True Santamarian
Susan Summerby-Murray's Decade of Dedication
Susan Summerby-Murray Assoc. Alum'24 and Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, President and Vice-Chancellor
When Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray became President of Saint Mary’s University in 2015, he didn’t take on the role alone. From the very beginning, his wife, Susan Summerby-Murray Assoc. Alum'24, was fully engaged in the journey. Over the past ten years, she has played an active and meaningful role in the Saint Mary’s community, welcoming students and families, attending campus events and bringing warmth and authenticity to countless university moments.
Arriving on campus as empty nesters, Susan and Rob embraced the opportunity ahead of them as a shared chapter. From the outset, Susan saw this experience as a commitment rooted in presence, hospitality and a sincere appreciation for the people who make up the Saint Mary’s experience.
"We were in a unique position to embrace this opportunity side by side from the beginning,” said Susan. “We probably saw each other more than most couples do during the workday. And we really valued the chance to share this experience.”
Over the years, Susan’s time at Saint Mary’s was shaped by her genuine connection to the campus community. She was always engaged and present, whether attending various cultural and heritage events, cheering on the Huskies or chatting with faculty and staff.
“I’ve had the privilege of attending so many events over the past decade, and it would be hard to choose a favourite. From research presentations to Bangladeshi Night to award ceremonies...the list goes on. Each one offered a different window into the life of the university.”
What stood out most to Susan, however, wasn’t the celebrations themselves–it was the students. Their energy, talent and commitment were constant reminders of what makes Saint Mary’s so unique. Whether sharing their research, showcasing their culture or performing with pride, students brought each moment to life and made every experience meaningful.
“Students are at the centre of it all. Whenever I met someone from another country, I thought about their parents and the people who trusted Saint Mary’s to be their home away from home. What an honour that is.”
This awareness shaped how she approached each interaction–always aiming to be a kind and welcoming presence. For Susan, creating a sense of belonging for students, whether they came from across the world or just down the road, was a quiet but essential part of her role.
Through the ups and downs, including the profound challenges of the pandemic, Susan continued to build meaningful connections across the university. She also deeply appreciated the staff who kept the university running behind the scenes.
“Those who work the events, the catering teams, the people who showed up during the pandemic and kept things going…their work is integral, and I truly appreciate everything they’ve done.”
In October 2024, Susan was officially recognized as an Associate Alumni of Saint Mary’s, an honour she described as humbling and unexpected.
“I already felt like part of the Saint Mary’s family. But to be named an Associate Alumni? That was special. Of course, the physical award is lovely, but what meant the most was knowing I’m officially part of this community. That’s the real gift.”
As Rob prepares to step down as President, Susan looks back with gratitude and admiration for the university she’s grown to love. When asked what message she’d leave with the Saint Mary’s community, her response was thoughtful and sincere:
“Keep being who you are. Saint Mary’s has this special way of making a big impact in the world without ever being boastful. We’re a humble community that does extraordinary things but never loses sight of who we are. That’s something really rare and really special. Don’t lose that.”
Over the past decade, Susan has become a valued and respected presence at Saint Mary’s–someone who showed up with care, listened with intention and built lasting connections across campus. Her legacy is one of quiet leadership, deep appreciation for others and a genuine commitment to the spirit of Saint Mary’s.
