Alumni Resources and Supports

The University of King’s College is committed to providing resources and supports to members of our community impacted by the Independent Review and Final Report. Some of the supports outlined reflect the university’s existing network of support staff and other roles with an element of care (“Campus Supports”). Other supports are being proactively introduced to address the distinct community needs anticipated around the release of the Final Report. The University will continue to provide responsive supports as needs arise. A comprehensive outline of external supports and resources available in the community (including online and in-person supports) is also provided.

Any member of the King’s community seeking supports not reflected in these documents or with questions or feedback about the supports available is invited to contact:

Sexual Health and Safety Officer Jordan Roberts – jordan.roberts@ukings.ca
Vice President Sarah Clift – sarah.clift@ukings.ca
Dean of Students Katie Merwin – katie.merwin@ukings.ca

Enhanced Supports Available from March 15 – April 17 for Alumni

Community Mental Health Supports for Alumni, Provided by King’s

The University of King’s College recognizes that individual members of the alumni community may or may not have access to healthcare coverage. In this time of anticipated need, King’s has retained freelance service from HRM-based, community mental health care providers. These mental health care providers are available to book one-time appointments with alumni wishing to discuss initial impacts of the Rubin Thomlinson Final Report. These care providers can also help alumni determine and identify any appropriate further supports.

Appointments will be virtual. Details about alumni using this service (including names and contact information) and all information shared between the alum and the care provider is confidential. This information will not be shared with the university.

How to Access These Supports

Appointments must be made directly with the care providers. If you are a member of King’s alumni community and you wish to book an appointment, you are invited to review the care provider information below and use the contact information provided to make an appointment with the care provider of your choice. Please contact the care providers to arrange an appointment by April 17. If the there is a need to extend this service, King’s will consider options for extended service provision and communicate this to alumni.

Shannon Hardy, MSW, RSW (she/her)

Shannon is a queer social worker who wears many hats, including content specialist/consultant in trauma-informed practices and approaches, workshop facilitator and therapist. In her capacity as a consultant, Shannon works with a variety of organizations across Canada, from small community groups to universities and law firms, helping them create and implement trauma-informed practices and approaches in a meaningful and effective way. To learn more about her therapeutic approach visit www.hardyconsulting.ca.

Contact Shannon via shannon@hardyconsulting.ca.

Susan Ayles (she/her)

An alum of King’s (BA’94), Susan has worked with the Elizabeth Fry Society–Mainland Nova Scotia since 2015. She is currently its Director of Programs, providing skill-building and support to people who have experienced incarceration. Her skills include helping people build coping skills and personal support networks, helping people identify and process grief and providing trauma-informed care to people who have experienced various forms of violence.

Contact Susan via sueeayles@gmail.com.

Rhema Ferguson, Equity Officer (she/they)*

Rhema provides support and consultation to all members of the university community on issues concerning equity, diversity, accessibility, inclusion, discrimination, and harassment. Rhema is also available to provide connections to on-campus and off-campus resources and supports.

*As of May 1, 2023, Pethrona Russell has assumed the role of Interim Equity Officer. Email her at pethrona.russell@ukings.ca to make an appointment.

Father Ranall Ingalls, Chaplain (he/him)

Father Ingalls offers support to members of the community of any faith or none. The Chapel offers space for people to explore their spirituality, hear beautiful music, or enjoy a place of solitude.

To meet with Father Ingalls, email ranall.ingalls@ukings.ca. For more information about the chapel, visit kingschapel.ca.

Michelle Mahoney, Accessibility Officer (she/her)

Michelle guides and supports the university’s implementation of King’s Accessibility Plan and works with faculty and staff to ensure that the university meets relevant standards to offer an accessible campus by 2030.

Michelle can be reached at michelle.mahoney@ukings.ca.

Jordan Roberts, Sexual Health and Safety Officer (SHSO) (she/her)

Jordan is available to support members of the community around sexualized violence, gender identity, sexual orientation, safer sex, and healthy relationships. Jordan can provide trauma-informed active listening and help individuals decide what avenues and supports are best for them.

Jordan can be reached by e-mail, phone call, or text. All communication is confidential. jordan.roberts@ukings.ca / 902-229-6123