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Laurentian University student enrolment exceeds planning forecasts

Laurentian University student enrolment exceeds planning forecasts

Demand for LU education remains strong despite anticipated year-over-year drop

(November 4, 2021)  - With nearly 8,000 individual students currently enrolled at Laurentian University for the Fall 2021 semester, thousands of students continue to place their trust in the academic programs, faculty members and community that support their education. 

“As we march on the path toward a more sustainable future, it’s incredibly encouraging to see that the demand for Laurentian University is still strong and signals that we continue to be an important part of Ontario’s postsecondary system and a critical institution supporting the growth of northern Ontario,” said Robert Haché, President and Vice-Chancellor of Laurentian University.

Students are completing their education both online (2,100) and in degree programs which are primarily being delivered in-person at the Sudbury campus (5,900). This level of enrolment is approximately 400 students above planned enrolment. 

Of note, enrolment numbers show a positive trend for French-language programs year-over-year, which results in more than 20% of the student population currently enrolled in French-language degree programs.

The University measures enrolment levels in November each year in order to account for new and returning students. This count, which shows a 14% year-over-year drop, represents students who are currently enrolled in 106 academic programs at the undergraduate and graduate level. 

Recently, due to many converging circumstances, Laurentian embarked on the path of the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA), fundamentally restructuring its academic offerings to ensure it continues to deliver on its mandate to northern Ontario and Canada.

Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients

Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients

July 19, 2024 - This summer, twenty-two students have the opportunity to support research projects through Laurentian University with funding provided by Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRAs) are meant to nurture interest among undergraduate students and develop their potential for a research career. This funding provides students with research work experience that complements their studies in an academic setting.

Students support research for a period of 16 weeks, on a full-time basis, from May to August. Students can hold one USRA per fiscal year but can hold up to three USRAs throughout their undergraduate career.

Getting the opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to a research project is often reserved for graduate students. USRAs grant a unique and coveted opportunity to undergraduate students to get experience in their field of interest. The students’ year of study, major, and areas of research vary but they all similarly demonstrate the positive impact that this opportunity has on their current studies and future goals.

Throughout the summer the students will share in their own words about their ambitions, their interests, and a little about the research project they are supporting.

Emma Mageau

4th year Biomedical Biology at Laurentian University

Hometown: Sudbury, Ontario

High school: Confederation Secondary School

This summer, I am working under Dr. Tharmalingam on his radiation resistant breast cancer project at NOSM University. Within this project we are researching some targets believed to be associated with radiation resistance in a specific breast cancer cell line. While I have always had a passion for science, I found I was lacking research experience, so this opportunity has been an amazing way to expand my knowledge and skills in the lab.

In my spare time, I enjoy playing soccer and tennis and spending time with family and friends. I also help run Relay for Life at Laurentian which is a huge passion of mine. I hope to one day pursue a career in medicine, and the field of oncology has always been an interest of mine. I am excited to see where this research and academic year takes me!

Avery Morin

4th year Behavioural Neuroscience at Laurentian University

Hometown: Sudbury, Ontario

High school: Marymount Academy

Through USRA I get to support my passion for ecology and sustainability, exploring an entirely different field than I do in the classroom as a Behavioural Neuroscience student. At the Vale Living with Lakes Centre, I lead Laurentian’s Environmental Sustainability Committee and take part in the global Nature Positive Student Ambassador program. As a part of this initiative, institutions must complete baseline biodiversity assessments which have been ongoing since 2023. This summer, I am working with Dr. John Gunn on understanding wetland biodiversity by installing bird and frog call recorders throughout the Laurentian Greenspace. This project will not only contribute to Nature Positive biodiversity assessments but will also be used to support a multi university project focused on the restoration of peatlands after pollution from mining activities.

Anyone can get involved in supporting biodiversity assessments through citizen science using the app iNaturalist where all observations of plants, animals and insects taken on our campus will automatically be added to Laurentian’s Campus Biodiversity Network project to contribute to real scientific datasets.

