Saint Mary’s Team Achieves Impressive Finish at Enactus World Cup in Astana, Kazakhstan
By Hanna Sakaki BComm'21
The Saint Mary’s University Enactus team has returned home with the thrill of placing in the top 16 in the world after an exceptional performance at the prestigious Enactus World Cup, held October 2-4 in Astana, Kazakhstan.
The team's journey to the World Cup began in May 2024, when the Enactus Saint Mary’s team secured the Enactus National Championship title, outperforming 49 Canadian post-secondary institutions. This victory propelled them, for the first time in SMU history, to the world's premier stage for student-led business innovation and social impact.
Facing Fierce Competition with Pioneering Solutions
This year’s Cup brought together teams from 29 countries, with fierce competition from nations such as Germany, Morocco, South Korea, and Tunisia, all vying for the top prize. While Tunisia ultimately secured the top spot, Enactus Saint Mary's stood out with their innovative projects, Plastarch and Square Roots, and their dedication to social good.
Square Roots addresses the dual issues of food waste and food insecurity by rescuing "imperfect" produce that would otherwise be discarded and offering it at affordable prices. Plastarch is a pioneering initiative that develops sustainable bioplastic alternatives for food packaging and utensils, crafted from an unexpected source—discarded potatoes.
Co-presidents of Enactus Saint Mary's, Courtney Dingle and Gabe Martin, reflected on their experience: “A highlight of the 2024 Enactus World Cup for our team was the cultural fair before the opening ceremonies. Sharing local snacks, playing field hockey with other teams and expressing our Canadian pride was an amazing experience. Enactus competitions are always collaborative and this was especially true at the World Cup. Meeting teams from around the world and feeling supported by them meant so much to us. It was also magical to be able to support students from other countries. The feedback we received on our work from such diverse perspectives was invaluable and we’re incredibly proud of our team’s dedication to reach this level.”
Additional Successes: Second Place in the Bentley—iTwin4Good Challenge
In addition to placing in the top 16 at the World Cup, a team comprising two Enactus Saint Mary’s members, Aneesa Hussain and Ashish Ganapathy, and Hannah Meagher from Dalhousie, secured second place in the Bentley—iTwin4Good Challenge, earning a $2,000 USD prize. Their innovative project, Accesstructure, reflects their commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.
Accesstructure is a platform that automates accessibility audits of campus facilities, identifying non-compliance issues with various legislation and standards. This groundbreaking tool ensures that campus environments are inclusive and welcoming for all students, staff and visitors.
Reflecting on their experience, the Accesstructure team said, “Our biggest takeaway was the cultural exchange that occurred, not just during the exhibition but throughout the competition. Sharing food, games and music helped broaden our horizons. Participating in the iTwin4Good challenge reinforced the importance of creating lasting impact and reminded us that, regardless of our cultural differences, we all share a common goal: building a better, more inclusive future. The connections we made and the ideas exchanged will continue to inspire us as we work toward meaningful change in our communities.”
Additionally, Saint Mary’s made a big impression on Catherine Fowler, President and CEO of Enactus Canada, who expressed her pride in the teams. “Square Roots, Plastarch and Accesstructure are shining examples of Enactus project success. They showcase the impact students can have on the UN SDG goals and how social enterprises can continue to grow, evolve and support sustainability in communities and beyond.”
From Halifax to Astana: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Journey
The journey to the Enactus World Cup was an adventure of its own. Astana, with its futuristic architecture and vibrant culture, provided a stunning backdrop for the competition.
Beyond the event, the team immersed themselves in Kazakh culture, engaging with locals, visiting iconic landmarks and savoring traditional cuisine such as beshbarmak and shashlyk. This cultural exchange fostered understanding and appreciation of the region.
A visit to the Canadian Embassy in Astana further strengthened their connection with the global Canadian community. They met with embassy officials, discussing the importance of their work and the challenges and opportunities Canadians face abroad.
Now, after recovering from the intense preparation, competition and a long transcontinental journey, the Enactus Saint Mary’s team is already discussing their path to the next national and international championships. For more highlights from the World Cup, visit the Enactus YouTube channel or on their website.
