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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.

Dr. Susan Manitowabi: A Legacy of Indigenous Leadership and Community at Laurentian University

As Laurentian University continues to celebrate its 65th anniversary of incorporation on March 28, 2025, we reflect on this history with members of our campus community in this series of interviews.

As Laurentian University continues to celebrate its 65th anniversary of incorporation on March 28, 2025, we reflect on this history with members of our campus community in this series of interviews.

April 2, 2025 - Dr. Susan Manitowabi is a distinguished alumna, educator, and administrator whose journey embodies the resilience and growth of Indigenous education at Laurentian.

Dr. Manitowabi’s connection to Laurentian began in 1977, when she enrolled as a first-generation university student, pursuing a sociology degree with a minor in Native Studies. At a time when Indigenous representation in postsecondary education was limited, she found inspiration in the newly established Native Studies program, led by Dr. Ed Newbery.

“I was the first person in my family to go to university,” recalls Dr. Manitowabi, who is from Whitefish River First Nation. Her decision to pursue higher education was deeply influenced by her ogiin, a residential school survivor, who instilled in her children the importance of education. “My mother always insisted that we prioritize our education,” says Dr. Manitowabi. “She wasn’t given the same opportunities and didn’t pass on her language. I made sure that I fulfilled her dream.”

After completing her Masters at U of T, she returned to Laurentian in 2001 as a professor in the Native Human Services Program, started the next chapter in her career in teaching. Her dedication to academia came through once again when she completed her PhD in Rural and Northern Health in 2021.

Dr. Manitowabi’s approach to education was also shaped by her mother’s wisdom, which became her lifelong teaching philosophy: “Never think about what you can teach people; think about how you facilitate learning. Everybody in the classroom has something to offer, and the best learning environment is one open to sharing.” This perspective guided her throughout her career and helped shape generations of students at Laurentian.

Throughout her career, Dr. Manitowabi co-chaired the (former) Native Human Services Program, was the founding Director of the School of Indigenous Relations, served as Interim Associate Vice-President, Academic and Indigenous Programs, and shortly before retiring, she co-founded the Maamwizing Indigenous Research Institute and helped develop the course Anishinaabemowin Immersion in the Four Directions.

Dr. Manitowabi played a pivotal role in advancing Indigenous education at Laurentian, from the accreditation of the Native Human Services program in 1998 to the establishment of the Master of Indigenous Relations. She encouraged the growth of Indigenous faculty representation and helped build a learning environment rooted in Anishinaabe ways of knowing, being, and doing.

Dr. Manitowabi credits the strength of Indigenous community as a driving force behind the success and perseverance of Indigenous programs at Laurentian. While Indigenous teachings, including the Seven Grandfather Teachings and the medicine wheel, are foundational to weaving Indigenous culture into the University, Dr. Manitowabi says that the biggest lesson for Laurentian comes from Indigenous peoples’ resilience and connectedness.

“Our programs and people have always been sustained by Indigenous community support,” she says. “We come together, raise each other up, and meet over fire no matter the hardship we face. That’s how we keep our culture strong—sharing our way of knowing, being and doing has helped the university through challenging situations. It has helped to show a different way and build relationships with the wider university community.”

Dr. Manitowabi dedicated her life's work to Indigenous culture and education, ensuring that future generations had opportunities that her mother never did. From student, to educator and administrator, she made a significant impact on the University’s Tricultural Mandate and commitment to Indigenous education.

As Laurentian University celebrates its 65th anniversary and looks ahead at the next chapter in its history, Dr. Manitowabi’s legacy stands out as one that has made a lasting impression on the Laurentian community and will continue to guide Indigenous relations at Laurentian for years to come.

Photo credit: Mary Laur

From Stage to Soundboard: Bill Sanders’ Career at Laurentian

As Laurentian University celebrates its 65th anniversary of incorporation on March 28, 2025, we reflect on this history with members of our campus community in this series of interviews

March 27, 2025 - For Bill Sanders, Laurentian University has never been just an institution, it’s been home. His journey with the University spans decades, from his time as a student in the 1980s to his long standing role as the Audio Visual Technician. As Laurentian celebrates its 65th anniversary, Bill reflects on the experiences and people who shaped his life and career.

