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Graduate Spotlight: Sophie Tremblay Blends Academic Pursuit, Athletic Excellence and Student Leadership

Graduate Spotlight: Sophie Tremblay Blends Academic Pursuit, Athletic Excellence and Student Leadership

Convocation ceremonies commemorate the achievements of graduating students. This Spring, Laurentian University will celebrate their graduates, with ceremonies taking place June 2nd to June 6th, 2025 in the Fraser Auditorium.

(May 28, 2025) - As Sophie Tremblay crosses the stage to receive her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology this spring, she leaves behind a legacy of leadership, resilience, and athletic achievement.

A proud Francophone and Métis whose ancestral roots derive from the Mattawa region, Tremblay completed her undergraduate degree with a minor in Sociology, all while competing at the highest level of Varsity sport and serving as an engaged member of the Indigenous Students Circle. 

Born in Sudbury (ON), Sophie’s family moved to Ottawa when she started the third grade. Growing up in a “big ski family” found her skiing as soon as she could walk, so she spent plenty of time exploring the Laurentian trails in her youth. But it wasn’t until high school when she returned to Sudbury for a ski race that she realized how well the campus matched her future academic and athletic goals. “I remember being shocked because I knew Sudbury and would visit family there all the time, but this was actually the first time I realized that there was a University, there was a forest, and there were ski trails right across the road. And I thought to myself, how great would it be for me to study on such a nice campus where there’s nature, ski trails, running trails - you just can’t beat it! It’s amazing! There’s all these lakes around too — it’s just so pretty!” 

Though Laurentian remained a dream post-secondary destination of hers, a competitive cross-country ski team based in Thunder Bay found her choosing Lakehead for her studies. However, the year was 2020, and the pandemic impacted methods of teaching as well as opportunities for sporting and other social events. “It was a weird time, and I ended up making the decision to move back home in my third year, since my parents had themselves returned to Sudbury during the pandemic.” 

Once at Laurentian and for the next three years, Tremblay became a key member of the Nordic ski team. She competed at Ontario University Athletics Championships, and represented both the University and Canada at the FISU World University Games in 2023 and again in 2025. “Being able to represent Laurentian on the world stage was an incredible honour. The support from my teammates and coaches made all the difference. I always recommend people try cross-country skiing — it’s such a rewarding sport.”

Beyond athletics, Tremblay was a dedicated student leader and advocate. She served as the Métis representative and later Secretary of the Indigenous Students Circle, while also representing Indigenous and Métis students on the Laurentian University Native Education Council and the Strategic Research Planning Committee. “These roles allowed me to connect with so many inspiring students and community leaders,” she explains. “I learned a lot about First Nations traditions and the importance of cultural representation in education. It really deepened my understanding of my own identity and roots.”

Next for Tremblay is the undertaking of her Undergraduate Medical Education (UME) program at Northern Ontario School of Medicine University, this fall. This program provides students with a unique mix of learning opportunities in a diverse range of sites, including Indigenous and Francophone communities; the fit for Sophie couldn't be better. 

Tremblay credits her involvement in Indigenous governance on campus with shaping her career aspirations. She hopes to pursue graduate studies with a focus on Indigenous education. 

As she prepares to graduate, Sophie reflects with gratitude on the people and experiences that shaped her time at Laurentian. “I’m really thankful to everyone who has supported me. Being part of the Laurentian community has helped me grow in so many ways. I’m so glad that I was encouraged to get involved in student life because whether it's volunteering, joining a committee or attending an event, it’s all valuable…. I’m excited to see what’s next.”

Graduate Spotlight: From Moosonee to Sudbury — Khorbin McComb’s Journey of Growth, Community, and Purpose

Graduate Spotlight: From Moosonee to Sudbury — Khorbin McComb’s Journey of Growth, Community, and Purpose

Convocation ceremonies commemorate the achievements of graduating students. This Spring, Laurentian University will celebrate its graduates with ceremonies taking place June 2nd to June 6th, 2025 in the Fraser Auditorium.

(May 23, 2025) – For Khorbin McComb (Moosonee, ON), university wasn’t just about earning a degree — it was about stepping into something unfamiliar, and learning to navigate it with confidence, curiosity, and connection.

Raised in a remote northern community where “everyone knows everyone,” Khorbin arrived at Laurentian University uncertain of what life in Sudbury would look like. What he found was a welcoming campus community, opportunities to stay rooted in his Indigenous identity, and a chance for personal and professional growth. 

