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Laurentian University Basketball Stars Shine with Prestigious OUA Awards

Laurentian University Basketball Stars Shine with Prestigious OUA Awards

(April 30, 2025) - In a testament to their dedication and athletic prowess, several talented basketball players from Laurentian University have been honored with prestigious awards from the Ontario University Athletics conference, recognizing their exceptional individual performances throughout this past season. 
 

Women’s basketball players Cadence Pecore (Porcupine, ON) and Émilie Lafond (Hanmer, ON) and men’s basketball players Nginyu Ngala (Montréal, QC) and Brice-Philippe Fandio (Marseille, FRA) were all recognized for their achievements.  
 

Pecore and Fandio were named to the OUA All-Rookie teams as well as Laurentian’s female and male Rookie of the Year recipients, while Lafond and Ngala earned all-star spots and were named the Voyageurs’ female and male Athletes of the Year. 
 

“When I first heard the news about making the OUA All-Rookie Team, I was incredibly excited and honoured,” Pecore said. “The OUA is an extremely competitive league with so many talented players, so stepping in as a first-year athlete wasn’t easy.”
 

Balancing the demands of varsity basketball while keeping up with studies is challenging for first-year players. Beyond keeping up with academics, Fandio says adapting to university life in general was a challenge he learned to navigate as the season went on.
 

“Adapting to life in Canada this year wasn’t easy, especially coming from Marseille, France. At first, it was tough being far from my mom and everything I knew but I feel like we have to make sacrifices in life if we are trying to achieve something big. Basketball really helped me stay grounded. On the court, I felt like myself. It gave me structure, confidence, and helped me connect with people here without needing to say much. I’m learning to embrace the discomfort, to adapt, and to turn it into strength,” Fandio said.
 

Lafond pointed to the opportunity to play in her hometown as too good to pass up, especially considering she was able to pursue a degree in her chosen field of Health Promotion. “Having had the opportunity to play so close to home has been nothing short of rewarding. I always looked up to the Laurentian University Women’s Basketball team, and now being a part of it is something that I will never forget or take for granted.”
 

For Pecore, Laurentian is the closest university to her hometown of Timmins. After finishing her high school career at Lo Ellen Park, she grew increasingly familiar with Laurentian’s women’s basketball program and decided it was the perfect fit once she was admitted to the University’s Physical Health and Education with Concurrent Education.
 

On the men’s side, Ngala shared his pride in his team when asked about this honour “I am most proud of how resilient this team was during the year, while playing in the toughest division in U Sports. There was a point late in this season where we lost four straight games. Everyone could have turned on one another and pointed fingers. Instead we came closer as a group and went on to win 4 out of 5 games left in the season. This gave us a playoff berth and allowed us to get our first playoff win since the 2019-2020 season.”

As far as advice for aspiring basketball players, Fandio shared they should “stay consistent and put in the work, especially when no one’s watching. Talent will only take you so far; it's the extra hours that make the difference. Stay coachable, be open to learning, and always look for ways to improve. Use every setback as motivation to come back stronger.” 

Wise beyond his years, Ngala offers that the next generation should aim to “be your biggest fan and biggest critic, there will always be adversity while playing basketball. Take every win like you take every loss and keep putting one foot forward.”

Laurentian basketball has a lot to be proud of from the 2024-2025 season, and a lot to look forward to looking ahead to next year. 

Laurentian University Board of Governors Approves Balanced Annual Budget for 2025-26

Laurentian University Board of Governors Approves Balanced Annual Budget for 2025-26

Budget shows caution in the face of disruptive forces within postsecondary education sector

(April 25, 2025) - Laurentian University’s Board of Governors has approved the university’s annual budget for the fiscal year 2025-26, which begins on May 1. The budget focuses on improving the student experience and fostering academic and research excellence, as well as supporting the continued investments towards the 2024-29 Strategic Plan, the implementation of Laurentian University’s Transformation Program, and continued investments to address capital deferred maintenance. 

 

“The budget continues to support the objectives outlined in our Strategic Plan as well as other key institutional priorities, including the implementation of the Transformation Program. Laurentian University continues to be in a stable financial position, with positive growth supporting both our academic and research missions. Despite this, we are not immune to the pressures in the postsecondary sector and the effects of geopolitical instability. The 2025-26 budget reflects a careful and balanced approach, ensuring that we demonstrate the prudence necessary to weather disruptions.” - Vern Cameron, Board Chair, Laurentian University. 