Bill’s first memory of Laurentian is a quintessential experience for students living in residence– eating breakfast in the Great Hall. What made this particular breakfast so memorable? An older man approached and asked if he could join Bill. Though surprised by the request, Bill welcomed the stranger, and they struck up a conversation over their meals. Little did he know at the time, the man was John Daniel, Laurentian’s President.

“That first point of contact was so friendly, unexpected, and positive,” Bill recalls. “I had a good relationship with the President, and I later became close friends with his son, Julien, who even stood in my wedding. It’s these kinds of relationships and built-community that make Laurentian so special.”

John Daniel, later knighted by Queen Elizabeth II as Sir John Daniel after 17 years serving the President of Laurentian University, also gave Bill his first job at the University, marking the start of a lifelong connection to Laurentian.

Positive relationships and influential people are defining features of Bill’s reflections on his time at Laurentian. Among them, professors Bill Hart and Norma Mcrae. Over the years, Bill found himself participating in theatre on and off the stage while developing a newfound career path in audio visual tech.

“At Laurentian there were people who believed in me and there were always opportunities to try new things and follow my passions both as a student and as an employee. These experiences are among the great joys of my life.”

Bill is an accomplished actor and a member of ACTRA. His career at Laurentian has provided him with the flexibility and support to pursue this passion, allowing him to balance his work with his artistic endeavors.

After over 30 years behind the curtain of the Auditorium, Bill Sanders has had a front-row seat to some of the University’s most remarkable moments. One that stands out is the visit of renowned physicist Stephen Hawking, who toured the SNOLAB before delivering a lecture at Laurentian. Other incredible guests to the university that he’s encountered include Princess Diana, David Suzuki, Margaret Atwood, Jane Goodall, and astronaut Chris Hadfield.

“I’ve had the privilege of putting a microphone on some of the most brilliant minds,” Bill shares. “It’s moments like these that highlight what Laurentian brings to the community—a hub of knowledge, culture, and diversity of thought.”

For Bill, Laurentian’s impact extends far beyond its campus. The Auditorium in the Fraser Building, where he has worked for decades, is a gathering place for the entire Sudbury community.

“There are very few Sudburians who haven’t walked across that stage or sat in that audience,” he says. “A university brings more than education. Laurentian enriches the culture, diversity of knowledge, and sense of belonging within the community.”

Bill remains a staunch supporter of university theatre and looks forward to when Laurentian’s stages once again host student-run performances, fostering creativity and bringing unique stories to life.

With 34 years of service and having been part of every convocation for the past 40 years, Bill Sanders is not only an alumnus, he’s an integral part of Laurentian’s story. As the University marks 65 years, this is one story that speaks to the connections, experiences, and lifelong impact that Laurentian fosters.

Celebrating Student Excellence: Research Week 2025 Showcases Innovation and Scholarship

March 17, 2025 - Student success was on full-display throughout Research Week 2025 (February 24–28) with standout events including the Voyageurs’ Innovation Challenge, the 15th Graduate Research Symposium and the 3-Minute Thesis (3MT), and GRADflix competitions. Congratulations to all student winners on their achievements in research and innovation, as highlighted below.

Voyageurs’ Innovation Challenge

The Voyageurs’ Innovation Challenge showcased student-driven entrepreneurship and research under faculty mentorship. Six teams competed, presenting high-impact innovations.

First Place ($8,000 – Sponsored by Desjardins)

Project: “In-Situ Robotic Construction: A Technological Approach to Housing Supply and Affordability”

Team: Professor Steven Beites (McEwen School of Architecture), Ethan McDonald (PhD candidate, Engineering Science), Dr. Marc Arsenault (Bharti School of

Engineering)

Innovation: Semi-automated assembly of prefabrication panels to enhance construction efficiency and sustainability.

