Hello my friends,

Did you know that a group of Eagles is called an aerie, congress, convocation, jubilee, soar, spread, or tower? How appropriate, then, as we reach the end of term, the end of an academic year, and approach Convocation, that we learn from Eagle.

Eagle, so our Indigenous Elders teach us, is the spirit keeper of the eastern direction of the medicine wheel. Eagle represents spiritual protection, as well as strength, courage, and wisdom. According to the 7 Grandfather Teachings, Eagle also teaches us about love.

THE EAGLE TEACHES US LOVE

LOVE MUST BE UNCONDITIONAL

To feel true love is to know the Creator. Therefore, it is expected that one’s first love is to be the Great Spirit. He is considered the father of all children, and the giver of human life. Love given to the Great Spirit is expressed through love of oneself, and it is understood that if one cannot love oneself, it is impossible to love anyone else.

The Eagle was chosen by the Great Spirit to represent this law, as the Eagle can reach the highest out of all the creatures in bringing pure vision to the seeker. Although the supplier of the greatest and most powerful medicine, love can also be the most elusive of the teachings, as it depends upon a world that acknowledges the importance of spirituality. (https://empoweringthespirit.ca/teachings/the-eagle/)

How grateful I am to be learning, working, collaborating, at St. Mary’s University, where we know the importance of spirituality and where we can see Eagle flying into Fish Creek Park, reminding us to seek Creator, love ourselves and others, and seek clear vision.

In this time of ongoing uncertainty due to COVID, what a gift it is to be reminded of Eagle, of the light that comes from the East, and to focus on unconditional love, rather than all the things that we cannot control.

Convocation for Class of 2021

We are delighted to be able to celebrate your graduation, Class of 2021, with a virtual convocation on June 11, 2021 at 6pm.

As the variants of concern and transition rates of COVID has risen sharply, particularly in the 20-29 age group, sadly we are unable to offer a parade or drive-through convocation as we had hoped. However, do not despair yet! Last year we were unique in Calgary with our hand-delivered Convocation Boxes. We are working on a secret plan for this year too – if we can make it happen with AHS COVID protocols.

Keep watching your StMU email for all the official details from your Registrar’s Office – aka Convocation Central!! It might look different this year, but it will be a mighty celebration for all you have achieved.

Library Returns – You Don’t Want Those Books Sitting Around

We would like to offer the friendly remainder library materials can be returned at any time to the outdoor book drop beside the front door of St. Basil’s Hall, and that all library fines and fees must be settled in order access to final grades. To prevent fines and fees from blocking your account, please be sure to return your books or renew them online through your library account.

If you have questions about your account, or would like to make arrangements for payment, please contact circulation@stmu.ca

Are you Enrolled in the BSc Biology Degree? Science Scholarship for Women

My name is Ali Chou. I am the Scholarship Coordinator at Alberta Women’s Science Network (AWSN), a non-profit organization whose mandate is to connect, unite, support, and promote STEM programs throughout Alberta via activities pertaining to recruitment, retention, and recognition.

I would like to share with you that AWSN is offering up to 10 scholarships (value $3000 each) to students and professionals who are enrolled in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. We think students from St. Mary’s University would be interested and benefit from this opportunity. Could you kindly share this opportunity with your students, faculties, and network? If possible, we would appreciate it if you can list this scholarship program on your website.

For over 25 years, AWSN supports advocacy towards a more diverse and inclusive STEM future. We have contributed close to $2 million in the Alberta ecosystem through our programs and activities! One of the most important things AWSN does is recognize individuals that make a difference in the community and/or their STEM field. To this end, we are opening application to our annual AWSN Scholarship ($3000) on May 3, 2021. The deadline to apply is June 30, 2021.

The scholarship is open to

• STEM students: applicant is going into the 3rd to final year of an undergraduate program in STEM in Alberta.
• STEM re-engagers: applicant has a career gap (2+ years) and is re-engaging into a STEM program in Alberta to learn or upgrade skills.

You can find more information about the scholarship on our Scholarship Program webpage. I also attach a link to a more detailed Program Guide. If applicants would like to mail in the application, they can download the Printable Application Form.

Spring Course Delivery – May/June

Given the way the COVID cases have been tracking upwards, especially in your age group, you will not be surprised that we are moving more Spring courses online for May and June. While our faculty are eagerly waiting to be back to face to face learning with you, your health and safety are the most important. We will continue to offer the highest caliber of academic excellence that we can while keeping you safe!

We will reassess in mid-June for the July and August period and will update you then.

With the exception of courses that need to be offered in person for pedagogical reasons, all else will be offered through D2L. Please consult the list below. If you have any questions about your course, please email your instructor. If you have COVID questions or other logistical questions, you can email me.

D2L Delivery

In-Person Spring Courses

BIOL senior projects, where necessary, will have lab access under COVID protocols

Please keep safe – keep your contact group very small, wear your mask, and do not travel.

And keep your eyes on the sky!

Tara Hyland-Russell 
Vice-President Academic
St. Mary’s University