyler Bell Email: kbell@stfx.ca ASSISTANT EDITOR Shelley Cameron-McCarron Email: sacamero@stfx.ca WRITER Shelley Cameron-McCarron DESIGN & PRODUCTION Andrew Conde Email: aconde@stfx.ca NEWS EXCHANGE EDITOR Glenda Bond Email: gbond@stfx.ca

John Antle ’95 was awarded an Outstanding Principal Award from The Learning Partnership in February 2018. The nomination came from his colleagues and he was honoured to receive such a highly prestigious award. He was flown to Toronto, ON to attend a four day conference at the Rotman School of Business for Executive Leadership. He attended a gala dinner where he was presented his award along with 39 other “Outstanding Principals” from across the country. John is currently the principal of Exploits Valley Intermediate in Grand Falls-Windsor, NL, where he resides with his wife and two sons, Ian, 16, and Ryan, 13.

The Feast of St. Francis Xavier, or X-Ring Day, in Iqaluit, Nunavut was celebrated at NuBrew, the territory’s first brewery to serve locally produced beer. The group received a tour of the facilities from co-owner and Xaverian Ambrose Livingstone ’79, and enjoyed trying out the delicious brews on tap.

Pictured are (back, l-r) Sharon (MacDonald) Nowlan ‘03, Shawna Fancy ‘06, Sara Mahar ‘10, Lauren Nevin ‘15, Ambrose Livingstone ‘79, Krista Thompson ‘05, and Heather Campbell ‘02, (front) Jeff Avery ‘02, ‘08, Mike King ‘07, ‘16, Sarah LeBlanc ‘08, Maggie King ‘05 and Shannon Hessian ‘07.

It was a special get-together for 10 women from the Class of 1968 at last year’s StFX Homecoming--the women have been friends for 50 years and all were in attendance at their 50 year reunion at Homecoming 2018. “This is a true example of the X-Spirit and the making of friendships that last throughout a lifetime,” they say. To make things even more special, group member Morag Graham was inducted into the Hall of Honour during the weekend. Pictured here at Homecoming are, l-r, Mary Crilley, Marg Wright, Sheila MacNeil, Isabelle Christian, Alice West, Anne Beaton, Doreen Burke, Elaine MacDonald-Tyler and kneeling Eileen Hornby and Morag Graham.

LOST X-RINGS LOST Woman’s ’75 Man’s ’79 Woman’s ’79 Woman’s ’87

Man’s ’88 Woman’s ’91 Man’s ’98 Woman’s ’98

Woman’s ’05 Woman’s ’06 Woman’s ’08

Woman’s ’09 Woman’s ’13 Woman’s ’18

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

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

Contact the Alumni Office at 902-867-2186 or alumni@stfx.ca StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

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!

S T S O P A I D E M L A I C WE ❤ YO U R S O YOU POST! HEN

TFX W S # D N A I N M LU A X TF S @ G TA DON’T FORGET TO

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StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

STFX CLASS OF 2019 ESTABLISHING EMERGENCY MENTAL HEALTH BURSARY

L-r, senior class co-president Carl Miller, senior class development officer Kylie Ito, and senior class co-president Sarah Comandante Helping support students dealing with mental health concerns is the goal of StFX’s Class of 2019 Senior Class Gift, The Emergency Mental Health Bursary. “The intent of this bursary stemmed from our desire to create a gift that would increase mental health support for students of all years, programs, and backgrounds,” says senior class co-presidents Sarah Comandante and Carl Miller, who worked with Kylie Ito, senior class development officer, to establish the bursary.

FRAME IT IN

TYLE!

They plan for the bursary to be distributed under the privy of StFX Health and Counselling Centre staff so there is no need for students to apply and subject themselves to disclosing sensitive information.

Chancellor John Peacock ’63 has continued the tradition established by former Chancellor Dr. Susan Crocker ’12 in matching the student’s donations to the fund. To learn more or to donate, please visit www.stfx.ca/classof2019

MASTER OF ADULT EDUCATION PROGRAM AT StFX

StFX DEGREE & PHOTO FRAMES

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

A Self-directed, Practice-based, Part-time, Distance Learning Program Do you work with adults?

