Saint Mary’s University is committed to a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all. Students, employees, and leaders share responsibility for fostering a culture grounded in dignity, fairness, and mutual respect.
This commitment is supported by the:
Respect is reflected in how we communicate, collaborate, and address concerns. It is an individual and collective responsibility. Your behaviour matters. Addressing issues early helps maintain a healthy and productive campus community.
Respect means treating people in a way that is fair, safe, and considerate.
A respectful and inclusive environment is one where people:
Strong cultures of respect support communication, well-being and collaboration.
Learn more:
Some behaviours are not acceptable at Saint Mary’s. These include:
Discrimination: Treating someone unfairly or limiting their opportunities based on a protected characteristic under the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act
Harassment: Unwelcome behaviour that harms someone’s dignity or work/study environment
Sexual harassment: Unwanted sexual comments, actions, or contact
Personal harassment: Behaviour that is insulting, demeaning, or intimidating
Bullying: Repeated, targeted behaviour that causes harm or distress
Cyberbullying: Harassment through email, social media, or other online tools
For more detailed information about definitions and how these harmful behaviours are addressed, please see our policy section:
Conflict can happen in any workplace or learning environment. Addressing concerns early through support, communication, and guidance can prevent escalation and lead to better outcomes.
I am experiencing or witnessing concerning behaviour
You can talk with someone confidentially, learn about your options, and consider the best ways to resolve the issue. It’s important to address issues early using constructive processes so the situation does not escalate. Options include:
Someone raised a concern about me
This can be difficult and upsetting; it’s important to respond in a thoughtful, respectful and informed way.
Review the Employee Code of Conduct and seek guidance from your supervisor or the Respectful Workplace Advisor to get confidential advice, learn what is expected and work toward a respectful resolution.
I want to understand my options
I’m helping someone else or managing a team
The Respectful Workplace Advisor supports a respectful, safe and inclusive campus environment through prevention, guidance and conflict resolution. They offer a confidential and neutral space to talk about concerns, next steps and support your efforts to constructively address respectful workplace issues.
The Respectful Workplace Advisor can help you:
Understand your situation
Address concerns early
Navigate formal processes
Build a respectful workplace
Additional EDIA training is available through People and Culture.
Contact the Respectful Workplace Advisor: respectfulworkplace@smu.ca
You can learn more and get support through these resources:
Related Policies
Additional Supports
The Respectful Workplace Advisor supports:
Need help now?
You are not alone. Confidential support is available: