Audrey is a fourth-year PhD candidate investigating genetic impacts on the recovery of two endangered cetacean populations. She holds a Master of Science in arctic marine ecology from the University of Tromsø and a Bachelor of Science in environmental science from UCLA. Audrey is an active member of the Saint Mary’s community; her contributions to the university include co-organizing the seminar and journal club series for the biology and environmental science departments and helping to facilitate the biweekly EDIA book club. Audrey works as both a teaching assistant for biology and ENVS courses and an exam invigilator for the Fred Smithers Centre. Off campus, Audrey volunteers as a student representative for the Nova Scotia Institute of Science, where she serves student interests among the broader scientific community by supporting initiatives for students to share their scientific research and learn about potential career paths. Audrey endeavours to continue fostering collegiality within the biology department and hopes her efforts break down some of the barriers to collaboration and participation in science. Once finished with her doctoral program, Audrey hopes to find a position at the intersection of research and policy, where she can continue supporting conservation of species and ecosystems.
Hailey is a third-year Psychology student, completing the Forensic Psychology Certificate. Hailey has a strong passion for leadership, accessibility, and student success, holding various leadership positions in the Saint Mary’s community. As a Peer Success Coach for Accessibility, Hailey supports Arts students and individuals registered with the Fred Smithers Centre by facilitating learning strategy workshops and one-on-one coaching. She also serves as the Vice President of the Psychology Society, fostering connections and growth among students. Additionally, Hailey is involved with the Sexual Violence Prevention Initiative, working to raise awareness of sexual and gender-based violence to promote a safer campus environment. Hailey has been a recipient of the Dean's List and Faculty Union Scholarship for Academic Excellence. Outside of the SMU community, Hailey volunteers every summer at Camp Triumph, a camp for children who have a sibling/parent with a chronic illness or disability. Looking ahead, she intends to enter the honours program and pursue a Master's in clinical forensic psychology, aiming to become a forensic psychologist supporting individuals within the criminal justice system.
Khuloud Saqib is a third-year international student majoring in Criminology with a minor in Psychology. Widely recognized on campus as the ‘purple-haired’ girl, Khuloud has made an impact through her leadership and involvement in student life. Starting as a dedicated member of SMUSA’s Street Team in her first year, a role that required energy, extroversion, and direct engagement with students, she upheld the role through her first two years. She was also an active member of the SMU Cheerleading team for two years and served as the Captain of her team in her second year. Alongside this, Khuloud upheld various off-campus volunteer roles. Currently, Khuloud serves as the Vice President Societies for the Saint Mary’s University Students’ Association, where she plays a key role in supporting the 60 active societies, managing event risks, and ensuring policies are upheld. She aims to serve her remaining years as a leader to ensure the SMU community feels well-supported.
Spencer is a dedicated advocate, community organizer, and leader, passionate about creating change. A 4th-year Bachelor of Arts student in Social Justice and Community Studies (major) and Sociology (minor), he plans to pursue either an M.A. or J.D (still deciding!). Spencer has led the SMU Pride Society for the past two years, advocating for institutional change, organizing queer-centric events, and supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ SMUdents. As a Teaching Assistant in the Faculty of Arts, he both mentors students and assists faculty. Spencer also represents 2SLGBTQIA+ students on the Sexual Violence Prevention Executive Advisory Committee. In addition to his leadership on campus, he works full-time in retail management and excels academically as a two-time Dean’s List recipient, balancing his academic and work life. Recently, he has been appointed to the Point Pleasant Park Advisory Committee with the City of Halifax, deepening his commitment to community service.
Lydia Ramsay is a third-year Finance and Accounting BComm student and Sobey National Innovator Scholar at Saint Mary’s University. Since beginning of her studies at SMU, she has continuously sought opportunities to lead, mentor, and bring a meaningful impact to our campus. For the past two years she has served as a Residence Assistant on campus, fostering an inclusive environment and community. Lydia leads as Events and Engagement Lead for the Women in Business Society, organizing impactful events such as the Women in Finance Panel Gala. This event aimed to bridge the gap for underrepresented Women in Financial Industries. Beyond SMU, Lydia has coordinated French leadership training for the Canadian Student Leadership Association and launched an online Student Leadership Certification Program. With involvement in SMU’s Venture Grade Program and Research Associate for the IMPACT Investment Fund, she excels in financial leadership. Lydia aims to further her leadership in finance and community impact with the Women in Business Society.
