Laurentian University Honours Chancellor Kristan Straub with Sacred Ajijaak Doodem (Crane Clan) Medallion

June 9, 2026— Laurentian University recently celebrated the presentation of a custom chancellor’s medallion, crafted by maker Sheri Cecchetto for its newly appointed Chancellor, Kristan Straub. In a profound celebration of leadership, culture, and community connection, the medallion is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Ajijaak Doodem (Crane Clan).

The custom piece honours Chancellor Straub’s role as a leader, diplomat, and bridge-builder, aligning seamlessly with Laurentian’s tricultural mandate and the Chancellor's own deep ties to local First Nations communities.

During his installation ceremony at the Spring Convocation, longtime friend and CEO of Technica Mining, Mario Grossi highlighted why Straub’s character perfectly mirrors the traditional responsibilities of the Crane Clan:

"The executive offices became bigger. The responsibilities became greater. The decisions became more significant, but the person never changed... Kristan leads through character. He leads by example. He leads by making people feel valued, respected, and capable more than they thought possible."

To provide additional context regarding this role within Anishinaabe culture, community teachings highlight the traditional responsibilities of the clan system. Within this structure, the Loon Clan is traditionally responsible for the internal matters of the community, including leadership and governance within the nation. The Crane Clan, on the other hand, carries responsibility for external affairs. 

Because the crane can see great distances from above, it is understood to watch over the well-being of the people and remain aware of what is occurring beyond the community. This teaching reflects the Crane Clan's role in diplomacy, communication, and representing the interests of the people to the outside world, effectively serving as the Ogimaa (Chief) of the outer world. Those belonging to the Crane Clan carry the vital gift of Mnaadendamowin (Respect), navigating nation-to-nation relationships, and leading negotiations with outside communities.

This medallion honours the enduring responsibilities of the Ajijaak (Crane) Doodem, reflected in Chancellor Straub’s role as a representative of Laurentian University, guiding its external relationships and fostering respectful, meaningful partnerships across Northern Ontario, diverse communities, and Nations.

Stole - Ceremonial Vestments

In addition to the Crane Medallion, Chancellor Straub was presented with a one-of-a-kind stole as part of his ceremonial robes. The stole was created by a friend of the chancellor’s mother who lives in the Thunder Bay region. The stole was beaded to represent Chancellor Straub’s family story.

The stole includes strawberries (significant to his family), woodland style flowers from Ojibwe history, and the two clans who make up his family (the deer clan for his grandmother and the bear clan for his grandfather). The stole also includes the Laurentian University logo and eight unique feathers.

Addressing the graduating Class of 2026, Chancellor Straub—a proud member of Henvey Inlet First Nation—shared his profound vision for the university's future:

"Our tricultural mandate honours English, French, and Indigenous roots. This is not merely a statement in the mission folder... It represents a promise that we do not simply exist side by side, but that we learn from one another and grow stronger by understanding and respecting our differences. My hope for my tenure as Chancellor is that we move beyond a simple mandate and into one of kinship."