Alumni Recognition Awards

The St. Francis Xavier University Hall of Honour was initiated by the Class of 1991 Legacy Committee to recognize those members of the StFX community who have carried on the Xaverian tradition of helping others. The Hall of Honour serves as an inspiration to current students to ensure this StFX tradition continues. The first induction ceremony took place during Homecoming celebrations on September 28, 1991. 

2024 Recipient: Miriam (Beaton) Gillis '69 '70

If you are a member of the Antigonish or StFX community, chances are your life has been touched in some way by Miriam Beaton Gillis. An outstanding teacher and devoted volunteer with an unmatched depth of kindness, Miriam is known for her humble efforts to foster education, health, and a more caring society. Her inspirational leadership and lifelong commitment to service make her a most deserving addition to the StFX Hall of Honour. 

Miriam, or “Mrs. Gillis” as many students have fondly known her, was born in Cape Breton and continued a family tradition of attending StFX. She taught English for 35 years at Antigonish Regional High School, later named Dr. John Hugh Gillis Regional High School, and extended her career 11 years past retirement to teach a Grade 12 correspondence English program. Many graduates of the Regional have Mrs. Gillis to thank for their essay and term paper writing skills, which she took the time to nurture while also supporting a variety of student activities and extracurriculars. Whether coaching budding actors in a school play or encouraging student involvement in sports, Miriam’s passion for education extended far beyond the curriculum to the development of the whole person. 

Her roles and contributions in the community are too many to name, but we will attempt to name some: chair and member of Boards such as the Canadian Association for Community Living, Theatre Antigonish and St. Vincent de Paul; diabetes educator and member of the St. Martha’s Hospital Auxiliary organization; event organizer and volunteer for RCMP musical rides, Remembrance Day ceremonies and the Special Olympics; supporter of community groups such as the Lions Club and Antigonish Heritage Museum; active member of St. Ninian’s Parish and the StFX Chapel; loving mother, grandmother, friend and neighbour. 

A graduate of the classes of ‘69 and '70, Miriam also finds time to contribute regularly to the life of our University. She volunteered to support students through the COVID pandemic, was instrumental in organizing her class’s 25th and 50th Homecomings, and serves on the StFX Legacy Committee where she continues to exercise her English teaching skills in evaluating student essay submissions for the Alumni Recognition Awards. 

This essay might lose marks from Mrs. Gillis for exceeding its word count limit, but it would take a whole series of essays to fully articulate her importance in so many of our lives. A person of honesty, integrity, determination and dependability, she is a true embodiment of our Xaverian motto, whatsoever things are true.

2024 Recipient: Leo T. Gallant '69

When Leo Gallant returned to his alma mater to take a teaching position, little did he know the profound impact he would have on the life of St. Francis Xavier University. A leader and educator with a steadfast commitment to helping others, Leo is a model Xaverian whom we are proud to induct into the StFX Hall of Honour. 

Leo earned his Business degree from StFX in 1969 and an MBA from Queens in 1971, going on to complete his Chartered Accountant designation while working with Clarkson Gordon (now Ernst & Young LLP). In 1973, he was asked to return to teach Accounting and Finance at StFX – and the rest is history. In his over 40 years at the university, he would serve as a professor and in innumerable leadership and volunteer capacities. 

The Gerald Schwartz School of Business owes much of its success to Leo’s pivotal contributions. As a professor, he helped attract students to StFX through the quality of its accounting program. As chair of the Department of Business Administration, director of the Schwartz School, and later as the university’s first Dean of Business, he helped build a world-class and nationally renowned business program and championed the construction of the Schwartz building and McKenna Centre. 

Leo’s contributions didn’t stop there. During his time at StFX, he sat on the Board of Governors, directed the StFX Management Services Centre, and participated in almost every university committee. A mentor and support to many colleagues, he elevated his profession by serving on numerous regional and national boards and associations, helping educate business leaders in Canada and beyond. Meanwhile, he rolled up his sleeves to support our regional hospital, university, community athletics, and community economic development both at home and overseas. These efforts earned Leo an Outreach Award from StFX in 2013 and a Lifetime Volunteer Award from CPA Canada in 2016.  