Second Place ($2,500 – Sponsored by Desjardins)

Project: “eDNA Enhanced Bee Hotels”

Team: Dr. Mateus Pepinelli (School of Natural Sciences), Cooperative Freshwater Ecology Unit members, Adam Lepage, Anastacia Chartrand, Emma Meadows, Dr. John Gunn (Professor Emeritus), and students, Hannah Gombar, Jenna McDonald, Avery Morin, and Grey Reich

Innovation: Using environmental DNA to assess pollinator biodiversity.

Third Place ($1,500 – Sponsored by the Office of the Vice-President Research)

Project: “CARES – Calcium Ash Recycling for Ecosystem Sustainability”

Team: Dr. Liv Favot (School of Natural Sciences) Dr. Janice Kenney (School of Natural Sciences), and students, Kate Pappin, Ellis Albrecht, and Mackenzie Hobbs

Innovation: Advancing freshwater ecosystem sustainability.

People’s Choice Award ($1,000 – Sponsored by Desjardins)

Project: “Gininaatigoons (We Are Learning)”

Team: Dr. Joey-Lynn Wabie (School of Kinesiology and Health Sciences) and students, Connor Lafortune, Isabelle Innes, and Ophelia O’Donnell

Innovation: Developing an outdoor land-based learning space on campus.

3-Minute Thesis (3MT)

3MT is an internationally recognized, academic competition that challenges graduate students to present an overview of their research and its significance to a non-specialist audience in only three minutes. The 3MT winner will represent Laurentian University at the provincial competition on May 14, 2025 at the University of Toronto. The winners received prizes sponsored by the Faculty of Graduate Studies.

1st place: Hayden Reaume, Biology (MSc.)

“Investigating the Role of Natural Background Radiation in Hydrated Yeast.”

2nd place: Erin Postenka, Biology (MSc.)

“Wintertime wetland drainage: How turtle populations respond to a potential catastrophe.”

3rd place: Chanelle Larocque, Indigenous Relations (MIR)

“Drug Toxicity & Urban Indigenous Women.”

People’s Choice Award: Mary Yu, Biology (MSc.)

“Wood Turtle Habitat Selection: Temperature and Food Resource Availability.”

GRADflix

The GRADflix competition provides the opportunity for graduate students to present their research to non-specialist audiences by crafting a 60 second video. Participants record an explainer video, slide show, or animation describing their research topic in one minute or less. The winners were awarded prizes sponsored by the Faculty of Graduate Studies.

1st place: Ronan Derbowka, Biology (MSc.)

“Identification of miRNA Biomarkers for Radiation Exposure.”

2nd place: Gabrielle Faucher, Biology (MSc.)

“Diversity in food webs of acid-recovering Lake Trout lakes in Northeastern Ontario.”

3rd place: Fatemeh Rahbarpour, Boreal Ecology (PhD)

“Seasonal Cycling of Nitrogen in Plants”

Graduate Symposium

The 15th Graduate Research Symposium celebrates the hard work and dedication of our graduate students. Over the course of two days, students presented their research and scholarship to an audience of peers, supervisors, and the broader Laurentian community. Participants were judged on the quality of their presentations, content analysis, and ability to communicate effectively to non-specialist audiences. Winners were awarded prizes sponsored by the Graduate Students’ Association.

Best Presentation - Overall

Hayden Reaume, Biology (MSc.)

“REPAIR Project at SNOLAB: Understand the Role of Natural Background Radiation Using Yeast.”

Best Presentation - Faculty of Science, Engineering and Architecture:

Amanda Keursten, Biology (MSc.)

“Bioremediation and Sequestration of Gallium from Mining Tailings using Pseudomonas fluorescens.”

Best Presentation - Faculty of Education and Health

Melanie Cloutier, Human Kinetics (MHK)

“Evaluating Seat Adjustment Training for Heavy Equipment Operators Based on Knowledge, Behaviours, and Self-Efficacy.”