Now graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Indigenous Interdisciplinary Studies, McComb reflects on the many experiences that shaped his journey — from residence life and volunteerism to cultural learning and academic ambition. “Almost every day brought something new,” he said. “You don’t realize how much freedom you have as a student until you’re in it — and I made the most of that.” For Khorbin, a unique trait about Laurentian is its location in the heart of nature. “I really have loved campus - hiking, walking, going to the library - things I do back home, but also new things that have made for a great experience.” 

Academically and socially, McComb thrived by embracing campus life. He took full advantage of recreational facilities, joined in residence activities, and attended many events hosted by the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre. These included the Red Dress Ceremony, the Eagle Staff Ceremony, and Truth and Reconciliation Day, all of which grounded him in cultural connection. “It’s my background. It’s who I am, and since I come from Swampy Cree Territory, it’s been really interesting to learn from a different Ojibwe perspective.” 

McComb also found purpose through work and volunteer opportunities on campus. He was hired by the Office of Domestic Recruitment to support major events like Open House, and more recently, became Student Coordinator for Laurentian’s Ré-U Free Store — a sustainability-focused initiative that provides gently used items to students in need.

“I thought it was a genius idea,” he said. “Some students arrive here with nothing and this store helps them get what they need — dishes, supplies, winter clothes, and all at no cost.” On average and since their grand opening in January, over fifty students visit the Ré-U Free Store daily, with a higher volume of visitors anticipated as word continues to spread of the store’s presence (located in the Old Pub DownUnder) and the fall semester brings a new wave of students to campus. “Most of this work is supported by volunteers and people who really care. By helping others, our volunteers gain something valuable out of this experience, which is pretty special.” 

That sense of care and connection has defined McComb’s student experience, and he’s found strength in belonging — and confidence in his next steps. This fall, he begins his Master’s in Indigenous Relations at Laurentian under the supervision of  Dr. Jeffrey Wood, Full Professor, School of Education. He is eager to focus his research on the topic of Indigenous early childhood education and the impacts of screen time on youth. 

“I’m excited to keep going,” he said. “At first, graduation felt like just another milestone — finish school, get a job. But now, my focus has shifted and it’s about ongoing learning, and using what I’ve learned to give back.”

As he prepares to walk across the stage at convocation, Khorbin encourages future students — especially those from northern or Indigenous communities — to take the leap to post-secondary.

“Take the risk, even if it’s far from home,” he said. “And be open minded. Laurentian gave me the flexibility to do the things I wanted to do, and learn about the things I wanted to learn…. I’m proud of myself and my personal growth, and still, my journey continues.”

Student entrepreneurs pitch their ideas at Be Your Own Boss Competition

Student entrepreneurs pitch their ideas at Be Your Own Boss Competition

Innovative spirit and dynamic leadership showcased at the Foundry’s campus event.

(April 8, 2025) - The Jim Fielding Innovation & Commercialization Space at Laurentian University was full of energy on March 28, 2025, as students presented at this year’s Be Your Own Boss (BYOB) Pitch Competition. This event showcased the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Laurentian University students, with 17 total applications submitted and seven students selected to pitch their business ideas to a panel of expert judges: 

  • Josée Pharand (Regional Business Centre)
  • Brendan Skiffington (NORCAT)
  • Logan Blanchard (Desjardins*)

Competition Winners:

  • 1st Place: Mary Odisho - Third year Psychology student (ViaPist) - An AI-powered virtual friend that provides conversational support for mental health, offering a comforting voice to those in need of immediate, non-judgmental assistance. Award: $3,500
     
  • Second Place: Florish Adebayo - Fourth year Biochemistry student (Beiwty Rishrish Cosmetics) - A beauty brand dedicated to creating high-quality, non-toxic, and cruelty-free cosmetics and skincare, empowering individuals with products tailored to their unique beauty needs. Award: $2,000
     
  • People’s Choice: Fatmeh Hamoud - Third year Law and Justice student (Transformative Strength) - A personalized strength training and nutrition coaching program designed to help individuals achieve sustainable fitness transformations through tailored plans and ongoing support. Award: $1,000

“The pitch competition showcased the incredible breadth of talent and creativity of our student entrepreneurs and we are excited to support these ventures as they grow. The BYOB competition helps students develop their skills and confidence to succeed as future entrepreneurs,” said Anastacia Chartrand, Innovation and Commercialization Coordinator.