Are you interested in more effective learning as an approach to development and change?

Do you want a program that is flexible and affordable?

This program is designed for busy professionals whose work involves motivating and helping adults learn in any context or setting. We are Canada’s first part-time, self-directed, Master of Adult Education program delivered through distance education.

The StFX Master of Adult Education program offers individualized, hands-on learning opportunities for professionals. Students can design an academic program tailored to their needs and interests at work or in the community. Our program is open to those having an undergraduate degree in any discipline and two years experience working with adults.

For more information contact: Department of Adult Education Email: aesecret@stfx.ca Telephone: 902.867.3952 /1-(866)-203-1086 www. stfx.ca/masterofadulted

StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

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Shopping for premier X-gear just got easier!

www.stfx.ca/xstore

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

Children of Alumni Director, Shanna ’01 and Jeff Hopkins, Jacob (5) and Emma Jane (3)

X-Gear is the perfect gift for anyone!

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

SHIRTS STARTING AT

$12!

www.stfx.ca/xstore 46

StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

WHERE ARE YOU?

H

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

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

Records Researcher, St. Francis Xavier University 1-888-739-0031 • records @stfx.ca Christine J Allan ’79 Elaine Doreen Arenburg ’79 Douglas Ward Barrett ’79 Thomas Maynard Burke ’79 Janet C Cameron ’79 David Ronald Dinn ’79 George Joseph Diochon ’79 Victoria I English ’79 Andrew James Fanning ’79 James Robert Gibson ’79 Mary Frances Goguen ’79 Barbara Marie Haynes ’79 Judy O Hendrickson ’79 Joyce Elizabeth Jollymore ’79 Heather Anne Kane ’79 Nancy Amelia Lockhart ’79 Michael A MacDonald ’79 Rita Maureen MacDonald ’79 Mary Ellen MacIntyre ’79 Evangeline Anne MacIsaac ’79 Helen Claire Mitton ’79 Patricia Normand ’79 Betsy O’Brien ’79 John Harold Strang ’79 Leona Marie Sullivan ’79 Elizabeth R Yorke ’79 Lois J Yousif ’79 Judy Ann Aucoin ’84 Pamela Diane Baillie ’84 Mark Brodie ’84 Karen Gail Crane ’84 Patrick John Daley ’84 Wendy Lee Dutton-Webb ’84 Gordon Edmondson ’84 Tracy Lee Evans ’84 Linda Anne Kempster ’84 Gilles Lapierre ’84 Andrew Hugh Livingstone ’84 Catherine Anne MacDonald ’84 Gerald Alan McAulay ’84 Roger Robert Myers ’84 Mohammad Reza Naghii ’84 Pamela Marie Peters ’84 James John Powell ’84 Cathy Sharon Rankin ’84 Mary Carol Riley ’84

William Dwight Syms ’84 Kevin Tremblay ’84 Richard Neal Utz ’84 Elaine Mary Vanzutphen ’84 Joyce Mary White ’84 Julie Woodfine ’84 Sin Pew Yong ’84 Lorraine A Young ’84 Gerald Joseph van Bommel ’84 Fritz Richard Amizial ’89 Keri Anne Aubrecht ’89 Hugh James Avery ’89 Beverly Ann Ferguson ’89 Ahmed Shaibu Gariba ’89 John Paul Gogan ’89 Damon Arnold Harvey ’89 Sau Sen Hau ’89 Heather Kozakiewicz ’89 David Gregory Lamorre ’89 J. L Herve Lanctot ’89 Daren James Leblanc ’89 Glenn Francis Mattie ’89 Elizabeth Anne Pendergast ’89 Marie Annette Poirier ’89 Timothy Ross Read ’89 Louise Colleen Sutherland ’89 Kevin Blair Taylor ’89 Janice Katherine Thompson ’89 Kelly Marie Atwater ’94 Janice Lee Bridge ’94 Betty Ann Fraser ’94 Geoffrey Michael Gatien ’94 Jennifer Ann Keller ’94 Christopher James King ’94 Cathy Lavery ’94 Stacey Jayne MacDonald ’94 Donna Doreen Nowe ’94 John Bosco Nyuurnibe ’94 Francis Peter O’Connell ’94 Suzanne Pierrette O’Neill ’94 Joann Marie Osbourne ’94 John F Potter ’94 Brenda Chantal Potvin ’94 Deanna Susan Rawding ’94 Lois Elaine Smith ’94 Reed Alan Smith ’94