Despite wearing so many hats, Leo remained dedicated to his profession, to his wife Peggy, and to their three sons. An alumnus who represents everything it is to be Xaverian, Leo has built a legacy that will reverberate well beyond his years at StFX. 

2024 Recipient: Dr. Robert (Bob) M. MacDonald '59

A proud Xaverian who made a lifelong impact through helping and educating others, Dr. Robert (Bob) M. MacDonald joins the StFX Hall of Honour posthumously on the 65th anniversary of his graduation. 

Dr. MacDonald grew up in Mulgrave and continued his family’s tradition of attending StFX, earning a Bachelor of Science in 1959. He proceeded to Dalhousie University where he completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery in 1963. While studying, he enrolled in the Regular Officer Training Program and later served with the Canadian Armed Forces in Ontario, Quebec, Cyprus, Germany, Belgium, Sardinia, and England. 

Dr. MacDonald returned to Halifax in 1971, started a private practice, and began teaching as a part-time faculty member at Dalhousie. He would go on to hold various academic positions, sit on numerous committees and dental societies, and become a Fellow of the International College of Dentists.  

Concerned with the care of seniors and people with intellectual disabilities, Dr. MacDonald established dental clinics at Northwood Manor and the Mount St. Vincent Motherhouse. There, many of his students found the opportunity to develop their clinical skills. His far-reaching impact on students was recognized in four Outstanding Teaching Awards received between 1981 and 2001. 

A person of faith who was deeply devoted to his family, Dr. MacDonald was also an active volunteer. From the Halifax Rotary Club to his church parish and myriad community organizations, he gave generously of his time to help others. 

In 2003, Dr. MacDonald was diagnosed with myelodysplasia (MDS), a rare type of blood cancer. He received a stem-cell transplant from his twin sister and returned to Dalhousie, continuing to work part-time until 2012. A fierce advocate for MDS research and patient care, he co-founded the Atlantic chapter of the Aplastic Anemia and Myelodysplasia Association of Canada and brought its national conference to Halifax for the first time. 

Dr. MacDonald is fondly remembered for his warm and lively personality, his sense of humour, and his kind and gentle spirit. A lover of sports and his first alma mater, he often returned to Antigonish to cheer on the X-Men football team. He passed his love of StFX down to his children and to a granddaughter who recently graduated. His legacy of service to his country, his community and his profession exemplifies our university’s motto of whatsoever things are true. 

Presented to an alumnus/alumna who brings honour to the University, the Alumni Association, and their community through exceptional leadership and service. The individual would embody the spirit of StFX through his/her actions and accomplishments. 

2024 Recipient: Mike MacDonald '71, '74

An Antigonish native, Mike MacDonald has dedicated his life to upholding the StFX motto of whatsoever things are true. Mike graduated from StFX with a Bachelor of Arts in 1971, pursued theology studies at St. Paul’s University in Ottawa, and returned to StFX to earn his Bachelor of Education in 1974. From here, Mike embarked on a 43-year long career as an international humanitarian, aid worker, teacher, translator, and human rights advocate.

In 1984, Mike travelled to Mexico to support a human rights education program, marking the beginning of his lifelong commitment to serving the most underprivileged communities. His work in Mexico has primarily focused on the Montanya region where he held significant roles, including serving as the Onsite Coordinator for Mission Mexico and a secretary to the Bishop. These positions have seen him living and working in challenging conditions to provide critical support and care to the Indigenous peoples in remote regions. Mike’s advocacy on behalf of marginalized communities has taken him across Latin America to countries such as Peru, Chile, and El Salvador.

A man of deep faith, Mike’s empathetic heart and compassionate demeanor has served as a beacon of hope for the people in these communities. His unwavering respect for Indigenous cultures, combined with his fluency in Spanish, earned the trust and admiration of the families in need. 

A true Xaverian, Mike’s tireless and selfless devotion to serving others has profoundly impacted the lives of many. His work is a powerful example of the significant difference one person can make in the world, and we are proud to honour Mike MacDonald with the Distinguished Alumnus Achievement Award. 

