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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.

Red Dress Day and Moose Hide Campaign Event to Raise Awareness and Inspire Action

Red Dress Day and Moose Hide Campaign Event to Raise Awareness and Inspire Action

Raising awareness for gender-based violence

February 13, 2025- The Indigenous Student Affairs team at Laurentian University is hosting a day recognizing the Red Dress campaign and the Moose Hide Campaign on February 14th to encourage awareness and education. This combined initiative of two well-known awareness campaigns aims to draw attention to the urgent need to end gender-based violence and to encourage accountability in building a future founded on mutual respect. 

The day will feature a full agenda of activities including lunch in the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre (ISLC) and group activities to promote community-building and sharing. Attendees can look forward to two presentations from Laurentian faculty:

  • Paula Pitawanakwat, Master Lecturer in the School of Social Work  

    • Paula will lead a presentation on the meaning and ongoing importance of Red Dress Day, highlighting the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit-plus individuals.

  • Randy Pitawanakwat, Assistant Professor in the School of Indigenous Relations 

    • In his presentation, Perspectives of Anishinaabe Fatherhood and Indigenous Masculinity: A Modern Look at Our Shared History, Randy will be examining historical and sociological perspectives on fatherhood in Anishinaabe communities, including the impact of colonialism and residential schools, and the path toward healing for future generations.

The event will honour MMIWG2S+ and emphasize the collective role society plays in ending violence against women, children, and LGBTQ2S+ individuals. 

“The amalgamation of these two awareness days reinforces the message that we all have a role in fostering safety and respect,” said Mary Laur, Director of the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre. “This year, the red dress installation will be in a more concentrated area outside the ISLC to create a higher impact and ensure that this message resonates strongly within our community.”

In addition to his academic research on Anishinaabe fatherhood, Professor Randy Pitawanakwat has a personal connection to the awareness campaigns and highlights the importance of educational institutions in fostering healing and reconciliation. 

“As the eldest of five siblings with four sisters, I have always felt a deep responsibility to support and uplift the women in my life,” Randy noted. Laurentian University has been an ambassador campus for the Moose Hide Campaign since taking the pledge in 2022. “This reinforces our commitment to reconciliation, the Calls to Action, and ending violence against women, children, and Two-Spirit-plus people. This event gives all community members the opportunity to learn and commit to being part of the solution.”

He emphasized the campaign’s significance in advocating for the end of violence against women and children, particularly within Indigenous communities. “By wearing the piece of moose hide, we acknowledge our collective responsibility to take action. This isn’t just an Indigenous issue—it’s about everyone on Turtle Island coming together to end gender-based violence.” 

This event is open to the community and will begin with an opening ceremony at 10:00 a.m. in the Parker Building Atrium at Laurentian University, followed by activities throughout the day in the Atrium and ISLC. 

Legacy of Anne Kossatz Lives On Through Scholarship

Legacy of Anne Kossatz Lives On Through Scholarship

Donation of over $115,000 will support women in science at Laurentian University

February 10, 2025 - As the International Day for Women and Girls in Science approaches, the family of the late Anne Kossatz has generously donated over $115,000 to create a scholarship for female students in the Biomedical Biology program at Laurentian University. This heartfelt contribution honours Anne and her lifelong commitment to advancing opportunities for women in science.

“It is a privilege to honour my wife’s memory by establishing this scholarship at Laurentian,” said Ray Dalby. “She believed deeply in the transformative power of education and the importance of encouraging women to excel in fields where they have been historically underrepresented. This scholarship is a way to continue her vision and make a lasting impact on future generations.”

Anne, who passed away in 2021, was a Sudbury native and Laurentian University alumna. She had an incredible zest for life, and a drive to live it to the fullest. Her passion for horses inspired her to serve as a board member of Ontario Equestrian and a steward with the International Federation for Equestrian Sports. Anne’s extensive education included two master’s degrees and started with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Laurentian University in 1977.

