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Five year funding agreement reached between Vale Base Metals and Laurentian University

Five year funding agreement reached between Vale Base Metals and Laurentian University

New agreement to support ongoing research at Cooperative Freshwater Ecology Unit

(Sudbury, Ontario) January 22, 2024 - Vale Base Metals has committed to a 5-year funding agreement with the Cooperative Freshwater Ecology Unit (CFEU) at the Vale Living with Lakes Centre, Laurentian University, in support of their long-term monitoring of Sudbury area ecosystems. The agreement includes a total contribution of $960,000 over 5 years.  


The Cooperative Freshwater Ecology Unit, housed within the Vale Living with Lakes Centre, is a unique partnership between Laurentian University, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) and the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP). Since 1997, the scientists and students at the CFEU have been working with local mining companies (Vale, SINO Glencore) and government partners to assess the effectiveness of atmospheric emission reduction programs in recovering Sudbury area aquatic ecosystems and watersheds. 


“We’re very grateful to receive this funding from our long-term partners at Vale,” says Dr. Jackie Litzgus, Director of CFEU at the Vale Living with Lakes Centre. “This support will go a long way to foster research at Laurentian and to leverage additional support many times over.”


The work of the CFEU assists industry and government partners in measuring the success of their remedial and conservation actions, helping them set realistic targets for restoration. Vale has been a long-time staunch supporter of the CFEU, a team internationally recognized for its research in freshwater restoration. 


“Research of this caliber is critical to allow industry to make informed decisions on sustainability initiatives. Vale is proud to continue supporting this important partnership and is in keeping with our commitment to be a sustainable operator.” said Glen Watson, Senior Specialist in Sustainability at Vale. 

Creativity and Community Core Components of Architecture Career

Creativity and Community Core Components of Architecture Career

Two Northern Ontario Master of Architecture Alumni say the career is better than they could have imagined.

January 15, 2024 - When Laurentian University welcomed the inaugural class to the McEwen School of Architecture in 2013, Taylor Kreps was part of that cohort. Today she is a Project Architect at an architectural firm based in Sudbury. Alain Roy works at the same Northern Ontario firm as an Intern Architect. The road to becoming an architect is long but according to these two Laurentian alumni, it’s also full of rewarding experiences. 

To become a licensed architect, a person has to complete their undergraduate degree in Architectural Studies, their graduate degree in Architecture, and then complete a certain number of hours as an intern at an architecture firm. Throughout the entire process, the learning is hands-on. Students start working with materials in the shop in their first year of study. 

Taylor says that from the beginning, her values as an architect were being formed by her experience in the program. “Part of being a good architect is listening. Almost everything we did in the program at Laurentian was in groups or teams, always involving the community,” says Taylor. “It built my understanding of how to be an architect but also built my love of working with communities.” 

Alain Roy, just beginning his career having graduated from the Master of Architecture program in 2022, recently supported a project that involved designing an addition to the Louis-Riel Centre at College Boreal. “It’s a place where Indigenous students and community members can gather,” Alain explained. “The project has been a learning experience for me. It is currently being constructed and I have really enjoyed being a part of the design team from the start.”

Both Taylor and Alain are from Ontario and knew they wanted to be licensed here but more than that, they wanted their education to happen in the North because they love what the area has to offer. “Sudbury offers so much for architects. There are large scale commercial projects and intimate community-based projects all within this huge Northern Ontario geographical area,” says Taylor. “Having grown up in the north and in a small community, learning in this setting was a big factor in shaping my student experience.” The setting was a determining factor for Alain as well, “I wanted to stay in the North but most of all, I wanted to be able to study and practice in French. Now in my work, many of my colleagues are bilingual and I often work on projects that require bilingualism. It’s a core value for me.” 

Taylor, on the other hand, is four-years-in to her career and is starting to visualize what the future looks like for her. She loves the firm where she works and is hoping to take on leadership roles on projects. “I like design and I like exploring how to effectively serve the community with well-designed spaces. For example, I like working on healthcare projects because the final product really supports the needs of the community.” Taylor worked with a team on the emergency department addition at the Manitoulin Health Centre and cites that project as being a most fulfilling and favoured project for her. 

