Mount Saint Vincent University president, Joël Dickinson, on International Women’s Day

Joël Dickinson is president and vice-chancellor of Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

This year’s theme for Women’s Day is “embrace equity.” What does that mean to you?

Embracing equity means recognizing our privileges, making room for others when you are in a place of privilege (in other words, fostering truly safe spaces that prioritize inclusion), and taking action to address barriers and inequities.

What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?

My advice to future women leaders is two-fold: find your supports and never give up.

On never giving up, remember not to live within the limits others impose on you or that you may impose on yourself and get outside your comfort zone – because I guarantee you that you don’t yet know how far you’ll go.