Former President of Saint Mary’s University and Internationally Renowned Finance Expert Dr. Colin Dodds Visited International School for Academic Seminar
On the afternoon of April 3, 2025, Dr. Colin Dodds, former President of Saint Mary’s University, Canada and a distinguished professor of finance, visited the International School of Guangzhou Huali College. Dr. Dodds, who is also a former member of the Governing Council of the Bank of Canada and has served as a specially invited foreign expert for the undergraduate teaching audit and evaluation of China's "985 Project" and "Double First-Class" universities by the Ministry of Education of China, delivered an academic seminar titled “In the Context of Global Change and Evolving Competition: Is the Future of the Banking Industry Evolution or Revolution?” The seminar took place in Academic Seminar Hall 4-205.
The event attracted the participation of over one hundred faculty members from the International College and undergraduate students from the classes of 2022 and 2023. The seminar was chaired by Professor Haojun Chen, while Dean, Professor Shuze Tang delivered the opening welcome address. The entire session was conducted in English.
Professor Dodds visiting the International School
Poster of Professor Dodds' Seminar
Dean Tang began the seminar with a warm welcome address, expressing sincere gratitude to Professor Dodds for making the long journey to visit the International School of Guangzhou Huali College. Dean Tang introduced Professor Dodds to four faculty members of the International College –Dr. Haojun Chen, Ms. Minying Tan, Mr. Wenjie Xu and Ms. Yujing Huang, who had all returned from academic studies in Canada, thereby highlighting the international background and global outlook of the School's teaching staff. As a gesture of appreciation and remembrance, Dean Tang specially prepared and presented two historical photos in a PowerPoint presentation. The images depicted a visit to Saint Mary’s University on September 25, 2008, during which Professor Tang, then Dean of the International School at Jinan Universityand Professor Jun Hu, President of Jinan University, met with President Dodds and signed a cooperation agreement between the two universities. This reflection on past academic collaboration and enduring friendship resonated with Professor Dodds, left a profound impression.
Dean Tang showing the group photo with President Dodds during the visit to Saint Mary's University in 2008
In his opening remarks, Professor Haojun Chen provided a brief yet comprehensive introduction to Professor Dodds’ remarkable academic and professional achievements. Professor Dodds is an esteemed educator who served as President of Saint Mary’s University for over a decade. He is also a senior scholar and internationally recognized expert in the field of finance, with more than 30 years of experience in financial education and policy research. He previously served as a member of the Governing Council of the Bank of Canada, contributing significantly to the reform of the global financial system and the development of China’s financial education. As early as 1985, he traveled to Xiamen University to assist in the establishment of its finance discipline.
Dr. Chen presiding over the lecture
Professor Dodds expressed his sincere gratitude to Dean Tang for the invitation. In his presentation, entitled "The Historical Evolution of Cash Payment," he guided the audience through the development of the banking industry, tracing its transformation from traditional counter services to the era of digital finance. He highlighted how the widespread adoption of mobile payment systemssuch as the convenience offered by platforms like Alipayhas fundamentally reshaped the underlying logic of financial services, making "instant transactions" an integral part of daily life. Moreover, Professor Dodds emphasized that technological advancements have not only revolutionized payment methods but also enhanced the inclusivity of financial services. From microcredit services in rural communities to personalized wealth management solutions for urban populations, financial technology is breaking down the geographic and socio-economic barriers that once limited access to traditional banking.
Professor Dodds talking about the impact of financial technology
He further noted that with the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and big data, the banking and financial sectors must continuously adapt to meet evolving market demands. Giant technology enterprises have established "one-stop lifestyle service platforms," integrating financial services seamlessly into daily consumption activities. The emerging model of "scenario-based finance", exemplified by mobile shopping and food delivery through smartphones, is accelerating the pace of innovation in traditional banking institutions.Finally, Professor Dodds underscored the importance of demographic trends, pointing out that population growth and shifts in age structure have led to diverse needs among different age groups. Of particular concern are new challenges such as information security, which has become a key priority, especially for younger generations.
Professor Dodds answering questions during the Q&A session
During the interactive session, the atmosphere among both teachers and students was highly engaged and enthusiastic. Professor Dodds provided an in-depth analysis of key issues such as the impact of artificial intelligence on the financial industry, investment risk, regulatory frameworks and technological innovation. Drawing on case studies from multiple countries, his insights offered valuable inspiration and stimulated critical thinking among the participants. The session not only fostered a deeper understanding of international finance but also enriched the audience’s comprehension of digital finance.
This seminar offered students from the International School a valuable opportunity to engage directly with a globally renowned academic. It enhanced their academic English communication skills while exposing them to current and emerging trends in technology and finance. As Professor Dodds concluded: "The future of finance belongs to those innovators who can combine technological insights with humanistic care."
The International School remains committed to inviting distinguished international scholars to hold seminars on campus. These events aim to bridge the gap between students and the global academic community, while nurturing a new generation of professionals equipped with both professional knowledge and international perspectives.
Professor Dodds taking a group photo with some teachers and students
Introduction to Saint Mary's University
Saint Mary's University was founded in 1802 and is located in the city of Halifax on the west coast of Nova Scotia province in eastern Canada. It is the first Roman Catholic public comprehensive university in Canada. The university has faculties and centers such as the Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Science, Sobey School of Business, Graduate Studies, Faculty of Engineering, Centre for Continuing Education, English Language Training Centre and Career Development Centre. It offers 57 undergraduate and 31 graduate programs. There are nearly 6,000 students on campus, among which international students account for 28%, coming from 117 countries or regions.
University website: http://www.smu.ca
Written by Ms. Yujing Huang
Photography by Mr.Wenjie Xu and Ms.Muqing Jiang
Revised by Dr. SalomeTsikhiseli
Approved by Prof. Shuze Tang
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