Best Presentation - Faculty of Arts

Britney Hammell, Psychology (MA)

“Savouring Ability in Relation to Friendship Quality in Older Adults.”

Best Presentation - Indigenous Content

Sheri Cecchetto, Indigenous Relations (MIR)

“The 7-Direction Pitchenese Model: Integrating Anishinaabe Worldviews into Indigenous Social Work Education.”

Best Presentation - French Language

Kouame Toussaint Boko, Kinésie humaine (MHK)

“La question de l’utilité du développement de la pensée critique des futur.e.s enseignant.e.s francophones lors des stages en Éducation Physique et Santé: points de vues des enseignant.e.s associé.e.s. francophones de l'Ontario.”

Forensic Science Graduate Leads Innovative Biochemistry Research

From curiosity to discovery, Ophélie Richard is making an impact in chemistry research with plans of becoming a surgeon

March 14, 2025 – Ophélie Richard took an unconventional path to Laurentian University, but now the Montreal native is a Chemical Sciences masters student completing innovative biochemistry research while setting her sights on a future in medicine.

Ophélie, who attended high school at Collège de Montréal followed by cégep at Collège André-Grasset, originally applied to Laurentian on a whim. A late-night internet search inspired by her favourite TV show Bones led her to Forensic Science,, and with only hours to spare before the deadline, she submitted her application. A month later, she received her acceptance letter, setting in motion a journey that would shape her future.

She arrived at Laurentian in 2021 to study Forensic Science and Biology, a double specialization that allowed her to discover her true passion in biomedical research. Now a master’s student under the supervision of Dr. Jeffery Gagnon, Ophélie is investigating the role of a key hormone, GLP-1, in colitis, an inflammatory autoimmune disease affecting the gut.

“Most people know GLP-1 because of Ozempic, a modified version of the hormone used to regulate blood sugar and appetite,” Ophélie explains. “My research looks at the cells that naturally produce GLP-1 and how inflammation affects them. The goal is to determine whether an antioxidant—potentially derived from microbes—could restore normal GLP-1 levels, offering a new approach to treating colitis.”

Beyond the lab, Ophélie has immersed herself in the Laurentian community. She has been a Residence Assistant, a Teaching Assistant for chemistry labs, and an active member of the Biology Society. She currently serves as co-president of Next Gen Sudbury, a student-led organization promoting blood and plasma donation.

As a francophone student in a program offered in English, Ophélie says she has had many opportunities to speak and study in both languages, including getting her Certificate of Bilingualism by taking the required number of French courses.

“I’ve built incredible connections here,” Ophélie says. “I met my first-year lab partners because I overheard them speaking French—and I immediately jumped in. Having that support system helped me feel comfortable and eased my transition. My roommates, randomly assigned in first year, are still my best friends years later. Laurentian has given me both academic opportunities and a second family.”

Ophélie’s aspirations continue to grow. She is dedicated to research as her ultimate goal is to attend medical school and pursue a career as a surgeon. Her ideal future involves balancing clinical practice with ongoing medical research.

“It’s an ambitious path, but I love research, and I love hands-on problem-solving. Working at a research hospital would be the best of both worlds,” she says.

From a spontaneous decision to apply to Laurentian to leading innovative research, Ophélie’s journey highlights how curiosity, perseverance, and the right environment can open doors to unexpected and meaningful opportunities.

Two More Laurentian Faculty Honored with King Charles III Coronation Medal for Outstanding Contributions

Dr. Peter Beckett, Dr. Nadia Mykytczuk recognized for their impact in environmental restoration and mining research

March 12, 2025 - Laurentian University proudly celebrates the remarkable achievements of two esteemed faculty members—Dr. Peter Beckett and Dr. Nadia Mykytczuk—who have been honored with the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal. They join Dr. John Gunn, Professor Emeritus and renowned environmental scientist, who was announced as a recipient last month. This accolade recognizes Canadians who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their communities and service to the country.