Maria Mannette is a fourth year Bachelor of Commerce student, double majoring in Computing & Information Systems and Management. Graduating as Valedictorian in Spring 2025, she has been an active leader on campus, serving as a Teaching Assistant, a Peer Academic Leader, a BComm Ambassador, and the Administrative Assistant for the Sobey School of Business Commerce Society. She also played a key role in student governance as the Deputy Returning Officer for the SMUSA elections in 2023. In September 2024, Maria founded the university’s first Women In Business Society, serving as its inaugural President and igniting a legacy of female leadership, inclusion, and professional development with a growing community of over 100 members. Alongside her studies, Maria works full-time and volunteers with the Greek Community. Passionate about advocacy and meaningful change, she aspires to pursue a career in human rights law, championing her passion for women's rights on a global scale.
Born and raised in Jamaica, Ramon Stultz is a driven leader, community builder, and advocate for youth empowerment who currently calls Halifax, Nova Scotia home. He is pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce at Saint Mary’s University, with concentrations in Finance and Management, building on his strong foundation in Business from Jamaica. Ramon’s dedication to creating positive change and fostering inclusive environments shines through in his numerous leadership roles across campus and beyond. His passion for innovation, collaboration, and social impact has led Ramon to co-found the Premiere Emcee Team, where he draws upon his background in hosting high-profile Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion events to create engaging experiences. He held the position of Research Assistant at the Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub, where he applied his finance expertise and passion for youth mentoring to support groundbreaking research initiatives for black communities. Ramon contributes to Tribe Network as an Administrative Lead, streamlining operations, building vibrant community connections, and aiding in project research. With a focus on business acumen, inclusive leadership, and forward-thinking collaboration, Ramon continues to empower the communities he serves. Whether he is guiding peers, organizing educational programs, or championing new projects, Ramon’s goal remains steadfast: to drive positive change, inspire those around him, and foster a thriving environment for learning, growth, and innovation.
Ella is a fourth-year undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics with a Minor in French. Ella has volunteered for three years with Students Acting for Global Awareness and served as a Teaching Assistant in the Mathematics Department. Additionally, she has volunteered as a Pack Leader with SMUSA for two years, creating a safe and welcoming community at Saint Mary’s. Ella participated in a year-long Study Abroad program at University of Seoul in South Korea, where she joined Korean tutoring groups, volunteered as an English discussion leader, and contributed to the International Student Fellowship program, which strives to build a diverse global community. Ella also completed two spring semester exchanges in Québec. These firsthand experiences have deepened her commitment to bridging cultural and linguistic gaps in education. Ella will begin her Bachelor of Education program following graduation to further her goal of making education more accessible to all.
Liah is a fourth-year Chemistry Honours student minoring in Philosophy. A dedicated leader at Saint Mary’s University, she has excelled in academics, mentorship, and research. As a Peer Success Coach, she supports student transitions through personalized coaching and learning strategy workshops. Within the Chemistry Department, Liah has worked as a Research Assistant, TA, SNAP Centre Peer Tutor, and SMU Chemistry Society Co-President, fostering academic growth and engagement for science students. A Dean’s List recipient throughout her degree, Liah has earned awards including a Cleary Family Scholarship, USRA, and the Department of Philosophy Crooks List. Beyond the lab, Liah is deeply committed to community health and advocacy. She has volunteered over 225 hours with Ronald McDonald House Charities, co-chairs the Halifax Community Health Board, and delivers educational mental health presentations as a certified JackTalks Speaker. Ultimately, Liah aims to pursue graduate studies in Chemistry, focusing on research with health care applications.
Melissa Álvarez is a third-year Bachelor of Science student majoring in Psychology. Melissa enjoys slow mornings, the first sip of coffee, meaningful conversations, and making sure no one feels alone in the little corners of life. As an international student from Mexico, Melissa understands what it means to start over. Facing cultural shock and the silent battles of proving herself in unfamiliar spaces shaped her passion for advocacy and community care. Melissa is a Senior Residence Assistant and Chair of the Residence Wellness Team, where she leads initiatives focused on harm reduction and mental health awareness, creating spaces for students to feel seen and heard. Beyond campus, Melissa volunteers at Peter’s Place, assisting individuals recovering from brain injuries. She is also involved in the French Woodland Conservation Project, where she helps educate children about the preservation of yellow birch trees.