Mount Allison named top undergraduate university in Canada for record 24th time

Mount Allison University received first place standing in the primarily undergraduate category of the 2024 Maclean’s University Rankings, published last month.

“We are honoured to once again be named the number one primarily undergraduate university by Maclean’s magazine,” says Dr. Robert MacKinnon, Mount Allison’s Interim President and Vice-Chancellor. “These rankings are a testament to the dedication of our entire university community, including students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends. Together, we have consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence — and I extend my thanks and congratulations to the entire Mount Allison community for this well-deserved ranking.”

Along with placing first overall in the primarily undergraduate category, Mount Allison was ranked first for reputational survey and library expenses. The University also received second place for student awards and faculty awards and third for student/faculty ratio, operating budget, and scholarships & bursaries in our category.

Since the rankings were established in 1991, Mount Allison has been named the number one undergraduate university a record 24 times, more than any other undergraduate university, and has never ranked outside the top four.

New faces in Alumni Engagement

Last spring, we welcomed Jaryd Morrissey (’18) as our new Alumni Relations Officer overseeing events. Jaryd has been an active volunteer and fundraiser with the Alumni Office since he was a student at Mount Allison. In addition to his role with alumni relations, Jaryd serves as an assistant coach with the varsity badminton and men’s soccer teams. He recently completed his MBA at Dalhousie University and is also currently a part-time lecturer at the Ron Joyce Centre for Business Studies.

Scott Hayes started his role as Alumni Relations Officer —Volunteers and Communications during the summer. Scott brings a wealth of experience in event planning and hospitality to the Alumni Office. His extensive knowledge in sponsorship acquisition and stewardship promises to elevate our engagement with alumni.

Infrastructure update

The McCormack Gymnasium reopened last summer after a $5.5 million upgrade, funded entirely by the University. This project focused on improving air quality through ventilation upgrades and an architectural facelift featuring new hardwood flooring, scoreboards, nets, basketball equipment, and retractable bleachers.

Since January 2023, steady progress has been made on Harper Hall, with approximately 40% of the project now complete. This renovation involves a complete reconstruction of the residence, which first opened in 1965. Harper Hall is expected to be ready for Fall 2024 move-in, featuring 139 sustainable ensuites and a new Residence Life Zone.

NB Power designated the University as an “Energy Champion” earlier this year. Since 2019, we have invested $2.5 million in energy-saving and greenhouse gas-reducing initiatives, with a projected saving of $300,000 this year alone.