Ellis Albrecht

4th year Biomedical Biology at Laurentian University

Hometown: Onaping, Ontario

High school: Chelmsford Valley District Composite School

This summer, through the USRA program, I have the pleasure of working with Dr. Brie Edwards, based at the Vale Living with Lakes Centre (VLWLC). As a student researcher, I am responsible for collecting water and invertebrate samples, preparing equipment for field work, and conducting data entry and analysis. The cooperative nature of the VLWLC has also provided me with the opportunity to observe and assist with other ongoing projects.

Growing up in Greater Sudbury I have always had a deep appreciation for our natural world and I feel incredibly fortunate to work on these beautiful bodies of water. This position has enabled me to practice my hobbies (boating, paddling, hiking) while witnessing and participating in the work that goes into restoring, maintaining, and monitoring our freshwater systems.

Alexandra Bertrim

3rd year Human Kinetics at the University of Guelph

Hometown: Sudbury, Ontario

High School: Lo-ellen Park Secondary School

This summer, I am working as an undergraduate research assistant at the Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health (CROSH) at Laurentian University. Through my work at CROSH, I hope to gain insightful research experience and apply my academic knowledge to real and practical situations to enhance workplace health and safety. I am currently assisting with a handful of projects, including a seat adjustment training program. The initiative focuses on reducing workplace injuries by giving heavy equipment operators a program to help them use good ergonomic practices.

I am also involved in the analysis of data entries related to simulation and mining operations training. With this analysis, CROSH hopes to assess efficacy and worker satisfaction around simulation training programs. The programs are a revolutionized training method that allows trainees to practice their skills safely in preparation for work in the field. My hands-on experience with CROSH has so far allowed me to gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the importance of occupational health and safety. I am eager to continue working in this field, hopeful that my efforts will help contribute to safer and healthier workplaces.

As a dedicated member of the Gryphons varsity swim team, I am driven to excel in the pool, as well as in the classroom, where I have strong academic interests in the fields of biomechanics, human physiology, and anatomy.

Laurentian University Receives Funding from the Province to Enhance STEM Education

Laurentian University Receives Funding from the Province to Enhance STEM Education

Funds to support purchase of leading-edge equipment

July 17, 2024 – Laurentian University is pleased to announce a significant investment of $2.17 million associated with the Ontario’s Training Equipment and Renewal Fund. This is a matching funding program to help universities renew and buy modern, state-of-the-art equipment and learning resources to enable high quality hands-on experiences.

These funds will support the establishment of a centralized hub for the hands-on training of students in STEM programs at Laurentian University. Located in the Perdue Analytical Facility on the Laurentian campus, this hub will integrate three key elements:

1. a molecular analysis and characterization instrumentation core

2. a virtual reality laboratory

3. a multimedia laboratory for science communication

Integrating these elements in a single physical space will transform experiential, online and micro-credential learning experiences in STEM. The STEM hub will provide novel training opportunities to prepare students in a key employment growth sector in Ontario.

Dr. Eric Gauthier, the lead on this transformative project and Director for the School of Natural Sciences, highlights the positive impact on students and the broader community: "We are thrilled to receive this grant. This facility will provide students with modern scientific instruments, easing their transition to the job market. Our new Virtual Reality lab will introduce innovative teaching methods and enhance learning. Regional scientists and companies will use the VR lab to solve real-world problems. The multimedia lab will help scientists communicate their results and deliver course content, including microcredentials. This hub will foster collaborations among post-secondary institutions, science institutes, and tech-driven companies."

Dr. Brenda Brouwer, Interim Provost and Vice-President Academic, also shared her enthusiasm for the project: "This is a great news story and achievement made possible through the efforts of creative faculty with a shared vision of what next-gen teaching in STEM can be. We are grateful to the Ontario Government for investing and making this vision a reality."

The new STEM hub will transform experiential, online, and micro-credential learning experiences, providing novel training opportunities and preparing students for careers in a key employment growth sector in Ontario. Laurentian University remains committed to advancing education and fostering innovation through such impactful initiatives.

