Since her childhood, Emma McInnis, a second year StFX student from Summerside, PEI, has had a passion for French. Now, the applied forensic psychology student, has been recognized for her efforts—and her excellence—receiving an Alliance Française prize during a ceremony held March 20th in Sackville, NB.
Le Prix d’excellence des Alliances Françaises d’Halifax et Moncton are presented to students enrolled in French language programs at universities in the Atlantic provinces who have demonstrated academic excellence throughout the 2025-2026 academic year, while also showing a strong interest in both the French language and Francophone cultures. The awards were presented at an official ceremony held at Mount Allison University.
“I attended French school my whole life, so coming to StFX and adapting to a fully English course load was a big change for me. Because of that, continuing to use my French and finding ways to incorporate it into my daily life has become really important,” says Ms. McInnis.
“In a place like Antigonish, where there isn’t a large French-speaking community, that often takes more intentional effort, which is why this award felt especially meaningful. It recognized the work I’ve put into maintaining the language and staying connected to the culture.”
Ms. McInnis says she was surprised and grateful to receive this award.
“I felt that my efforts to promote the French language and culture were truly recognized and appreciated, which really warmed my heart. Especially since I come from a family where my parents do not speak French, I have seen the effort and dedication they put into helping me learn the language throughout my life, and I know that this recognition reflects not only my efforts, but theirs as well, which makes it especially meaningful to me.
“It also showed me just how much the Department of Modern Languages sincerely cares about the presence and representation of French at StFX, for which I am truly very grateful.”
Attending the ceremony was an amazing experience, she says. It was especially inspiring to be surrounded by such a strong sense of community and culture, and to see other students her age engaging with French on their own campuses.
“It reminded me that it’s possible to make a meaningful difference, even as an undergraduate. There was also a French artist Lilianne Cormier who performed, which was really special. I don't often get to hear live French music anymore, so that was a highlight. It was also really nice to see representation from across the Maritimes all in one place, sharing our experiences and talking about what we hope to do in the future.”
