Chancellor
The Chancellor is the ceremonial and titular head of Laurentian University. Appointed by the Board of Governors with the endorsement of the Senate, the Chancellor serves as a volunteer ambassador. In this role, they assist the university in its advocacy, advancement efforts, and national recognition, while championing Laurentian's unique tricultural mandate.
Chancellor Kristan Straub
Laurentian University is proud to welcome distinguished alumnus and Indigenous business leader Kristan Straub (Hon. B.Sc. Geology '98, LL.D. '25) as our third Chancellor.
A proud band member of Henvey Inlet and French River No. 13 First Nation, Mr. Straub is a visionary, fluent French-speaking leader whose life and career reflect a profound commitment to bilingualism, innovation, and the promotion of Indigenous cultures.
"Returning to Laurentian in this capacity is a deeply moving full-circle moment for me and my family. This university was the site of my grandfather's advocacy and my own education, and today it is where my children are building their futures."
Personal Legacy
Mr. Straub’s connection to Laurentian spans generations. He is the grandson of Art and Eva Solomon, who were instrumental figures in founding the university's federated Native Studies Program.
His ties to the campus grounds are both literal and symbolic: at just twelve years old, he helped his grandfather construct the campus Apology Cairn—a lasting landmark of reconciliation commemorating the United Church’s apology to First Nations people.
Role and Responsibilities
While the President and Vice-Chancellor handles the day-to-day executive administration of the university, the Chancellor fills a vital, voluntary ceremonial role over a five-year term. Specific duties include:
- Presiding over Convocation and conferring all degrees
- Participating in or presiding over ceremonial or other important events on behalf of the University
- Representing the University in an official capacity at external functions from time to time
- Engaging in profile-raising and advocacy activities on behalf of the University
- Assisting with advancement efforts (friend-raising and fund-raising)
Providing advice to the President and Vice-Chancellor, on request.
Global Leadership & Industrial Innovation
Mr. Straub brings over 25 years of global experience in the mining industry across mineral exploration, mining and metallurgical operations, and senior executive leadership.
Indigenous Economic Sovereignty
He currently serves as the inaugural President and CEO of the Canadian Indigenous Loans Guarantee Corporation, managing a $10-billion federal program supporting Indigenous equity ownership in major economic projects.
Executive Excellence
He previously served as CEO of Wyloo Canada and held several key senior leadership roles at Glencore. This included serving as Vice President of Exploration for Glencore Nickel, President of Koniambo Nickel SAS in New Caledonia, and Vice President of Glencore’s Raglan Mine in Nunavik, where he led the renegotiation of the Raglan Impacts and Benefits Agreement.
Industry Representation
He has contributed to broader industry governance on the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors for both the Mining Association of Canada and the Ontario Mining Association.
Academic Honors
A proud 1998 graduate of Laurentian's Geology program, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree by the university in 2025 in recognition of his significant contributions to the global mining industry.
Past Chancellors of Laurentian University
- Steve Paikin (2013–2021)
- Aline Chrétien (2010–2013)