Laurentian University Appoints Dr. Jennifer Scott as Dean of the Faculty of Education and Health

Laurentian University Appoints Dr. Jennifer Scott as Dean of the Faculty of Education and Health

Dr. Scott to begin role on September 1, 2024.

July 16, 2024 – Laurentian University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Jennifer Scott as the Dean of the Faculty of Education and Health. Dr. Scott is described as a compassionate and inclusive leader with a strong commitment to student success, the quality of the student learning experience, and supporting new initiatives that promote excellence in teaching, learning, and research.

An alumna of Laurentian University, Dr. Scott earned her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the university before completing her PhD in Chemistry at the University of Ottawa. Dr. Scott joined the faculty at the Royal Military College of Canada (RMC) in Kingston in 2008 as an assistant professor and was promoted to associate professor in 2015. She currently serves as Dean of Science with administrative responsibility for academic programming including accreditations and quality assurance, resource management, and cultivating an environment where students, staff, and faculty are valued and supported in their pursuits.

“I’m very much looking forward to returning to Laurentian University. It holds a special place in my heart and I’m humbled to be able to play a part in supporting the growth and development of students through education and programming that are relevant to our communities locally and regionally” said Dr. Scott.

Throughout her career, Dr. Scott has demonstrated a passion for teaching and research. In 2017 she received the “Class of 1965 Teaching Excellence Award” in recognition of her dedication to STEM education and mentoring graduate students. As an academic administrator she continues to pursue new initiatives that advance the impact of education in society.

Dr. Scott is fluent in both official languages and highly values and respects Laurentian’s tricultural mandate. Her commitment to inclusivity and addressing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s recommendations is evident through her role on the Steering Committee of the Indigenous Leadership Opportunity Year Program at RMC. In addition, she is focused on the Indigenization of the curriculum and creating spaces for inclusive cultural practices within the institution.

Dr. Scott’s leadership qualities, transparent and clear communication combined with her extensive experience in higher education and creative, innovative thinking position her well to lead the Faculty of Education and Health into a strong, vibrant future.

Laurentian University thanks Dr. Patrice Milewski for his significant contributions as Interim Dean. Dr. Jennifer Scott will begin her role as Dean of the Faculty of Education and Health on September 1, 2024.

Dr. Alain Simard named Dean of Graduate Studies and International at Laurentian University

Dr. Alain Simard named Dean of Graduate Studies and International at Laurentian University

Dr. Simard to begin role on September 1, 2024.

July 15, 2024 — Dr. Alain Simard has been named the Dean of Graduate Studies and International. Dr. Simard, an alumnus of Laurentian University, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to academic excellence and community engagement.

Dr. Simard earned both his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and his Master of Science in Chemistry from Laurentian University. He then completed his PhD in Physiology-Endocrinology at the Université Laval and held post-doctoral fellowships in the United States.

"I am pleased to return to Laurentian University as Dean of Graduate Studies and International," said Dr. Simard. "I believe that Laurentian offers students an ideal environment for advanced learning and I look forward to working collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students to foster an environment where all feel supported and empowered to achieve their full potential."

Prior to returning to Northern Ontario, he served as assistant professor and later associate professor at the Université de Moncton in New Brunswick from 2011 to 2017, where he contributed to the Département de Chimie et Biochimie and the Centre de Formation Médicale du Nouveau-Brunswick. Dr. Simard then accepted an associate professor position at NOSM University in the Division of Medical Sciences in 2017. Since 2020, he has been the Assistant Dean of Graduate Studies at NOSM University and was promoted to full professor on July 1st, 2024.

Dr. Simard has been actively involved on several committees over the years and is a member of the Ontario Council of Graduate Studies. He serves as chair of the Graduate Studies Committee and chair of Masters of Medical Studies Program Committee at NOSM University. He also served as a member of the Research Committee at NOSM University and previously the Graduate Studies Council at Laurentian University and the Graduate studies committee, PhD in Life Sciences at Université de Moncton.

With over 35 published refereed papers since 2001 and supervision of more than 30 students at all academic levels, Dr. Simard has demonstrated dedication to scholarly pursuits and student mentorship. He is also a strong advocate for developing strong international partnerships that promote opportunities for graduate students, research collaborations and serve to enrich learning and understanding.

