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Dr. Candace Brunette-Debassige earns prestigious Canada prize

Dr. Candace Brunette-Debassige earns prestigious Canada prize

Laurentian Professor amplifies Indigenous women’s voices in postsecondary education leadership in debut book.

(June 3, 2025) — Laurentian University is celebrating a proud moment in its academic community as Dr. Candace Brunette-Debassige, Assistant Professor, School of Indigenous Relations, receives national recognition for her powerful debut book.

Brunette-Debassige, a Mushkego-Ininew Cree woman with Cree and French settler lineage born and raised in Cochrane (ON), has been awarded one of the 2025 Canada Prizes by the Federation for the Humanities and Social Sciences (FHSS). Her book, Tricky Grounds: Indigenous Women's Experiences in Canadian University Administration, was selected as the best scholarly book of the year by a first-time author, an honour that places her among five distinguished Canadian authors recognized this year.

The award was presented on June 3, 2025, during the 94th edition of Congress, Canada’s largest academic gathering that is underway May 30 to June 6 at George Brown College in Toronto (ON). The event marks a historic milestone as the first Congress hosted by a college, inspiring attendees to explore new avenues of interdisciplinary learning, and bridge the gap between colleges and universities for meaningful discourse and collaboration. This year’s Congress brings together more than 7,000 scholars, students, policymakers, and community members from across the country.

Brunette-Debassige’s deeply personal, ground-breaking book explores the often-overlooked experiences of Indigenous women who have taken on senior university leadership roles as part of reconciliation and Indigenization efforts in Canadian post-secondary institutions. Drawing from her doctoral research and years of professional experience as a leader in higher education, she documents the profound challenges and emotional labour involved in leading systemic change within colonial, Eurocentric and male-dominated institutions.

“This award is validating in ways that are hard to put into words,” said Brunette-Debassige. “When you’re an Indigenous person, you’re often told—implicitly or directly—that your experience and reality doesn’t matter. So to have this work recognized is powerful. It means these stories do matter, and for me, that’s rewarding, not only for myself but for the women I sat with as part of this research.”

Tricky Grounds emerges from Brunette-Debassige’s own career trajectory and from the voices of eleven Indigenous women in senior university roles across the nation. Through an Indigenous feminist decolonial storytelling lens, the book reveals the complex realities these women face as they try to implement institutional policy promises within environments that have not been structurally prepared for change. It also sheds light on how these leaders preserve their agency and enact resistance, often while working in isolation, and under immense pressure of being the “first” or “only” in their positions.

Brunette-Debassige describes how the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 2015 report marked a turning point in Canadian higher education. Many universities, eager to respond, created new senior roles focused on Indigenization. These roles were often filled by Indigenous women—sometimes without adequate institutional support and often without the necessary preparatory work of decolonization. The book, which she describes as “conversational,’ honours the courage and insight of the women who shared their stories with her. “The experience doing this work was healing,” she said. “Many of us [Indigenous] women in leadership had been struggling in isolation, and sitting together to speak openly about our realities helped us grow…. I’ve received an overwhelmingly positive response from readers and while I don’t solve the problems, I think it [my book] provides insight into ongoing challenges that can manifest when universities aren’t taking seriously the voices of Indigenous peoples and communities.” 

Dr. Brunette-Debassige joined Laurentian University earlier this year, where she teaches in the Master of Indigenous Relations and Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work programs. Her academic and administrative experience spans nearly two decades and includes leadership roles at Western University such as Director of Indigenous Education and Acting Vice-Provost, Indigenous Initiatives. Her research is located in the areas of Indigenous and decolonial approaches to education with a deep commitment toward advancing Indigenous theorizing, Indigenous methodologies in research, and Indigenous pedagogical approaches to teaching and learning. She is also passionate about advancing Indigenous educational leadership approaches and policy theories and practices that contribute toward transformative decolonial change in various educational settings, most notably, in higher educational settings.

