Dr. Rosemarie Sampson’s nearly lifelong connection to Mount Saint Vincent University spans more than 60 years, from her arrival as a student to her transition to psychology professor, and finally to her appointment as Dean of Professional Studies. Throughout her career, she has been a passionate supporter of research in the area of aging, and her legacy in the field lives on through MSVU’s Dr. Rosemarie Sampson Centre on Aging.
A lifelong MSVU connection
In 1958, Rosemarie embarked on a journey from Boston to the Mount. Upon her arrival, she joined the Sisters of Charity and completed two degrees (BSc ElEd ’63, BA’65). While in graduate school in the late 1960s, Catherine Wallace, then President of the Mount, recruited her to join the new psychology department. From 1973 to 2007, Rosemarie taught in the Psychology department and took on leadership roles, serving as the department chair and later becoming the Dean of Professional Studies, a role she held for more than a decade. In her final years working at MSVU, she held the position of Senior Associate responsible for Gift Planning in University Advancement.
Rosemarie has held a deep interest in aging research throughout her career. As Dean of Professional Studies during the 1990s, she was actively involved in the growth of the Nova Scotia Centre on Aging at MSVU, recognizing its potential as a bridge between the university and the wider community.
Furthermore, Rosemarie has contributed her expertise to various external committees, the Capital Health Board of Directors, and the Department of Health’s initiative in developing a strategic framework for long-term care. Additionally, she chaired the Aging Committee for Project TWENTY12, a campaign that successfully raised funds for the construction of the Margaret Norrie McCain Centre for Teaching, Learning and Research. For her work on project TWENTY12, Rosemarie, along with her fellow committee chairs, received the Mount’s Exceptional Service Award.
Going above and beyond
In addition to her academic and other professional contributions, Rosemarie’s commitment to MSVU extends to her generous support of the Mount’s Annual Fund and the establishment of the Rosemarie Sampson Award, which benefits honours psychology students pursuing graduate school.
Rosemarie has also generously committed a legacy gift to MSVU, ensuring that future generations can access transformative educational experiences. Furthermore, she currently serves on the university’s Board of Governors.
Honouring her legacy
In 2015, the Dr. Rosemarie Sampson Centre on Aging was established at MSVU, bringing together the Nova Scotia Centre on Aging with the Maritime Data Centre for Aging Research and Policy Analysis. The naming of the centre was made in honour of Rosemarie’s generous legacy gifts, dedication to aging research and advocacy, and countless contributions to MSVU as a student, staff member, dean, donor and volunteer.
MSVU’s history is rich with the stories of countless people who’ve had an impact on the university and in the broader community. Over the course of 2023, we’ll feature stories about 150 MSVU students, faculty, staff and alum. Check back often to meet more amazing MSVU people!