Dr. Simard’s understanding of the graduate studies landscape in Ontario, his solution driven approach, collaborative demeanor, and commitment to Laurentian University’s tri-cultural mandate will position him well to successfully lead this new portfolio.

Dr. Simard will assume his new role as Dean of Graduate Studies and International on September 1, 2024.

Laurentian University and Staff Union Ratify Collective Agreement

Laurentian University and Staff Union Ratify Collective Agreement

Collective agreement spans 3 years

July 12, 2024 - The Laurentian University Staff Union (LUSU) and Laurentian University’s Board of Governors have voted to ratify a new three year collective agreement. The agreement will be in place until June 30, 2027.

The agreement will see LUSU members receiving annual salary increases of 4%, as of July 1, 2024. A copy of the agreement will be shared on laurentian.ca once finalized.

“This agreement marks a key step in Laurentian’s recovery, enabling us to move forward in a positive way with the execution of our new strategic plan. We are thankful for the work of both bargaining committees and are now focused on delivering a dynamic student experience this fall,” said Dr. Lynn Wells, Laurentian University President and Vice-Chancellor.

"With the ratification of a new collective agreement, we are now able to redirect all our attention towards providing support to students, in both their academic and research goals,” said Tom Fenske, President of LUSU.

LUSU represents approximately 230 staff members at Laurentian University.

Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients

Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients

July 10, 2024 - This summer, twenty-two students have the opportunity to support research projects through Laurentian University with funding provided by Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).

Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRAs) are meant to nurture interest among undergraduate students and develop their potential for a research career. This funding provides students with research work experience that complements their studies in an academic setting.

Students support research for a period of 16 weeks, on a full-time basis, from May to August. Students can hold one USRA per fiscal year but can hold up to three USRAs throughout their undergraduate career.

Getting the opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to a research project is often reserved for graduate students. USRAs grant a unique and coveted opportunity to undergraduate students to get experience in their field of interest. The students’ year of study, major, and areas of research vary but they all similarly demonstrate the positive impact that this opportunity has on their current studies and future goals.

Throughout the summer the students will share in their own words about their ambitions, their interests, and a little about the research project they are supporting.

MacKenzie Hobbs

4th year Biology with a Minor in Environmental Chemistry at Laurentian University

Hometown: Espanola, Ontario

High school: École secondaire catholique La Renaissance

I grew up in Massey and spent many summers at my camp on Whiskey Lake where I developed a profound appreciation of and love for nature. I enjoy kayaking, camping, and hiking during the summer. I’m deeply passionate about the natural world and the urgent need for conservation efforts. Over the past three summers I’ve been given incredible opportunities as a USRA student with the Spiers Research Team at Laurentian. I’ve gained invaluable experience and knowledge, and I have enjoyed every minute of it. I plan to pursue a Master’s in Biology, with aspirations to one day conduct my own research in the field of environmental science.

The title of the research project I’m currently working on is “Elemental Content of Country Foods Growing on Smelter Impacted Landscapes”. We are looking to understand if our food here in Greater Sudbury is different as a result of the industrial past. To do this, we are collecting fiddleheads, blueberries, and various species of mushrooms throughout the summer to digest and analyze for metal and nutrient levels. Additionally, we will collect and analyze the same foods from local markets and grocery stores to compare locally farmed foods and internationally sourced foods with the wild samples collected locally.

Konan Blaise Koko

4th year Biochemistry at Laurentian University

Hometown: Cote d’Ivoire

I graduated from the Biochemistry program in June and am currently working on my second USRA. In my spare time, I love cross country skiing and adaptive rowing. For me, these are the best sports to allow me to stay healthy for hard work at school.

USRA played a significant role in shaping my future career goals and aspirations.The first one allowed me to work in a laboratory at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, where I was involved in a cutting-edge study on protein expression using a heterologous bacterial system. This hands-on experience enhanced my understanding of molecular biology principles and techniques, and my analytical skills.