 

When determining operational priorities, the budget development process took into consideration feedback received through the various strategic planning processes, including:

  • community consultation surrounding the development of the institutional Strategic Plan, which was launched in April 2024; 
  • feedback gathered during the development of the Academic Plan and the Strategic Research Plan, which took place throughout 2024. 

 

“The next fiscal year will be a significant one for Laurentian University in a number of historic ways. First, the University continues to make important progress on its obligations under creditor protection. By November 2025, Laurentian University is planning to complete the sales of the designated properties to the Province, another critical step in building the future of our institution. Second, March 2025 marked the beginning of Laurentian University’s 65th anniversary, an important milestone for Ontario’s only university with both a bilingual and tricultural mandate.” - Dr. Lynn Wells, President & Vice-Chancellor.  

 

For 2025-26, Laurentian University is projected to realize revenue over expenses of $1.7 million. This excludes the anticipated one-time accounting gain on sales of properties of $17.6 million, which must be added to the University’s restricted reserves. This represents consolidated revenues of $228.1 million and expenses of $208.8 million.

 

Government changes to international student policy are affecting Laurentian University’s ability to attract students from abroad, which has an impact on revenues. American trade policy also creates risks of additional costs. 

 

As a result, academic units and administrative departments were asked to contract their operating (non-salary) spending from 2024-25 levels as part of the operating budget process. Staffing budgets remained the same, ensuring that no positions were affected by the changes needed for a balanced budget. Since Laurentian still cannot borrow, the University must continue to be prudent in the face of such uncertainty. This budget represents a careful approach that allows the University to continue to pursue its objectives while supporting its financial sustainability.  

 

“We are taking proactive measures to ensure the University’s long-term sustainability and achieve structural balance for the future. Our focus continues to be on strengthening enrolment and on growing other sources of revenue, carefully managing expenses to match our revenue projections, and investing strategically in areas that support student success, as well as academic and research excellence. As a community, Laurentian University has achieved so much and has come so far in the last three years. While the world is facing many challenges, Laurentian University remains in a solid position, and we fully intend to continue building on this progress in the years to come.”- Dr. Lynn Wells, President & Vice-Chancellor.  

 

Laurentian University’s budget book for 2025-26 is available for the fiscal year ending April 30, 2026.

Dr. Sandra Dorman named amongst Top Women in Canadian Occupational Safety

Dr. Sandra Dorman named amongst Top Women in Canadian Occupational Safety

CROSH Director continues to lead the charge in Worker Health and Safety Innovation

(April 24, 2025) - Dr. Sandra Dorman, Full Professor in the Faculty of Health and Education at Laurentian University and Director of the Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health (CROSH), has earned a Top Women in Canadian Occupational Safety award. A longstanding advocate of health promotion and disease prevention in occupational settings, Dorman was hired by Laurentian in 2003. She has been involved with CROSH since its launch in 2008 and became its Director in 2015. 

“This award means a great deal to me, especially because some of my mentors nominated me,” said Dorman. 

Under her leadership, CROSH co-launched the innovative multidisciplinary mobile research lab, which travels to workplaces throughout Northern Ontario, providing, among other services, group training and private health consultations for workers. In recent years, Dorman has studied vaccine hesitancy in Northern Ontario workplaces and heat stress mitigation among mine workers. Dorman has also worked with wildland firefighters since 2007 to assess the impact of smoke inhalation, fatigue and fitness interventions, psychological risk factors and post-traumatic stress disorder, and, most recently, heat stress.

“Heat strain is an occupational illness and has become a priority issue,” said Dorman, who received funding from the Ministry of Labour, in collaboration with Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers (OHCOW), to build an educational program to help health and safety specialists manage the dangers workers face when exposed to acute or chronic heat stress. “I’m proud of our Heat Stress Prevention Toolkit. Since its launch in May of 2024, it has been widely accessed, which is important because with climate change, in addition to preventing heat stroke events, we need to prevent long-term health illnesses such as kidney disease.”

OHCOW reported that when the Heat Stress Prevention Toolkit was launched last May, more people downloaded it in 3 months than they had estimated for the entire year; people including employers, managers, supervisors, workers, Joint Health & Safety Committee members, health and safety representatives, and workplace union representatives.