Gisele Roberts, Director of Research and Innovation added: “Having been involved with the BYOB since its inception in 2015, I’ve seen firsthand how it empowers students to bring their ideas to life. This year’s competition was one of our best yet—the enthusiasm, creativity, and quality of pitches were truly outstanding!”

"I want to thank my family, co-founder, judges, Laurentian, the Foundry, and Desjardins for sponsoring this event,” enthused competition winner, Mary Odisho (Toronto, Ontario). “ViaPist’s mission is to make mental health support affordable and accessible for everyone, and this event gave us a chance to emphasize the importance of equitable mental health care. Spreading awareness and advocating for change in the mental health industry motivates us to keep pushing forward."

Odisho is studying to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree, via distance. “As an online student, being on campus for the first time was truly a memorable and amazing experience.”
 
The BYOB competition is an annual event for all creators and innovators. First launched in 2015, this competition provides a platform for students and recent alumni to showcase their ideas and entrepreneurial spirit.  

*Special thanks to Desjardins for sponsoring all cash prizes.

Psychology Professor, Dr. Reeshma Haji Shortlisted for International Cookbook Award

Psychology Professor, Dr. Reeshma Haji Shortlisted for International Cookbook Award

What do our recipes say about our culture?

 

January 21, 2025 - Dr. Reeshma Haji, a faculty member in Laurentian University's Psychology program, has earned international recognition for her culinary expertise. Her cookbook, All the Russ without the Fuss: Khoja Fusion Recipes for Busy Lives, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Gourmand World Cookbook Awards, an international competition honouring the finest food and wine cookbooks from the past year. Dr. Haji’s work stands out among nominations from 222 countries, earning a place on the shortlist in two categories: Indian and Independently Published.


The winners will be announced in June 2025 during an award ceremony in Lisbon, Portugal. Dr. Haji describes the nomination as both a surprise and an honour. “I wasn’t expecting anything like this,” she said. “I had to double-check the legitimacy when I was first contacted. It’s a prestigious award, and even being shortlisted is an honour.”
 
Dr. Haji, who joined Laurentian in 2009 and now teaches online as an adjunct professor, is known for her research in social psychology and intergroup relations. Her academic work has long focused on reducing prejudice and fostering understanding across cultural, religious, and gender lines. While she describes cooking as a hobby, her interest in food culture aligns with her research goals.
 
“I’ve always been drawn to decreasing prejudice, and that theme extends into my cooking,” she explained. “Intergroup contact theory suggests that bringing groups together—whether through shared experiences or something as simple as trying a new dish—can reduce prejudice. Food is an incredible way to create openness and connections between cultures.”
 
In All the Russ without the Fuss, Dr. Haji draws inspiration from her Khoja heritage, blending East African and Indian influences with European culinary traditions. Recipes like the masala fish pie—a fusion of British comfort food and Indian spices—show her innovative approach to recipe creation. The book is filled with accessible, time-saving recipes, alongside personal anecdotes.
 
Dr. Haji’s passion for food began in her Toronto childhood, where her mother’s adventurous cooking fostered a love for diverse cuisines. “My brother and I used to cook together when our parents were at work,” she recalled. This is reflected in the book wherein Dr. Haji dedicates the book to her mother and brother and provides tips on including family in the cooking process throughout the book.
 
Balancing her academic career with a growing culinary interest, Dr. Haji pursued a Culinary Arts Certificate at George Brown College over several years on a part-time basis, finally completing it in 2019 while teaching as a full-time professor at Laurentian. “I would travel to Toronto on weekends for chef school and return to Sudbury every Sunday, ready to teach for the week,” she shared. “That experience helped me learn how to write recipes and bring my dream of a cookbook to life. Creating a recipe is a lot like conducting research—it requires precision and repeatability. Each recipe went through rounds of testing and feedback to ensure it worked for others, not just for me.”
 
In addition to her culinary success, Dr. Haji continues to inspire students as a part-time faculty member, supervising graduate and undergraduate research while teaching online courses on culture and psychology. Her dedication extends to academic coaching, time management consulting, and raising her daughter—all while demonstrating that healthy, flavourful cooking is possible for busy families.
 
Dr. Jennifer Johnson, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, praises Dr. Haji’s contributions to both academia and culture. “Dr. Haji is an engaging and thoughtful educator who bridges the social and cultural worlds through her work. Her cookbook is a natural extension of her commitment to fostering cultural understanding.”
 
