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2024 Charles Frederick Allison Award
Sandra Starratt (’79)

A lifetime of dedication to Mount Allison University

Sandra Starratt, affectionately known as Mme. Starratt, has been honoured with the Charles Frederick Allison Award, celebrating her commitment and outstanding dedication to Mount Allison University. A proud graduate of the Class of '79, Starratt's influence extends far beyond the walls of academia, touching the lives of countless students and colleagues alike.

Throughout her career as a high school French teacher at Halifax West High School, Starratt wore many hats. From managing a full teaching load and leading the French department to supervising the Extended Essay project for International Baccalaureate students and coordinating the student government. Her tireless efforts led to the creation and success of the annual "Head for a Cure" fundraiser, which has raised over $150,000 for cancer research.

"Sandra managed to make each one of her students feel special and loved — she was the reason I attended Mount Allison,” says Cydney Kane (’17), an accomplished lawyer and Mount Allison Alumni Board Director.

As a proud alumna of Mount Allison, Starratt played a pivotal role in recruiting countless students to the University. "Honestly, it was with such a true spirit that I was able to convince so many students to attend Mount A," she chuckles. Starratt's passionate advocacy for Mount Allison’s unique attributes and exceptional learning environment resonated with her students, guiding them towards successful academic journeys. Her efforts resulted in hundreds of students excelling in their respective fields, with some becoming Rhodes Scholars and others pursuing medical careers after graduating.

Starratt’s love for Mount Allison is evident in all aspects of her life.  "I still sing the Alma Mater Song every time we drive to Moncton," she says, highlighting the deep-rooted connection she maintains with her alma mater. Her daughter, Alison, who was named in honour of Mount Allison, also flourished during her time at the University, completing her degree in 2008.

In recognition of her exceptional contributions to education and her dedication to Mount Allison University, Starratt has been honoured with several awards over the years, including the 2015 Women of Excellence Award in Education and Research and the 2013 Community Champion Award.

Starratt’s impact on Mount Allison University is immeasurable. Her legacy as an outstanding educator, mentor, and advocate continues to inspire and uplift the Mount Allison community and the students she continues to refer grace our campus.

2024 Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr. Marva Sweeney-Nixon ('84)

Excellence and equity in academia

Dr. Marva Sweeney-Nixon has been honoured with the Mount Allison Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award for her exceptional contributions to academia and her commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).

Sweeney-Nixon’s academic journey began with her studies in science at Mount Allison following in her father's [the late Marvinton Sweeney (‘58)] footsteps.  

Currently, the associate vice-president of research and dean of graduate studies at the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI), her tenure at UPEI has garnered achievements — including the development of the biology department's strategic plan and the introduction of innovative programs in biotechnology and paramedicine.

Sweeney-Nixon’s accolades extend beyond her administrative accomplishments.  She has been recognized as one of Atlantic Canada's 20 Black Changemakers in 2023 for inspiring students from diverse backgrounds and championing EDI initiatives at UPEI. Her dedication to teaching excellence earned her the UPEI Hessian Merit Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2011.

As a researcher, Sweeney-Nixon has made significant contributions to the fields of cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases and diabetes. With over 50 published journal articles and book chapters, she has secured over $1.8 million in research funding. Her mentorship has positively impacted the academic journeys of eight master’s of science students, one post-doctoral fellow, and six research assistants.

Beyond her professional achievements, Sweeney-Nixon is passionate about mentoring others with kindness and accountability. She believes in fostering change through understanding, validation, and incremental progress in policies and individual interactions. In her downtime, she finds solace in meditation, hiking, fitness activities, and connecting with loved ones.

Sweeney-Nixon exemplifies the spirit of the Mount Allison Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award through her outstanding leadership, research excellence, and commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable academic environment.

2024 Contemporary Achievement Award
Tristan Grant (’18)

A rising star in music and media

Tristan Grant is a shining example of success within just six years of graduating. Recognized with the Alumni Contemporary Achievement Award, Grant, also known by his stage name "Wolf Castle," has made significant strides in the music industry and beyond.

Hailing from the Pabineau First Nation, Grant's passion for music was evident even before his time at Mount Allison. However, it was during and after his university years that his career truly flourished. From performing across Turtle Island to gracing renowned venues like Ottawa's National Arts Centre and our own SappyFest in Sackville — Grant’s musical journey has been nothing short of amazing.

Grant's accolades include nominations for the East Coast Music Awards and a Music New Brunswick Award. He has also been featured on the "Road to the JUNOs" tour and is set to perform on the "JUNOs Wavemakers" Tour alongside David Myles (’03), his mentor from Mount Allison.

Beyond his musical endeavours, Grant is a passionate advocate for Indigenous artists. In 2021, he collaborated with Music-Musique NB to launch the NB Indigenous Artist Development Grant, a $3,000 prize sponsored by Grant himself, aimed at supporting emerging Indigenous talent.

Grant served recently as the host of CBC Reclaimed, a radio show spotlighting Indigenous next-wave music. His commitment to showcasing Indigenous voices and talent continues to resonate with audiences, solidifying his impact in both the music industry and the community.

Grant's achievements within a short span since graduating exemplify the spirit of the Alumni Contemporary Achievement Award, celebrating excellence, innovation, and dedication.