This year marks a meaningful milestone as the Commerce program celebrates its 70th anniversary. Over the decades, the program has steadily grown, providing a solid foundation in business education and helping many graduates build successful careers in various areas.

The Commerce department at Mount Allison has a rich history dating back to 1844 when a bookkeeping course was first introduced at the Male Academy. This initiative was a response to the practical demands of the time and served as the cornerstone for a core academic discipline at the University. The subsequent addition of Commerce to the University’s academic calendar in 1903 marked the introduction of advanced courses in finance and commerce, signifying the growing significance of business education in Canada.

Another significant milestone in the department’s history came in 1921 with the establishment of the J.L. Black Chair of Commerce and Economics, under the leadership of President B.C. Borden. This role was crucial in formalizing a structured approach to business education, integrating Commerce with broader economic theories and practices. The department awarded its first Bachelor of Commerce degree in 1954 to Harold Frank Russell, setting a high bar for future graduates.

Even before the Department of Commerce was officially established, experiential learning was a vital component of the program, starting with the creation of the Mount Allison Bank in the late 1800s. The banknotes, ranging from $1 to $100, were early examples of how the Commerce program turned practical experience into meaningful learning opportunities.

Today, experiential learning continues to enhance the student’s academic journey through prestigious awards and scholarships, biweekly Leader’s League meetings, internships, and various clubs and societies, such as the Commerce Society that helps students develop their leadership skills. Case studies also provide essential tools to prepare students for successful careers or further education at the postgraduate level.

The Commerce department has also been a leader in promoting diversity and inclusion. In 1955, Cyril Harper, originally from Saint Kitts, became the first Black graduate of the Bachelor of Commerce, marking a significant milestone. A year later, Violet Bailly and Aileen Lois Sabean became the first women to earn Commerce degrees, further advancing gender equality in the program.

In 2008, the Joyce Foundation made a transformative gift of $5 million, leading to the creation of the Ron Joyce Centre for Business Studies. This Centre has become integral to the University’s mission, emphasizing experiential learning that bridges academic theory with practical business applications. The Centre offers unique opportunities, including a partnership with MFC Training that allows students to earn a Bachelor of Commerce degree and a commercial pilot’s license. Additionally, Louisbourg Investments made a significant contribution of $100,000 to the University’s Investment Club, further enriching the practical learning environment.

This funding enables students to manage actual funds in real-time, equipping them with essential skills and experiences vital for a successful financial service career. 

Over the years, the Commerce program has undergone significant transformations. The department’s resilience was evident in 1973 when a fire destroyed the building it shared with the Secretarial Studies department, but quickly regrouped and continued its educational mission. In 1990-1991, a comprehensive curriculum overhaul ensured that graduates were well-prepared to navigate the challenges of a globalized economy.  

Dean of Social Sciences and Business, Dr. Yves J Bourgeois, states, “The University provides a rich environment steeped in liberal arts, experiential learning inside and outside the classroom, and leadership opportunities, whether in arts, sports, or community initiatives. These opportunities sharpen our students’ lateral and critical thinking, as well as the soft and technical skills that produce inspiring and well-rounded leaders.”  

As Mount Allison looks to the future, the Commerce department remains central to its academic mission and continues to develop the next generation of business leaders.

Dr. Carol Pomare, department head, states “As we reflect on the 70-year legacy of the Commerce program at Mount Allison University, we take great pride in the many graduates who have made meaningful contributions across various industries, both in Canada and internationally. Our program’s success is grounded in academic excellence, experiential learning, and a commitment to fostering diverse, inclusive, and innovative leaders. As we look to the future, we remain committed to evolving with the demands of the global marketplace while staying true to our mission of preparing students to lead with integrity and vision.”  

As we celebrate this special anniversary, we look forward to the future with optimism. The Commerce program will continue to adapt and grow, preparing the next generation of graduates to meet the evolving challenges of the business world and make meaningful contributions to their communities.