Laurie Dawn Stoneman ’94 Paul Amos ’99 Noralea Arsenault ’99 Patrick Blair Aucoin ’99 Daniel Wade Burns ’99 Esther Cameron ’99 Evelyn Elanie Cameron ’99 Tanya Louise Carroll ’99 Daniel Cyr ’99 Sean Aiden Dalrymple ’99 Crystal Leeanne Dandy ’99 Sheila Davis ’99 Margaret Louise Eddy ’99 Jacqueline B Faber ’99 John Farrugia ’99 Douglas James Gordon ’99 Margaret Coleen Grover ’99 Steven Adam Grover ’99 Carol Ann Hopkins ’99 Judith Ida Hynes ’99 Carla Susanne Jasper ’99 Sabrina Grace Jeans ’99 Roger Lapierre ’99 Cheryl J Leahy ’99 Breton V Leblanc ’99 Glynis Michele Leblanc ’99 Christine Loretta MacDonald ’99 Carolyn Theresa MacInnis ’99 Stephen Charles MacIsaac ’99 Helen Laura MacNeil ’99 Samwel Mowo ’99 Alan Arthur Mumford ’99 Brenda Pelly ’99 Tanya True Regimbal ’99 Mary-Louise Savannah Reid ’99 Patricia Anna Sullivan ’99 Derrick John Sutherland ’99 Paul Thurton ’99 Elliot Michael Williams ’99 Cara Windover ’99 Susan Christine Bowers ’04 John Aaron Ferguson ’04 Jennifer Ann Field ’04 Deborah Elizabeth Gillis ’04 Marion Denise Gillis ’04 Julie Frances Grant ’04

X-RING STORY l ALUMNI OFFICE

DECEASED Alice (MacLeod) Beaubien ’41 Sr Sarah (Sr Hugh Marie) MacPherson ’41 (CSM) Mary Kathleen “Kay” (Mooney) MacDougall ’44 Alexander Joseph MacAdam ’45 Sarah Elizabeth “Ada” MacLean ’46 Joan Geraldine Mills ’46 John Ernest Moore Dawe ’47 Henry O’Shea ’47 John Joseph Keays ’49 Veronica “Bonnie” Eileen (Whalen) Kennedy ’49 Fr. Francis Jobe “Frank” Abbass ’51 Fr. Angus Dan Campbell ’51 ’69 Adolph James “Ken” Forgeron ’50 Rev Francis Jobe “Frank” Abbass ’51 Rev. Angus Dan Campbell ’51 Martin Kane ’51 Gerald Joseph MacGillivray ’51 Robert Bliss Manship ’51 Joseph “Joe” Parks ’51 Joan Catherine (Currie) Chiasson ’52 Edward Burton Murrin ’52 ’64 George E. Chandler ’53 Anita Marie (Chisholm) Campbell ’53 Rev. Peter Piva ’53 Aline Mary (Cormier) Pottie ’53 Leo Archibald MacDonell ’54 ’74 Ronald Joseph MacIsaac ’54 Rev. Thomas Howard Lathigee ’55 Louis Anselm LeBlanc ’55 Earl Harry Arthur MacKinnon ’55 Fraser Martin “Dinty” O’Shaughnessy ’55 Catherine Marcella “Marcy” Rankin ’55 Robert “Bob” Gordon Rudderham ’55 Daniel J. Chisholm ’56 David Lorenzo Fleiger ’56 Leverne William Jones ’56 Donald Joseph “Don” MacDougall ’56 E. Gerard Wujek ’56 John Redmond Curtis ’58 Kent Farrell ’58 Gerard “Gerry” Lepage ’58 Sr. Jean Morrison ’58 (CSM) Donald “Don” Robert Munroe ’58 ’06 Simon Joseph Arsenault ’59 James David Chisholm ’59 George Collier ’59 Marcel A. Lafreniere ’59 Lawrence John McCarthy ’59 Robert John McGarrity ’59 Paul J. Chiasson ’61 David Joseph “Joe” MacDonald ’61 Rev. Angus Roderick Morris ’62 Ian Hugh MacDonald, QC ’62