The Canada Prizes, awarded annually by the FHSS and made possible thanks to the support of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, honour inspiring, impactful Canadian scholarly books in the humanities and social sciences. This year’s prizes spotlight work that enriches our understanding of community, storytelling, and resistance, shining light on everyday pursuits of justice, recognition, and belonging.

“Dr. Brunette-Debassige’s work is a powerful contribution to both scholarship and the ongoing work of reconciliation in higher education. Her recognition with a Canada Prize is a moment of pride not only for Laurentian University, but for all institutions striving to better reflect Indigenous voices, leadership, and knowledge. We are honoured to count her among our faculty and deeply inspired by her commitment to transformative change,” said Dr. Tammy Eger, Vice-President of Research at Laurentian University. 

As Laurentian continues its commitment to reconciliation and Indigenous excellence in scholarship and teaching, Dr. Brunette-Debassige’s recognition signals the strength and significance of Indigenous perspectives in shaping Canada’s academic and social landscapes.

Jason Nakogee: Leading Truth and Reconciliation at Laurentian University with Strength, Tradition, and Purpose

Jason Nakogee: Leading Truth and Reconciliation at Laurentian University with Strength, Tradition, and Purpose

For Jason Nakogee, the path to becoming the Truth and Reconciliation Coordinator at Laurentian University has been shaped by his deep connection to his roots.

April 9, 2025

For Jason Nakogee, the path to becoming the Truth and Reconciliation Coordinator at Laurentian University has been shaped by his deep connection to his roots, his dedication to service, and his commitment to Indigenous cultural revitalization. A proud member of Attawapiskat First Nation in the Mushkegowuk Territory under Treaty 9 B, Nakogee’s journey reflects resilience, leadership, and an unwavering passion for community-driven change.


Rooted in Tradition, Leading with Purpose

Growing up in Attawapiskat—whose Cree name, Kattawapiskak, which means “Room to pass between the rocks”—Nakogee was raised with a strong understanding of the seasons and their balance. This foundational knowledge, deeply tied to his Cree identity, has guided his work in truth and reconciliation. “It’s important to know where you are from, your name, and your language,” he emphasizes. This philosophy has helped him navigate his role at Laurentian, ensuring that reconciliation efforts remain deeply rooted in Indigenous perspectives. Nakogee’s wholistic approach to Indigenous wellness in learning focuses on the individual’s physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspect of their medicine wheel.

Nakogee’s academic path led him to Laurentian’s Honours Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work program, where he was a transfer student from Canadore College. His studies, combined with his lived experiences, shaped his understanding of community leadership and the complexities of implementing reconciliation initiatives. “I had to learn from the Laurentian University community effort towards Truth and Reconciliation,” he explains. Now, as a leader in that very effort, he oversees the implementation of key recommendations, including the Truth and Reconciliation Report Card, ensuring that progress is both meaningful and measurable.


Military Experience: Discipline, Leadership, and Mentorship

Nakogee’s leadership skills were further refined through his time in the Algonquin Regiment (Northern Pioneers), where he served as a Rifleman, Combat Storesman Driver, and Recruiter. His military service taught him to work independently, make critical decisions under pressure, and mentor others—a skill set that translates directly into his work today.

“My time in the military taught me to be resourceful, innovative, and to exercise good judgment,” he says. “It also helped me develop a strong rapport with people from different backgrounds.”

One particularly meaningful moment for Nakogee was presenting the family of Francis Pegahmagabow—a highly decorated Indigenous soldier from World War I—with the Canadian Aboriginal Veteran Medallion.

Another meaningful moment was Nakogee’s involvement in the reburial of Private Kenneth Donald Duncanson, a Canadian soldier who served during the Second World War and lost his life in the Battle of the Scheldt in Belgium. As part of the ceremony in the Netherlands, Nakogee led a smudging ritual to cleanse a bell that stands at the burial site. He has since returned multiple times to pay his respects.