“The Laurentian community is deeply grateful to Anne’s family for making this significant contribution,” said Dr. Joy Gray-Munro, Dean of the Faculty of Science, Engineering, and Architecture. “Not only will this generous gift make a significant difference in the life of the recipients, we also know the positive impact of providing more opportunities for women in science.”

This donation will go toward creating a scholarship that is awarded annually to a third-year Biomedical Biology female student with the highest GPA over the previous two years of studies. Through this scholarship, Anne Kossatz’s legacy will support a Laurentian student in reaching her fullest potential and, more broadly, contribute to the future of scientific research.

 

Eleven University Teams Compete in Goodman Gold Challenge

Eleven University Teams Compete in Goodman Gold Challenge

Teams from across North America went head-to-head in the mining investment case competition

February 5, 2025 - The 7th Annual Goodman Gold Challenge ran from January 29 to 31, 2025 with eleven teams from across the continent competing for literal gold. In this realistic mining investment case competition, presented by Kinross Gold and organized by the Goodman School of Mines at Laurentian University, teams of undergraduate students act as finance firms looking to invest in a mining company. 

Teams were tasked with evaluating and justifying which of three mining companies would make the best investment. Real CEOs from G Mining Ventures, Meridian Mining, and Omai Gold Mines had 30 minutes to convince teams to invest in their company. Teams then had time to ask the CEOs hard-hitting questions, consider important data, and discuss analytics to help form their decision. The student team that presented the most polished, professional pitch, selecting their mining company of choice, was crowned the winner. 

Ultimately, it was Queen’s University that took home the title. They invested in Meridian Mining, and went home with the cash equivalent of four ounces of gold. 

“All the teams gave impressive pitches,” said Jonathan Goodman, Chair of the Goodman Gold Challenge and Chair and CEO of Dundee Corporation. “The students worked hard to represent their universities, making the most of this opportunity to demonstrate their business acumen and mining industry knowledge while building new skills and relationships. Congratulations to Queen’s University on their well-deserved win.”

Dr. Nadia Mykytczuk, Executive Director of the Goodman School of Mines, commended the students on demonstrating forward thinking. “Mining is undergoing a big technology transition, and having students understand how to develop new deposits, and build successful mines will be a great asset for the industry as a whole.” 

More than just a competition, the three-day event brought opportunity for students to interact with industry experts. Rick Rule, President and CEO of Rule Investment Media, gave a keynote address at the Closing Gala. Executives from Nuclear Fuels Inc., Dundee Corporation, Kinross Gold, RBC Capital Markets, Technica Mining, Magna Mining, Lakeshore Gold, SCP Resource Finance, and Let’s Roll “Ideation” Consulting made up the judging panel. 

McMaster University and Laurentian University placed second and third place, receiving silver coins and all competitors received Sudbury-made miners’s lunch boxes for their participation. Students from the eleven teams learned invaluable lessons in mining sector investment decision-making and built lasting relationships with peers and industry leaders. 

Crowning Achievement: Dr. John Gunn Honoured with King Charles III Coronation Medal

Crowning Achievement: Dr. John Gunn Honoured with King Charles III Coronation Medal

Laurentian University Professor Emeritus Celebrated for Decades of Environmental Leadership with Global Impact

February 6, 2025 - Dr. John Gunn, Professor Emeritus at Laurentian University and internationally recognized environmental researcher, has been awarded the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal. This honour acknowledges Dr. Gunn’s decades of research in environmental science, leadership in mentoring future sustainability leaders, and stewardship of Sudbury’s environmental restoration story on the global stage. 

“I am truly honoured to receive this medal,” said Dr. Gunn. “This recognition is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in addressing environmental challenges. I am particularly pleased with the opportunity to highlight Laurentian University’s unique role within the Nature Positive University Alliance, as a leader in global biodiversity restoration and sustainability initiatives. Our students and faculty are committed to making a difference, and I am proud of the work being done.”