Dr. Peter Beckett: A Pioneer in Environmental Restoration
A professor at Laurentian University for nearly five decades, has been instrumental in transforming Sudbury's landscape. His pioneering efforts in environmental restoration have played a crucial role in combating years of ecological damage, leading to the region's renowned regreening initiatives. Dr. Beckett's dedication to environmental education and restoration has not only revitalized local ecosystems but has also positioned Sudbury as a global example of successful environmental rehabilitation.

Dr. Nadia Mykytczuk: Innovator in Mining Research and Community Leadership
Serving as the President and CEO of MIRARCO (Mining Innovation, Rehabilitation, and Applied Research Corporation) and the Executive Director of the Goodman School of Mines at Laurentian University. She also holds an NOHFC Industrial Research Chair in Biomining and Bioremediation. Dr. Nadia Mykytczuk is a leading figure in biomining research and innovation. Her leadership extends beyond academia into community service, where she has been recognized for her commitment to advancing the mining sector, promoting women in mining, and fostering community engagement. Dr. Mykytczuk's work exemplifies the integration of scientific research with practical applications, benefiting both the industry and the broader community.

The King Charles III Coronation Medal, produced by the Royal Canadian Mint, is bestowed upon individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Canada in various fields. The recognition of Drs. Beckett and Mykytczuk not only honors their individual achievements but also highlights Laurentian University's dedication to excellence in research, innovation, and community service.

The accomplishments of Drs. Beckett, Mykytczuk, and Gunn serve as an inspiration to colleagues, students, and the broader community, reinforcing Laurentian University's commitment to fostering leadership and addressing pressing environmental and societal challenges.

Update - March 17, 2025 - In addition to these recipients, Martin Bayer was also recognized as a medal winner. A very deserving winner, he is a former Laurentian University Board of Governors member and is the present Chair of the Laurentian University Native Education Council. Martin Bayer is currently a practicing lawyer and partner with Weaver Simmons LLP.

Dr. Tammy Eger Re-Appointed as Vice-President, Research at Laurentian University

Key leader to serve a second five-year term

March 6, 2025 - Laurentian University is pleased to announce the re-appointment of Dr. Tammy Eger to the role of Vice-President, Research for a second five-year term, effective July 1, 2025. This decision reflects Dr. Eger's exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment, and remarkable achievements during her tenure.

One of Laurentian University’s most accomplished research leaders, Dr. Eger has played a pivotal role in advancing the institution’s vibrant research and innovation community. Under her leadership, Laurentian has seen tremendous success, securing significant investments from Tri-Council agencies and private industry, as well as forging impactful collaborations. During her time leading in this capacity, Laurentian University researchers faced unprecedented challenges and yet have continued to build momentum, as demonstrated by this sample of announcements from the past year:

A Full Professor in the School of Human Kinetics, Dr. Eger has a distinguished career as the inaugural Research Chair in Occupational Health and Safety (2015–2019), co-founder of the Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health, and co-developer of Ontario’s first mobile occupational safety and health research lab. She has published extensively, authoring over 65 journal papers and 120 conference abstracts and presentations.

Dr. Eger’s leadership extends beyond research. Over the past five years, she has guided Laurentian University through challenging times, including leading Laurentian’s pandemic response and serving as Interim President and Vice-Chancellor in late 2022. Her ability to lead with empathy, resilience, and dedication has left a profound impact on the institution.

“It is a privilege to continue to serve Laurentian University in this role”, said Dr. Eger. “I look forward to working with our faculty, staff, students, and research partners to implement the University’s 2025-2030 Strategic Research Plan. Whether addressing regional concerns or tackling global challenges, Laurentian researchers are making an impact through discovery, innovation and talent development”.

Laurentian University President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Lynn Wells, praised Dr. Eger's contributions: “Dr. Eger has been an exemplary leader who has advanced our research mission and strengthened our role as a hub for innovation. She has provided Laurentian with so much more than her portfolio would lead you to believe and was instrumental in my own on-boarding process. Her re-appointment ensures continuity and vision as we continue to grow as an institution.”