Advocating for Indigenous Healing and Wellness

As the Kizhaay Anishinaabe Niin Coordinator, he worked to end violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people by engaging men in healing and accountability. His work involved leading healing circles, developing peer support systems, and helping men reintegrate into society after involvement with the justice system.

“The most impactful moments were seeing men take responsibility for their actions and embrace an Indigenous way of healing,” he reflects.


The Power of Teaching and Storytelling

One of Nakogee’s guiding philosophies is Kakeeskinohamadin—“I’ll teach you.” His own healing journey involved rediscovering Indigenous knowledge, from survival skills to language revitalization. He now passes these teachings forward, integrating land-based learning into reconciliation efforts at Laurentian.

“Land-based education is crucial,” he says. By incorporating Anishinaabemowin into outdoor learning experiences, students reconnect with the land and gain a deeper appreciation for Indigenous worldviews.

“The importance of storytelling is learning about kindness,” he says. “By telling our history with compassion, we build cultural preservation.”


Building a Future of Reconciliation

As Laurentian University moves forward with its 10 reconciliation recommendations, Nakogee remains at the forefront, fostering partnerships and ensuring that the university’s bilingual and tricultural mandate includes meaningful Indigenous representation.

His advice to Indigenous students navigating academic and career paths? “Embrace your culture, find strength in your personal journey, and become an effective storyteller.”

Roxanne Recollet: How she found her calling to help others

Roxanne Recollet: How she found her calling to help others

“Once I discovered my clan, everything clicked”

January 15, 2025 - For Roxanne Recollet, a fourth-year Indigenous Social Work student at Laurentian University, returning to school was not just about earning a degree—it was about fulfilling a lifelong calling. At 55 years old, Roxanne’s path to postsecondary education is as inspiring as it is unconventional, marked by resilience, determination, and a deep connection to her Indigenous roots.

Wikwemikong Unceded Territory is home to Roxanne. It’s where her passion for helping others took root. After completing the Social Services Worker program at Northern College in 2015 while balancing work and family, she felt a desire to expand her knowledge and skills to better serve her community.

“One of the reasons to go to school was to be a role model to my community,” Roxanne shared. “It's never too late and you're never too old to go to school.” In 2020, she enrolled at Laurentian University, initially taking classes online part-time before moving to Sudbury to study full-time. Transferring her college credits allowed her to hit the ground running. Roxanne’s positive outlook permeates everything she takes on.

“Everybody has a bad day and everybody can have a good day but we are here, healthy, doing and being,” she said. “Life is so precious, and I try to learn and experience as much as I can. It keeps me energized and vibrant.”

Her decision to pursue social work was deeply tied to her identity as a member of the Bear Clan. Bear Clan members are known for their role as protectors and healers. “Once I discovered my clan, everything clicked,” Roxanne explained. “It validated my path in the helping profession and reaffirmed my desire to integrate Indigenous worldviews into my work.”

Over the years, Roxanne’s career has spanned roles as a mental health worker, maternal-child health advocate, and facilitator of healing workshops for First Nations communities.

Together with her sister, she delivers training such as Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) and Mental Health First Aid, these training sessions are highly sought after by Indigenous communities. Despite the profound loss of two of her sisters during the COVID-19 pandemic, Roxanne continues their shared mission of empowering others. “Even though our sisters are in the spirit world, they are with us in our hearts and minds when we deliver training. I feel empowered by their presence,” she said.

Her time at Laurentian has been enriched by the supportive community and the resources available at the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre (ISLC). “I smudge at home, but when I can’t, I’m grateful to have the ISLC as a space for reflection and healing,” Roxanne shared. “I’ve even had opportunities to share the teachings of the Medicine Wheel with my peers and professors, creating reciprocal relationships that align with our Indigenous belief system.”

Roxanne’s story is also one of reinvention. Over her life, she’s worn many hats—from hairdresser to wedding planner, dental assistant to trainer. These experiences, coupled with her role as a mother, have shaped her into what she proudly describes as a “Swiss Army knife” of skills and adaptability. “I’m not afraid to see a need—whether in my life or in my community—and find a way to fill that need,” she said. Looking ahead, Roxanne plans to return to Wikwemikong and use her education to address the unique and complex needs of her community. She envisions continuing her work with her sister, offering culturally grounded services and support to vulnerable populations.