While Dr. Reeshma Haji looks forward to the 30th Gourmand Awards ceremony in Portugal later this year, her unique blend of passions continue to enrich the Laurentian community. This prestigious award not only recognizes Dr. Haji’s talent for cooking, family, and culture but also demonstrates the values of cultural appreciation, creativity, and connection that she brings to her academic pursuits and beyond.
 

Student Spotlight: Anthony Zanetti

Student Spotlight: Anthony Zanetti

Laurentian student uses video games to study concentration and performance

(January 26, 2024) - Technological advancements are rapidly changing the way we interact with the world around us. Can we use advancements in wearable technology to improve performance in high-concentration activities? Anthony Zanetti, second year Masters of Psychology student at Laurentian University, is working to answer just that. 

Anthony didn’t always know he had a strong passion for studying the human brain. Born in Sudbury, Ontario, Anthony grew up in Copper Cliff and attended St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School. Right after high school, Anthony began a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Biology at Laurentian.

A couple years into the program, Anthony realized he did not want to go on to attend medical school, even though many of his classmates were planning to take that route. It was a psychology elective in third year that inspired Anthony to start thinking about different career options. After completing his undergrad, he enrolled in Laurentian’s Bachelor of Psychology program to pursue his second degree.

Now a graduate student, Anthony is enjoying his experience at Laurentian. “In my Masters, I noticed it isn’t just about lectures. We have actual conversations because it is a smaller group that allows for that dynamic,” Anthony says, reflecting on the evolution of his education journey. “There is continuous support from my professors. My supervisor, Dr. Blake Dotta, has been the most amazing support throughout the entire process in terms of motivating me and allowing for creative ideas and space. He has a wealth of knowledge in neuroscience and I received ample support from him along the way.”

Anthony explains his thesis involves a unique activity – video game play. “Through my research, I am looking to see if electromagnetic fields can be used to have neurological effects like improved focus, concentration, and attention for people,” Anthony explains. “The idea is that if performance is improving in these areas during video game play, the same might apply to studying, composing music, or playing sports, among other activities.” 

To conduct this research, Anthony had participants, who were mostly undergraduate Laurentian students, play the high concentration video game, Snake, with and without an electromagnetic field present. “An electromagnetic field is created when you run an electric charge through something conductive. For my study, Laurentian provided a device with two boxes, each containing a copper coil, that created an electromagnetic field as an electric charge moved through it,” explained Anthony. While participants played the video game, Anthony measured their performance and brain activity in areas responsible for concentration and focus. “When we looked at the results, we saw changes in regions of the brain that are associated with sustained attention, concentration, and focus in a way that suggests that the field was having beneficial effects in these areas.”

Now in the process of publishing his findings, Anthony is excited to be able to contribute to this area of research. He is hoping his results will help future innovators create wearable electromagnetic headpiece devices to boost concentration.

With his graduation fast approaching in summer 2024, Anthony is hoping to stay in Sudbury and practice as a Psychological Associate at Health Sciences North or a private practice. No matter what Anthony goes on to accomplish, his research has already made an impact and he will surely make a great practitioner. 
 

University prepares for Open House, March 12, 2022

University prepares for Open House, March 12, 2022

Liaison leaders Stéphanie Ménard and Caleb Piché-Larocque make a positive impact in the student journey

(March 3, 2022) - As Laurentian University welcomes back students with the resumption of in-person classrooms this week, the university community is also preparing to welcome many more future students at the March 12th Open House. 

Laurentian’s Liaison Services delivers the event and supports the future student journey towards post secondary education. Liaison is the first point of contact for all persons interested in programs and services offered by Laurentian, and team members are dedicated to guiding those considering the University as their post secondary destination of choice. 

Stéphanie Ménard, a third year Psychology student and Caleb Piché-Larocque, a fourth year Business Administration student, are Liaison’s current Senior Student Ambassadors. Both are francophones and expect to graduate with certificates of bilingualism. 

“We provide guidance to the many student ambassadors who work in Liaison. We also support the organization and smooth execution of events,” said Ménard. While Ménard has worked with Liaison since the first semester of her undergrad, Piché-Larocque joined the Liaison team in his second year. Speaking about his passion for student recruitment, Piché-Larocque said as follows: “I’ve enjoyed my student experience, and sharing that experience with future students is very rewarding.” Ménard agrees and outlined that a reason why she loves her job so much is because it enables her to “make a positive impact.” As she described: “The Liaison team is amazing. Everybody is passionate about their work, and we do our best to ensure that each and every prospective student experience to Laurentian, is unique.” 

