Laurentian celebrates le Mois de la francophonie

(March 1, 2022) - Mars est le mois de la francophonie! While francophone culture is celebrated at Laurentian University all year long, March provides an excellent opportunity to highlight the importance of our francophone community. 

“Our bilingual mandate is core to Laurentian’s identity. It is what makes us distinct,” said Dr. Robert Haché, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University. “We are very proud of our francophone community, and we remain committed to attracting French language students by offering degrees that are relevant to them, learning life and work skills employers seek.” 

The University is pleased with the recent creation of the Francophone Advisory Committee, whose mandate is to provide guidance on francophone matters and offer recommendations on the implementation of strategies to ensure the successful delivery of French-language programs and services. It brings together community leaders from industry, health, arts and culture and other sectors, to focus, guide and advise on the great passion and pride in the francophone nature of the university.

In his position as special advisor of Francophone Affairs, Roch Gallien described that ultimately, “our goal is to remain the destination of choice in the North for students looking for a quality French language education in a bilingual and tricultural environment.” Gallien is educated in Ontario to teach French, History and Political Science, and he received an undergraduate degree and an Ontario Teacher’s Certificate from Laurentian University’s French-language school of education. 

Laurentian University is Canada’s only university with a tricultural mandate, offering a post-secondary education to a diverse student body championing a brain gain for the North, for Ontario, and beyond. “Being a bilingual university in a tricultural environment is something we cherish,” said Dr. Haché. 
 
The Laurentian community is encouraged to engage in opportunities this month for learning and reflection about the importance of francophone language and culture.