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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.

Healing Beyond the Field: Morgan Leeder’s Pursuit of Sports Psychology

The story of a student who saw past trauma to find purpose

November 21, 2024 - After her younger brother suffered a traumatic sports injury in his teens, Morgan Leeder found her calling. At the time, Morgan was just in grade 11, but that moment started her on a path that now has her completing her fourth-year as a Human Kinetics student, majoring in Sports Psychology. For Morgan, Laurentian University has been much more than a place of learning. It’s been the foundation for building lasting friendships, staying active, and maintaining strong mental health—lessons that resonate deeply with her passion for sports psychology.

Originally from Kemptville, just outside Ottawa, and a graduate of St. Michael Catholic High School, Morgan’s path to Laurentian was unique.

“My brother was a competitive baseball player, a pitcher, and in less than a second, he was hit in his left eye with a line drive that came straight off the bat. He was in distress but his physical recovery was swift, unfortunately, the psychological impact lingered.”

The family sought the help of a sports psychologist to overcome the mental hurdles of returning to the game. Watching her brother work with a sports psychologist was revelatory for Morgan. Seeing the power of mental resilience inspired her to pursue this unique field and led her to Laurentian—the only Canadian university offering an undergraduate program in sports psychology.

“I wasn’t really sure what I was getting into when I started,” Morgan admits. “It was farther from home than I’d wanted to be, but I couldn’t be happier with my decision. The small class sizes, living in residence in my first year, and the supportive atmosphere have been amazing. It’s been the best experience.”

Morgan’s academic and extracurricular involvement reflect her enthusiasm for campus life. As the Co-Chair of the Laurentian Women in Sport Committee, she’s worked to create opportunities for women athletes of all skill levels, hosting events and advocating for equity in sports. “We’re passionate about supporting female-identifying athletes, amplifying their voices, and building inclusive spaces,” she shares.

Her time at Laurentian has also been marked by the connections she’s built. Living in residence during her first year was pivotal. “I stayed in a double room in SSR, and my roommate became one of my best friends. We’ve stayed close throughout all four years,” Morgan says. “It’s one of the things I love most about Laurentian—how residence life brings together people from all backgrounds and programs. These friendships are lifelong.”

Despite her busy schedule—balancing academics, recreational sports, refereeing, and committee leadership—Morgan thrives on her ability to manage her time and prioritize both her physical wellbeing and mental health. “I’ve been lucky that everything I do is something I enjoy. I find time to decompress and rely on my roommates and friends for support.”

Her journey comes full circle when she reflects on the inspiration that started it all—her brother’s return to the pitcher’s mound after his injury. “Watching him work through his fear and trauma to get back on the mound was incredible,” she says. “It showed me how much mental health and support systems matter, whether it’s through sports psychology, staying active, or having strong relationships. That’s exactly what I’ve found at Laurentian—a community that supports and lifts you up.”

Looking ahead, Morgan plans to pursue a master’s degree in Sports Psychology and possibly a career in academia or research. “I’d love to go to school forever,” she laughs. “I love learning, sharing knowledge, and helping others.”

Why Study Kinesiology?

Shayla Villeneuve and Maxime Mailloux share their experiences as kinesiology students

November 14, 2024 – Two Laurentian University students on parallel trajectories are navigating student life in their respective Kinesiology programs. Shayla Villeneuve, a fourth-year student in the Kinesiology (Science) program, and Maxime Mailloux, a third-year student in the Kinésiologie (Science) program, exemplify the interplay between the English and French streams, revealing similar athletic passions, scholarly interests, and the multidisciplinary outcomes of the program.

Shayla, originally from Sudbury and a graduate of St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School chose Laurentian for the program. "I liked Laurentian’s manageable campus size and had heard great things about the kinesiology program from my role models in the community," she shared.

Maxime’s exposure to kinesiology in a high school class at Collège Notre Dame sparked a love for anatomy and physiology. Franco-Ontarian and also from Sudbury, she sought the unique opportunity to study kinesiology in French, close to home. “There aren’t many universities that offer this program in my language and that was important to me,” she said, expressing her desire to stay connected to her roots.

Kinesiology is the study of scientific principles of human movement such as anatomy, physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor control, ergonomics, and exercise prescription. “Students who choose Kinesiology are interested in a future profession in health, performance, and wellness,” said Dr. Sylvain Grenier, Director, School of Kinesiology & Health Sciences. “They receive a learning experience that is tailored to their personal goals with labs specifically designed for kinesiology and placements with expert practitioners.”