For future students considering the program, both Taylor and Alain agree that creativity, community, and hands-on learning are key to a well-rounded education. “We are taught to be crafts people. We understand detailing and we understand design. The education we received offered enough of a spectrum that students are prepared for any aspect of the field and can pick what they want the focus of their work to be,” said Taylor. Alain agrees, advising future students to “make the most of it and enjoy the creative freedom in school”. Both are as enthusiastic about their love of their career as they are for their love of their community. “This career is better than I ever expected. I love it.” 

School of Indigenous Relations Tenure Track Faculty Look Forward to Future at Laurentian

School of Indigenous Relations Tenure Track Faculty Look Forward to Future at Laurentian

Community, creativity, and kinship priorities for newly appointed tenure track profs

January 11, 2024 - Becoming a faculty member at Laurentian University is a dream realized for Adria Kurchina-Tyson, Nicole Wemigwans, and Sharlene Webkamigad. As their academic journeys evolve, so too do their dreams. With PhDs nearing completion, the professors are looking ahead at the ways they intend to make an impression on the Laurentian Community as newly appointed tenure-track faculty. 

Professor Adria Kurchina-Tyson grew up in Sudbury with roots in Shebahonaning and knew they always wanted to study in the community where they grew up. So when they decided to stay in academia as a researcher and professor, they knew it would be at Laurentian. Now they most look forward to working increasingly with masters students. “I have been consistently blown away by the masters students I work with at Laurentian. The students are brilliant and I’m so excited for the expansion and regrowth of Indigenous Relations in new courses.”  

Professor Nicole Wemigwans is from Serpent River First Nation and Wiikwemikoong Unceded Territory. She has worked extensively in community-based programs over the past decade, and is inspired by that work, her prized roles of mom and auntie, and her love of her community. Wemigwans looks forward to engaging with students and empowering them with culturally appropriate skills and knowledge that will help them be effective practitioners in their field. “I enjoy having discussions with future social workers to understand the work that they do within Indigenous communities. Through this discourse, I believe we can increase safety for our kin in Indigenous communities.” 

Professor Sharlene Webkamigad, originally from Wiikwemikoong Unceded Territory, has a passion for research that started back in 2004 when she began her undergrad. As a tenure-track professor, Webkamigad is eager to continue this important research and work collaboratively with students and colleagues. “Creative and alternative ways of learning were an integral part of my experience as a graduate student here at Laurentian. As a professor, I look forward to exploring the same methods in the courses I teach,” she says, “I’m excited to put proposals together on a national level and to collaborate on research that finds solutions to some of the structural barriers Indigenous peoples face when accessing culturally safe and holistic health care.”

The professors’ areas of academic focus vary, from gender and sexuality, to kinship and nation building, to nursing and healthcare but they are united in their passion for their communities and their drive to contribute to the future of Laurentian. “I want to be a part of and help contribute to the growth of Indigenous Studies and Indigenous faculty at Laurentian”, says Kurchina-Tyson. The professors have a shared belief that the continued inclusion of Indigenous and First Nations perspectives across programs is essential to the University’s identity and is inherently valuable to prospective faculty and students all over the world. 

What does it mean for these Indigenous and First Nations academics to teach at a school that prioritizes a tricultural mandate? “For me, it is everything. Being surrounded by a team of Indigenous staff and faculty is a strength,” says Webkamigad. She says that applying culturally safe principles to break down structural barriers in the healthcare field is an endeavor that can make a positive impact in communities everywhere. Kurchina-Tyson is enthusiastic about the invaluable integration of Indigeneity in academia at Laurentian saying, “Decolonization efforts are on the increase as a whole. There are Indigenous peoples all over the world and anti-colonial movements all over the world which makes the Indigenization at Laurentian alluring to folks all over the world. Laurentian has the unique opportunity to be a leader in decolonial scholarship.” 

Dr. Taima Moeke-Pickering, Interim Director, School of Indigenous Relations, says the professors’ passion for teaching, research, and culture fit right in at the school. “Professor Kurchina-Tyson, Dr. Wemigwans, and Professor Webkamigad bring an incredible wealth of experience with them to their roles. The addition of intelligent and dynamic Anishnaabe kweok and two-spirit folks as tenure-track faculty at Laurentian enriches the experiences of students, the quality of research, and the Laurentian community as a whole." 