My current USRA involves working in a genetics laboratory with Dr. Thomas Merritt at Laurentian University where I delve into the intriguing world of genetics regulation. I actively contribute to experiments involving the exploration of the genetic response to environmental toxins (Nickel) in the gene expression in Drosophila melanogaster. This experience has not only enhanced my laboratory skills but also sparked my curiosity about the potential of genetics molecular biology studies. I am thankful this most recent opportunity gave me the chance to join a laboratory that I would like to continue working with throughout my graduate study.

My experiences in molecular biology laboratories through my time in the USRA program have had a transformative effect on my career goals and aspirations. They enhanced my understanding of molecular biology and sparked my passion for medicine. My ultimate goal is to attend medical school.

Asma Bilgasem

4th year Interdisciplinary Science at Laurentian University

Hometown: Sudbury, Ontario

High school: Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School

I have just completed a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Science from Laurentian University and will be attending the University of Toronto to pursue a medical degree in the fall. I’m very passionate about community health and have led events such as Wear Red Canada Sudbury and Hoops for Men’s Mental Health. In my spare time, I love going to the gym, trying new coffee shops, and spending quality time with friends and family.

I’m currently working on an antifungal project under the supervision of Dr. Sujeenthar Tharmalingam at NOSM University. The aim of this project is to develop a rapid point-of-care suitable for the needs of individual patients to detect antifungal resistance to manage infections. I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity to learn in a hands-on environment within a collaborative team of scientists while contributing to cutting-edge scientific research. Looking forward, I hope to bring the skills and knowledge I’ve gained through USRA to wherever my professional career takes me.

Noah Fenlon

4th year Astrophysics at McMaster University

Hometown: Toronto, Ontario

High school: Western Technical Commercial School

I’ve always been captivated by space and the vastness of the universe. I consider astronomers to be modern-day explorers, and exploring more of the universe is my dream and ultimate career goal. I proudly consider myself a nerd, and I love playing board games and card games with friends. I also love hiking, biking, and getting outside.

This summer, I was privileged to accept a USRA from Laurentian University for my research. I am working at SNOLAB, a dark matter and neutrino research lab just outside of Sudbury. To block cosmic rays, the main lab is located 6,800 feet underground in a mine! I am part of the SNO+ detector team, working on calibration for an external source and for supernovae in our galaxy. I have found this work very interesting and exciting. I’ve learned so much already, and it’s such a great experience to be working here.

Pictured above from left to right: MacKenzie Hobbs, Konan Blaise Koko, Asma Bilgasem, Noah Fenlon

Laurentian University Appoints James Barltrop to Board of Governors

Laurentian University Appoints James Barltrop to Board of Governors

New member brings significant experience from financial sector

July 8, 2024 - Laurentian University is pleased to announce the appointment of James Barltrop to its Board of Governors.

"Bringing in another experienced leader is exactly what we aim to do and we are pleased to welcome James Barltrop to the Board. With over 33 years as a leader in the financial sector, he brings a rare set of skills that will enable him to guide our decisions as board members. He is someone that will ask the right questions at the right time,” said ​​Vern Cameron, Chair of the Laurentian University Board of Governors.

"I am honored to join the Board of Governors at Laurentian University. This University has a very bright future and I hope to be able to help offer guidance towards that future. Laurentian is truly unique in its tricultural mandate and I am looking forward to contributing in any way possible,” said Barltrop.

About James Barltrop

A senior executive with over 33 years of experience in capital markets and investment banking. His primary focus is on the origination and execution of transactions related to major strategic and financial initiatives. He has held a lead role in numerous complex initial public offerings, equity and equity-linked financings for Scotiabank’s focus clients. He possesses broad experience in dealing with the investment community including corporate issuers, institutional investors, and investment advisors.

He is a graduate of the Ivey School of Business and earned a Masters of Business Administration from York University.