The significant hands-on learning within their programs has been integral to their comprehension and success. Shayla has already completed placements in physiotherapy at Move Physio in Azilda and occupational therapy with Developmental Occupational Therapy Services, a private occupational therapy practice that uses a play-based approach with a focus on making therapy fun for Northern Ontario kids. Her placements have been instrumental in informing her future career goals. “People often think of physical education when they think of kinesiology and that’s true but there’s also the science side of it. My placements helped solidify my interest in pursuing a career in health.”

Maxime eagerly anticipates her own fourth-year placements with francophone practitioners. Still in her third year, she appreciates the small class sizes, which she says foster close relationships with professors and peers. “Everyone knows your name, it’s easy to ask questions. As a Francophone student it’s just an overall comfortable and supportive learning environment.”

In addition to their studies, both are active athletes. Shayla fosters her lifelong passion for dance with her adult dance team, Northern Dance Pak and Maxime is an avid skier and ski patrol with the City of Greater Sudbury. Both say that their program has improved their athleticism and understanding of their own biomechanics for better safety and performance.

Shayla serves as president of the Kinesiology Club, organizing charity events and mentorship opportunities for fellow students. Meanwhile, Maxime has taken on multiple roles, including charity coordinator and health faculty delegate, all aimed at enhancing the student experience for their peers at Laurentian.

Now in her final year, Shayla has applied to NOSM University with hopes to become a medical doctor and is alternatively considering occupational therapy. Maxime also has a goal to study medicine after completing her undergraduate degree. Their stories reflect not just individual aspirations, but a collective dedication to health and wellness in their community.

Aspiring to practice medicine is a common goal among kinesiology students at Laurentian, according to Dr. Grenier. “Approximately a third of kinesiology students apply for medical school though it is not the only professional avenue. Many people don’t realize that kinesiology is a regulated profession, just like physiotherapy and occupational therapy, via the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario. Once graduating students pass the college's exam, they can practice as Kinesiologists.”

Shayla and Maxime’s experiences reflect the commonalities in kinesiology student journeys and the diverse pathways that lead to meaningful careers. The program not only prepares students for graduate studies, but also opens doors to career opportunities in health, wellness, and sports as a regulated professional.

Laurentian Students Runners-up at National Sports Forum Competition

Students exceed expectations with impressive finish

November 12, 2024 - A team of Sport Administration (SPAD) students from Laurentian University has bested many large US-based universities at the NSF Challenge Cup, a prestigious global consulting competition. The team, composed of third-year students Adam Mutuchky, Carson Harvey, Jordan Willmott, Cooper Fontaine, and Ben Fowke (alternate), represented Laurentian University as the only Canadian participants among 11 teams from around the world.

Dr. Anthony Church’s Events and Facilities class, where students participated in a mini case competition, was the catalyst that set a Laurentian team up for the competition. The winning team earned the opportunity to advance to the NSF Challenge Cup, where they were tasked with providing solutions to a real-world problem presented by the United States Fencing Association, aimed at increasing membership.

“We’ve all known each other through our program, and that familiarity helped us leverage each other’s strengths. Everyone played a vital role, and we worked tirelessly to present our best ideas,” shared Adam Mutuchky, the team captain.

The competition, which took place over a two-week span from October 4 to 23, 2024, was conducted virtually, requiring intense collaboration despite geographical distances. Jordan Willmot, who is currently interning with the Ottawa Senators, emphasized the commitment and collaboration it took. “The others were together for hours on end working on this and even working remotely, I did everything I could to contribute. We left nothing on the table; we gave it 110%.”

After a rigorous week of preparation, the team presented their solutions in the first round with hopes of continuing to the second and final round. The first round provided critical feedback and they were selected as the winning team to move forward out of their flight of four teams. That feedback shaped their strategy for the second presentation, which included a panel of expert judges, including the CEO of USA Fencing.

“We weren't sure how we stacked up after the first round because we didn’t get the chance to see what the competition was putting forward,” Carson noted, reflecting on their performance. “We only knew what we had done and based on that, we felt confident. It felt great moving on to the second round and even though we came up short, we’re proud of what we produced.”

The team ultimately were runners-up to Australia’s Deakin University. The students say their main takeaway has been understanding the value of working to each team member's strengths and fully appreciating opportunities. “It’s not lost on us how pivotal this learning experience was, whether we won or not,” said Cooper. “It was a great experience to showcase our work to such impressive industry leaders.”