Laurentian University Appoints Roxanne Bouchard to Board of Governors; Jean-Pierre (Jay) Barbeau Elected Vice-Chair

Laurentian University Appoints Roxanne Bouchard to Board of Governors; Jean-Pierre (Jay) Barbeau Elected Vice-Chair

New member brings experience in financial sector

(Sudbury, ON, January 9th, 2024) - Laurentian University is pleased to announce the appointment of Roxanne Bouchard CIM, CFP, CPA, to its Board of Governors and the election of Jean-Pierre (Jay) Barbeau as Vice-Chair. These decisions were unanimously approved by the Board, and both Bouchard and Barbeau will bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their roles.

"We are pleased to welcome Roxanne Bouchard to the Board. Her background in the financial sector, multiple designations, francophone roots, and proven leadership makes her an exceptional addition. Jay’s appointment as Vice-Chair will also provide strong leadership to the Board as we move forward,” said ​​Vern Cameron, Chair of the Laurentian University Board of Governors.

"I am honored to join the Board of Governors at Laurentian University. As a proud graduate of the Faculty of Management, I look forward to contributing to the University’s governance as a way to give back to the community that was so influential to my development,” said Roxanne Bouchard. 

About Roxanne Bouchard
A highly accomplished bilingual leader with a focus on change management and executing business development strategies for aggressive asset growth and revenue. Currently serving as Vice President and Market Leader at BMO Private Wealth, Bouchard has demonstrated success in leading integrated teams of advisors, bankers, investment counselors, and trust officers. She has a proven track record of achieving financial objectives, fostering collaboration, and adapting to regulatory changes in the industry.

A graduate of Laurentian University's Faculty of Management, Bouchard's extensive experience includes leadership roles at BMO and Scotiabank, where she consistently drove results, implemented change management strategies, and recruited top-performing teams. Bouchard's commitment to community involvement is evident through her roles as Treasurer for the Ottawa Gatineau Youth Foundation and Board Chair for Seasons Centre for Grieving Children. 
 

Inaugural Leo Gerard Legacy Fund Lecture Series to begin in 2024

Inaugural Leo Gerard Legacy Fund Lecture Series to begin in 2024

Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health (CROSH) Proudly Hosting Series.

(January 5, 2024) - The Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health (CROSH) at Laurentian University proudly announces the first lecture to kick off the bi-annual Leo Gerard Legacy Fund Lecture Series. Dr. Katie Goggins (PhD, CCPE) will present the inaugural Lecture during CROSHCon2024: Occupational Illness Awareness, on January 19, 2024, as the keynote speaker of the conference. Additionally, the conference features nine student and researcher presentations raising awareness about occupational illness, with topics ranging from vibration and musculoskeletal disorders to heat illness and infectious disease at work. CROSHCon is presented online and is free for all to attend. 

Mr. Leo Gerard is well known internationally with accomplishments including the Companion of the Order of Canada, the United Steelworkers International President Emeritus, and helping to establish the BlueGreen Alliance coalition in the USA and Canada. Locally, his impact on the lives of people in his community is also indisputable. At Laurentian University and CROSH, Mr. Gerard has been a champion in building occupational health and safety training and research. He has Chaired the Advisory Board for CROSH since its inception in 2008, as well as co-chaired the Mirarco Advisory Board. He has raised thousands of dollars in research support funding and scholarships for students, and he has championed workplace health and safety, gender equality, decent pay, pensions, global labour rights and solidarity, and trade and social justice issues. As such, in partnership with USW Canada, the University created the Leo Gerard Legacy Fund to continue Mr. Gerard's impactful legacy by supporting lectures that align with his work on labour advocacy and occupational health and safety, as well as provide additional scholarship funding to support student training in Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) and labour studies. CROSH is honoured to organize and manage what will be a bi-annual lecture series in his name.

Nick Larochelle, President of the local USW 6500, explains, “The Leo Gerard Legacy Fund was established by the United Steelworkers of Canada to commemorate Leo Gerard’s lifelong commitment to fighting for working families and labour rights worldwide. The USW is committed to developing the next generation of labour leaders and providing the tools, training and opportunity they will need to succeed; the investment provided for this fund aims to support these aspirations.”

Dr. Katie Goggins was selected as the inaugural speaker for this series because she represents many of the ideals Mr. Gerard has advocated for. Dr. Goggins is a leader in occupational vibration exposure research globally. She conducts research projects working directly with industries and workers, helping them solve their workplace problems. She was born and trained in Sudbury, and as such, exemplifies the talent that is developed at Laurentian, which benefits industries and workers in Northern Ontario. Her keynote will address Occupational Vibration-Induced Injury and Disease.