Dr. Eger's re-appointment signals Laurentian University's enduring commitment to fostering research excellence and its mission to serve as a cornerstone of innovation in Northern Ontario and beyond.

New Tenure-Track Faculty Join Laurentian University

Expertise in health, Indigenous education, mining, and more

March 6, 2025 - A new cohort of tenure-track faculty members is being welcomed to Laurentian University this winter. With a wide range of expertise and a shared passion for teaching, their work will enrich classrooms, drive innovative research, and foster meaningful community partnerships.

"The addition of this exceptional group of faculty members strengthens our commitment to scholarly excellence and innovation," says Dr. Malcolm Campbell, Provost and Vice-President Academic. "Their expertise spans diverse fields, from sustainable mining and environmental chemistry to Indigenous research methodologies and early childhood development. We welcome them to Laurentian University, where we know they will inspire students, contribute to impactful research, and benefit from our strong connections to the North and beyond.”

Laurentian’s academic mission is energized by faculty, staff, and students who push boundaries to advance knowledge and understanding. Through their research and teaching, these new faculty members will help expand Laurentian’s northern impact, Indigenous education, and interdisciplinary innovation.

Eleven of the newly appointed tenure-track faculty members are listed by Faculty below.

Faculty of Arts

Corrie Vendetti she/her/elle, School of Social Sciences

Research interests: Children's social and moral cognition, including Theory of Mind, lie-telling, and how young children figure out complex social things
Why are you excited about joining Laurentian University? I actually completed my undergraduate at Laurentian in Experimental Psychology. I had a wonderful and rigorous experience at Laurentian and I went on to graduate school and thrived. After nearly ten years working in my field in Applied Psychology settings, I am thrilled to be back in academia and I hope very much to mentor and support students, through teaching and research, to give them the same strong start I had.

Joline Guitard, she/her/elle, School of Social Sciences

Research interests: Positive psychology (i.e., well-being, gratitude and mindfulness), Social cognition, Cognitive biases
Why are you excited about joining Laurentian University? I am looking forward to engaging students in research and to show them how fun research can be!

Brent [Ahnungoonhs] Debassige, inin/he/him/il, School of Liberal Arts

Research interests: Indigenous Land-Based Education, First Nations Education, Indigenous Knowledge, Indigenous Research Methodologies
Why are you excited about joining Laurentian University? As a Laurentian University and University of Sudbury alumnus of the Bachelor of Arts (honours) program with a double concentration in Political Science and Native Studies, I am thrilled to return to the place where I was supported during the initial stages of my scholarly learning. In my current research, I have cultivated strong partnerships with First Nations communities in northern and southwestern Ontario. I am overjoyed to move back into the territory of the Robinson Huron Treaty and close to my home community of M’Chigeeng First Nation on Mnidoo Mnising (Manitoulin Island).

Faculty of Science, Engineering, and Architecture

Ezzeddin (Ezz) Bakhtavar, he/him/il, Bharti School of Engineering and Computer Science

Research interests: Sustainable Mining, Digital Mining Transformation, Industry 5.0, Multi-Objective Optimization
Why are you excited about joining Laurentian University? I am excited to join Laurentian because of its strong focus on mining engineering, interdisciplinary research opportunities, and commitment to sustainability. I look forward to contributing my expertise in underground mine optimization and sustainable mining while collaborating with faculty and students to drive impactful research and innovation.

Janice Kenney, she/her/elle, School of Natural Sciences

Research interests: Environmental Chemistry, Geochemistry, Geomicrobiology
Why are you excited about joining Laurentian University? I am excited to join Laurentian because it offers a unique opportunity to advance my research in environmental analytical chemistry while contributing to a community that values hands-on, interdisciplinary learning. Laurentian’s location in Sudbury, Ontario—a region with a rich mining history—provides an ideal setting for studying metal contamination, allowing me to develop innovative sorption-based remediation strategies that have direct local and global applications.