Presented to a young alumnus/alumna who embodies the spirit of StFX through their actions and accomplishments. The recipient must be 40 years of age or less. 

2024 Recipient: Marc Rodrigue '08

Since first stepping onto the StFX campus in 2004, Marc Rodrigue has exemplified what it means to be a true Xavierian. Marc’s commitment to leadership, inclusion, and advocacy has been evident throughout his career and personal endeavors.

After earning his Bachelor of Arts with Distinction from StFX in 2008, Marc attended one of Canada’s most prestigious law schools, Osgoode Hall at York University. Marc is now a partner at Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP where he specializes in labour, employment, and human rights law. Marc’s contributions at Fasken have been pivotal, particularly in the development and success of the firm’s award-winning Pride Network. Under Marc’s guidance, this network has set a gold-standard for inclusivity, offering a supportive environment for 2SLGBTQIA+ members and allies. In 2023, Marc was honoured as a Thomas Reuters Stand-Out Lawyer, a testament to his clients’ recognition of his dedication and advocacy.

Marc’s leadership extends beyond his firm. His engagement with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community is profound, from his role as former chair of the Ontario Bar Association’s Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Conference to establishing Fasken as the official legal services provider of Pride Toronto.  

Marc has been a prominent figure in the StFX Alumni Association. Serving as Vice-President in 2017 and President in 2019, Marc was the first member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to lead the Association in its 125-year history. In 2022, he returned to StFX to create the first Pride of StFX Awards, enhancing the visibility of 2SLGBTQIA+ students and alumni within the Xaverian community.  

Marc’s journey from a distinguished StFX student to a respected legal and community leader reflects his unwavering commitment to the Xaverian values of truth, justice, and belonging. His impact on others is a source of pride for our StFX family.

Awarded to a non-alumnus/alumna or an organization who has demonstrated a commitment of outstanding service to the Alumni Association and/or the University. The individual or organization has brought honour to StFX through significant contributions, and is an inspiration to StFX and extended community.  

2024 Recipient: The Wheel Pizza & Sub Shop

Since 1980, Mike and Trish Hassin have been the proud owners of The Wheel Pizza and Sub Shop on Main Street in Antigonish. The son of Lebanese immigrants to Nova Scotia, Mike’s extraordinary work ethic has helped make The Wheel an Antigonish institution. He manages the day –to-day operations of the restaurant, while Trish handles the business end of things. Together, they have focused on creating a distinctive product that’s captured the hearts and tastebuds of Xaverians for nearly fifty years. 

No trip to Antigonish is complete without a visit to The Wheel, where the Hassin family has protected our collective sense of nostalgia by maintaining the same orange booths and photo-covered walls, the lost debit cards pinned to the wall behind the cash, and the paper towel-wrapped knife and fork. 

Tara Hassin, the younger of Mike and Trish’s two daughters, recalls being taken to the restaurant each evening, to “say goodnight to Daddy” as he manned the pizza ovens. She notes too that she and her sister would run the halls of MacIsaac and Lane and Bishop’s early each fall, sliding flyers under students’ doors and hoping to see and chat with one of the new first-years, who seemed awfully grown-up to the little girls. 

Generations of X-Men and X-Women have stopped by for an athletes’ special, to carbo-load before a big game. And they’ve slunk into those orange booths after a match, cradling sore knees and lamenting a loss. Through it all, The Wheel has been the hub, a gathering spot after an evening at the Golden X Inn, and the backdrop for countless romances ... and breakups. 

To many Xaverians, their memories of StFX are intertwined with memories of the Wheel. In recognition of Mike and Trish Hassin’s decades of exceptional service to the entire StFX community, the Alumni Association is proud to recognize them – and the Wheel Pizza and Sub Shop – as the recipient of this year’s Friend of StFX Award. 

The award is intended to honor the Chapter as a whole. It would signify outstanding loyalty, commitment and support to the University in all or one of the following: Alumni events, mentorship, recruitment, and/or student receptions. 

2023 Recipient: TBA

The Xaverian Spirit Award honours those who make our StFX experience truly memorable. It is open to StFX faculty, staff and any other campus-based employees. It is meant for the unsung heroes who exemplify the Xaverian Spirit and who’s support, encouragement, guidance or attitude leave a lasting impression on alumni long after graduation. 