Studying the Pressure on Young Pro Athletes

Studying the Pressure on Young Pro Athletes

Yufeng Li, PhD Studies in Sports Psychology

July 4, 2024 – International graduate student Yufeng Li is exploring the impact that intense competition can have on a person's mental health. Yufeng's research interests were motivated by his own experience as a professional table tennis player in China. With his Master’s in Human Kinetics complete and the end of his PhD in Human Kinetics approaching, Yufeng says that research will continue to be a focus for him throughout his career as a sports psychology scientist-practitioner. 

Originally from Eastern China, Yufeng completed his undergraduate degree at East China Normal University in Sport Training. In 2019, he came to Laurentian University to pursue his master's in Sports Psychology under the supervision of Dr. Robert Schinke. He learned about Dr. Schinke through the International Society of Sports Psychology.

"As a young pro player I learned the psychological effects that competition has on a person. My experience in the sport inspired my interest in this area of academic research," Yufeng says. "During my bachelor's studies, I read about Dr. Schinke's work as the President of the International Society of Sports Psychology. I knew that I wanted to work with him as I continued my exploration of the psychological effects of competition."

Yufeng says that the transition from his home to Sudbury was jarring at first. “When I first got to Laurentian there was some culture shock and language barriers for me but the community was so welcoming,” he recalls. “It’s a small university but the professors and colleagues are so open and supportive. Dr. Schinke has been a wonderful advisor, and such a devoted and exceptional mentor.”

Yufeng’s master’s thesis was largely a self-reflection on his athletic development. Yufeng explored why some of his teammates and opponents were excelling to Olympic-level performance, but he was not able. To do so, he looked at what barriers and challenges he faced, including competition anxiety.

His PhD research expands on that, understanding the ways that pressure of competition and competition anxiety can negatively impact the trajectory of professional table tennis players in China. 

“During their careers, athletes reach different stages and transitions that bring about challenges and barriers to their ability to perform,” Yufeng explains. “If they do not have appropriate resources and support to cope with these barriers, it will not only influence their sport performance but also their holistic development.” 

Discoveries in his research have inspired Yufeng’s career ambitions. “No one was able to provide the kind of support I needed throughout my professional career,” he says. “Table tennis is the national sport of China and that comes with high expectations. There needs to be more understanding of what the young athletes are going through and how to support their needs while they cope with immense physical and psychological pressure.” Yufeng wishes to influence change through his research and future work with table tennis athletes. He hope to see the athletes coached, mentored, and trained in a way that supports every part of them, making them even better, more capable athletes.

When he finishes his PhD this coming winter, Yufeng plans to work as a Sports Psychology Scientist Practitioner. He will continue to conduct research throughout his career and apply that research through evidence-based mental health support for athletes.

Entente de principe conclue entre l'Université Laurentienne et le syndicat des employés

Entente de principe conclue entre l'Université Laurentienne et le syndicat des employés

L’entente proposée s’étend sur trois ans

(28 juin, 2024) - Le Syndicat des employés de l’Université Laurentienne (SEUL) et l’Université Laurentienne ont conclu une entente de principe. Les membres du SEUL auront bientôt l’occasion de voter pour la ratification de celle-ci que l’équipe de négociation du SEUL recommande d’approuver à l’unanimité.

« Cette entente de principe est une excellente nouvelle pour nos employés et l’ensemble de la communauté de la Laurentienne. Je tiens à remercier nos partenaires du SEUL de leur travail acharné et de leur coopération, a déclaré la rectrice et vice-chancelière de l’Université Laurentienne, Mme Lynn Wells. Comme l’indique le Plan stratégique 2024-2029, l’Université Laurentienne a défini quatre orientations stratégiques pour guider la prise de décisions. L’une de ces orientations est « Apprécier et soutenir nos gens » et nous sommes fiers d’y donner suite. »

« C’est un signe positif, a déclaré le président du SEUL, M. Tom Fenske. Cela indique en effet que la direction de la Laurentienne s’engage à réinvestir dans son actif le plus précieux : ses employés. ».

Si elle est ratifiée, cette entente de trois ans sera en vigueur jusqu’au 30 juin 2027.

Le SEUL représente quelque 230 membres du personnel à l’Université Laurentienne.

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