Faculty of Education and Health

Jennifer-Lynn Fournier, she/her/elle, School of Nursing

Research interests: Nurse practitioner career trajectories, clinical supervision, coping, practice during global crisis
Why are you excited about joining Laurentian University? Laurentian has been my academic home for many years, first as a graduate student (Nurse Practitioner, PhD Rural and Northern Health) and then as a sessional faculty member. The current appointment provides me with an opportunity to serve our community while supporting learners who will make meaningful contributions to society and to healthcare. I am honoured to return to Laurentian.

Jonathan Binet, he/him/il, School of Social Work

Research interests: Transitions to Adulthood, Precarity, precariousness, vulnerability, marginality, exclusion, neoliberalism, activation policies, workfare, integration practices, behavioral addiction (work and video game addiction), biopolitics, contemporary normativity, social work supervision, ethnographic research.
Why are you excited about joining Laurentian University? I am excited to join the dynamic team at Laurentian, whose members are passionate about research, teaching and practice of social intervention. Moving to Sudbury is also an opportunity for me to get closer to the francophone and First Nations communities of Ontario. Having developed projects on young people and social life in mining communities in recent years, I am very motivated to discover this side of Sudbury in the years to come and to participate in projects that will contribute to the development of its communities.

Shannon McGee-Felton, she/her/elle, School of Nursing

Research interests: Educational and health issues involving Francophone populations of all ages living in Northern and Rural communities
Why are you excited about joining Laurentian University? Nursing is my passion and joining Laurentian University in this capacity allows me to educate students in the nursing programs, to further support healthcare in the many bilingual speaking communities across the province of Ontario.

Keri Cheechoo, iskwew/she/her/elle, School of Indigenous Relations

Research interest: Indigenous Pedagogy, Indigenous Education, Treaty Education, Sovereignty, Indigenous Women and Reproductive Health and Justice
Why are you excited about joining Laurentian University? I am thrilled to join Laurentian because I have an opportunity to make relationships, make community and network with the Indigenous brilliance already existing within the School. I am also incredibly keen to meet and potentially collaborate with my new colleagues in other Faculties and Schools across Laurentian University!

Candace Brunette-Debassige, iskwew/she/her/elle, School of Indigenous Relations

Research interests: Research methodologies: Indigenous, decolonizing and narrative approaches
Why are you excited about joining Laurentian University? I am excited to join the amazing group of people in the School of Indigenous Relations. I am also proud to join a university that embodies a tricultural mandate including a commitment to working with Indigenous communities and serving the north.

Library & Archives

Michael McArthur, he/him/il, Health and Data Librarian

Research interests: Librarian role within knowledge synthesis, Connecting research(ers) using persistent identifiers, Point-of-care tools in clinical practice
Why are you excited about joining Laurentian University? Laurentian University is my undergraduate alma mater, and I'm excited to work for an institution that has given me so many opportunities in my life.

Laurentian Architecture Professor Elected President of Ontario Association of Architects

Ted Wilson to lead the OAA while continuing to teach at McEwen School of Architecture

March 4, 2025 - Laurentian University is celebrating an achievement of one McEwen School of Architecture professor. Master Lecturer, Ted Wilson has been elected as the President of the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA), marking a significant milestone in his career.

With over 30 years of experience in architecture, and 11 years as a Laurentian faculty member, Ted has spent his career bridging the gap between academia and professional practice. He played a major role in the design of the McEwen School of Architecture in downtown Sudbury and has long been an active member of the Northern Ontario Society of Architects.
Motivated by his passion for networking and progressing architecture practices, Ted steadily rose through the ranks to now lead the province-wide organization.

“This has been a goal of mine for years,” said Ted. “The OAA plays a vital role in guiding architects through their professional journey, from education to licensure, while also shaping the future of architecture in Ontario. I look forward to continuing to strengthen the profession and championing the incredible work happening in our communities.”