"It is an honour to present the inaugural Leo Gerard Legacy Fund Keynote Lecture. By sharing the impact of occupational vibrations on worker health and well-being, reviewing control strategies for whole-body and hand-transmitted vibration, and providing an update on leading-edge research on foot-transmitted vibration, I hope to improve the understanding of these critical factors affecting workers in Northern Ontario and around the world. My aim is to not only shed light on potential health risks but also to explore innovative solutions that can enhance workplace safety and contribute to the ongoing legacy of Leo Gerard," said Dr. Goggins. 

Dr. Sandra Dorman, Director and researcher at CROSH, has worked alongside Mr. Gerard for years to improve the health and safety of northern Ontario workers. Dr. Dorman says, "CROSH and Laurentian owe a lot to Leo; he strongly believed that an OHS research centre was needed in Northern Ontario, and through his support, we were able to make CROSH a reality, with an annual investment from the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. We are honoured to start this tradition in his name and, through the associated scholarship funding, train many more OHS professionals in the north."

CROSHCon 2024: Occupational Illness Awareness will run from 8:30 am to 3:15 pm Eastern Time on January 19, 2024. All are welcome to attend. Registration is offered free of charge at crosh.ca/croshcon2024.

 

About Dr. Katie Goggins:
Dr. Goggins is the Senior Scientist for CROSH, and her research interests focus on the role of biomechanics, human factors, and ergonomics in industrial health and safety and occupational disease. More specifically, she researches the influence of standing foot-transmitted vibration exposure on workers. She has 12 years of experience in the field of whole-body, hand-transmitted, and foot-transmitted vibration measurements. Dr. Goggins represents the Standards Council of Canada as an expert for the international technical committee on the “Evaluation of human exposure to whole-body vibration” (ISO / TC 108 / SC 4). She is an Adjunct Professor at the Bharti School of Engineering and Computation Science and the School of Kinesiology and Health Sciences at Laurentian University and a Part-Time Professor in Safety and Environmental Studies at Cambrian College. She is also a Canadian Certified Professional Ergonomist (CCPE). 

About CROSH:
Founded in 2008, CROSH is a research centre at Laurentian University. CROSH envisions a Northern Ontario where workplaces partner to ensure every worker gets home safe and healthy every day. CROSH's mission is to be an agent for innovation and discovery to solve relevant and critical problems facing northern industries so they can eliminate occupational injury and disease from their workplaces. CROSHCon is CROSH's annual health and safety conference.

Student Spotlight: Olaoluwa Julianah Abejide

Student Spotlight: Olaoluwa Julianah Abejide

Tenacious mother of two realizes her educational dreams.

(December 20, 2023) – As a mother of two, a new immigrant, and a professional photographer, graduate student Olaoluwa Julianah Abejide has a lot on the go. Nevertheless, Julianah (as she is known to her friends) recently defended her thesis and will graduate from Laurentian’s Master in Computational Sciences program in spring 2024.

Her academic journey began in Nigeria where Julianah completed an undergraduate degree in Computer Science in 2010. Julianah moved to Sudbury in 2018 and enrolled at Laurentian to further her studies. “Juggling a Master’s program with young children is not a walk in the park,” said Julianah, “I thought my story could inspire someone who has given up on their educational goals to go for what they want.”

Julianah developed a passion for STEM at an early age, and it continues to propel her in her pursuit of higher education. Although Julianah knew she would have to make sacrifices for her family while working on her Master’s, she also understood the future benefits of this decision. “When I look back at all the sacrifices I made so far, it is painful. I know there is a bigger gain to be had. Family is priceless. A career in computer science and Information Technology will give me the opportunity to spend more time with my family and get involved with my community in the future,” said Julianah.

In addition to her demanding roles as mother and graduate studies student, Julianah prioritizes community engagement. She took on a Graduate Teaching Assistant position early on in her Master's program as well as a Website Assistant position on LU's Digital Strategy team. “When we help people and contribute to our community we feel satisfied and it has a direct way of making us feel fulfilled,” said Julianah. Her many contributions to the Laurentian community are a testament to her devotion towards helping her others. 

It is important for Julianah to use her time and talent to make positive impacts in her community. One way she achieves this goal is through her photography business, Julianah Photography. Julianah’s love for photography stemmed from her father’s devotion towards capturing the moment at family gatherings. “I have been able to use photography to bring smiles to people’s faces. It is beyond snapping pictures. Photography is about capturing the moments and creating the memories,” said Julianah. 