2024 Recipient: Dr. Wendy Mackey '13 '21

Dr. Wendy Mackey exemplifies Xaverian Spirit. She encourages, supports and guides her students. She herds them like little chicks and tucks them under her enormous wing providing them a safe and nurturing environment that we all deserve.

As Wendy’s flag, that is now flying in confusion square in front of Xavier Hall, above her “outdoor office,” indicates, she supports all students and makes change in true Xaverian spirit.

"Wendy is a true mentor; she has inspired me to go on to higher education. When I think about Wendy, I can hear her big laugh, her open-door policy, a love that extends outside of the classroom. I would not be where I am today without her. She has greatly influenced my life and my outlook.” 
-Tara, former student

"Dr. Wendy Mackey is an extraordinary professor who truly embodies the spirit of kindness and support. When I moved to Canada, she was instrumental in helping me adapt to my new surroundings, making the transition so much easier. Her warmth and approachability create an inviting atmosphere in Xavier Hall. Dr. Mac Key's genuine concern for her students is evident in everything she does, and she always has a smile on her face.

Her dedication goes beyond academics; she often acts as a mentor and a guiding light for many of us. We are all incredibly fortunate to have her, as she fosters a sense of community and belonging. Dr. Mac key is not just a professor; she is like a mother to many of us. Thanks for everything you do for us, we love you.”
-Tavneet, former student

The Pride of StFX Award is presented to a student who embodies the spirit of StFX through actions and accomplishments and has made a significant impact in support of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

2024 Recipient: Ro Paradela

Ro Paradela is a remarkable individual whose academic and community contributions at StFX have made a lasting impact, particularly within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Ro’s academic work has centered on critical issues such as the contemporary ‘crisis of masculinity,’ approached through a transfeminist lens. Their honours thesis, which examines male self-destructive behavior as an expression of gender melancholia and grief, integrates transfeminism, psychoanalysis, and contemporary literature on masculinity to explore the root causes of violence experienced by 2SLGBTQIA+ people.

Beyond their academic achievements, Ro is an engaged leader in the StFX community. As the first peer mentor for the Gender & Sexual Diversity Advising Office, Ro has developed community-building programs and offered peer support, providing a safe and inclusive space for 2SLGBTQIA+ students. Their advocacy for equity is profound and they confidently yet gently more that work forward. Their work with Social Justice Radio further amplifies their advocacy, producing content that explores issues of equity and dignity.

A Positive Space Training Facilitator, two-time recipient of the "Champions of Change" Student Leadership Award, and certified in safeTALK Suicide Alertness, Ro’s commitment to education and social justice is evident. Their presence on campus exemplifies love, compassion, and unwavering dedication to 2SLGBTQIA+ visibility and advocacy. Join me in congratulating Ro on receiving the 2024 Pride of StFX Student Award.

The Pride of StFX Award is presented to an alumni who embodies the spirit of StFX through actions and accomplishments and has made a significant impact in support of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in which they reside.

2024 Recipient: Terry Smith '70

Terry Smith's remarkable journey embodies courage, authenticity, and unwavering dedication. After graduating from StFX, Terry pursued a distinguished career in education, serving as a teacher, administrator, and law professor. His personal experiences profoundly shaped his teaching, instilling lessons of self-acceptance, inclusion, and social justice. He left an indelible mark on countless students and colleagues, demonstrating the power of education to foster equity and understanding.

Terry’s connection to StFX is as strong today as ever. Proudly wearing his X-ring, he returns to campus annually with his wife Bonnie, visiting the Gender and Sexual Diversity Advising Office and Diversity Engagement Centre, where he supports and uplifts students, staff, and faculty alike. His presence is a beacon of warmth and wisdom, particularly for 2SLGBTQIA+ students. Through his captivating storytelling, rooted in lived experience, Terry offers hope and inspiration to all who meet him.

His legacy as an educator and advocate is a testament to his strength, compassion, and enduring love for the StFX community. As Terry often says, "It’s someone’s spirit that makes them who they are," and we are truly fortunate to witness the fullness of Terry’s spirit.