As an active educator teaching several courses, Ted’s influence extends beyond the practice, impacting student success at McEwen. Fourth-year architecture student Elishba Manzoor, who plans to pursue her master’s degree next year, credits Ted’s mentorship as an inspiration and defining factor in her academic path.

“He adapts his teaching to students’ interests and ensures we have opportunities to explore them,” she said. “Ted has encouraged me to pursue my master’s degree and helped me navigate the process of deciding on a thesis that interests me and meets my personal goals. His guidance has been invaluable.”

In his new role as OAA President, Ted is committed to addressing sustainability, equity, and the evolving role of architecture in shaping communities. He also sees his presidency as an opportunity to showcase the talent emerging from Northern Ontario who have a focus on climate change adaptation, sustainability, and culturally sensitive practices and collaboration.

“What’s happening at McEwen is exactly what we want happening at the OAA—training future architects to be deeply engaged with communities and the environment,” he said.

As he takes on this provincial leadership role, Ted’s influence as an educator is more impactful than ever. “Part of what drew me to Laurentian in the first place was that the professors here weren’t just teaching from theory, but actually practicing in the field,” Elishba said. “Seeing our professors succeed not only in the classroom but also achieving this level of accomplishment, like Ted becoming OAA President, is incredibly inspiring.”

As OAA President, Ted’s dual commitment to education and professional leadership demonstrates the important connection between academic theory and real-world practices. While championing sustainability, societal-impact, and Northern Ontario values at the provincial-level, Ted continues to inspire the next generation of architects right here at the McEwen School of Architecture—proving that meaningful leadership begins in the classroom but extends far beyond it.

IAMGOLD and Laurentian University Announce $2.5M Innovation Fund

Impactful donation from IAMGOLD to support strategic investment and innovation

March 3, 2025 – Laurentian University is pleased to announce, in partnership with IAMGOLD Corporation (“IAMGOLD”), the creation of the IAMGOLD President’s Innovation Fund for Strategic Investment. This $2.5 million initiative will support academic and research projects that aid in the implementation of the University’s strategic priorities while driving innovation in mineral resources and mining education and research.

This unique fund will enable ideas to become reality and shape the future of many industries through groundbreaking research and innovation. Opportunities will be created for projects in multiple areas including:

Environmental opportunities, such as emissions reduction, water stewardship, biodiversity support, and tailings management.
Social opportunities, such as student/community engagement, workforce training, and development.
Reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
Campus-wide opportunities, fostering collaboration and innovation.

IAMGOLD’s Zero Harm vision prioritizes health, safety, environmental responsibility, and strong community relationships. This latest investment strengthens Laurentian’s position within Canada’s mining sector.

Advancing Innovation in Mining and Sustainability

Open to students, students’ associations, faculty, and staff, the fund will support:

Projects that address challenges faced by the mining industry, providing practical, innovative, education and research-based solutions; and
Projects that align with the objectives listed in Laurentian University’s Strategic Plan 2024-2029, including the Academic Plan and the Strategic Research Plan.

The fund will also support themes from the Strategic Plan, including: Northern Excellence in Mining and Critical Minerals, Institutional Collaboration, and Partnership priorities, reinforcing Laurentian’s bilingual and tricultural identity while supporting diverse and equity-deserving groups. It will support projects up to a maximum of $250,000 per year, for a maximum of two years.

Quotes

“IAMGOLD is proud to invest in the next generation of mining leaders through this fund. We are honoured to partner with Laurentian University to help our industry take the next step,” said Renaud Adams, IAMGOLD President and CEO. “This fund reflects our commitment to sustainable mining and innovative research, we are very much looking forward to seeing the impact this will have.”

Dr. Lynn Wells, Laurentian University President and Vice-Chancellor, added, “We are deeply grateful for IAMGOLD’s support. This fund empowers students, faculty, and staff to shape the future of mining and education. We are proud to play a key role in developing the leaders that will push mining forward.”

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