Dr. Church commended their efforts and the importance of such competitions. “Competitions like the NSF Challenge Cup not only challenge students to apply their knowledge but also strengthen their ability to work as a team and think critically under pressure,” he said. “Regardless of the outcome, every participant grows from the experience. The entire SPAD School is incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication displayed by these students.”

Looking ahead, the team is eager to continue building on their experience. Adam expressed enthusiasm for future opportunities, “We’ve grown stronger as a team, we hope to mentor and encourage future Laurentian students to participate in future NSF Challenge Cup competitions.”

As the students continue with their studies, they say there is a lot to look forward to in their program. They are planning for future placements within the sports industry and thinking about their fourth-year consulting trip (which will see SPAD students visiting Germany later this semester). The students remain committed to pursuing their professional development in the sports industry, taking with them valuable lessons learned from this competition.

The team’s final presentation can be viewed on YouTube.

Laurentian Students Play Vital Role in Documenting a Story of Canadian Industrial Heritage

Students partner with professor for lasting impact

November 7, 2024 - Dr. Mark Kuhlberg, professor in the School of Liberal Arts, is an award-winning author whose work primarily focuses on Canada's forest history. For his most recent project that will delve into the compelling history of Tembec Industries Inc., Dr, Kuhlberg is leveraging the support of undergraduate students, Sarah Gould and Fiona Symington. Through this unique collaborative opportunity, the students will help tell the story of a company with deep roots in northern Ontario’s community and industrial heritage. Students play a significant role in advancing important research projects across Laurentian University but this particular project is taking the student experience to the next level.

Sarah Gould is a fifth-year Concurrent Education student with a Bachelor of Arts in History and a minor in English Literature, Media, and Writing and Fiona Symington is a fourth-year Concurrent Education and History student.

The pair were selected to join Dr. Kuhlberg’s research team after taking a few of his courses. Their roles in gathering historical data, conducting interviews, and analyzing archival materials are common contributions for students on research teams. In this particular case, Dr. Kuhlberg has asked the women to take their work a step further by writing book chapters that will be integral to the project's success. As undergraduate students, Sarah and Fiona will be published authors.

“Sarah and Fiona are not just supporting the project, they’re crucial to the outcome,” said Dr. Kuhlberg. “Their contributions are invaluable, and their involvement will provide them with hands-on experience in historical research while also allowing them to be recognized as co-authors in the forthcoming book. They are both capable of great things and I am happy to have them on the team.”

This project not only allows them to engage deeply with an important aspect of Canadian industrial history but also provides a transformative platform for their academic and professional growth.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," said Sarah Gould, who has been working closely with Dr. Kuhlberg for two years. "I never imagined I would be part of something so significant. It’s empowering to know that our work will contribute to preserving a crucial piece of history."

Fiona Symington echoed her enthusiasm, saying, "Being involved in this project has opened my eyes to what I can achieve. It’s incredible to learn how to approach research at such a high level, especially with a story that resonates so deeply within our community."

The book will chronicle the determined efforts of Tembec's workers, who fought against the mill’s closure in the 1970s by forming a unique partnership among workers-turned-entrepreneurs, the local community, and various levels of government. The newly-founded company purchased the defunct mill, marking the beginning of Tembec’s journey. By integrating personal narratives and historical analysis, the project aims to offer a rich, multifaceted perspective on this exceptional story.

Dr. Kuhlberg, a seasoned historian, emphasized the value of student involvement in this project. "Working with Sarah and Fiona has been a privilege," he noted. "They demonstrate exceptional analytical skills and creativity. Their contributions will not only enhance the book but also inspire them as they move forward in their academic careers."

Both Sarah and Fiona say that, prior to this project graduate studies had not crossed their minds but furthering their education is now a given.

“This has changed my future plans completely. I think you hear a lot that the arts, and history are limiting. Laurentian and Dr. Kuhlberg have proven that that is just not true,” Sarah said. “Working on this project has shown me that there is room for historical analysis in so many areas. I personally love women’s history and women’s hockey so that’s an area I see myself exploring further.”

“This experience has been transformative. I feel so prepared for my masters,” added Fiona. “The history department here is so strong. My professors have had an incredible influence on my future plans. I didn’t have a plan beyond undergrad and now I know I’ll go on to a masters and a PhD.”

