Welcome to Sankofa: Black Excellence Commons (BEC); a dedicated community space for Black-identifying students at Saint Mary’s.
Located on campus in Loyola Academic, room 287, the Black Excellence Commons is a welcoming environment to study, relax and foster community. It is a place rooted in respect and belonging, where students can recharge, connect with peers and celebrate culture.
The Black Excellence Commons is open to all Black-identifying undergraduate and graduate students at Saint Mary’s. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to focus, a comfortable spot to relax between classes, a place to explore your creativity or a hub to connect with community, this BEC is here for you.
The BEC is newly opened and currently furnished with comfortable seating and study areas. The space is equipped with the following amenities:
The BEC is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., when campus is open. Opening and closing of the space is managed by Saint Mary’s Campus Security.
To keep the Commons welcoming for everyone, users are expected to follow the Black Excellence Commons Community Guidelines , which cover respectful conduct, maintaining cleanliness and appropriate use of the space. Social events, workshops, or meetings may be held at the discretion of the Black Student Advisor, with priority given to students using the space for studying and relaxation.
"Sankofa, an African word rooted in Adinkra principles, means ‘go back and get it,’” explained Ebun Oladele MA’21, Black Student Advisor. “It reminds us that we draw strength from our histories and our ancestral wisdom as we move forward. Sankofa: Black Excellence Commons (BEC) is a space rooted in memory, in community, and in possibility. Not just for today but for generations to come.”
The Black Excellence Commons exists to create a sense of belonging and support for Black students at Saint Mary’s. It’s more than a space; it’s a hub to connect, express and thrive in community.
Have questions?
Have questions? Reach out to the Black Student Advisor at blackstudent.advisor@smu.ca.
Learn about the naming ceremony and the meaningful journey behind Sankofa: Black Excellence Commons: Rooted in memory, built in community – Sankofa: Black Excellence Commons officially named