The Saint Mary’s University Enactus team would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the many donors and sponsors who made this trip possible. Sincere thanks go to: AC Group of Independent Accounting Firms, Ossama Nasrallah BComm'18 MBA'22, Paul Davis Restoration Inc., Keltic Transportation, Jamie Gillis, The Propeller Brewing Company, Alan Maingot DipENG'81, Atlantic Central, Robin Sullivan, David McKenna, Brian Burton, Sarah Little BComm'21, and many others.
Big Hair and Big Friendships
By Renée Hartleib
(L-R) Bernie, Carol, Jen, Leah, Shauna, Helen
Bernadette (Bernie) Nickerson BA’89 has fond memories of Saint Mary’s in the 80s. Weekly bashes at Loyola. Thursdays at Gorsebrook. Hanging out in the Vanier lounge. Napping in the library’s purple chairs. But the best part of her time at SMU was the friends she made. Friends she is still in touch with to this day!
In fact, earlier this Fall, Bernie and her five SMU friends—Leah Hamilton, Jennifer Jennings, Carol MacIver, Helen Scott and Shauna Stuart—rented an Airbnb for the weekend and got all caught up. Whether they have an hour, an evening or a whole weekend, gales of laughter can be heard each time they gather. “One year, we got a phone call from the front desk of the hotel we were staying in,” laughed Bernie. “It was only 7 pm but someone had already lodged a noise complaint! Too much laughing!”
Born and raised in rural Nova Scotia, in Clark’s Harbour, Bernie was looking for an urban experience when she chose Saint Mary’s in 1986. She was originally placed on the C floor of the Vanier Residence but had a high school friend on the B floor whose roommate didn’t show up. In a wonderful twist of fate, Bernie asked for a transfer and was granted it. It was here that she met the women who would become her life-long friends.
These were the days before cell phones and social media, where whole floors of students hung out together. “We had a really good floor with people from different places and different cultures,” said Bernie. “We all got along and ended up sharing all our clothes and doing absolutely everything together.” There was bonding over favourite TV shows, crushes and of course the requisite 80s big hair. Bernie jokes it was a small miracle no one ever caught themselves on fire from the combination of hot curling irons, cigarettes and Aquanet aerosol hairspray!
Big hair aside, Bernie and her group of friends also had shared values. “We were all small-town girls who worked hard to go to university, and our parents worked hard to help support us.” Bernie, who studied sociology, was the first one in her family to have the chance to attend university, and as such, needed to prioritize her schoolwork. “This particular group of friends seemed to be able to strike a balance between applying ourselves to our education and still having fun.”
Their hard work paid off. Since graduating in 1989, the six women have all flourished in their careers: Leah and Carol both became Chartered Accountants; Jennifer went into law; Shauna is a clinical social worker; Helen went into business; and Bernie used her criminology courses to become a youth worker first and then a senior probation officer.
Interestingly, all six stayed in the Atlantic region, which makes getting together for their annual reunions easier! And over the last 35 years, they have seen each other through all kinds of major life events: marriages, divorces, children, step-children, illness, death, aging parents and, in the case of Bernie, retirement and four grandchildren!
Shauna Carol Bernie Helen Jen Leah
Bernie and her friends still often talk about how Saint Mary’s managed to feel like a small village, one they rarely needed to leave. In fact, Bernie said there were days every winter when they didn’t even have to go outside due to SMU’s pedways and tunnels. “We didn’t have to go anywhere! There was so much on offer on campus–all the social activities, the intramural sports and the time spent together.”
And in this small village, friends relied on each other. “Your friends quickly became your family. If something happened to one of us, our first thought wasn't to call our parents to deal with it. We took care of things ourselves. We turned to each other. And because of that, the bond we created was very strong.”
Today, all six women are aware that this strong bond that connects them is something very special indeed, and it requires time, focus and nurturing.
“We’re six middle-aged women, all proud Santamarians,” said Bernie. “And we’re so grateful that in addition to getting a great education at Saint Mary’s, we were also gifted these wonderful enduring friendships.”
Celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Women in Varsity Sport at Homecoming Reception
Photo credit: Kelly Clark
Saint Mary's University is celebrating a monumental milestone: the 50th anniversary of women in varsity sports. This yearlong celebration has showcased the inspiring journeys of female athletes who have shaped the university's athletic program, creating a legacy of achievement, determination and empowerment.
The highlight of the festivities took place during Homecoming 2024, where the Anne J. & Albert T. Isaacs Commons buzzed with excitement. Alumnae athletes, current student-athletes and prominent figures in women's sports gathered to celebrate the accomplishments and journey of the past 50 years of women in varsity athletics. It was more than just a celebration; it was a heartfelt tribute to the past, present and future of women's sports at SMU.
University leaders, along with extraordinary Paralympic athlete Katie Pegg, delivered inspiring speeches that resonated with everyone present, celebrating the themes of perseverance and triumph while reminding them of the significant strides made in women's athletics over the last five decades. A special acknowledgment was made to Kathy Mullane for her steadfast commitment to transforming women's varsity sports and creating opportunities for aspiring athletes.
Throughout the year, the university commemorated remarkable stories of female athletes and trailblazers who have left their mark. One shining example is Justine Colley-Leger BA'12, a basketball superstar whose achievements continue to inspire a new generation of young women athletes. Also celebrated, Courtney Schriver Richard BA'11, a former all-star Husky hockey player who followed her dream to the NHL.
The celebration also honoured the pioneers who paved the way for future generations. Some inspiring stories include:
- Keisha Turner BA'12, an inspiring athlete, innovative entrepreneur and dedicated philanthropist, has remained a vital member of the Saint Mary's community.
- Sharon Rajaraman, who began her journey at the university in 1985, has continued her committed to supporting young women athletes as a constant presence on the sidelines of the Huskies women's field hockey team.
- Dianne Chiasson BA'81 Hons, a multi-sport athlete from the late '70s, continues to stay active well into retirement, showcasing the enduring spirit of athletes.
- Omena Babalola MBA'92 still holds the prestigious 60-meter sprint record at Saint Mary's, a testament to her lasting legacy.
- The story of Lisa Haley, former head coach of the Women's Hockey Team, also reflects remarkable dedication. As the longest-serving varsity coach in the history of U Sports women's hockey, she has left an indelible mark on the program.
- And finally, Signa Butler BA'96, a multi-sport athlete turned CBC sports broadcaster, exemplifies how the skills and passion developed in sports can lead to vibrant careers beyond the field.
As the year progresses, the excitement and anticipation for the next 50 years of women's athletics at Saint Mary's continues to build. The remarkable journeys of these women represent not just their triumphs but a broader movement toward empowerment and representation. The university stands proud, looking forward to many more years of accomplishment and inspiration in women's sports. Here's to a future where the achievements of women in sports are not only celebrated but expected.
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The Return of the Huskies Sport Hall of Fame: Class of 2024
Justine Colley-Ledger BComm'14 with her family and President Summerby-Murray
Saint Mary's proudly welcomed back the Huskies Sport Hall of Fame, inducting its first induction class since 2019 and celebrating 50 years of women in varsity sports. The Class of 2024 honours remarkable achievements, including the 1976-77 Huskies Women's Basketball team, long-time field hockey coach Sharon Rajaraman and legendary basketball player Justine Colley-Leger BComm'14.
"On behalf of Saint Mary's University and Huskies Athletics & Recreation, we were thrilled to welcome back the Huskies Sport Hall of Fame this past October," said Scott Gray, Saint Mary's Director of Athletics & Recreation. "In conjunction with our celebration of 50 Years of Women in Varsity Sport at Saint Mary's University, we are honoured to celebrate these deserving inductees who have all been a part of the rich history of Huskies Women's Sports."
The 1976-77 Huskies Women's Basketball Team, inducted in the Team Category, made history just three years after women’s varsity sports began at Saint Mary’s by clinching the AUWBC Championship. The team demonstrated extraordinary talent, finishing the regular season undefeated 14-0 and highlighted by a commanding 96-24 victory against Mount Allison. Their journey culminated in the CIAU Nationals, marking a significant milestone for women's varsity athletics at Saint Mary's. Coached by legendary Huskies men's basketball alumni Mickey Fox, with support from assistant coach Kathy Mullane and manager Barb Hart, the championship lineup consisted of Cindy Britten, Nancy Collins, Elizabeth Hampden, Jody Hayes, Donna Hobin, Debbie Lawrence, Darlene Mossman, Debbie Steele, Colleen Thomson and Carol Turney.
Sharon Rajaraman, inducted in the Builders Category, has left an indelible mark on the Saint Mary’s field hockey community. A former standout athlete herself, Sharon has dedicated over three decades to coaching, leading the Huskies to nine Atlantic league championships and earning Atlantic Coach of the Year five times. Her commitment extends beyond the field as she promotes community involvement among her athletes, exemplifying the importance of giving back.
The final inductee, Justine Colley-Leger BComm'14, was recognized in the Athlete Category for her groundbreaking contributions to Huskies women's basketball. Hailing from East Preston, NS, Justine's arrival transformed a struggling team into a competitive force. She earned numerous awards, including Rookie of the Year and First Team AUS All-Star, and her performance inspired a new generation of athletes at Saint Mary's.
This induction ceremony was a testament to the resilience and talent of Saint Mary's women athletes. To relive the celebration, watch the ceremony on YouTube. The Huskies Sport Hall of Fame celebrates our past and continues to support the future of Huskies athletics.
Photo credits: Mona Ghiz
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Celebrating Legends: Huskies Women's Hockey Alumni Honoured in Jersey Commemoration
The Dauphinee Centre buzzed with excitement as the Huskies Women's Hockey Alumni gathered to celebrate a special jersey commemoration at the Barbara Holmes Centre before the Homecoming Huskies Women's hockey game. This event honoured former Huskies stars Courtney Schriver-Richard BA'11 and Kori Cheverie BA'12 for their remarkable contributions to the world of hockey.
Courtney Schriver-Richard BA'11, a standout player for the Huskies, enjoyed an impressive career highlighted by AUS Rookie of the Year and CIS First Team All-Canadian. After her playing days, she pursued roles that combined her passion for hockey with a career in the corporate world. From managing marketing at Tim Hortons to becoming the Corporate Partnerships Manager for the Oilers Entertainment Group, Schriver-Richard has built a successful career in the hockey business. Notably, she also holds the record for the most goals scored in a single season for the Huskies.
Kori Cheverie BA'12 is currently the head coach for the Montreal Victoire in the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) and serves as assistant coach of the Canadian national women's ice hockey team. She previously held the position of assistant coach for the TMU Bold men's ice hockey team, making history as the first woman to be hired for a full-time coaching role in U Sports men's ice hockey. Cheverie's playing career included captain of the Huskies Women's Hockey team and the Toronto Furies in the Canadian Women's Hockey League (CWHL), where she played a crucial role in winning the 2014 Clarkson Cup.
During the tribute, their framed jerseys were unveiled, celebrating not only their remarkable contributions to the SMU Women's Hockey program but also the progress of women in sports. This poignant event was part of the ongoing celebration of the 50th anniversary of women in varsity sports at Saint Mary's University, honouring the legacies of athletes like Schriver-Richard and Cheverie while inspiring future generations to explore the many paths to life in sports.
Meet our New Deans
Q&A with Dr. Sam Veres, our newly appointed Dean of the Faculty of Science
What excites you most about the future of this university and its students?
I believe that having an urban university with the enrolment size and tightly contained, single-block layout of Saint Mary’s is a golden ticket. It’s an incredible thing and one that we really need to own. As I tell prospective students, being a solidly mid-sized university puts us in a very special place: we are big enough for great facilities, but small enough to care about individuals. These are key ingredients for a fantastic undergraduate education.
The Faculty of Science has had an incredible last 15 years, increasing undergraduate enrolments by 66%, the majority of which has come from domestic students. We are becoming recognized as a destination for excellent Science and Engineering education, and I am excited to continue building the Faculty’s positive momentum in both enrolment and reputation.
What are some of the unique qualities you hope to bring to your role as Dean?
