External Affairs

External Affairs is responsible for communicating the University’s strategic priorities by creating and maintaining a wide variety of digital and print communications. This includes media relations, government partnerships, internal communications, the University website, and social media channels. The department also provides marketing and communications support to the entire University through branding, graphic design, and advertising expertise.

Associate Vice-President, External Affairs

Margaret Murphy

Margaret Murphy, Associate Vice-President, External Affairs, develops and executes a comprehensive, long-term, and proactive University-wide communications and branding strategy consistent with the strategic plan. Margaret leads a team of communications experts who oversee the editorial direction, design, and production of all publications, University web properties, social media initiatives, and media relations opportunities. Her leadership results in dynamic, engaging materials that authentically convey and reflect the stories and values of Saint Mary’s University.

margaret.murphy@smu.ca

Staff

Farah Pirbazari 
Assistant 
farah.pirbazari@smu.ca 

Nadine Laroche
Director, Integrated Communications
nadine.laroche@smu.ca

Alex Beckett
Manager, Digital Experience
alex.beckett@smu.ca

Rachelle Boudreau
Manager, Internal & Strategic Communications
rachelle.boudreau@smu.ca

Delia MacPherson
Manager, Media Relations and Issues Management 
delia.macpherson@smu.ca

Nina Maric
Communications Officer, Recruitment and Marketing
nina.maric@smu.ca 

Mary Ellen Beazley
Graphic Designer
maryellen.beazley@smu.ca

Lisa Neily
Creative Services Specialist
lisa.neily@smu.ca

Sarah Merriam
Social Media Officer
sarah.merriam@smu.ca 

Emily LeBlanc
Web Content Editor
emily.leblanc@smu.ca

Shannon Doane
Web Developer
shannon.doane@smu.ca

Richard Lafortune
Web Developer
richard.lafortune@smu.ca