“Dorman has substantially contributed to the Occupational Health and Safety industry through her leadership with the Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health and through her research, which Laurentian University has recognized with a Faculty of Health Excellence in Research Award (2018) and a Top 10 - Research Innovation Award (2020),” said Dr. Tammy Eger, Vice President of Research, Laurentian University. “We are fortunate to have world-class researchers like Dr. Dorman amongst our faculty, whose research directly benefits members of our communities.” 

Dorman remains as dedicated as ever to advancing the field of occupational health and safety; an interdisciplinary domain that she explains enables collaboration among researchers. “We all work or know someone who works, so workplace health and safety is a huge component of everyone’s life. Work intersects with every discipline…. We all have something to bring to the table.” For Dorman, this includes people not only with varied research backgrounds but also with different identities. “We’ve seen a shift with more women entering jobs in health and safety, and I think that’s great! There’s so much potential in the field [of OHS]. It’s rewarding…. My work with CROSH keeps me happy, working and focused - I love what I do.”

With Dorman at the helm, CROSH has awarded $350,000 in student scholarships, placed 106 students in paid workplace internships and raised over $10 million dollars in Centre funding. 

On April 28, 2025, the Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health (CROSH) and the Sudbury and District Labour Council will observe the Day of Mourning. 

Please join us in remembering and honouring those who have been killed, injured or become ill in the course of their work. On this day, we also renew our commitment to improving health and safety in the workplace. Ceremonies begin at 9:30 a.m. in the Fraser Auditorium. 

On the Day of Mourning, we find focus on invisible injuries and hazards, including chronic mental stress. Following the remarks in the Fraser Auditorium, wreaths will be laid and flags lowered in Founders’ Square.
 

 

Celebrating Earth Day with a Bee Hotel Installation to Support Local Pollinators

Celebrating Earth Day with a Bee Hotel Installation to Support Local Pollinators

Students Help Biodiversity Take Flight with “Air Bee and Bee”

(April 17, 2025) – This Earth Day, Laurentian University will buzz with excitement as local high school students help launch the “Air Bee and Bee” project, a unique environmental initiative aimed at protecting native pollinators and enhancing biodiversity on campus.

Led by Laurentian’s Dr. Mateus Pepinelli, Assistant Professor of Entomology, School of Natural Sciences, and the Nature Positive Universities (NPU) team, students from Lockerby Composite School’s Science and Technology Education Program (STEP) will install custom-built bee hotels along the University’s greenspace (Loach’s trail). These hotels are the product of hands-on workshops hosted by Laurentian’s NPU team, that engaged over one hundred grade nine students; the next generation of environmental stewards.

“It's been so inspiring to engage with the students at Lockerby,” said Laurentian NPU team member, Anastacia Chartrand. “Building partnerships like this is supporting Laurentian's commitment to climate action, meaningful outreach within the community, and environmental solutions." 

“With climate change shifting the balance of plant and insect life, monitoring these changes has never been more important, or more challenging,” explained Pepinelli. “This project uses bee hotels to provide nesting habitats for solitary bees, aiming to support and study native pollinator populations and their interactions.”

The “Air Bee and Bee” project addresses major environmental challenges such as biodiversity loss, climate change, and environmental inequity, while promoting hands-on environmental education and community engagement. It is supported by funding from the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada’s A.P.E. Fund and the Voyageurs Innovation Challenge*.

“Lockerby Composite’s STEP students have been participating in un-bee-lieveable learning opportunities with Laurentian University and Voyageur students and staff this school year; and we are so fortunate to have this collaborative environmental science partnership,” said Lockerby Composite School Principal, Ryan Lafraniere. “The Bee Hotel project has provided our students an opportunity to develop their understanding and knowledge of best environmental practices to make changes within their school community and the Sudbury community as well. Through this project, students have engaged in investigating local ecological concerns and have been empowered to support environmental Earth Day initiatives.”

Earth Day celebrations begin buzzing on campus on April 22nd at 8:45 a.m. outside the Ben Avery building. Members of the community are encouraged to join in on the fun. Educational signage will help inform visitors about the “Air Bee and Bee” project, and the pollinators' role in maintaining biodiversity and building climate resilience. 