“Being a parent taught me invaluable lessons, but pursuing my education gave me the tools to bring even more to the table,” Roxanne reflected. “It’s never too late to learn and grow.” As she approaches graduation, Roxanne’s story serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and the importance of perseverance. It’s a reminder that growth is always possible, no matter where you are in life.

Graduate Spotlight: Kristen Lavallee

Graduate Spotlight: Kristen Lavallee

“I’ve grown the most I ever have” says Indigenous Social Work graduate

November 1, 2024 - As Laurentian University prepares to celebrate graduates at the Fall Convocation Ceremonies, Kristen Lavallee is eager to walk across the stage as a new graduate of the Indigenous Social Work program. Kristen's educational journey has been marked by personal challenges, academic success, and a profound reconnection with her Indigenous heritage.

In 2017, Kristen had been living in Halifax for four years and was considering going to Dalhousie University. She was settled in Halifax but found herself unwilling to commit to university there. The birth of her niece that year was the sign needed and she was moved to return home to Sudbury. In 2019 she applied to Laurentian and initially pursued a degree in Concurrent Education. However, after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, she questioned her path. “It was a blessing in disguise,” she reflects. Studying at Laurentian ultimately allowed her to explore the Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work program, which resonated deeply with her passions for Indigenous and environmental rights.

Throughout her studies Kristen excelled academically, and is graduating with honours after achieving straight A's. She attributes much of her success to the supportive environment fostered by accessibility services and her professors, including Nicole Wemigwans, and Daniel Côté, among others. “The overall team of the ISWK program is incredibly helpful. I’m grateful to have crossed paths with all of the professors, staff, colleagues and peers,” she says.

Kristen’s experience at Laurentian extended beyond academics to become what she describes as a journey of self-discovery. During her time in the program, she became re-acquainted with her Indigenous ancestry and engaged in cultural practices that enriched her understanding of herself and her community. “I’ve grown the most I ever have,” she shares. “I learned about my own mental health and discovered that I am autistic, which has given me clarity in how I process the world.”

Eager to participate in cultural activities within the Laurentian community, Kristen has attended many events such as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Symposium and the lighting of the new teaching lodge on campus. She says that her desire to engage meaningfully in cultural events and contribute positively to Indigenous social issues will propel her throughout her career. Looking ahead, Kristen plans to pursue a Master’s degree, with plans of one day opening her own private practice. “I want to keep learning and expanding my understanding to be a strong and well-rounded practitioner,” she explains.

As she prepares to graduate, Kristen Lavallee is reflecting on her journey of cultural understanding, academic success, and personal growth. “As a student at Laurentian over the past five years, I have found a deep sense of belonging and connection with others and that’s something that I will take with me into all my future endeavors.”

Indigenous Land-Based Courses Offer Life Changing Experiences for Participants

Indigenous Land-Based Courses Offer Life Changing Experiences for Participants

Students take part in a practical learning experience surrounded by nature, culture and Indigenous teachings.

(August 10, 2023) - Not all learning is done in a classroom, and this past July 23 students from various undergraduate programs at Laurentian University participated in an Indigenous Land-Based course at the N’Swakamok Friendship Centre Grounds. This 8-day Anishnaabemowin immersion course is an opportunity for students to learn a language and truly experience Anishinaabe culture. Rooted in language learning, the course is designed to identify and describe the core teachings of the Southern / Zhaawanong direction using the Anishinaabemowin language.

The delivery and success of this course is supported by many devoted Laurentian community members. This includes course instructors Eli Lorney Bob and Maajiijwan Petahtegoose, Paula Potts, as well as graduate student Renee Lemoyne.

