In my first year as President of Mount Saint Vincent University, I’ve found myself surrounded by remarkable students who are eager to learn and grow. I’m also honoured to work with a diversely talented group of faculty and staff who are shaping bright futures and making a difference.
I’ve learned over the past year that many members of the Mount community are part of a global conversation made possible by social media platforms. Indeed, one of my colleagues recently sent me a link to a fascinating little video, The Social Media Revolution.
This video helped confirm my decision to join the social media conversation. Admittedly, I am still a ‘newbie’, but I feel this is an important step in better knowing, hearing from and connecting with those I may not always have a chance to meet face to face.
In addition to this blog, I will also be ‘tweeting.’ In both forums, I hope to share my passion for the Mount along with news of special happenings from every corner of our campus. Mostly, I want to talk about what we have here at the Mount - an energy and commitment to making a positive change, not only in our own lives, but in the lives of others.
For those of you who are not intimately familiar with our university, let me tell you—the Mount is a beautiful campus with a mighty history. We were the first degree-granting women’s institution in the Commonwealth, educating women long before they had the right to vote.
It seems whatever we’re faced with at the Mount, we overcome. And we evolve.
The Mount now welcomes students, both men and women, from more than 60 countries. Recently, we renovated three levels of multi-purpose student space in Evaristus Hall as part of a government-supported Knowledge Infrastructure Program (KIP). We remain committed to creating an environment where teaching and learning can thrive, which is why I am taking this opportunity to highlight the largest fundraising campaign in Mount history – Project Twenty12. This bold campaign was launched in May and will raise $12 million in 20 months to build a new academic building for four specific areas: Communications Studies, Women’s Studies, Business and Tourism and the Centre for Aging. Just as importantly, the new building will be dedicated to honouring women, a very fitting undertaking in light of our proud heritage.
As I enter my second year at the Mount, I’m confident that I’ve taken the measure of the Mount. The physical character of our campus and the personal character of our people create a university that’s small enough to think big – and we do.
Until next time,
Ramona