*The Voyageurs Innovation Challenge, a Research Week event, showcased student-driven entrepreneurship and research under faculty mentorship. Laurentian’s NPU team earned second place at this year’s competition with their project “eDNA Enhanced Bee Hotels.”

Those interested in learning more about the Restoration Story of Greater Sudbury are invited to watch the following video that celebrates decades of world-class research led by Dr. John Gunn, Canada Research Chair (2003-2024), Founding Director of the Vale Living with the Lakes Centre, and Professor Emeritus. Earlier this year, Gunn was awarded the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal, an honour that acknowledges his research in environmental science, leadership in mentoring future sustainability leaders, and stewardship of Sudbury’s environmental restoration story on the global stage. 

A Legacy of Dedication and Impact: Dr. Patricia Pickard reflects on over five decades of service at Laurentian University

A Legacy of Dedication and Impact: Dr. Patricia Pickard reflects on over five decades of service 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.

(April 16, 2025) - Hired in 1967 to develop Laurentian University’s women’s athletics programming, Professor Emerita Dr. Patricia Pickard, has devoted more than five decades to teaching, coaching and inspiring countless students and student athletes. Pickard’s career at Laurentian is more than just a testament to longevity - it is a powerful reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on generations of learners.

“When I first came to work at Laurentian, I didn’t expect to stay more than a couple of years,” said Pickard with a smile. At the time, Laurentian was a word Pickard associated with mountains, rather than a University. “I didn’t know much about Sudbury apart from it being a mining town…but the University was working to build its physical education program, I was encouraged to apply, and here we are over fifty years later.” 

The product of an athletic family, Pickard grew up in the Maritimes and earned her undergraduate degrees at the University of New Brunswick, where she played basketball, volleyball and badminton at a national level. This helped lay the foundation for her to become a mentor to future generations of competitive student athletes. 

“It’s all about the students and understanding the student experience,” said Pickard, who taught  at the high school level for two years before the pursuit of her Master’s degree at Western University. “If I was going to teach at a University, I had to understand where the kids are coming from, so that was a real plus.”

For Pickard, who taught in the School of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, her early years at Laurentian were foundational. “There was a lot going on, and there was a lot to do, and don't forget that in those days, there really wasn’t the development of women’s sports, as there is now.” Recognizing the challenges and limitations faced by women in athletics at the time, Pickard became a driving force in changing that narrative; she was a visionary who understood the potential of women’s sports and was determined to create more opportunities for female athletes to thrive. 

“I became the first women’s Athletic Director in Canada,” said Pickard, who worked tirelessly to ensure that female athletes were given the same respect, recognition, and resources as their male counterparts. Whether through advocating for better facilities, creating training programs, or helping to establish competitive networks, Pickard played a fundamental role in the development of women’s sports at Laurentian and beyond. It was her efforts that solidified Laurentian’s membership to the Ontario University Athletics Association (OUA) and U SPORTS at the national level. These efforts also catalyzed other opportunities for Pickard, such as opportunities to work and conduct research at the Pan American and Olympic Games. In the 1980s, she found herself in Australia where she conducted her PhD research (University of Boston) on the topic of crowd behaviour in sporting events, with emphasis on violence, aggressive behavior, and facilities.   

In addition to her work with thousands of students and student athletes, and her impressive research contributions, Pickard is passionate about fostering alumni connections. She was Chair of the School of Human Kinetics’ 50th Reunion committee, as is she currently working with her peers and the Alumni office in support of a variety of upcoming events, including the Sports Psychology program’s 25th Anniversary, which will be celebrated later this year. 

“Laurentian truly is one of a kind,” said Pickard when speaking about the University’s unique appeal. “Our campus is beautiful, and it's very different from what other institutions have to offer.” For Pickard who has “loved teaching and coaching all these years,” it's not only the picturesque landscape that makes Laurentian so special, but the people who continue to believe in the University and in its future. 

“I have really tried to stay away from some of the issues of the past,” said Pickard when discussing Laurentian’s restructuring - an event that impacted Pickard and many of her peers. “But we weren’t involved in those decisions and there’s still a lot of good folk here at the University who care about its students and its future…. I’ve had some great conversations with President Wells who is doing everything that she can to regain confidence in the University within the community…. Things are changing and I think for the better.”