The book, which is supported by Forest History Ontario and an angel donor, promises to offer a comprehensive account of Tembec’s formation and its impact on the local economy and community. It is expected to be published late 2026. This collaboration between a seasoned researcher and enthusiastic students will yield a quality book but also exemplifies the dynamic and inclusive academic environment at Laurentian University.

Treaties Recognition Week, November 3 to 9, 2024

Social Work Students Raise Awareness for Treaty Week

November 4, 2024 - In an effort to promote understanding and recognition of Treaties Recognition Week, a group of fourth-year social work students at Laurentian University are organizing awareness-raising activities. Under the guidance of Dr. Elizabeth Carlson-Manathara, an associate professor in the School of Social Work, the students will engage the Laurentian community in conversation and knowledge sharing about the significance of the Robinson Huron Treaty of 1850.

On November 4, students Julia Cimino, Mili Patel, Chelsea Chamberland, Isabelle Mallette, and Savannah Beauchamp will start off the week with information booths in the Atrium of the Parker Building from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Their goal is to help educate the Laurentian community about the Treaty, its implications, and its historical and present-day relevance.

The week will also feature multiple events at the Laurentian University campus on November 5 and 6 being organized jointly by Laurentian’s Office of Academic and Indigenous Programs and the Robinson Huron Waawiindamaagewin. Among the events, notable keynote speakers will present, including Clayton Samuel King on Treaties and Wampum Belts, Dr. Alan Corbiere on Robinson Huron Treaty of 1850 History: Leadership Roles and Responsibilities, and Dr. Brian McInnes, among others.

For the students in Social Work, this initiative is a culmination of a unique final project for Dr. Carlson-Manathara’s course, Strategies for Social Change, which empowers students to engage in real-world social justice work. Rather than a traditional exam, students are required to participate in a social change initiative, write a comprehensive paper analyzing their experiences, and share their insights in a discussion with classmates.

"I chose to support Treaty Week because it aligns with my personal values as a non-Indigenous person to understand Indigenous culture and history,” said Julia Cimino, a concurrent education and social work student. “I live on Indigenous land and it’s my obligation to respect the peoples and fully understand the impact of colonization.”

Mili Patel echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of spreading awareness about Treaties Recognition Week. “Many people don’t understand its significance and that’s a huge motivation for us to set up these information tables. We are doing a lot of research to fully understand the Robinson Huron Treaty of 1850 and our class prepared us for this kind of community engagement. I’m proud to support this and be an ally to Indigenous Peoples.”

The awareness booths will feature educational resources, pamphlets, and interactive elements such as QR codes linking to further information. Students will also distribute candies with the message, "We are all treaty people," inviting community members to reflect on their relationship with Indigenous rights.

“This hands-on approach allows students to apply what they’ve learned in class directly to impactful social change,” Dr. Carlson-Manathara explained. “A key goal of the course is to get students out into the community and involved with social change work so they can envision it as a way of life for themselves as social workers. Sometimes students are afraid of getting involved in this type of work, and I hope that by getting out there they can overcome these fears and integrate social justice work into their lives. These students are showing a deep commitment to understanding the Robinson Huron Treaty of 1850 and its broad impact. ”

The students’ sentiments around the assignment are proof-positive that Dr. Carlson-Manathara is achieving the desired outcome she described. “As a student we’re not just talking about advocacy and social change we’re applying those lessons and pushing ourselves to take part in something meaningful and hopefully have an impact,” Julia said.

Mili added that the lessons learned through this experience will remain with them for long after the course is over. “This is more valuable than an exam. We have the chance to actually make a difference instead of just writing about it. We’ll always remember this experience and the importance of Treaties Recognition Week.”

The group encourages all Laurentian University community members to visit their booths on November 4 and participate in Treaties Recognition Week events organized by Robinson Huron Waawiindamaagewin and the Office of Academic and Indigenous Programs.

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.”

Graduate Spotlight: Nabina Sharma

Bridging Cultures and Advancing Health Research

October 30, 2024 - On November 2, Nabina Sharma will graduate with her PhD from Laurentian University, marking a significant milestone in her journey from Nepal to Canada and her dedication to advancing culturally appropriate health care for Indigenous Peoples.

Having migrated to Canada in 2016, Nabina began her academic career as a Research Assistant at the Centre for Rural and Northern Health Research under the mentorship of Dr. Jennifer Walker, an esteemed Indigenous scholar. With a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Public Health from Nepal, Nabina initially focused her research on adapting Dr. Walker’s Canadian Indigenous Cognitive Assessment Tool for Nepal’s Indigenous populations.