Dr. Gunn’s contributions span over four decades, beginning with his innovative research into acid rain’s impacts on aquatic ecosystems. His findings–and those of his colleagues–were instrumental in shaping policies that reduced industrial emissions and led to significant biodiversity recovery in Sudbury. 

Dr. Gunn is the past Director of the Cooperative Freshwater Ecology Unit, and founder of the Vale Living with Lakes Centre, a hub for environmental research and community engagement. As a Canada Research Chair in Stressed Aquatic Systems over the past 21 years, he has fostered collaboration across academia, industry, and government. 

“Our sincerest congratulations go out to Dr. Gunn,” said Dr. Tammy Eger, Vice President, Research. “This medal not only celebrates his exceptional accomplishments that have restored health to our lakes locally and advanced environmental science globally, but also recognizes his unwavering dedication to mentoring the next generation of environmental leaders. His work continues to inspire us all.” 

Dr. Gunn is committed to raising international awareness of Sudbury’s remarkable restoration story. 

At the 2022 UN COP15 conference in Montreal, Dr. Gunn represented Canada, sharing Sudbury’s story with world leaders. His mentorship played a pivotal role in Laurentian University’s membership in the Nature Positive University Alliance, a network of over 700 institutions worldwide dedicated to biodiversity restoration and climate action. Laurentian is the only Ontario university with a pledged commitment to this alliance, supported by both senior administration and a student ambassador program.

The King Charles III Coronation Medal, produced by the Royal Canadian Mint, is a significant honour bestowed on individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Canada in various fields.

As Dr. Gunn continues his work as Professor Emeritus, his influence resonates through students, researchers, and communities. His legacy includes inspiring a new generation of environmental champions and sustainability changemakers, equipped to tackle climate change and biodiversity loss globally.

On February 25th, a special tribute to Dr. John Gunn will be presented at a screening of Planting Hope: A Regreening Story. This Research Week event is presented in partnership with Science North and is open to the public.

Black History Month Celebrations Kick off Today at Laurentian University

Black History Month Celebrations Kick off Today at Laurentian University

Calendar of Events Organized by Student Leaders

February 3, 2025 - The Laurentian University African Caribbean Student Association (LUACSA) is excited to bring engaging Black History Month events to campus, celebrating the richness of Black culture, history, and achievement. With the support of the Student Equity Centre (SEC) and the Equity, Diversity and Human Rights Office (EDHRO), LUACSA has curated a series of events designed to educate, empower, and connect students and the broader community.

“LUACSA serves as a supportive community for African and Caribbean students, fostering cultural exchange and unity through group activities,” says Aya Atomini, LUACSA President and a fourth-year Business Administration-Finance student. “This month is an opportunity to showcase the achievements and contributions of Black individuals while celebrating with peers and creating meaningful discussions on representation.”

The Black History Month events will provide opportunities for students to engage with Black history, contemporary issues, and networking opportunities with professionals and entrepreneurs. The events include:

  • Understanding the Legacy (Feb. 3) – A showcase of Black organizations in Sudbury, featuring interactive tables and discussions.

  • Talks Among Peers (Feb. 6) – A student-led debate on the role of African nations in shaping Black History Month narratives.

  • Triple Header - Laurentian Voyageurs and Sudbury Five (Feb. 8) – Students will cheer on the Voyageurs and Sudbury Five basketball teams with tickets sponsored by EDHRO. $10 tickets when you use code LAURENTIAN25 when purchasing.

  • Black Entrepreneur Day (Feb. 11) – A celebration of Black business owners and their contributions to the community.

  • Game Night (Feb. 13) – A fun-filled evening of interactive games and camaraderie.

  • Movie Night (Feb. 25) – A screening of a film celebrating Black storytelling and history.

  • Tychon Carter: Becoming Unstoppable (Feb. 25) – Presentation by LU Alumni and student athlete.

  • Nikki Clarke: Black Canadian Innovation (Feb. 26) – Presentation by local entrepreneur.

  • Cultural Mini Gala (Mar. 1) – The grand finale, featuring a fashion show, live performances, and a cultural dinner.