Dr. Pickard was recognized by Laurentian University in 2018, for fifty years of service. She has earned multiple awards in teaching and in administration. Other accolades include her induction into Greater Sudbury Kinsmen’s Sports Hall of Fame, and the Province of Ontario’s Achievement award in coaching. She has served as President of the Ontario Women’s Interuniversity Athletic Association, and has chaired many OUA Championship events. Her contributions have made a lasting imprint on Laurentian’s history and the many lives she has positively impacted along her journey. 

 

Laurentian University’s End-of-Life Doula Program Earns National Accreditation

Laurentian University’s End-of-Life Doula Program Earns National Accreditation

For alumna Rikki Sibbald, the program was life-changing, offering expert training, and tools to provide compassionate end-of-life care.

(April 14, 2025) - Laurentian University’s End-of-Life Doula program has received national accreditation from the End-of-Life Doula Association of Canada, a recognition of the high-quality curriculum, expert instruction, and comprehensive resources.

The micro-credential program is comprised of four courses totalling 100 hours in length. Laurentian University’s Centre for Teaching and Continuing Learning, who developed the program with the support of Home Hospice North, started offering the first introductory course in Spring 2023 until the program in its entirety was first offered in Winter 2024. In the year since the program started, there have been 12 graduates with another 20 learners currently in the program.

For those like Rikki Sibbald, who feel called to provide compassionate support to those in need, the End-of-Life Doula program offers the training needed to turn that calling into action.

Rikki, Laurentian alumna in Psychologie and Éducation, is originally from New Liskeard but has been teaching with the Conseil scolaire Viamonde in Penetanguishene since completing her program in 2010. Although very different from her chosen career, she had long been drawn to end-of-life care. After a couple experiences with caring for relatives in their final days, Rikki often wondered how she could deepen her understanding of death, grief, and the support families need during that time.

"I’ve always been interested in death and dying," she says. "I considered nursing because the caregiver in me is strong, but my love for academia was stronger so I went into teaching instead. Over the years, I kept searching for programs or certifications in compassionate end-of-life care but I could only ever find options in the States."

That changed when she stumbled upon Laurentian’s End-of-Life Doula program.

"I punched the words into the search bar one day, as I would do periodically over the years and when I saw that Laurentian offered it, it felt like a sign. Even more perfect? It was online, so I didn’t have to take time off work or be away from my husband and kids. And Laurentian is my alma mater, so it just felt right."

Rikki enrolled in January 2024 and completed the program later that fall. The non-credit micro-credential trains individuals to support people in their final days, guiding them and their loved ones through the emotional, practical, and ethical aspects of dying. It covers everything from communication and grief support to funeral practices and legal considerations.

Throughout the program, Rikki was struck by the depth of knowledge she gained and the diversity of her classmates. "There were healthcare professionals, but also people like me—people who just felt drawn to this work," she says. "It was incredibly supportive, and the instructors were amazing. Having a Francophone professor also made a big difference because I want to be able to offer support in both English and French."

For now, Rikki is looking for ways to bring this knowledge to her community by partnering with local organizations, libraries, and hospices to support those facing loss through grief discussions called “Death Cafés”. Down the line, she hopes to turn this passion project into a retirement plan, offering respite care for families so that no one has to worry that their loved-one will die alone. 

Laurentian’s recent accreditation affirms the strength of the program. The End-of-Life Doula Association of Canada praised the program for its well-structured curriculum, high-quality teaching competence, and excellent student resources.

"This program opens doors," Rikki attests. "It’s changed the way I think about death, and it’s given me the tools to help others do the same."

Laurentian’s End-of-Life Doula program is delivered through the Micro-credential and Non-credit Programming department, and is offered in both English and French. It is open to anyone interested in providing compassionate, end-of-life support. Registration is open on a continuous basis with the next deadline of April 26, 2025. For more information, visit Laurentian University’s Continuing Learning page.

 

Honouring 65 Years of Laurentian University: Dr. Simon Laflamme reflects on the importance of community

Honouring 65 Years of Laurentian University: Dr. Simon Laflamme reflects on the importance of community

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 10, 2025) - For 40 years, Professor Simon Laflamme has been part of the Laurentian University community, contributing to its academic and cultural landscape. Having served in many leadership positions throughout those years, he has witnessed significant transformations at the University. Reflecting on Laurentian’s 65th anniversary, Dr. Laflamme shared his memories, insights, and hopes for the institution’s future.

