Molly Sutherland, candidate for the degree of MA Sociology
Supervisor: Dr. James Brittain
Thesis Title: EDUCATION AND CAPITALISM: POWER, ALIENATION, AND THE ILLUSION OF CHOICE IN PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL COURSE ORGANIZATION

Molly is an MA student in Sociology at Acadia University studying anti-capitalist thought surrounding education and schooling. Rooted in Marxist thought, her research focuses on critical theoretical critique of the educational organization structure known as “streaming” in Canada and its role in reproducing meritocratic ideology that aligns with inequality. Prior to this, Molly completed a Bachelor of Arts with Honours, Double Major in Sociology and Women’s & Gender Studies at Acadia. Her honours thesis explored the perspectives of public high school students and how they perceived their relationship to education. Molly began doctoral studies at Carleton University in September exploring the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom, why students feel the need to use it, and how it may deepen students’ alienation in learning and limit critical thinking. Her research interests include class consciousness, escapism, digital spaces, queer studies, abolition theory, and hope.

Joanna Regan, candidate for the degree of Master of Community Development
Supervisor: Dr. Katie Mazer, Department of Women's and Gender Studies
Thesis Title: Recognizing and Navigating Ecological Grief, Developing an Educational Ecological Grief Toolkit for Schools

Joanna Regan holds a Bachelor of Social Work with a specialization in grief work from the University of Western Ontario and is currently completing her Master of Community Development at Acadia University. Her graduate research focuses on the intersection of climate change and emotional well-being, specifically exploring the complex feelings of eco-grief and eco-anxiety. Driven by a desire to turn theory into practice, Joanna is developing a specialized toolkit designed to help educators support students navigating these challenging environmental emotions. Her recent work extends into the field, where she is working with with front-line conservation and parks protection workers in BC and Ontario to address how grief impacts their daily operations. Through her research and advocacy, Joanna aims to further explore conversations within communities facing the emotional realities of the climate crisis.