About
What is SMUSA?
Incorporated in 1966, the Saint Mary’s University Students’ Association (SMUSA) is the official representative organization of the students of Saint Mary’s University. All registered full and part-time students, paying student fees, are members of SMUSA. The goal of SMUSA is to promote and represent the interests of our membership. Through our services, representation, and advocacy, SMUSA works with the university on academic issues, lobbies government through our affiliation with provincial and federal organizations, and ensures the coordination of artistic, literary, educational , social, and recreational activities intending to promote the highest quality of life for Saint Mary’s University students.
SMUSA is governed by a 9 member Board of Directors that are elected by the student membership. The President is also elected to be the Chief Executive Officer of the Association and to work under the supervision of the Board of Directors. The President hires Vice Presidents to serve the interests of students and currently we have a Vice President University Affairs and a Vice President Academic Affairs. The Vice President University Affairs works with university decision-making bodies such as the university Board of Governors and also works with our Provincial and Federal lobby groups. The Vice President Academic Affairs sits on the university Academic Senate and many other Senate Committees. The Vice President Academic Affairs also serves as a resource for students with academic issues. SMUSA also has a General Manager, Operations Manager, Marketing & Events Manager, Accounting Administrator, Health Plan Coordinator, and an Administrative Assistant who are all full-time professional staff. Through our various service departments, SMUSA also employs over 100 student staff. All students are encouraged to get involved by running for President or Board of Directors, seeking employment in one of the many departments, or volunteering.
In addition to involvement opportunities, SMUSA also offers many services to students. We operate The Gorsebrook Lounge (rated the Best Student Hangout by The Coast three years running), the Information Desk, Husky Patrol Safe Drive Program, the Marketing Department, Event Promotions Department, the new Student Advocacy Centre, the yearbook department and also plan and coordinate Orientation Week and Winter Carnival activities along with other programmed events throughout the year. One of SMUSA’s most important events is the annual Charter Day Awards Night, which honours and recognizes those students and student groups who have made outstanding contributions to student life throughout the year.
SMUSA also has over 50 societies and clubs that range from academic, religious, social and political in nature where students can get involved.
For more information, please visit SMUSA’s offices located on the 5th floor of the Student Centre or contact SMUSA by phone at (902) 496-8700.
SMUSA Mission Statement
The Association strives to maximize the positive university experience for its students and provide assistance in overcoming any challenges they may face.
As “Students working for Students”, the Association makes an ongoing commitment to maintain open communication with its members while providing valued services, dedicated representation, and effective advocacy.
SMUSA Vision Statement
Saint Mary’s University Students’ Association shall ensure the highest quality of life for each and every student at Saint Mary’s University.