During her first year in the Rural and Northern Health PhD program, Nabina’s academic journey took a transformative turn. Her relationship with her supervisor, Dr. Jennifer Walker and an Indigenous Health and Wellness elective class ignited Nabina’s desire to learn more about Indigeneity.

She immersed herself in Indigenous culture, frequently visiting the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre and engaging with local elders. “I felt vulnerable but also a deep sense of belonging,” she shared, reflecting on her emotional learning experience.

As Nabina delved deeper into her studies, she recognized a critical gap in diagnosing dementia in a culturally appropriate and relevant way for Nepalese populations and aimed to adapt the Canadian Indigenous Cognitive Assessment tool in the context of Nepal. As the Covid-19 pandemic hit, she was not allowed to travel to Nepal for her research. This prompted her to pivot her research focus towards dementia care in Indigenous populations, ultimately developing the research basis for a culturally appropriate Indigenous Functional Assessment Tool for dementia, working directly with local communities and health care providers.

As an early researcher, she became a trainee at Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging, a network of 300-plus researchers and clinicians across Canada who work on dementia and neurodegenerative diseases. She is also a member of the International Indigenous Dementia Research Network (IIDRN) and a member of Community-Based Indigenous Cognitive Health Network (CICHN).

“Dementia presents unique challenges that require culturally sensitive approaches,” Nabina explained. Her research aims to address the complexities of daily living for Indigenous individuals affected by dementia, recognizing that existing Western-developed health care tools often fail to capture cultural nuances.

Throughout her research, Nabina collaborated with Maamwesying North Shore Community Health Services, an Indigenous health organization providing primary and therapeutic health services to communities, conducting a scoping review and engaging health professionals to ensure the research reflected the needs of Indigenous communities. “My research is about seeing the person in totality—considering community, health, and environment through a holistic, relational approach,” she emphasized.

As she prepares for her convocation, Nabina reflects on the invaluable support she received from the faculty at Laurentian University. “The encouragement from my professors in the Rural and Northern Health program has been instrumental in my journey,” she noted.

While Nabina had to pivot from her original vision, she takes pride in knowing the research she has done throughout her PhD is critical preliminary research for the continued development of culturally appropriate health care. Looking ahead, Nabina plans to continue her work with Indigenous and South Asian populations in dementia and brain health, collaborating with national and international researchers and further developing culturally appropriate assessment tools.

Nabina Sharma is eager to attend the convocation ceremony on November 2 with her parents in attendance. On this momentous occasion, she is not only celebrating her academic achievement but also her commitment to fostering meaningful change in public health. Her work exemplifies the importance of culturally sensitive research and the impact it can have on communities worldwide.

Three Research Fellowships Awarded to Laurentian Faculty

Fellowships to advance Strategic Research Plan

October 29, 2024 - The diversity of Laurentian’s research expertise is embodied in three newly appointed Research Fellows. Dr. Kerry R McGannon, Dr. Albrecht Schulte-Hostedde, and Dr. Mark Kuhlberg have been granted research fellowships for their significant contributions to Laurentian’s diversity of research and their dedication to training the next generation of researchers.

Created by the Office of the Vice-President, Research, and selected through a committee composed of faculty, staff, and students, eligible fellows were required to demonstrate research expertise that advances Laurentian’s Strategic Research Plan.

The selected Research Fellows demonstrated a track record of quality research, a commitment to training highly qualified people by engaging undergraduate and graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, and technicians in their research projects, and ongoing dissemination of knowledge through publishing and community engagement. As recipients of their Research Fellowship the researchers will each receive a 3-credit teaching release, for 3 years, to provide more time for them to dedicate to their research activities.

“Through the establishment of the Laurentian University Research Fellowship awards, the University proudly celebrates three faculty members whose exceptional leadership in research, innovation, and discovery not only shapes their fields but also inspires the next generation of scholars. By advancing student training and engaging meaningfully with community and industry partners, the inaugural award recipients embody the highest standards of research excellence,” said Dr. Tammy Eger, Vice-President, Research

Laurentian University is proud to announce the appointment of the following new Research Fellows in the Faculty of Education and Health, the Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Architecture, and the Faculty of Arts.

Kerry R. McGannon, Faculty of Education and Health

● Research interests: Sociocultural investigation of sport/exercise and health (e.g., mental health, gender-based violence, identity inclusion), qualitative methods, gender equity in sport, and the media.

