St. Stephen's University Celebrates 50 Years with Star-Studded Fundraiser

Nestled in the heart of St. Stephen, New Brunswick, St. Stephen's University (SSU) has stood as a cornerstone of education and community development for nearly 50 years. As the university approaches its golden anniversary, it is preparing for a significant milestone—a fundraising event to be held on September 17, 2024 at DrewHaven Town and Country in St. Andrews.

Vicki Hogarth – Local Journalism Initiative

The event aims to expand SSU's programs and strengthen its community ties, featuring tennis legend Andre Agassi (virtually), who has pledged to match donations.

Judith Moses, Chair of the Board at SSU, shared her excitement for the upcoming event. "We are really looking forward to this, and we're very excited about it," she said. "Although we've been around for nearly 50 years, many in the community are not fully aware of what the university offers. Our goal is not only to raise funds but also to raise awareness and build a stronger connection with the local residents."

SSU has adapted significantly over the years to meet the evolving educational landscape. "We used to call ourselves Canada's smallest university with the biggest classroom, as students spent more time abroad and less time on campus," Moses explained. However, the pandemic necessitated a shift. "Unfortunately, our undergraduate enrollment did not recover post-pandemic, leading to the cancellation of our undergraduate program. But we learned valuable lessons about delivering programs online."

Currently, SSU focuses on graduate education, offering master's and doctoral degrees. "Our primary goal is to expand both our programs and our enrollment," Moses stated. One of the university's standout offerings is the Reconciliation Studies program, which fosters better understanding and partnerships between non-Indigenous and Indigenous communities. "While many programs address reconciliation, few focus on how non-Indigenous people can effectively partner with Indigenous communities," Judith added.

Tom Butterfield, a Director of the Board at SSU, emphasized the university's importance to the local community. "It's not just about what the university is; it's about what it can do and how it nurtures our lives here," he said. Butterfield also highlighted the broader impact of having SSU in Charlotte County. "There's more reason to stay in New Brunswick than to leave," he noted. "We don't have to go far when we have such an institution in our own backyard that brings people together."

The September 17th fundraiser offers more than just financial support; it is an opportunity to engage with SSU's mission and vision. "Andre Agassi's involvement has brought significant enthusiasm and credibility to this event," Butterfield revealed. Agassi's commitment includes matching donations, amplifying the impact of every contribution. "If we raise thousands, he's prepared to match those funds," Butterfield added.

Moses shared a touching story about Agassi's personal connection to SSU. "President Brad Jersak was introduced to Andre Agassi and his wife Steffi Graf when they sought spiritual guidance. They spent a weekend together in Vegas, developing a deep connection," she recounted. This personal bond has translated into meaningful support, with Agassi not only offering financial backing but also genuine friendship and belief in SSU’s mission.

Looking ahead, SSU envisions a role of greater significance both in Canada and globally. "Our Peace and Justice program, for example, involves efforts to bridge disparate views and unite a polarized world," Moses said.

The September 17th event at DrewHaven is more than just a fundraiser; it is a celebration of SSU’s legacy and a step towards a brighter future. "We invite everyone to join us for a good time, meet neighbours and supporters, and learn more about the university," Moses concluded. With community support and the backing of influential figures like Andre Agassi, SSU is poised to continue making meaningful contributions to education and community development in Charlotte County and beyond.