To MSVU students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends:

Like many of us do as the end of December nears, I take time to reflect on the year that was and to anticipate the year that will be. In looking back, it has truly been quite a year.

This year, we welcomed students from new countries; we celebrated hundreds of new graduates at spring and fall convocation ceremonies and honoured some exceptional academic and research achievements; we developed new programs rooted in valuable partnerships; we welcomed new senior leaders (please meet Dr. Julie McMullin, Mustansar Nadeem and Dr. Carrie Dawson, if you haven’t already); we celebrated with our alumni family at Reunion Weekend 2019; and we devoted much effort to the development of a new strategic plan that will guide this institution in the coming five years, and beyond. And that’s to name just a few of a long list of highlights!

A treat for you

One additional project I was part of this year involved a special challenge of a festive sort.

Earlier this month, we combined some of the ingredients for a magical season into one tasty holiday video. The base of the recipe is friendly competition. Add to that a sprinkle of holiday cheer and some very special guests, and you’ve got a recipe for lots of fun. I hope you delight in watching!

(Of special note: this video was filmed in MSVU’s recently renovated, state-of-the-art Applied Human Nutrition kitchen lab in Evaristus Hall – an impressive space in which MSVU faculty, researchers, students and partners connect.)


This season is often associated with the giving of gifts, and I want to sincerely thank each and every one of you for that most precious of gifts – your time. Our campus community has benefited from your participation and it is something that I never take for granted and for which I will remain very grateful.

Whether you’re observing a holiday or using this time to be with family and friends, my wish for each of you is that you spend the coming weeks doing the things that you most enjoy, in the company of those who mean the most to you.

And may the year ahead be our best one yet!

Sincerely,

Mary

Dr. Mary Bluechardt
President and Vice-Chancellor
Mount Saint Vincent University