Julianah has felt supported by the Laurentian community in all aspects of her educational journey: “I am lucky to have good people around me. My program coordinator and thesis supervisor, Dr. Kalpdrum Passi, is very knowledgeable and helpful. It is good that I am surrounded by accommodating people.”

Throughout the ups and downs Julianah remained consistent and kept her end goal in mind. Obtaining her Master’s was no small feat but with tenacity and the help of the Laurentian community she was able to achieve her academic goals. Moving forward, Julianah is hoping to use her degree to become a subject matter expert in IT. There is no doubt that she will continue to succeed, spread positivity, and overcome any obstacles in her path.

Timmins students take part in MineOpportunity Challenge

Timmins students take part in MineOpportunity Challenge

Over 140 students participated in a unique challenge that saw them explore careers in the Mining and Automotive industries in fun and exciting ways.

Timmins, ON, December 18, 2023 – Over 140 students from English and French High Schools across Northern Ontario participated in a unique challenge that saw them explore careers in the Mining and Automotive industries in fun and exciting ways. The December 7, 2023 challenge, called MineOpportunity was hosted at Northern College in Timmins. The game, which has been played in Sudbury by local students for over 15 years, is being organized by Laurentian University’s Goodman School of Mines (GSM) and has been brought on the road with the help of MineConnect, Ontario’s Mining Service and Supply Association.

“Teams of students worked together to make “money” by building mines, finding answers to industry-related questions, and completing hands-on activities to become the “wealthiest” team. First, Second, and Third place prizes were awarded to Junior category teams (grades 9-10) and Senior category teams (grades 11-12)” said Nicole Tardif, Program Coordinator at the Goodman School of Mines. 

Students interact with Mining sector professionals at MineOpportunity in Timmins.

The Challenge included participation from local groups and companies including IAMGOLD Côté Gold (Sponsor), NORCAT, Canada Nickel Co, Lake Shore Gold Corps, Dumas Mining, Timmins Mechanical Solutions and the Porcupine Prospectors Association. Representatives from the Ministry of Mines, including the Hon. Minister George Pirie spoke and interacted with students to provide answers and lead activities relevant to their operations.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with the Goodman School of Mines along with Timmins area businesses and organizations to help showcase the multitude of career opportunities that exist within the mining sector.  This is a fun and unique way for our members to get involved in shifting misperceptions about the industry while engaging with local youth”, said MineConnect Executive Director Marla Tremblay.  

“Thank you to Northern College, Laurentian University’s Goodman School of Mines and MineConnect for bringing the MineOpportunity Challenge and local students from across northeastern Ontario to the beautiful riding of Timmins,” said George Pirie, Minister of Mines and the MPP for Timmins. “These students are the future of the mining sector, they are the innovators and business leaders of tomorrow, this is a great opportunity to learn and talk to current industry professionals. I am proud that the Ministry of Mines is participating in this amazing event and that we are encouraging the next generation to join the best industry in the world.”

The event is part of Laurentian University’s project called “Electrifying the Future - from the Earth to the Automobile”, which was awarded funding as part of the Regional Future Workforce (RFW) Program, a province-wide initiative funded by the Ontario Government’s Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade through the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN). The goal of the program is to bridge the gap between students and Ontario’s automotive and mobility sector.

"As our province continues to build up our end-to-end auto and EV supply chain, this will include the critical minerals necessary for EV battery production found in Ontario’s North” said Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “With support from the Regional Future Workforce (RFW) Program, the MineOpportunity Challenge provides an exciting opportunity for students to engage in cross-disciplinary collaboration between government, industry and academia, while gaining the skills to find rewarding careers in Ontario’s mining and automotive sectors. To the over 140 students who engaged with the challenge this year, congratulations on a job well done!"

“Events like MineOpportunity are essential in bridging the gap between education and industry, building a critical connection to prepare students for the exciting challenges in the automotive and mining sectors.” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “This event is another example of how our government is helping prepare the next generation for the good-paying jobs of tomorrow.”

“With demand for electric vehicles being so high, the timing was perfect,” said Tardif. “We partnered with OVIN to create awareness about careers in both the automotive and mobility industry as well as the mining industry.”

"The 'Electrifying the Future' project, funded by the Regional Future Workforce program through OVIN, underscores the Ontario government’s dedication to shaping a skilled workforce for Ontario's automotive and mobility sector,” said Raed Kadri, Head of OVIN. “MineOpportunity serves as a gateway for students to explore careers in critical industries and build a foundation for innovation and technological advancement."George Pirie, Minister of Mines and the MPP for Timmins joins students as they check out a rock and mineral display.