    • Florish Adebayo attended St. Charles College and is a fourth-year Biochemistry student. She works part-time at a local pharmacy, runs her own business, Beiwty Rishrish Cosmetics, and is a LUACSA executive member. As a busy student and young entrepreneur, Florish emphasizes the significance of LUACSA’s impact on student life. “This association has given me the chance to build relationships, connect academically and socially, and gain mutual support from my peers. Black History Month is a time to amplify those connections and celebrate our community.”

    LUACSA, led by a dedicated executive board of 12 students, has been a strong presence at Laurentian for years. With many current leaders in their final year, the organization is preparing for a seamless transition to new leadership. “We have many newer members who can run in the upcoming election,” says Barakat Salami, who attended Lasalle Secondary School and is LUACSA Vice President and a fourth-year Law and Justice student. “We’re confident LUACSA will continue to thrive and build on this celebration year after year.”

    With a variety of events to appeal to different interests, the group is most looking forward to two brand new initiatives. “The cultural mini gala and the student debate, ‘Talks Among Peers’ are really exciting for us,” said Esther Oseni-Ketefe, graduate of St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School fourth-year Law and Justice student. “This is our first time ever hosting something like these and they’re both really out-of-the-box, engaging events that we think the entire community will appreciate.”

    In collaboration with LUACSA, Laurentian University’s SEC and EDHRO have arranged for two guest speakers—Laurentian alumnus and former student-athlete Tychon Carter and community leader Nikki Clarke—to join the celebrations to share their insights and experiences. LUACSA invites the Laurentian community to participate and celebrate Black history, culture, and achievements with a month full of engaging events.

    Canada Invests in Climate Change Adaptation to Keep Communities Safe in Northern Ontario and Across Canada

    Canada Invests in Climate Change Adaptation to Keep Communities Safe in Northern Ontario and Across Canada

    January 29, 2025 - Across the country, the impacts of climate change are becoming more severe and more frequent with extreme events like floods, wildfires and heatwaves on the rise. Gradual changes, like thawing permafrost in the north and rising sea levels in coastal regions, are also affecting the safety of our communities and quality of life. Acting now will help improve long-term resilience and reduce costs associated with the increasing frequency of extreme weather events in Canada, including higher grocery prices, insurance premiums and local taxes to cover the costs of disaster recovery and damage.

    To protect our communities from the worst economic and environmental impacts of climate change, we must continue to prepare for the changes that are coming by investing in community resilience. This will not only support the safety of Canadians but also reinforce the ability of communities to recover from extreme weather events.

    Today, Marc G. Serré, Parliamentary Secretary to the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, along with Member of Parliament Viviane Lapointe and Member of Parliament Anthony Rota, announced over $2.7 million in funding for five projects based in northern Ontario under Natural Resources Canada’s Climate Change Adaptation Program (CCAP).

    These projects aim to support professionals, decision makers and First Nation communities in northern Ontario and across Canada to advance the implementation of climate change adaptation plans and actions through the development and delivery of tools, training and resources. One of the projects will also identify lessons learned from previously implemented adaptation actions.

    The funding announced today comes from a total investment of $39.5 million, announced on November 14, 2024, through the CCAP and the Climate-Resilient Coastal Communities (CRCC) Program to reduce climate change risks and build more resilient communities across the country in support of the National Adaptation Strategy (NAS).

    The steps we take now will protect our communities, our livelihoods, our environment and our economy. We are actively investing in climate change adaptation to proactively support community-led resilience and adaptation projects. It is essential, now more than ever, that we come together to help communities stay strong in the face of current and future change.

    Quotes

    “The impacts associated with climate change — including intense wildfires, devastating floods, stronger tropical storms and hurricanes, and permafrost thaw in the north — are being felt environmentally and economically in every single region of Canada. That is why this federal government is acting now to help our communities and our economy prepare for and protect against the threat of climate change. Today’s announcement of five projects based in northern Ontario under the CCAP supports the vital long-term, community-based work to keep people safe now and into the future.”