I’m a very positive, optimistic and solution-oriented person. I love hearing about initiatives and ideas that other people are excited about and finding ways that we can work together to make Saint Mary’s a better place to study and work. I’m very “hands-on”—this Fall semester, for example, I’m out on the road all over the Halifax Regional Municipality making presentations to high school science classes to help build awareness of the Faculty of Science. I also think that it’s important to continue to share some of the front-line experiences that our faculty are having, so am teaching EGNE 2304: Mechanics of Materials this Fall.
If you could implement one innovative course or program that currently doesn’t exist, what would it be?
I’m very excited about the Masters in Engineering Management degree that we are putting together. It’s a collaborative offering between the Division of Engineering, the Sobey School of Business and our Industrial/Organizational Psychology faculty. There are a lot of new, exciting things that we can achieve when we work together across departmental and Faculty lines, and I’m excited to stimulate more of this over the next several years.
What is one piece of advice you always give to students?
Your professors chose their career because they love to teach. They are here to help you learn; it’s what they love to do. Don’t be shy—engage with them and seek help when you need it.
Who was a mentor or teacher that deeply influenced your career path?
Mr. Paul Vickers—my high school physics teacher. He had a magical way of capturing the full attention of the class at moments when key concepts were being taught, and of making those concepts seem very simple. Had I not had Mr. Vickers as a physics teacher, I may not have studied Engineering.
What book or academic work has had the most impact on your leadership style?
My leadership style is always evolving. I wouldn’t say that it has been shaped by books or academic works; rather it’s some combination of my own personal strengths and experiential learnings combined with bits and pieces of noteworthy behaviours that I’ve observed in others. I love watching and thinking about the connections between methods/approaches and outcomes, and considering how I can translate what I observe to best achieve goals.
If you weren’t in academia, what career path do you think you would have pursued?
Near the end of my PhD, I very seriously considered entering medical school with the goal of training to be an orthopedic surgeon. Or perhaps if I had detoured earlier, a carpenter or builder. I’ve always loved building things and working with my hands—it’s what I gravitate to most when I’ve got time.
What is your favourite campus spot to relax or recharge during a busy day?
Haha, funny question. I don’t like relaxing at work, and don’t care for it much at home either. I always have a list of about 100 work things and 100 personal things that I would like to be doing.
Do you have a favourite university tradition or event you look forward to each year?
Watching Huskies volleyball. I still play myself and it’s so fun to watch our amazing athletes and try to pick up some tips and techniques while cheering them on.
How do you envision the university evolving over the next 10 years?
SMU is going to become the #1 destination in Canada for undergraduate education. It’s highly achievable—so many of the critical elements are already in place. To our Alumni—if you want to help make that happen, you can. Please get in touch with me!
Q&A with Dr. Michel Delorme, our newly appointed Dean of the Sobey School of Business
What excites you most about the future of this university and its students?
Saint Mary’s offers a great student experience considering the size of the university (balance between capacity and proximity with students), its facilities and programs available for students.
What are some of the unique qualities you hope to bring to your role as Dean?
Competencies and skills to develop international partnerships, accreditations of our programs and links with the business community.
If you could implement one innovative course or program that currently doesn’t exist, what would it be?
Sport business—it combines students' passion for sports with their knowledge of business.
What is one piece of advice you always give to students?
Go for your dreams. Don't give up!
Who was a mentor or teacher that deeply influenced your career path?
When I was a young civil servant at the beginning of my career, I worked for the Office of Recruitment and Selection of the Provincial Government of Quebec. I didn't have a university degree at that time. One of the professionals working there told me: "Michel, we’re starting to know you now and we see your potential for a great career. But nowadays you need to get a university degree". I followed the suggestion and started my studies as a part-time student.
What book or academic work has had the most impact on your leadership style?
Leadership workshops organized by the European Foundation for Management Development.
If you weren’t in academia, what career path do you think you would have pursued?
I would be a consultant in HR management and strategy.
What is your favourite campus spot to relax or recharge during a busy day?
My office is an interesting place to relax when there are not too many people around (which is rare...)
Do you have a favourite university tradition or event you look forward to each year?
I always like to welcome new students, especially for the Fall Semester. It is an exciting time of the year.
How do you envision the university evolving over the next 10 years?
We will use more technology for the course delivery, and we will be more connected with international partners.
