The SMU Chaplaincy team is here to support your spiritual journey, whether you’re looking for someone to talk to, exploring faith or just searching for a welcoming space on campus. Our team brings a mix of spiritual leadership, compassionate guidance and a strong commitment to student well-being. We’re here to walk alongside you, wherever you're coming from, and wherever you're headed.
From: Nova Scotia
Pronouns: She/her/hers
Job title: Campus Ministry Coordinator
Role details: As Campus Ministry Coordinator, I help keep things running smoothly behind the scenes through operations and administration, plan and lead programs and events, and walk alongside students in their university journey through care and support. My goal is to help make campus a welcoming space where students can grow, connect, and feel at home.
Favourite thing about working at SMU: My favourite part of my job is spending time with students! Listening to their stories, walking with them through challenges, and seeing them grow. I love creating opportunities for connection, whether through events, conversations, or moments of prayer, and being part of a faith community that supports and encourages one another.
Contact info: Chaplain@smu.ca
Fun Fact: When I'm not at work you can probably find me outside. I love a long walk with my dog, backpacking, hiking and camping. You can also find me spending time with close friends, reading, cooking or baking. My newest hobby is running, I'm training for a marathon!
Do you have any advice for future students? I’d encourage future students to stay true to who they are, put effort into their studies, and dive into campus life. Getting involved helps you build friendships, discover new passions, and make the most of your time at Saint Mary's University.
From: Ottawa, Ontario
Pronouns: He/him/his
How do you identify? Parent of two kids, husband to Maria
Job title: Program Coordinator
Role details: I plan events, programs, and services to help our students thrive in their spiritual lives!
Favourite thing about working at SMU: Getting to spend every day having interesting conversations with our students.
Contact info: james@hcchaplaincy.ca
Fun Fact: I love to cook and write music.
Do you have any advice for future students? Seek out a community and prioritize them, even when it's difficult with time/commitments/hobbies - deep relationships are one of the only things you won't regret at the end of your life.
From: PEI
Job title: University Chaplain and Parish Priest
Role details: University Chaplain, Fr. Nathanael supports students, staff, and faculty in their faith and personal journeys. He celebrates Mass, offers the sacraments, leads prayer and reflection, and is available for spiritual and pastoral guidance to anyone who needs it.
Contact info: Chaplaincy@smu.ca
Fun Fact: Fr. Nathanael is a member of the Franciscans of Halifax, a local religious community known for their joy and simplicity. Outside of his chaplaincy work, you’ll often find him on the ice —he’s an avid hockey player!