    The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson

    Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

    “Today’s funding announcement will support five important projects that are helping communities and sectors take action to adapt to our changing climate. These initiatives are led by passionate researchers and organizations who truly have our environment and our well-being at heart. By investing in projects like these, we’re working together to protect our homes, livelihoods and the places we love from the growing risks of climate change.”

    Marc G. Serré

    Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Official Languages

    “Sudbury is a leader in environmental remediation. This investment secures our standing and our efforts as good stewards of the environment and our community. Being able to adapt and build resiliency is worth investing in, and that’s what we are doing. The vital work being done here will help us better prepare for and adapt to the impacts of climate change.”

    Viviane Lapointe

    Member of Parliament for Sudbury

    “Communities across Canada and in Ontario are being affected by the rising impacts of extreme weather events. Now is the time to work together and build climate change responses that address current and future problems. By taking the necessary steps today to adapt and build resiliency, we are helping our communities prepare themselves to respond and better adapt to the impacts of climate change.”

    Anthony Rota

    Member of Parliament for Nipissing–Timiskaming

    “Up North on Climate is honoured to collaborate with four Northern Ontario Tribal Councils in the Partnership for Indigenous Climate Change Adaptation. Together, we are creating an online resource and micro-credentials to share the impacts of climate change on First Nation communities. The GeoHub will feature accessible, dynamic story maps highlighting community experiences and adaptation ideas, blending Indigenous and Western knowledge to build resilience.”

    Chantal Sarrazin-Delay

    Lead, Up North on Climate, Laurentian University

    “The training that we are developing is not widely available within the forest sector and across Canada. By building on existing resources and proven materials, and through collaboration with partners, we believe that the proposed training program can play a pivotal role in advancing climate change adaptation practice and contribute to the resilience and sustainability of forests and the forest sector.”

    Mark Pearson

    Executive Director, Canadian Institute of Forestry

    “Climate change is outpacing our efforts to protect people and communities from the harsh impacts of extreme weather. The Climate Risk Institute is grateful for this support from Natural Resources Canada, which will provide examples of best current practice in areas of climate resilience and inspire greater scales of implementation. Through these projects, the Climate Risk Institute will engage with key professions and others across Canada to build knowledge, capacity and competencies so that climate resilience becomes more mainstream within their practice.”

    Al Douglas

    President, Climate Risk Institute

    Career Nurse: Laurentian Alumna’s Journey from Mentee to Mentor

    Career Nurse: Laurentian Alumna’s Journey from Mentee to Mentor

    Shelli Fielding Levac Reflects on Her Path to Leadership and Lifelong Learning

    January 29, 2025 – From her beginnings as a student in Laurentian University’s nursing program to her current executive leadership role, Shelli Fielding Levac exemplifies the possibilities that exist with a nursing career and the lasting impact of a commitment to professional development.

    Shelli Fielding Levac, Vice-President of Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Executive at West Nipissing General Hospital, spent decades building a career in nursing. “I always knew I wanted a career in healthcare,” Shelli recalls. A pivotal moment came when she was a high school student working a summer at a March of Dimes summer camp for individuals with physical and developmental disabilities. This experience sparked her passion for providing care and solidified her decision to pursue nursing. 

    “Being from Sudbury, I loved the outdoors and couldn’t imagine studying anywhere else,” she shares, reflecting on her decision to apply to Laurentian University. As a Laurentian student, she not only received a top-tier nursing education but also explored diverse interests through elective courses, forming lifelong friendships.

    “The elective options were so varied. Those courses were an exceptional opportunity to not only expand my skill set as a future practitioner but also to meet different people in different programs. I learned so much and made really valuable connections.”

    Shelli’s career spans roles in quality risk management, infection prevention and control, and leadership. Along the way, she and her husband moved their young family frequently, working in remote areas and going where the opportunities presented themselves. Eventually they returned closer to home to support aging parents.