The course incorporates daily language learning, a variety of teachings and ceremonies (sunrise, fire lighting, fire keeping, birthing of drums, etc), sharing circles as well as basic outdoor survival skills like cooking, fire lighting, and fishing. Throughout the course, students were paired up and were responsible to watch over the sacred fire. All day and all night, in two hour blocks of time, the students fire keep with a watchful eye (with of course having obtained the appropriate permits).

Originally from Kebaowek First Nation in Kipawa Québec, Renee Lemoyne is a Laurentian alumna from the Biomedical Biology program, a current graduate student in the Masters of Indigenous Relations program as well as a staff member in the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Center (ISLC) as the Indigenous Student Transitions Coordinator. Having assisted in the course delivery as a helper (Shkaabewis), Renee was responsible for a wide range of important elements. As a Shkaabewis, she would be accommodating and supportive of the needs of all those participating such as; food, propane, washrooms, student safety as well as emotional support. 

“It has a life changing impact. The course is everything to the people who go there and make the most of it. It’s a time for letting go… and to learn to love oneself, to get rid of body shame, to feel free to do what you need to do in life and to get away from all of the judgment,” said Lemoyne.

The learning of the course material is expressed through both teachings and experiences. “The foundation of the teaching style is that the Anishinaabemowin language is an emotional language, it’s a language of love, spirit.” Renee continued to support her statement with the importance of the ceremonies in accordance with the language teachings. “Engaging in cultural activities based on the seasonal direction clear all of the emotions that we feel so we can let that emotional language in and have space for it.”

Renee’s passion for the impact and learnings of the land-based courses have made an influence on her personally and academically. “My masters thesis is simply that taking this course improves your wholistic health.” Renee anticipates being able to execute her research hypothesis on the next land-based course; set to take place in August. 

“Every night we would sit there and we would drum and we would sing and we would teach the students some songs. It is magical to say the least.”
For more information about how to register for the Land-Based courses, please visit Laurentian University’s list of Indigenous academic offerings.

Student Club Spotlight: Laurentian students building community through faith

Student Club Spotlight: Laurentian students building community through faith

The Laurentian Christian Fellowship offers a friendly and inclusive environment for new and current members

(February 24, 2022) - Community, faith, and friendship.

These words come to mind when members describe the Laurentian Christian Fellowship, a student-led community of like-minded individuals interested in discovering and learning about Christianity.

“Laurentian Christian Fellowship is a really good place to meet new friends,” says Grace Raddon, the current President of Laurentian’s Christian Fellowship. “People would be surprised to realize what they can find in a community like ours. Our faith is a faith of community and that is what enables us to be so vulnerable with one another.” Connections made within Laurentian’s Christian Fellowship go beyond weekly planned events as members frequently participate in spontaneous study sessions, potlucks, camping trips, in addition to skating and bowling nights.

Grace is a francophone student in her third-year of Biologie and Psychologie from Blind River, Ontario (École Secondaire Catholique Jeunesse-Nord, 2020). She is joined by Vice-President, Kanah Sanfilippo, a third-year Indigenous Social Work student from Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario (Rift Valley Academy, 2019). Together, they form the leadership of LCF and welcome new members to join in their events. 

The group meets weekly on Friday evenings at 7:00 pm in the Classroom building, room 206, to host a variety of community building events. These events include prayer nights, guest speakers, worship nights, and group discussions. The Laurentian Christian Fellowship also hosts four smaller discipleship groups that meet throughout the week to foster in-depth, meaningful relationships.

InterVarsity, a nation-wide, non-profit, Christian organization, is the Fellowship's parent association. An InterVarsity staff member assists Laurentian’s Christian Fellowship student leaders, however, it is the students who ensure the Fellowship’s continued success.

Grace and Kanah encourage anyone interested in joining a community such as theirs to reach out or attend a Friday event. “Whether you are an active Christian or just need a friendly face, we are glad to have you and will welcome you with open arms,” says Kanah. “We would love for people to come out and have fun learning what it means to follow Jesus with us,” added Grace. 

