26 StFX Day events held!

Across Canada and around the world, Xaverians gathered on Dec. 3 (or thereabouts) to celebrate and reminisce with friends old and new from StFX. Events were held across Canada, in California, England, Scotland and Ireland!

I was fortunate to be a guest at the St. John's, Newfoundland gathering and the event in Sydney, NS. Both were wonderful events.

In Newfoundland alumni of all ages gathered at the Last Drop Pub on Water St. I gave an update on campus news and heard lots of great feedback and suggestions on what we can do to increase recruitment in the province. Bill Dilny and Ron Joy were terrific hosts and have done so much over the years to develop our presence in the St. John's area. In attendance were also several recent grads who are interested in getting more involved in the St. John's chapter and we look forward to working with them as well.

In Sydney close to 100 people came out for mass and a reception at St. Anthony Daniel chuch and hall. Dr. Sean Riley spoke about progress on campus and future plans. Fr. Donnie MacGillivray and his team of Xaverian helpers put on a wonderful event. Those in attendance agreed that we'd like to work together to establish a formal chapter in Sydney, and several people agreed to play leadership roles in doing so (much to Fr. Donnie's relief!).

Helen

X-Rings are tough on exams

I understand now. I understand those former classmates of mine who said they had trouble studying for Christmas exams after getting their X-Ring on Dec. 3. Hardly five minutes goes by now that I don't notice my shiny new ring there on my finger and stop whatever I'm doing to admire it. It is such a happy distraction!

Yesterday's X-Ring ceremony in the Keating Centre was magical. Dr. Winston Jackson was absolutely thrilled to be awarded this year's honorary X-Ring in recognition of his exceptional service to StFX over the past few decades. And guest speaker Peter Bowler '77 did an outstanding job of conveying to our senior class all that the X-Ring represents. His words were funny, inspirational and moving.

Alumni President Ed McHugh reminded the students that there's a 30,000-strong alumni family out there that's looking forward to welcoming them into the alumni ranks and helping them as best they can along their journeys after graduation.