Media Releases and Opportunities

This spring, Dalhousie University proudly celebrates a historic milestone: the graduation of the first students from its Black and African Diaspora Studies (BAFD) major — one of the first programs of its kind in Canada. We have interview opportunities with two inspiring graduates, James Dixon and Portia Wright, and their mentor, Dr. Isaac Saney, to share this story of academic achievement, cultural identity, and community impact.

Meet the Graduates:
James Dixon (Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences)
James’s journey to graduation is one of resilience and transformation. After the loss of a close friend in high school, James found new purpose through Dalhousie’s Transition Year Program (TYP) — a turning point that gave him a sense of belonging and academic confidence. He is now graduating with a double major in BAFD and Philosophy, and recently won the 2025 Mushkat Memorial Essay Prize for his paper, “The Reality of Race: Critiquing Logical Positivism through the Lens of Africana Philosophy.”

Beyond the classroom, James is a hip-hop and R&B music producer, a mentor and tutor, and co-founder of Pushup4Charity, a grassroots initiative supporting local causes. His story is one of academic excellence, creative expression, and community leadership.

Portia Wright (Faculty of Science)
Born and raised in Dartmouth with deep roots in historic African Nova Scotian communities, Portia transferred to Dalhousie after a challenging first year elsewhere — a decision that changed everything. At Dal, she found a vibrant Black community and opportunities to give back, working with youth through PLANS and the Black Educators Association’s Dalhousie Math Camp, where she once participated as a teen.

Portia is graduating with a double major in Psychology and BAFD, a unique combination that reflects her passion for mental health and her goal of becoming a counselling therapist for Black youth. She will pursue a Bachelor of Social Work at Dalhousie this fall.

Why This Story Matters:

• The BAFD major, launched in Fall 2023, is a pioneering academic program that centers Black and African Nova Scotian history, heritage, and culture.
• James and Portia are not only the first to graduate from this program — they are powerful examples of how education can uplift individuals and communities.
• Their stories reflect broader themes of representation, resilience, and the importance of culturally relevant education in Canada.

Interview Opportunities Available:

• James Dixon – Award-winning student, artist, and community advocate
• Portia Wright – Future therapist and youth mentor
• Dr. Isaac Saney – Director of the BAFD Program and long-time advocate for Black education

It you would like to set up an interview please reach out to Lindsay Dowling-Savelle (Lindsay.Savelle@dal.ca), media relations manager, Dalhousie Communications.