 

Glenn Laba, Manager Applied Research Entrepreneurship Innovation at Northern College was thrilled to feature their state-of-the-art innovation center. “We were pleased to host students from local high schools to enhance their awareness of the mining sector, the relevance of critical minerals to the electric vehicle industry and career opportunities that embrace innovation and emerging technologies. Not only has this event provided mining companies an update to our academic programs and new research capabilities at Northern College, but it has also give us greater insight to Laurentian University’s Goodman School of Mines, which may lead to future collaboration that benefits all stakeholders in mining.”

To learn more about Electrifying the Future and the MineOpportunity challenge, visit www.electrifyingthefuture.ca

Year in Review: Research at Laurentian University

Year in Review: Research at Laurentian University

Research Infosource has released its annual ranking of Canada’s Top 50 Research Universities and thanks to the contributions of Laurentian University researchers, the University is celebrating a year of incredible success.

December 13, 2023 - Research Infosource has released its annual ranking of Canada’s Top 50 Research Universities and thanks to the contributions of Laurentian University researchers, the University is celebrating a year of incredible success. Overall, Laurentian University ranks #30 out of the top 50 undergraduate, comprehensive, and doctoral/graduate institutions nationwide and is ranked 1st in Ontario amongst primarily undergraduate universities. The annual rankings are based on the total sponsored research income obtained in 2022. Further, the University features prominently in the Winners Circle for institutions primarily ranked at the undergraduate level:

  • 2nd Research Income
  • 1st Research Income Growth
  • 2nd Faculty Research Intensity
  • 2nd Graduate Student Research Intensity

“The numbers tell the story — Laurentian is 2nd in both faculty and graduate student research intensity, demonstrating the research excellence of our students and trainees as well as the resilience of our faculty and students through challenges.” said Dr. Tammy Eger, Vice-President of Research, Laurentian University. “This success would not happen without faculty, students and partners. We are grateful to our partners, including the government agencies, the private sector, and donors that continue to invest in Laurentian University to support the generation of knowledge, discoveries, new technologies, and the training of our students. The talent developed at Laurentian, through engagement in research and innovation has a direct benefit to the economy, our communities, and our entire country.”
Laurentian University’s research success stretches across a great depth and breadth of areas of expertise as faculty members and students (both undergraduate and graduate) have been hard at work advancing knowledge in their fields. Throughout the past year, a wide variety of projects have been undertaken with the support of federal and provincial funding in addition to private and public partnerships, while others are simply fueled by a passion for discovery. This year’s release is an opportunity to broadly highlight the important projects being undertaken, here are a few of the projects that we have recently highlighted:
Future-forward industry research driven by collaboration 

Laurentian University’s research success stretches across many fields of study, from mining, biochemistry, and environmental remediation, to collaborative research with First Nations in partnership with the Maamwizing Indigenous Research Institute.
 

Future-forward industry research driven by collaboration

Future-forward industry research driven by collaboration

Dr. Zéphyr is working with industry to leverage renewable energy and modernize power system management

December 7, 2023 - When we think of problem solving, we think of mathematics but when it comes to Dr. Luckny Zéphyr’s research, problem solving far exceeds numerics to profoundly impact the environment, community and academia.

A proud Haitian Canadian citizen, Dr. Luckny Zéphyr, Associate Professor with the School of Business Administration, is an entrepreneur and a scholar. In 2014 the business that Dr. Zéphyr co-founded in Haiti began to see immense success but, as he was just nearing the end of his post doctorate at Cornell University, Zéphyr knew that he wanted to continue in academia. When the opportunity to teach at Laurentian came in 2018, Dr. Zéphyr was happy to move back to Canada. “I love to work with youth. It’s the best means to make a difference in this world, if I can influence youth,” says Dr. Zéphyr. “I have the chance to see the future leaders of the world.”

Dr. Zéphyr’s work focuses on the development of mathematical models for power system optimization, the integration of renewable energy sources into traditional power grids, including energy storage, and the optimal deployment of electric vehicles. The outcomes of these mathematical models create sustainable solutions and innovation. Dr. Zéphyr says that the desired outcome of more sustainable solutions in industry is guided both by a developing world-view that prioritizes sustainability in the sector and by Canada’s goal to reduce industry carbon footprint. Dr. Zéphyr recently received the NSERC Alliance grant for a project with Rio Tinto in Saguenay that will explore the potential integration of wind energy into the hydropower system.

