Office of Academic and Indigenous Programs

The mandate Office of Academic and Indigenous Programs is to promote the development of initiatives that support Indigenous education and First Nations, Metis and Inuit student success. This is accomplished through leading the developing of Indigenous strategic initiatives with the Laurentian University Native Education Council and the general university community. More recent initiatives and programs include the development of the Maamwizing Indigenous Research Institute, the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre, which houses Indigenous Student Affairs, and the ongoing commitment to increasing Indigenous content across the curriculum. 

The Office of the Associate Vice-President, Academic and Indigenous Programs plays a leadership role in promoting, developing and implementing initiatives and programs that supports the Laurentian University Native Education Council’s (LUNEC) mission to support self-determination of Indigenous peoples with a specific focus on ensuring access and support for retention and graduation of Indigenous students.

In 2006, Laurentian hired Dr. Sheila Cote-Meek as the inaugural Director of Academic Native Affairs. This position evolved to an Associate Vice-President, Indigenous Programs in 2009 and then to Associate Vice-President, Academic and Indigenous Programs in 2011.  As the Indigenous Academic lead, the AVPIP is responsible for outcomes set out in Laurentian University’s 2018-2023 Strategic Plan as they relate to Indigenous students and communities. They are also responsible for implementing the 2018-2023 Strategic Plan from the Laurentian University Native Education Council (LUNEC).

Our office has many accomplishments to be proud of and some of these do include: the creation of our Indigenous Presence on Campus website, the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Task Force (TRTF), the securing of Anishinaabemowin translation services, the development of the Maamwizing Indigenous Research Institute, the building of the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre and the ongoing commitment to increasing First Nation, Métis and Inuit content across the curriculum. 

Dominic Beaudry Associate Vice-President, Academic & Indigenous Programs Dominic Beaudry is currently the Associate Vice-President of Academic and Indigenous Programs at Laurentian University.  His work with the Office of Academic and Indigenous Programs currently includes advocating, expanding and revitalizing Indigenous Programs while taking an interdisciplinary approach for delivery.  He supports the equity, diversity and inclusion planning the school has been working to improve.  His previous work experiences also include Education Officer with the Student Achievement Division at the Ministry of Education, Teacher/ Consultant with the Sudbury Catholic District School Board and Education Director with the Wikwemikong Board of Education. Dominic is quite engaged in community and committee work.  He is currently a member of the Northeast Indigenous Advisory Committee at Science North,  Program Advisory Committee Member at Cambrian College, Indigenous Cultural Integrity Advisory Committee Member at Tourism Ontario, and the OCAV Degree Level Expectations Working Group member at Council of Ontario Universities. Dominic holds a master of arts degree in history from the University of Toronto, a bachelor of education degree from Queen’s University, and a bachelor of arts joint major degree in history and Indigenous studies from Trent University.  Over the years his career has included teaching, planning and administration work. Dominic can be reached at dh_beaudry@laurentian.ca or by phone at 705-675-1151 ext 3429

Carole Perreault Administrative Officer to the Associate Vice-President, Academic and Indigenous Programs Mrs. Carole Perreault is from Sudbury, Ontario and is a graduate of Cambrian College’s Bilingual Office Administration/Executive Secretary program.  For many years, she has been the Administrative Officer to the Associate Vice-President, Academic and Indigenous Programs. She also provides administrative support to the Laurentian University Native Education Council (LUNEC). Carole is actively searching for her Indigenous roots and enjoys learning and participating in cultural events both on and off campus. Carole can be reached at csperreault@laurentian.ca or by phone at 705-675-1151 ext 3437

Natalie Lacasse  Manager, Indigenous Strategic Community Engagement  Aanii, Boozhoo, Kwe Kwe, Waachay. Nimkii Benishii Niin, Migizi ndodem. Natalie Lacasse ndizhnikaaz, Mushkiigoom naang Ndoonhjii. Hello I am Thunderbird, I am from the Eagle Clan. My given name is Natalie Lacasse and I am Cree from Moose Factory.  I am a proud alumni of Laurentian University, with a dedicated focus on strengthening Indigenous community connections. Over the course of my career, I have gained valuable experience in the Indigenous sectors of both the Justice and Health fields, demonstrating my commitment to supporting and advocating for Indigenous communities. Though my career has spanned various sectors, education is where my true passion lies. I am excited to be back home at Laurentian University, where I am eager to contribute to building lasting, impactful relationships within Indigenous communities and advancing educational opportunities. Natalie can be reached at nj_lacasse@laurentian.ca or by phone at 705-675-1151 ext 5364

Jason Nakogee

Truth and Reconciliation Coordinator

Jason Nakogee is from Attawapiskat (Kattawapiskak – "Room to pass between the rocks") First Nation, located in the Mushkegowuk Territory under Treaty 9 B. He holds an Honours Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work from Laurentian University. After serving for 20 years in the Canadian Armed Forces Primary Reserves, Jason retired with the rank of Corporal.

Jason's work as the Kizhaay Anishinaabe Niin (I’m a kind man) Coordinator at the N’Swakamok Native Friendship Centre focused on engaging Indigenous men and youth in efforts to end violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals.

In his current role as the Truth and Reconciliation Coordinator at Laurentian University, Jason highlights the importance of healing from the impacts of colonization, residential schools, and intergenerational trauma, with a focus on the resilience and well-being of Indigenous peoples. Jason brings awareness to the need to create safe spaces for learning and growth. His work is dedicated to empowering individuals and future generations to overcome barriers, build resilience, and contribute to community healing.

Jason's personal journey emphasizes land-based education, a wholistic approach to wellness (physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual), and helping others rebuild self-esteem, confidence, and a positive connection to their culture. 

Jason can be reached at jnakogee@laurentian.ca or by phone at 705-675-1151 ext 5291