    “Every position I’ve held has added to my skills and understanding,” she says. “Being a nurse opens so many doors—whether you’re fulfilled as a floor nurse or aspire to leadership roles, the possibilities are endless.” Shelli emphasizes the importance of mentorship in navigating a career, encouraging nurses to seek guidance from experts, even outside the profession.

    In her current role, Shelli is passionate about supporting healthcare workers and addressing retention challenges. Initiatives like the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant resonate deeply with her. “COVID-19 was challenging for everyone, especially healthcare workers. This grant highlights the importance of investing in nurses and encouraging them to stay in the north. There are so many opportunities for growth and making a difference here. Nursing in the north is not just a career—it’s a prosperous pathway to contribute to your community and build a fulfilling life.” 

    Shelli’s dedication to healthcare runs in the family. Her husband is also a nurse, and her youngest daughter will graduate from Laurentian’s kinesiology program this spring. Shelli is currently enrolled in a master’s program though she is not in a hurry to finish it. 

    Reflecting on her own future, Shelli remarks, “My relatively new role with West Nipissing General Hospital was my goal–my dream job. I’ll finish my master’s eventually but for now, I’m focused on making the most of this position and supporting others in their professional journeys.”

    Shelli’s story shows how a nursing career can evolve over time, offering opportunities for growth, leadership, and lifelong learning. She remains a powerful advocate for the nursing profession and an inspiration to those just beginning their journey in healthcare. 

    New Members Appointed to Laurentian’s Board of Governors

    New Members Appointed to Laurentian’s Board of Governors

    The Laurentian University Board of Governors welcomes two newly appointed members, Rachel Prudhomme and Dr. Ryan Minor.

    January 24, 2025 - The Laurentian University Board of Governors welcomes two newly appointed members, Rachel Prudhomme and Dr. Ryan Minor. Their appointments were confirmed at the Board of Governors meeting on December 13, 2024.

    "Our board is pleased to welcome Laurentian alumni, Mrs. Rachel Prudhomme and Dr. Ryan Minor as voting governors,” said Vern Cameron, Chair of Laurentian University’s Board of Governors. “Both have extensive experience in governance and advising throughout their careers. Rachel’s background in postsecondary settings and Ryan’s experience in the financial sector will further strengthen our board as we continue to advance and uphold Laurentian University’s mission, vision, and values.”  

    Rachel Prudhomme

    Rachel Prudhomme spent her career as an engineer, educator, and leader with over 17 years of municipal experience, most recently as the Director of Engineering for the Town of Newmarket, and over a decade as the Dean of Natural Sciences, Business and Technology at Collège Boréal. The first woman to graduate from Laurentian’s Mining Engineering Program, Rachel also holds an Honours Bachelor of Physical and Health Education from Laurentian, a Master of Science in Applied Physics, and a Graduate Diploma in Public Administration, among other certifications.

    She has run her own engineering research firm, led a multinational consulting branch, and was the first woman to graduate and teach full-time in sciences and engineering at Laurentian University. Rachel has served on numerous provincial advisory councils, boards, and committees, including the Council of Professional Engineers Ontario. Holding multiple advanced degrees, she is fluent in several languages and continues to pursue lifelong learning.  

    Ryan Minor

    Ryan Minor is the Director of Tax at Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada, the national organization representing Canada’s accounting profession. A Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) in Ontario, Ryan holds a Ph.D. in Law from Queen’s University, a master’s degree in LLM Tax Law from York University, and earned his Bachelor of Commerce from Laurentian University in 2000.

    Early in his career, Ryan lectured for several years at Laurentian University. His research focuses on the impact of tax policy on business innovation in Canada, and he serves on multiple national committees advising policymakers on tax legislation and administration. Through public speaking engagements, teaching tax courses, and committee work, Ryan strives to bridge the gap between complex tax legislation and practical application, contributing to the improvement of tax law, helping shape a more efficient and equitable system for taxpayers and businesses alike.

    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.
     

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