It is hard to believe that the fall semester is already behind us. This time of year, we naturally look back on the months past and also look ahead with anticipation. Certainly, the first semester of our 2014-2015 academic year was a busy one. In addition to the arrival of new students and our convocation ceremonies, which are always highlights for me, two of this fall’s high points include welcoming a new Chancellor, Sister Joan O’Keefe, and celebrating the opening of the Mount’s Learning Commons.

As we head into 2015, perhaps what I’m most looking forward to is an achievement the likes of which the Mount hasn’t celebrated in decades – the opening of our new Margaret Norrie McCain Centre for Teaching, Learning and Research, including the unveiling of the Riva Spatz Women’s Wall of Honour. Please save the date of Friday, May 29, 2015 (with the unveiling of the Women’s Wall of Honour to take place at 2:30 p.m. and the building grand opening starting at 4 p.m.). To be the first university in Canada with a building dedicated to the advancement of women is an extraordinary accomplishment and one I am delighted we are so close to celebrating.

Of course, none of this year’s successes would have been possible without the many incredible people who make up the Mount community. We are fortunate to be home to a wonderfully supportive community of outstanding students, staff, faculty, donors, partners and collaborators. Sincere thanks to you all for your support of the Mount over the past year. My wish for the entire Mount community this holiday season is that you have the time to put down your pens, your school books, your tablets and so on, and focus on what matters most – the special people in your lives. I hope the holidays bring you and yours much peace and relaxation.

And may 2015 be our best year yet.

Ramona

Ramona Lumpkin, CM, PhD

President and Vice Chancellor

Mount Saint Vincent University