From campus gardens to community food security: StFX student’s vision takes root

Campus to Community: Sharing stories from our ongoing connections

St. Francis Xavier University doesn't stop at the edge of campus. Campus to Community is an ongoing series highlighting the deep ties between StFX and the communities it serves. We’re shining a light on these relationships--from research labs and global outreach, to service and shared purpose--and how they help shape and strengthen both.

From campus gardens to community food security: StFX student’s vision takes root

Evan Wilson moves methodically between raised garden beds, watering kale, basil, snap peas and zucchini on a sweltering July afternoon.

Ever since the StFX earth and environmental sciences masters student took over the volunteer role as director of the Students’ Union-operated Kevin’s Corner Community Gardens, he’s helped grow more than 1,000 pounds of fresh produce for the Antigonish Food Bank—a contribution doubled through Sodexo’s matching donation program. The gardens also help supply Kevin’s Corner Student Food Resource Centre during the academic year.

Now, the Ottawa, ON native and 2025 human nutrition graduate is helping launch a new community greenhouse that will provide seedlings for the gardens, create hands-on learning opportunities for students, and support additional community food initiatives.