According to Liaison’s Events and Communications Coordinator, Danielle Yasko-Pellerin, “student ambassadors like Stéphanie and Caleb are inspiring. They come to work every day ready to help students from around the world.”
       
While Liaison Services regularly offer information sessions and campus tours to showcase Laurentian’s beautiful campus, the current focus is this year’s March Open House event, on Saturday, March 12, 2022, 10am - 3pm. This in-person event will include an academic and services fair, as well the opportunity to participate in a personalized campus tour. 

Registration for Open House is available online. 

Laurentian alumna prepares to embark on international work and travel adventure

Laurentian alumna prepares to embark on international work and travel adventure

Travel enthusiast, Lisa McGowan, journeys towards mental wellness

While the COVID-19 pandemic has substantially altered ways in which we travel, Lisa McGowan (Guelph, ON), a Laurentian University graduate of Psychology (2011) and Education (2012) is eager to embark on a four-month work and travel adventure through Europe and Africa. McGowan expects to depart for this journey this month and in January 2022 through the Remote Year program. Destinations along the way include Portugal, Croatia, Spain, and South Africa. While abroad, McGowan will work to further develop her business, Pop Up Studios, specifically in the realm of travel photography. What’s more, McGowan looks forward to embarking on a journey towards mental wellness; travel has always supported her mental health. Reflecting on this, she described that “any time spent abroad, immersed in another culture, stepping out of your comfort zones, exploring the world, is time well spent and immensely valuable.” 

McGowan is no stranger to international travel. When she was a third year student at Laurentian, McGowan studied a semester at Tilburg University in the Netherlands. She was able to do so through the LUGO (Laurentian University Global Opportunities) program that recognizes the value of the university experience outside the classroom. Participating in an international exchange can create opportunities for growth in vibrant and diverse ways. “I “wanted to make the most of the University experience and study somewhere else apart from Canada alone,” said McGowan. “Travel has had such a profound impact on my well being.” It finds McGowan prioritizing her passions, and she has set the “goal to create a life for myself where I can forge my own path to the version of success where prioritizing my mental wellness and protecting my energy is foundational.” 

McGowan’s participation in LUGO catalyzed her interest in other global opportunities. Soon after her graduation from Laurentian, she was hired by EPIK (English Program in Korea) to teach English as a Second Language. While this experience was initially to occur over a 12 month period, McGowan lived and worked in South Korea for nearly two years. “I moved to South Korea in February 2013 and lived on the mainland in Daegu. I worked at two different public schools with children aged 3 to 12, which was an incredible experience. After that first year, I found a teaching job at a private academy on Jeju Island and lived in an apartment there. I loved immersing myself in Korean culture, and getting to live that life was a beautiful gift.” 

For McGowan, teaching English as a Second language came with its challenges, but more importantly, its rewards. Her experience teaching abroad enhanced her passion for helping to positively develop the minds of youth, and she later found herself employed back in Canada through the Upper Grand District School Board. A most memorable moment for McGowan teaching Canadian students was when she developed an extensive six-week long Shark Tank simulation project for her grade seven class. This project found McGowan helping to develop her students’ self-confidence and creativity while also learning about entrepreneurship. It was this project that catalyzed McGowan’s interest to develop her own enterprise. 

While it is likely that protocols surrounding the global pandemic could have an impact on McGowan’s fast approaching journey, she remains hopeful that she will be able to take on this adventure. “This is one of my wildest dreams coming true! I’m going to make the most of it.” 

All are encouraged to follow McGowan’s travels via her Instagram as she pops up around the world. No matter where she travels next, her experiences at Laurentian will always be kept close to her heart. 
 

Psychology research turned into a children’s book

Psychology research turned into a children’s book

'Les émotions : Comment mieux les comprendre' officially launched in Sudbury

Dr. Annie Roy-Charland, of the University of Moncton, and Dr. Mélanie Perron, of Laurentian University, launched their book, 'Les émotions : comment mieux les comprendre,' surrounded by more than 100 students at École publique Jeanne-Sauvé.

The book, developed according to Pons, Harris and deRosnay’s model (2004), features nine stories that highlight the characteristics of the emotional experiences of young and old. The book strives to develop young Francophones’ (3-12 years) emotional understanding and is the result of several psychology research projects led by Drs. Roy-Charland and Perron on the impact that reading together with children has on these children’s understanding of emotions.

