Coady Institute’s 2024-25 Annual Report illustrates a commitment to providing programs focused on asset-based and community-driven development and adult education. Through strong partnerships with individuals and organizations, Coady is making social change possible

“Often, like any organization, we become focused on the task or work at hand, but when you step back and reflect you see the incredible cumulative impact we are having,” Eileen Alma, Coady Institute Executive Director, says.

"We had 459 participants from 31 countries taking part in 22 different courses who were immediately able to apply their learning. Coady team members and our partners continue to impress me with their creativity and dedication to working together to address social and economic challenges with innovative solutions. The annual report illustrates the depth of our shared work."

While certificate courses and the Indigenous Women in Community Leadership program took place on campus at St. Francis Xavier University, Coady teaching staff members were also busy on the road. Courses, workshops, and research projects were conducted in Newfoundland, Ontario, Alberta, and internationally in Bangladesh, Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, India, and Tanzania.

A significant accomplishment this year was the intensive consultations and development of Coady Institute’s new strategic plan. Walking with Community: Coady Institute’s Strategic Direction for 2025 to 2030 was launched in May 2025. The strategic plan sets outcomes and actions for the next five years for the Institute’s local and global work in the areas of education, partnership and community engagement, knowledge co-creation, StFX connections, networks, and sustainability.

“One of our priorities here at home is to continue expanding our outreach within the StFX community, especially with students,” Eileen says.

“We have many opportunities for StFX students, and these continue to be enhanced whether it is providing internships and fellowships or building entrepreneurship skills through grants, awards, and mentorship.”

In Atlantic Canada, Coady’s partnership with Gros Morne Institute for Sustainable Tourism (GMIST) continues to grow strong. ACTivate, short for Activating Community Tourism, is funded by the Government of Canada through Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and supports people who want to make a positive change in their community and explore more sustainable approaches to tourism development.

“Of course, none of this work would be possible without our incredible supporters over years and even decades,” Alma says.

“Your support helps us address social justice and ensure equitable development in our own Atlantic Canadian communities, across the country, and on the international stage. Thank you for believing in Coady Institute and the work we do together.”

Learn more about Coady Institute’s work by reading, the 2024-25 Annual Report.