● Current projects: "Expanding understanding of motherhood and sport in socio-cultural context: A narrative analysis of stories in the digital landscape", funded by a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) Insight Grant and a Sport Participation Research Initiative supplement

Albrecht Schulte-Hostedde, Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Architecture

● Research interests: Evolutionary ecology; urbanization and wildlife; zoo conservation; host-parasites/pathogen interactions

● Current projects: "Establishing causes of small-mammal population trends in Algonquin Provincial Park" funded by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry; "Consequences of sexual selection for mammals" funded by a Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Discovery Grant

Mark Kuhlberg, Faculty of Arts

● Research interests: history of Canada's environment, politics, economics, business, and First Nations; forest conservation; resource management.

● Current projects: "Trusting the Paper Makers: The Globalization of Canada's Newsprint Industry, 1900-1947” funded by a SSHRC Insight Grant ; “The History of Tembec”, supported by by a philanthropic donation; Co-investigator on the "Green Growth and Sami Stakeholders" project funded by the Research Council of Norway

In their fields of research in health, sciences, and arts, Dr. McGannon, Dr. Schulte-Hostedde, and Dr. Kuhlberg will continue to mentor students and advance research innovation at Laurentian University. Research Fellows will hold the fellowship for a 3-year term. A call is currently open for Research Fellowship to advance research in the Faculty of Management, Francophone research and Indigenous research.

Echoes of the Past: Exploring Religion, History and Horror

Dr. Todd Webb shares insight into the engaging questions in his classroom

October 28, 2024 - In a world where history often feels distant and disconnected, Dr. Todd Webb is bringing the past to life for his students at Laurentian University. Specializing in Atlantic history, particularly in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, Dr. Webb's scholarly interests delve into areas often overlooked in mainstream history, like the conflict between conservative and radical movements within the Methodist Church. His background in history and religion captivates students in the classroom and provides an interesting analysis of how religious horror captivates audiences in pop culture.

Dr. Webb is adept at weaving human stories into complex socio-political narratives, making history not just a subject to study but a series of human experiences that are enticing for students to explore. He teaches a range of courses, including foundational history classes and advanced studies focused on the early French Revolution. His approach engages students by framing historical events as timeless stories of revolution, counterrevolution, and upheaval. “The human stories really draw students in,” he explains. “They help contextualize the complex issues of the past in relatable ways.”

While he points out the importance of good writing and critical thinking for all students, he hopes students mainly learn to avoid jumping to conclusions about history. “I want students to continue to find the deeper meaning of the past and really consider what provoked certain choices, really probe beyond the surface to understand the context that led to huge historical events,” he says, encouraging more dialogue in the classroom.

He encourages that dialogue by asking questions like “Is there deeper meaning in the dynamic between religion and horror?” With Dr. Webb’s main area of interest being religious history, he explains why religion and horror get so much attention in popular culture. Dr. Webb notes that there’s a long-standing theological branch known as theodicy, which grapples with the question: if God is all-powerful, why does evil exist? This inquiry is deeply rooted in religious teachings and morality.

He discusses how some of the revivalists (a person who holds or presides over religious revivals) he studies used religious terror to leverage fear in congregations. One notable figure is James Caughey, an American revivalist known for his intense and emotionally charged sermons. “He traveled from town to town, leveraging fear of hell and the devil to scare people into the church,” Dr. Webb explains.

In fall 2024, three horror films will have wide theatrical releases; two of the three have religious themes. The film, Heretic is a story of two young evangelist women who are tricked into a sinister mind game in the house of a strange man. The strange man, played by Hugh Grant, challenges their devotion saying, “It’s a simple choice but it should not be made simply. Belief or disbelief?”. The film taps into the common themes of religious horror that resonate through both history and modern narratives.

“I think it’s fascinating how these stories challenge our understanding of faith and morality,” Dr. Webb says. The Heretic character is similar to the revivalists that Dr. Webb studies in that their common goal is to challenge beliefs. “Religion is a test of faith, of morality, of belief, and of choice,” he explains. “Revivalists tested beliefs with the threat that their choices now would determine not just their lives but their afterlives. The heretic in this film is testing the women’s devotion to their belief system in this life. I suspect we will get a compelling human story about the heretic’s past that led him to his present state of heresy.”

Dr. Todd Webb’s work serves as a vital reminder that history is not merely a series of events, but a rich tapestry of human experiences that shape our present and future. By bridging the gap between the past and contemporary narratives, he not only enhances a student’s understanding of history but also encourages students to engage with the timeless complexities of human nature, morality, and the allure of storytelling.

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