Dr. Laflamme arrived at Laurentian in 1984, coming from Quebec with little awareness of how rich the Francophone culture was in Northern Ontario. His first memory of the university is of his hiring interview, which enticed him to not only accept the position but to embody the warmth, openness of discourse, and academic rigour he experienced in that moment into the rest of his career.

“I didn’t know the university, the campus, or the community. The group of faculty who interviewed me took me to the pub in the basement of the university. It was a warm welcome that showed me the atmosphere and collegiality of the institution,” he recalls. 

Over the decades, Dr. Laflamme has seen Laurentian evolve in many ways. Among the most significant changes were the construction of the J.N. Desmarais Library and the digitization of the university’s resources.

“Shortly after I arrived, digitization began. But then, there was no integration of technology in teaching,” he explains. “We were learning to use computers and even using them for our research and teaching. That transition was a pivotal moment in the institution’s history.”

He also played a role in the development of many graduate programs, seeing the launch of several in his early years at the university. “It was a time of immense growth and it was exciting and refreshing,” he says, emphasizing how this expansion strengthened the university’s academic offerings, providing a pathway for students to further research in the arts at the highest level. One of Dr. Laflamme’s proudest accomplishments was the creation of the PhD in Human Studies and Interdisciplinarity, which he saw as an important step for students in social sciences and in humanities. 

In 1996, Dr. Laflamme received the Research Excellence Award, an honour that still holds great meaning for him today. “I was a young professor at the time, and to be recognized in that way was very meaningful. My Dean put forward my candidacy, and that was touching. It made me very happy and proud.”

Dr. Laflamme stresses the significance that Laurentian University holds in Northern Ontario. “What would Northeastern Ontario be without Laurentian? Without Laurentian, there would be an extraordinary void. From regreening Sudbury region’s forests to groundbreaking research in mining, ecology, and community well-being, Laurentian has shaped our region in ways we can’t measure. It’s not just a place of learning. The University is a hub of discovery, innovation, and talent that helps to define Northern Ontario as much as Northern Ontario, in return, defines the culture of the University.”

More than just an institution, Laurentian shapes individuals and the community, Dr. Laflamme notes. “Our graduates and researchers either stay here in Northern Ontario and reinvest their knowledge and expertise into our region or they take the specificities of this community to their exploits around the world. That’s something to be incredibly proud of.”

Looking ahead, Dr. Laflamme hopes to see Laurentian rebuild relationships with its community. “The relationship between Northern Ontario and Laurentian can be renewed. My hope is that, with the best interest of the North in mind, the spirit of academia, research, and scholarship are restored to the centre of decision-making at the University.”

He also advocates for a renewed focus on academic excellence, prioritizing deep thinking and creativity. “A university’s mission is to develop experts—not just in practical skills, but in abstract thought. Science and arts are domains that shape the thinkers who enrich our communities.”

It’s Laurentian’s bond with the Northern Ontario community that stands out as Dr. Laflamme reflects on his career. He expresses deep gratitude for the opportunities Laurentian has given him.

“I was born in Quebec, earned my doctorate in France, and completed two master’s degrees in Ontario. But Laurentian gave me my understanding of the North—of Francophonie in Ontario. Before I came here, I had never even thought about Northern Ontario. Since then, I’ve never wanted to leave.”

Like many in the Laurentian community, Dr. Laflamme’s pride in the institution was challenged significantly when Laurentian went through the CCAA process and was forced to close multiple programs. 

Even through challenging times, his connection to Laurentian remains strong. “The most successful moments in the university’s history came from listening to the community and responding to its needs. That must continue if the university is to thrive. I am thankful for what Laurentian has provided me—a rewarding career and fulfilling relationships—and I believe in the future of Laurentian.”

As Laurentian celebrates 65 years, Dr. Laflamme’s reflections serve as both a testament to the University’s impact and a call to ensure its future remains bright, innovative, and deeply connected to the community it serves. 

 

Jason Nakogee: Leading Truth and Reconciliation at Laurentian University with Strength, Tradition, and Purpose

Jason Nakogee: Leading Truth and Reconciliation at Laurentian University with Strength, Tradition, and Purpose

For Jason Nakogee, the path to becoming the Truth and Reconciliation Coordinator at Laurentian University has been shaped by his deep connection to his roots.