To learn more about The Laurentian Christian Fellowship, please email lcfchanel@gmail.com or visit their Instagram or Facebook page.

Student General Association elect 2022-2023 leadership

Student General Association elect 2022-2023 leadership

Avery Morin voted President of student association.

(May 3, 2022) - Recently, the Student General Association (SGA-AGÉ) held its annual elections for incoming 2022-2023 leadership. Avery Morin, who begins her 3rd year in Behavioural Neuroscience and Concurrent Education this Fall, is the incoming SGA-AGÉ President. She and other elected student leaders will begin their new roles in June:

  • Ana Tremblay as Vice President Education: 4th year History student, minoring in Religious Studies
  • Emma Lelievre as Vice President Finance: 4th year Sports Administration student
  • Olivia Broomer as Vice President Student Life: 4th year Indigenous Social Work student

Since the SGA-AGÉ’s inception in 1960, they have advocated for their members at various administrative and government levels. In addition to their political work by and for students, they organize activities and events that help foster a sense of community amongst students. Morin and the 2022-2023 incoming leadership team hope to increase in-person student engagement in a post-pandemic world, and expand on the new SGA-AGÉ owned clothing store, Du North, located on the second floor of the R.D.-Parker building. “We also hope to promote gender equality, especially through our all female executive team,” explained Morin. 

Dr. Robert Haché, Laurentian’s President and Vice-Chancellor is looking forward to working with incoming student leaders: “Students and their success is the number one priority for us all at Laurentian. Student associations contribute exponentially to the student experience, and I applaud incoming leaders for their commitment to their peers. I have always appreciated the significant contributions of our student leaders, they play a critical role within Laurentian University."

Speaking more generally about the value of student leadership, Morin said: “Student leadership is important to me because I'm able to make a difference in not only my local Laurentian community but also to post secondary education across the province. I've loved every second of my advocacy work so far and have learned that the student voice always has a seat at the table no matter how big or small the decisions are. As SGA-AGÉ President I hope to use my leadership role to uplift and amplify all student voices and make a positive change in the student experience.”

For students interested in getting involved with the SGA-AGÉ, by-elections will be held early in the Fall semester of 2022. The Association des étudiantes et étudiants (AEF) and the Graduate Student Association (GSA) will also be holding by-election in the Fall semester. 

Tireless student leader supports peers day and night

Tireless student leader supports peers day and night

Ana Tremblay embraces and contributes to student life

We often hear stories of graduating students who thank the people around them for supporting them through their education. Behind each student is a support network made up of many faculty, staff, and of course, other students. For some students, dedicating their time to their colleagues is more than an interest - it’s a passion. 

Laurentian University student, Ana Tremblay, is one of these students who is going above and beyond for her colleagues. Tremblay (Kapuskasing, Ontario), a fourth year History student, is both representing her peers and supporting them in her many roles. She is currently the President of Pride Laurentian, a Peer Advisor with the Student Success Centre, and a member of the Board of Directors for the Student General Association (SGA). To Tremblay, balancing her studies in tandem with efforts to support students brings her a sense of accomplishment. “I decided to get involved with Laurentian in a variety of ways because I want to make a difference for future students. It is important that the University consider the point of views of students when making decisions, and I want to be able to be that student voice.” While Tremblay attested that her involvement in the University has the primary goal of supporting her fellow students, these experiences have also positively contributed to her confidence, as have they conditioned her to stand up for what she believes in. 

Recently, Ana celebrated the success of Laurentian’s Long Night Against Procrastination (LNAP); an after-hours event hosted by the Student Success Centre that links students to services and peer support. Tremblay served as Chair of the student-led committee, and reflected enthusiastically about this experience. “I think that LNAP was a great success! I loved being able to interact with other students and introduce them to services they may not have known about. At the event, we focused on the promotion of student-led services like the peer support specialists and the first-year coaches so that students could discover more about these services, while also discovering ways that they could help other students through on-campus employment and volunteerism."  

