Join licensed physiotherapist, canine rehab therapist, speaker, educator, social media influencer and dog parent Sarah MacKeigan (’99); Cindy James (’87), President of Crafty Beasts Brewing Company and creator of Canada’s first beer for dogs; and Olivia Shive (’21), animal enthusiast and sales representative at Elanco Animal Health in Alberta for a lively, entertaining and informative discussion.

Moderated by Executive Director, Alumni Affairs Oonagh Proudfoot (’93, ’06), this panel discussion, highlights reflections from past championship winners; preparation for and experience with University Cup Nationals; hockey as an organized sport; and the advancement of hockey in Nova Scotia. Panelists include hockey Axemen captain Jack Flaman ('22), former hockey Axemen captains Liam Heelis ('15) and George Dupont ('92), and Amy Walsh, Executive Director, Hockey Nova Scotia.

On the final day of African Heritage Month 2022, The Honorable Donald Oliver (’60, ’07 HON) discusses his life’s work and experiences as a Black Nova Scotian. Dr. Oliver has been a lawyer, professor, farmer, businessman, author, Cordon Bleu Chef, and Senator who rose to serve with distinction as Deputy Speaker in the Senate of Canada; as Chairman of six standing committees of Parliament; as Chairman or Deputy Chairman of seven inter-parliamentary associations; and as a ubiquitous spokesperson for diversity, pluralism, fairness and equality.

A conversation with guest panelists Sehkahnee Reynolds ('18), Fikayo Kayode ('22), and Ruvimbo Chipazi ('21), who offered first voice experiences of what it is like to live, work and go to school in Wolfville.

The United Nations’ theme this year is “Changing Course, Transforming Education” and tackling “a generational choice: continue on an unsustainable path or radically change course.” Hear from the Acadia community on topics including online learning, increasing accessibility, bridging inequalities, and breaking down systemic barriers at Acadia University and beyond.

In acknowledgement of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, our Alumni Virtual Event Series panel discussion featured community members who have experience with and are involved in projects that support persons with disabilities. Guests include Senior Alumni Officer Melanie Jackson ('99, '01); pro football player Bailey Feltmate ('20); accessibility advocate Emily Duffett ('11, '13); and assistant professor Dr. Emily Bremer.

This virtual event features Dr. Mary Sweatman ('03, '19), Associate Professor in Community Development at Acadia; Dr. Jackie Oncescu ('03, '06), Associate Professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology at UNB; and Lydia Broderick (‘19), Active Living Community Coordinator for the Town of Kentville, Parks and Recreation Department.

Our virtual event on October 4th celebrated National Coaches Day. The conversation featured Mark Smith of Falmouth, Nova Scotia, who retired recently as head coach of Canada’s bronze medal-winning women’s softball team after a historic run at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics; volunteer coach James Weekes; and head coach of Acadia women’s volleyball team, mentor and educator Michelle Wood.

Dr. Catherine Morley from Acadia's School of Nutrition and Dietetics joined us for a conversation about the effects and impact of celiac disease.