April 9, 2025

For Jason Nakogee, the path to becoming the Truth and Reconciliation Coordinator at Laurentian University has been shaped by his deep connection to his roots, his dedication to service, and his commitment to Indigenous cultural revitalization. A proud member of Attawapiskat First Nation in the Mushkegowuk Territory under Treaty 9 B, Nakogee’s journey reflects resilience, leadership, and an unwavering passion for community-driven change.


Rooted in Tradition, Leading with Purpose

Growing up in Attawapiskat—whose Cree name, Kattawapiskak, which means “Room to pass between the rocks”—Nakogee was raised with a strong understanding of the seasons and their balance. This foundational knowledge, deeply tied to his Cree identity, has guided his work in truth and reconciliation. “It’s important to know where you are from, your name, and your language,” he emphasizes. This philosophy has helped him navigate his role at Laurentian, ensuring that reconciliation efforts remain deeply rooted in Indigenous perspectives. Nakogee’s wholistic approach to Indigenous wellness in learning focuses on the individual’s physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspect of their medicine wheel.

Nakogee’s academic path led him to Laurentian’s Honours Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work program, where he was a transfer student from Canadore College. His studies, combined with his lived experiences, shaped his understanding of community leadership and the complexities of implementing reconciliation initiatives. “I had to learn from the Laurentian University community effort towards Truth and Reconciliation,” he explains. Now, as a leader in that very effort, he oversees the implementation of key recommendations, including the Truth and Reconciliation Report Card, ensuring that progress is both meaningful and measurable.


Military Experience: Discipline, Leadership, and Mentorship

Nakogee’s leadership skills were further refined through his time in the Algonquin Regiment (Northern Pioneers), where he served as a Rifleman, Combat Storesman Driver, and Recruiter. His military service taught him to work independently, make critical decisions under pressure, and mentor others—a skill set that translates directly into his work today.

“My time in the military taught me to be resourceful, innovative, and to exercise good judgment,” he says. “It also helped me develop a strong rapport with people from different backgrounds.”

One particularly meaningful moment for Nakogee was presenting the family of Francis Pegahmagabow—a highly decorated Indigenous soldier from World War I—with the Canadian Aboriginal Veteran Medallion.

Another meaningful moment was Nakogee’s involvement in the reburial of Private Kenneth Donald Duncanson, a Canadian soldier who served during the Second World War and lost his life in the Battle of the Scheldt in Belgium. As part of the ceremony in the Netherlands, Nakogee led a smudging ritual to cleanse a bell that stands at the burial site. He has since returned multiple times to pay his respects.


Advocating for Indigenous Healing and Wellness

As the Kizhaay Anishinaabe Niin Coordinator, he worked to end violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people by engaging men in healing and accountability. His work involved leading healing circles, developing peer support systems, and helping men reintegrate into society after involvement with the justice system.

“The most impactful moments were seeing men take responsibility for their actions and embrace an Indigenous way of healing,” he reflects.


The Power of Teaching and Storytelling

One of Nakogee’s guiding philosophies is Kakeeskinohamadin—“I’ll teach you.” His own healing journey involved rediscovering Indigenous knowledge, from survival skills to language revitalization. He now passes these teachings forward, integrating land-based learning into reconciliation efforts at Laurentian.

“Land-based education is crucial,” he says. By incorporating Anishinaabemowin into outdoor learning experiences, students reconnect with the land and gain a deeper appreciation for Indigenous worldviews.

“The importance of storytelling is learning about kindness,” he says. “By telling our history with compassion, we build cultural preservation.”


Building a Future of Reconciliation

As Laurentian University moves forward with its 10 reconciliation recommendations, Nakogee remains at the forefront, fostering partnerships and ensuring that the university’s bilingual and tricultural mandate includes meaningful Indigenous representation.

His advice to Indigenous students navigating academic and career paths? “Embrace your culture, find strength in your personal journey, and become an effective storyteller.”

Student entrepreneurs pitch their ideas at Be Your Own Boss Competition

Student entrepreneurs pitch their ideas at Be Your Own Boss Competition

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

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

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

Competition Winners:

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

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

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

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

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

*Special thanks to Desjardins for sponsoring all cash prizes.

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

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

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