The Student Success Centre provides transition, academic and career-related support, as well as services for health and wellbeing to help students succeed and thrive through their academic journey. Peer Support Specialists can offer one-on-one coaching for writing and other academic skill building. Appointments can be booked online through the myLaurentian portal or via email: success@laurentian.ca.

To Tremblay, participating in events such as LNAP, and holding leadership roles such as with Pride Laurentian and the SGA has been “really rewarding.” Speaking directly to her role in Pride, she explained that “Pride is currently in the process of transitioning from a student centre to a resource centre and we hope to be able to offer more services and events for students in the near future. Stay tuned.” 

Tremblay expects to graduate with her degree in History this Spring. She intends to return to Laurentian in the Fall of 2022, to undertake a second degree in Indigenous Social Work. “I hope to be able to continue to bring positive change to the school.” Tremblay has inspirational goals set for herself, and will undoubtedly continue to make a positive impact in the student community. 
 

Laurentian University Inks Second Deal With Sault College to Improve Pathways for Indigenous Programs

Laurentian University Inks Second Deal With Sault College to Improve Pathways for Indigenous Programs

Expanded partnership will allow students to efficiently move from one institution to the other

(Sault Ste. Marie, ON) November 14, 2019 – Today, Sault College and Laurentian University joined together to sign another academic agreement in support of enhanced student learning. Through this expanded partnership, eligible graduates of Sault College’s two year Social Service Worker – Indigenous Specialization (SSW-IS) program can move on to complete a Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work at Laurentian University in an additional two years.

As an added benefit to learners, the Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work at Laurentian University offers flexible options, including the opportunity to complete the courses full-time on campus or part-time online. To be eligible to transfer into year three of Laurentian University’s Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work program, Sault College SSW-IS graduates must have achieved a minimum grade point average of 3.0. 

This new pathway agreement further strengthens each institution’s commitment to providing an enriched, quality education as well as working together to implement the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

QUOTES
“Laurentian University is honoured to expand its existing partnership with Sault College and offer this tremendous opportunity to learners. Through this pathway, students will have expanded options for furthering their education as well as the flexibility to complete the Bachelor’s degree either online or full-time on campus. This partnership combines the strengths of both institutions to give learners a holistic educational experience that sets them up for future success. Laurentian University is continuing its work on providing a comprehensive approach to Indigenous education and this is one more way we can provide our Indigenous learners with a range of learning options while moving our institution forward in the spirit of truth and reconciliation.” Shelly Moore-Frappier, Interim Associate Vice-President Academic and Indigenous Programs, Laurentian University.

“Laurentian University is very excited to continue and expand its existing partnership with Sault College. This is one small way where we can promote the importance of Indigenous cultures, and help communities develop highly skilled employees. This initiative falls squarely within our mandate to provide Indigenous learners with as wide a range of opportunities as possible. I look forward to seeing this agreement flourish over the next few years.” Serge Demers, Interim Vice-President Academic and Provost at Laurentian University.

“Our college continues to look for ways to enhance the educational experience and provide our students with innovative ways to learn and grow. This expanded partnership complements this by giving students more options in their academic pursuits and the opportunity to build on their existing skills and knowledge to pursue a meaningful career in Indigenous Social Work. We are proud to partner with Laurentian University and look forward to our continued collaboration.” Colin Kirkwood, Vice President Academic and Research at Sault College. 

About Sault College
The vision of Sault College is to provide a transformative life experience through empowering those who study with us to think and learn in progressive, innovative ways, including those we have not yet imagined. Sault College grants Ontario College certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas, graduate certificates, and degrees to its graduates. The College is the largest deliverer of apprenticeship training in all of Northern Ontario. Sault College has a significant economic impact on the community, with spin-offs in excess of $158 million. Over $1.8 million dollars in scholarships, bursaries and awards are distributed annually to students at the College. Located on the border to the United States and situated in the middle of three of the largest Great Lakes on the planet, Sault College is one of 24 publicly-funded colleges in the province of Ontario.