Dr. Anita Foley ’63 Emmett Gerard “Gerry” Bates ’64 Michael Thomas Flood ’64 Donald Ronald “Ducky George” MacDonald ’64 Phillippe G. Boissonneault ’65 Donna Marie Ann Cashman ’65 Mary Leona Morrissey ’65 (faculty) Roy Rideout ’65 Neil J. Bisson ’66 Harold Frederick Crawley ’67 Jacques Dusseault ’67 Samuel Charles “Chuck” Facey ’67 Thomas Gallant ’67 Sr. Virginia Hanlon ’67 (CSJ) Daniel “Donnie” Wiseman ’67 Aloysius Bernard Fougere ’68 Michael Pearson Shea ’68 Sr. Lillian M. Gillis ’69 (CND) Sr. Faustina Margaret Grant ’69 (CND) John Peter Keith ’69 Mary Sharon (Clancy) Morrison ’69 Rodney “Dwight” Robertson ’69 Marie J. Sinclair ’69 Sr. Wilma (Mary Lucina) Best ’70 (CSM) Sean Briand ’70 Arthur Keith Clements ’71 Kenneth “Kenne” Alan MacDonald ’71 ’77 Mary Geraldine “Gerri” Walker ’71 John Earl “Jackie” Hopkins ’72 ’76 Barry Wilson Knott ’72 Margaret Josephine MacNeil ’72 Ernie Anthony Amadio ’73 Mary Catherine (Donovan) Henderson ’73 Sr. Agnes McCrossin ’73 (CSM) Dale Marie (Cheverie) Bellefontaine ’75 Sr. Marie (Sr. Ann Zita) Smith ’76 (CSM) William Albert “Bill” Bussey ’77 ’79 Alyre Chiasson ’78 Barbara (MacLeod) Crosby ’80 John Russell “Brian” Fougere ’80 ’81 Karen Ann (Choo) Hahn ’80 Margaret Mary (MacPherson) Bowie ’81 John Fleming ’81 Charles William “Bill” Graham ’89 Shirley Elizabeth (Ryan) MacLaren ’94 Marcie Elizabeth (Murray) Martell ’99 Claire Marie (MacDonald) Grace, staff Raymond Joseph MacKenzie, staff Austina Violet (Kennedy) Newsome, staff John Francis Joseph “Jack” Sears, staff John Bernard Egan, former faculty Donna Lea Cameron Hargreaves, former faculty

OCT. 4-6, 2019

The Ring Rescuers

Pictured here with Marilyn Pembroke ’69 (centre) is Angela Mueller-Neuhaus (l) and Katherine Ross (r).

With her 50th StFX Homecoming celebrations just months away, Marilyn (McKinnon) Pembroke ’69 was devastated to lose her prized X-Ring, especially as she did not want to come to her reunion without her X-Ring. Ms. Pembroke says she was praying to St. Anthony non-stop since she discovered she had lost the ring and was hoping he “wasn’t on vacation.”

The next day, she received a phone call from Glenda Bond at the StFX Alumni Affairs Office saying someone had found her ring! Angela Mueller-Neuhaus and her sister Katherine Ross had found the ring in Ottawa’s Glebe neighborhood at the intersection of Second Avenue and Bank Street next to a parking meter. Ms. Mueller-Neuhaus, being a Dalhousie University engineering grad from Miramichi, NB, knew about StFX and had acquaintances who attended. She emailed StFX Alumni Affairs wondering about the best way to reunite this ring with its owner.

Ms. Bond did some PI work and soon located the owner who was over the moon ecstatic.