“Since 2007, we have researched children’s emotional development and strategies to improve their understanding of emotions,” said the researchers. “Our goal was to develop a simple and effective way for children to better understand certain active phenomena while presenting an abundant and inexpensive educational resource that can be used by everyone. Without the participation of many children, parents, schools and school boards in Greater Sudbury and Moncton, along with committed research assistants, this project would not have been realized.” The book was created as a result of significant collaborative efforts among various school boards, daycare centres, researchers and research assistants in Sudbury (Laurentian University) and Moncton (University of Moncton), who, despite the geographic distance, demonstrated the strength and diversity of the minority Canadian francophonie.


Recognized in 2016 as an academic innovation school, École publique Jeanne-Sauvé was involved in the project. “We’re thrilled that our vision to make our school a centre of choice for Laurentian researchers has led to such relevant and practical projects,” stated school principal, Lynn Tellier. “Regulating emotions begins with understanding them, which is a big challenge both in elementary and middle schools.”

With funding from Health Canada and the support of the Consortium national de formation en santé (CNFS) and Éditions Prise de Parole publishing house, what was originally a working document has become a wonderful vibrantly illustrated hardcover book. “The CNFS values not only developing knowledge on the health of minority francophones, but harnessing it as well,” explained CNFS research manager, Eric Chevaucherie. “It is a real joy for us to support Drs. Perron and Roy-Charland in making this book accessible to the francophone community.”

The book is available in several locations in the Ontario communities of Greater Sudbury and Timmins as well as in francophone bookstores and daycares in New Brunswick. A digital copy is available at cnfslaurentienne.ca

Laurentian University honours Dr. Dickinson and Dr. Watson with Teaching Excellence Award

Laurentian University honours Dr. Dickinson and Dr. Watson with Teaching Excellence Award

The annual award recognizes exceptional teaching performance by full-time faculty members and nominations must be supported by students, peers, alumni and other members of the university community.

APRIL 21, 2016 – Dr. Joël Dickinson, Associate Professor in the Psychology Department and Dr. Shelley Lynn Watson, Associate Professor in the Psychology Department were honoured by Laurentian University with the 2015-2016 Teaching Excellence Award.

 

The annual award recognizes exceptional teaching performance by full-time faculty members and nominations must be supported by students, peers, alumni and other members of the university community.

 

“I am gratified by the accolades of the students, alumni, peers and colleagues within the university, it is truly an honour to receive this award,” said Dr. Dickinson. “I am fortunate to have the opportunity to work with amazing students and colleagues and I appreciate my time in the classroom immeasurably.”

 

A member of the Cognitive Health Research Laboratory, Dr. Dickinson joined Laurentian University in 2007 as an Assistant Professor in the Psychology Department. She is a graduate of the University of New Brunswick, where she completed her B.A in Psychology, and her M.A and Ph.D. in Psychology. Dr. Dickinson’s impact on the Laurentian community goes beyond just the classroom, currently a member of the Safe Space Training, Teaching & Learning Committee, Chair in Psychology, Academic Planning Committee (ACAPLAN) and Co-Chair on the Committee for Sexual and Gender Diversity meeting. Her recent research on mental shortcuts was featured on CBC’s radio program, “Summer U”.

 

"I consider teaching to be the most important part of my job, whether in first year or at the Master's level," said Dr. Watson. "I am thankful for the opportunity to supervise so many fantastic emerging researchers, at both the undergraduate and graduate level. Mentoring involves not only data analysis, public speaking, and publications, but also dealing with work-life balance, handling rejection, and celebrating achievements."

 

An Associate Professor in the Psychology Department, Dr. Watson has been with Laurentian University since 2007. She earned her B.A. (Hons.) in Child Studies & Psychology and M.Ed. at Brock University and her Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from the University of Alberta. Dr. Watson plays an integral role within the Laurentian community, as she is currently the chair of the Ontario Association on Developmental Disabilities (OADD) Research Special Interest Group (RISG), Coordinator of the Masters in Interdisciplinary Health and an associate member of Rural and Northern Health Ph.D.

 

“It is a pleasure to present Dr. Joël Dickinson and Dr. Shelley Watson with the 2015-2016 Teaching Excellence Award,” said Dr. Denis Hurtubise, Associate Vice-President, Academic and Francophone Affairs. “Dr. Watson and Dr. Dickinson are true leaders both in and outside of the classroom with their passion, which has had a remarkable impact on their students.”