Connection to industry sometimes comes through funding opportunities but Dr. Zéphyr credits his outgoing personality as a major contributor in his ability to connect with folks in industry, students, and non-governmental organizations alike. He doesn’t shy away from making connections and talking about his research and how it can be applied to the work others are doing. “I have the chance to apply my research to practical contexts and help organizations make better decisions - to me that’s valuable. It makes an impact,” says Dr. Zéphyr. “That’s why we do research. We want to solve real problems and help people and organizations do better”.

As Dr. Zéphyr innovates the integration of renewable energy into power grids and power system management, he says that it’s his work with students that continues to be a huge motivator. When asked what he looks forward to most, Zéphyr talks about further developing his work with students, in addition to the PhD candidates already under his supervision. “I have my first Masters student starting in January and I’m recruiting three more students, two masters and a PhD student”. Dr. Zéphyr continues, “I look forward to supervising more students and continuing to support them with the success of their projects”.

Dr. Lynn Wells appointed 12th President and Vice-Chancellor of Laurentian University

Dr. Lynn Wells appointed 12th President and Vice-Chancellor of Laurentian University

December 5, 2023 - The Laurentian University Board of Governors is pleased to announce that Dr. Lynn Wells has been appointed as the next President and Vice-Chancellor of Laurentian University. In this role, Dr. Wells will provide strategic vision and leadership for all academic, administrative, financial, and service operations, in keeping with the university’s bilingual mandate and tricultural identity. Dr. Wells will begin her role as President and Vice-Chancellor starting on April 1, 2024.

Dr. Wells is an experienced leader in postsecondary education, having held a series of senior positions at universities across Canada over the last 20 years. She began her career at the University of Regina, serving as Acting Dean and Associate Dean Research and Graduate Studies in the Faculty of Arts, and finishing her time there as Associate Vice-President, Academic. Following this, she was appointed Vice-President, Academic at First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) where she actively supported national reconciliation and worked directly with Indigenous communities, students, and employees. At MacEwan University, she served as the inaugural Associate Vice-President Students and Teaching.

“The selection committee was thoroughly impressed by Dr. Wells’ depth of experience leading in postsecondary education, her dedication to scholarly excellence, and her commitment to Indigenous and Francophone cultures. She demonstrated an integrity and openness that aligned perfectly with what the Laurentian community identified as what we need in a President. Her authentic and strategic leadership style has helped her to realize institutional goals in her past roles by fostering effective communication. We are thrilled to welcome her to Laurentian,” said Vernon Cameron, Chair of the Laurentian University Board of Governors.

Dr. Wells has demonstrated strong resilience in leadership as well. Since 2020, she has been the Provost and Vice-President Academic at Brock University, where for 15 months she served concurrently as Interim President, providing critical executive guidance during the difficult pandemic period.

Dr. Wells received her Ph.D. in English from Western University as well as a Master of Arts in English and Honours Bachelor of Arts in English and French Studies both from York University. As a professor, she has held tenured roles for 20 years at Brock, MacEwan, FNUniv, and the University of Regina. Despite her busy administrative career, she has continued her passion for scholarship, actively teaching and publishing peer-reviewed work and presenting at academic conferences in Canada and England. She is a highly regarded scholar, having authored multiple articles on contemporary British fiction as well two books, the most recent of which is on the prominent writer Ian McEwan, on whom she is an internationally recognized expert.

“I strongly believe in the tricultural identity of Laurentian, and its commitment to offer bilingual education. With a degree in French literature, I am a long-time advocate of francophone education and committed to advancing the University’s bilingual mission. As a descendant of settlers who had the opportunity to learn from First Nations and Métis people through my work at FNUniv, I hold genuine passion for both Francophone and Indigenous cultures that have helped me connect with Laurentian’s unique mission to meet the needs of the people of the North and the communities served by the University. I am honoured to be part of Laurentian’s future,” said Dr. Wells upon her appointment.

Laurentian University would like to extend its gratitude to the search committee, as well as the hundreds of community members who provided feedback throughout the selection process. The University has benefited greatly from the leadership of Interim President Dr. Sheila Embleton, who will continue to serve in the interim role until the arrival of Dr. Wells.

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