“Katherine is holding my precious X-Ring, as she is the lady who actually picked it up. They were both such lovely ladies and had placed my ring in a lovely little jewelry box for safekeeping until it was back in my hands,” Ms. Pembroke says. She says the ring had gotten too big for her and she usually wore it with another ring in front of it when she went out. When she picked up her beloved ring, she went directly to the jewelry store to have the ring resized so that she would not lose it again.

“I am so lucky to have a Dal grad, a UNB grad, and an excellent X alumni staffer as my X-Ring rescuers. I am so grateful,” she says. Ms. Pembroke messaged us again in April to say that her “X-Ring has been resized, shined and ready for the big reunion in the fall.”

StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

47

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

THE XAVERIAN RESPONSIBILITY The Hon. Lisa Raitt ’89 is one of eight StFX alumni currently serving as federal Members of Parliament. At the recent National Dinner EAST in Halifax, she told the audience she wasn’t one of those StFX students who held a formal leadership position: she wasn’t on the Students’ Union, wasn’t on campus police, and wasn’t an RA or RD. In fact, she described herself as a “science geek” who flew under the radar.

It was only years later, during a conversation with former StFX President Dr. Sean Riley ’74, that she began to understand the impact StFX had on her and her responsibility as a Xaverian to become re-engaged – to create opportunities for others to have the Xaverian experience.

At the dinner, Ms. Raitt made an impassioned call for other alumni to do the same – to do their “duty.” Later that night, I learned her words resonated deeply with alumni. I, too, thought back to my student years. While my experiences at StFX were different than Lisa’s, the post-graduation lack of responsibility was essentially the same. Sure, I gave to the annual calling program – but it was hit and miss. I recommended StFX to high school students, but I wasn’t directly seeking them out in a purposeful way. And, never once did I reach out to the university to understand its needs and aspirations and ask how I could best help.

On some level, I neglected my Xaverian responsibility, forgetting that many, many people had stepped forward for decades, allowing me to experience university life that significantly impacted my future.

But, I do know many alumni who well

understand this responsibility and who have acted. There are many stories, but one of the best is that of Don Munroe ’58. He passed away in February 2019, after a lifetime of caring about his alma mater.

While he was a student, his years were full: business studies, yearbook editorials, Glee Club events, and of course, playing alto sax with the student big band, The Xmen of Note. At StFX, he met his wife, Barbara Flinn ’57. Many of their good friends were classmates. He was truly an X-Man of note, and after he graduated, StFX remained a large part of his life.

Don, with Barb’s full support, was active with StFX alumni chapters. He spent 18 years volunteering on the Board of Governors. In addition, Don helped advise StFX on its investment fund, which underwrote its endowed capital and income accounts. Dr. Riley once noted: “With little fanfare, Don Munroe, and a small group of equally wise and devoted volunteers, have simply outperformed every other university endowment in Canada over the past 10 years. They’ve also outperformed virtually every stock market index and comparable investment fund.”

The Munroes created two endowed funds to help students: one in honour of Don’s parents (the Robert and Gertrude Gillis Munroe Scholarship Endowment) and the other more general (the Donald and Barbara Munroe Endowment for Student Wellness). In 2002, Don became the first lay Chair of the Board of Governors and for all his life’s work supporting StFX, Don was bestowed with an honorary degree in 2006

Murray Kyte ’87 — one of the proudest moments of his life.

I went to StFX with the Munroe’s oldest son, Jeff, and we’ve remained dear friends.

When I was thinking of returning to StFX in the role of VP Advancement, the first people I spoke with were Jeff and his father.

Over the last three years, Don became a mentor and offered me wonderful advice.

Of course, I heard great StFX stories along the way. Don loved to laugh, but more importantly, loved to make others laugh.

He is missed dearly, but his legacy is to encourage all of us, as Xaverians, to examine our own relationship with StFX, and to decide how we want to be involved.

Cathy ’87 and I are proud that our oldest boys are graduates of X and have continued the Xaverian tradition within the Kyte and McCann families. Further, we have supported and will continue to support several projects at the university including student financial aid and the construction of Mulroney Hall.

What does StFX mean to you? What do you want it to mean to future Xaverians?

