Campus culture threatened
February 10, 2026 3:45 PM
With all the events of the past couple weeks, there can be no doubt that we are in a period of transition and change. How much of a transition and how extreme the change is unknown for now, but it is deeply concerning to say the least.
The proposed changes that are being considered at present will undoubtedly catalyze a shift in the culture of campus, which for many is the most endearing quality of StFX.
In an interview earlier this year with Maclean’s magazine, I expressed the view that one of the main reasons for which I love the university was its friendliness and family atmosphere created by the student residence experience.
This atmosphere could arguably be found in greatest quantity, in the single-gender houses of Cameron and MacKinnon Halls. The numerous testimonials I have heard, not only recently, but since the year began, of how strong friendships and bonds are forged in these houses, the strong spirit of brother and sisterhood, and pride in the traditions in which they were now a part of.
This is not to say that co-ed residences are a bad thing, living in one myself. They themselves are just as equally important in the culture of the university and social life of students.
All that needs to be recognized is that these traditions create the pride of being from Chillis, TNT or the Tri-Mac. Without pride, what do we have left? Students should never feel sad or ashamed because of where they live, and that is the risk that must be considered if these proposed changes are acted on.
Another critical portion of the StFX culture is not just current students, but our alumni. Bound by the tradition of the X-Ring, and the Xaverian spirit, our alumni is known for having one of the strongest networks and support systems in Canada. That strength has already been weakened by recent events, as some expressed frustration with administration by taking to the airwaves, signing online petitions against the proposed new security force, and commenting words of support in the online groups created to support current students with these issues.
I don’t want to be dramatic, but there is the distinct possibility that some of the lustre of the X-Ring, which we all strive to achieve, may wear off if alumni are no longer as proud as they once were of where they came from. It also threatens future student recruitment.
As a first year, I have gone through many comparisons with my friends at other establishments, weighing the pros and cons of each, and debating with my younger friends, the benefits of attending StFX.
I do not want to be known as the boy who attends a conflict filled campus, where a disconnect between students and administration led to a decrease in spirit.
Thankfully, we have not yet reached that point and hopefully never will. After a successful rally filled with defiant pride and spirit for the school we love, our voices were indeed heard.
It is also comforting to know that University President Sean Riley has not lost touch with us as well, appearing to be sympathetic to our causes and willing to talk about the issues, unlike other less willing administration. He has helped build a strong reputation for StFX, a reputation which has gained international respect in part due to his work. He will be critical in maintaining that image, along with our own actions.
As we move forward, I ask you to not let these issues die. Keep your pride in this place high, and we’ll get through it. In the words of Sean Kingston’s latest hit, “We like to sleep all day and party all night! This is how we like to live our life! I’ve got a feeling that everything is gonna be all right.”