Now, more than ever, we need the time, treasure and talents of our alumni, as we hurtle towards the completion of two centuries of higher education. What StFX do you want to see? How do you want to help? I’d love to talk with you!

Hail & Health,

L-r, Don Munroe ’58 and the Rt. Hon. Brian Mulroney ’59 on the occasion of Mr. Mulroney’s campus visit on October 25, 2018.

48

StFX ALUMNINEWS l SUMMER 2019

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

OCT. 4-6, 2019 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3 7:30 pm

StFX Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Induction of StFX Sports Hall of Fame candidates.

Auditorium, Schwartz School of Business

1 pm

Campus Walking Tour Leaving from the Main Foyer of the Keating Centre

2:45 pm

Ceremonial Kick-Off, X-Women Rugby Game

3 pm

X-Women Rugby StFX vs ACA, Oland Stadium

2:30 pm – 4:30 pm

Mount St. Bernard College Tea Everyone welcome – refreshments served MSB Cafe

6 pm

Reception There will be class reunion receptions held across campus, as well as a general reception for non-reunion attendees

7 pm

Welcome Home Dinner All alumni welcome to attend Presentation of Alumni Awards of Excellence. $50 each, advanced tickets only. To purchase tickets, register online, contact 902-867-2186 or email alumni@stfx.ca Main Arena, Keating Centre.

Dinner ticket includes admission to Pub Night.

9 pm

Homecoming Pub Night A gathering place for all alumni and friends!

Musical entertainment by StFX favourite, Terry Kelly.

Admission: $10, limited pub night only tickets available.

Main Arena, Keating Centre

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4 10 am – 8 pm

Homecoming Registration & Information Hospitality Suites, Keating Centre

11am

Golden Grad Mass StFX University Chapel

1 pm

Campus Walking Tour Leaving from the Main Foyer of the Keating Centre

2pm – 4pm

Wellspring Open House Celebrating 25 years of Wellspring service on campus

3 pm

StFX Alumni Association Annual General Meeting All alumni are encouraged to attend Conference Rooms, Keating Centre

5 pm reception 6 pm dinner

Reception and Golden Grad Dinner A dinner to honour our Golden Grads from the Class of ’69.

Main Arena, Keating Centre Alumni who have graduated prior to 1969 are welcome to attend this dinner. Pre-registration is required. To purchase tickets, contact 902-867-2186 or email alumni@stfx.ca

7pm

X-Men Football StFX vs BU, Oland Stadium

9 pm

Homecoming Mix and Mingle A gathering place for all alumni and friends!

Music; DJ. Free Admission Bloomfield Centre Cafe

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6 11 am

Alumni Mass Class seating. StFX University Chapel

11 am – 1:30 pm

Farewell Brunch Advance tickets recommended – $20 each Main Arena, Keating Centre

8 am

5K Fun Run Registration Race begins at 9 am, Oland Centre

1 pm

9 am – 6 pm

Homecoming Registration continues Hospitality Suites, Keating Centre

Campus Walking Tour Leaving from the Main Foyer of the Keating Centre

1 pm

9:30 am

Coffee with Coady An event to celebrate the alumni-Coady connection, featuring the Katie Fleming award presentation, and breakfast refreshments Coady International Institute

X-Women Soccer StFX vs MtA, Oland Stadium

3:15 pm

X-Men Soccer StFX vs MtA, Oland Stadium

11 am

Opening of Alumni Flag Plaza & Hall of Honour Induction Ceremony Grand opening of Alumni Flag Plaza, in celebration of 125 years of the StFX Alumni Association followed by the induction of Hall of Honour candidates and Student Alumni Recognition Award Essay Presentations.

Upper Bloomfield Parking Lot

Class reunions are also planned for the class of 1954, 1959, 1964, 1969, 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, 1994, 1999, 2004, 2009, CELEBRATING 50 YEARS CELEBRATING 50 YEARS of WOMEN’S VARSITY of WOMEN’S VARSITY 2014 and 2019.

For more information, visit our website at StFX ATHLETICS at StFX ATHLETICS www.stfx.ca/alumni/homecoming

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