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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.

PhD in Rural and Northern Health Celebrates Graduate Milestone

PhD in Rural and Northern Health Celebrates Graduate Milestone

40 graduates now influencing health care in northern and rural settings

November 28, 2023 — When faculty members at Laurentian University were dreaming up what the PhD in Rural and Northern Health program could do for students and the community, they likely had thoughts of influencing health care in both Northern Ontario and rural settings in Canada and abroad. Those dreams from the mid 2000s have since become a reality as the program recently marked a milestone with their 40th graduate now in the field. 


The program, now under the guidance of Dr. Elizabeth Wenghofer has seen its graduates take on critical roles in education and health care since their first graduate in 2009. 


With a focus on increasing research capacity in the realm of rural and northern health, the program has not only met but exceeded its objectives. Wenghofer emphasizes the importance of the graduates as "Champions for the North", representing and addressing the unique health issues faced by Northern Ontario communities. 


Reflecting on the program's impact, Dr. David McNeil, a graduate and now CEO of Health Sciences North, attests, "The PhD in Rural and Northern Health allowed me to expand my understanding of health care in Northern Ontario and provided me with the skills to advocate for small communities."


Dr. Cindy Peltier, another program graduate and now professor at Nipissing University, echoes these sentiments, "the program prepared me to further explore topics in Indigenous Health and greatly influenced my research today. I am fortunate to now guide PhD students interested in similar topics and prepare them to work with Indigenous communities in meaningful ways". 


The program's success lies not only in the quantity but the breadth of its graduates. "A diverse class of 40 graduates, including those with backgrounds in health and social sciences, management, education, and a wide variety of health professions, benefits from different viewpoints, making them high-quality researchers and advocates. They work together to expand their understanding, as well as my own, as not a class goes by that I don’t have the privilege of learning," said Dr. Wenghofer. 


The legacy of the Rural and Northern Health program is strong. Dr. Wenghofer shared that many of the graduates maintain an enduring relationship with the program by working with current students and staying connected to the rural and northern communities that were part of their research. She notes, “the areas of research among graduates is vast with topics ranging from mental health, to occupational health, to health professions education, to healthcare services for vulnerable and underserved populations”. Many graduates have become professors and many continue to shape the future of health through their work and research across the globe.


In response to the program's growth and future trajectory, Dr. Wenghofer expresses her vision, saying, "l'd like to see the program expand its capacity to accommodate more students and further develop community partnerships. We aim to become the go-to place in Canada for research in rural communities."


"We have had quite a few students working with Indigenous and Francophone communities, showcasing the program's commitment to the health care needs in Northern Ontario,” added Dr. Wenghofer. 


Applications for a September 2024 start in the PhD in Rural and Northern Health program at Laurentian University are open until January 31, 2024. As the program continues to flourish, the university anticipates a continued positive impact on healthcare in rural and northern regions. Questions about the program can be directed to Dr. Elizabeth Wenghofer.


About our Graduates
15 are professors or post-doctoral candidates 
12 are professors at Laurentian University, including: 

9 are working for governmental or research organizations 

Laurentian Graduates Turning Ideas into Innovation

Laurentian Graduates Turning Ideas into Innovation

The Foundry spotlights alum for Global Entrepreneurship Week 2023

(November 23, 2023) - For Global Entrepreneurship Week 2023, which fell from November 13th to 17th, The Foundry spotlighted one Laurentian University graduate entrepreneur each day of the week.

The Foundry is an initiative run by Laurentian to enable innovators within the university to ideate, create, and develop ideas that can go on to become startup companies or social enterprises. Housed near the Jim Fielding Innovation & Commercialization Space, The Foundry provides opportunities for students, staff and faculty to engage with like minded fellows, explore new skills, and pursue opportunities that may have once been just an idea.

Entrepreneur Spotlights 2023:

Kielyn Marrone - Kielyn is a graduate of Laurentian’s Outdoor Adventure Leadership program (2009) and co-owner of Lure of the North, a wilderness expedition company launched in 2011, with her partner Dave. She teaches wilderness living skills courses and traditional hand crafting workshops. In 2019, Kielyn put her wilderness survival skills to the test while competing in the hit reality TV show “Alone”.

Kati McCartney - An LU alumna holding a Masters in Chemical Science and a Masters of Business Administration, Kati has combined her love of science, strategy, business, and the environment through FROSKR. As President of FROSKR, Kati has led the company to become an award-winning consulting firm in three short years. The company attracts top talent to support local and international clients in mining, steel, construction, and transportation to achieve their environmental goals.

Christina Visser - In 1999, Christina launched what is now known as Ionic Technology Group with her late husband Steve. Completing her MBA from Laurentian in 2002, Christina officially joined Ionic shortly after in 2005. The group of companies has grown to currently employ 140 engineering and automation professionals and proudly exports Canadian ingenuity across the globe. In addition, Christina volunteers as the Founding President of the Sudbury Chapter of Women in Science and Engineering (WISE).

David Anselmo - A Laurentian graduate (BA Hons. 1999), David has been in the entertainment industry for over 25 years and put Sudbury on the map in the Canadian film industry. He founded a production company called Hideaway Pictures in 2010. In 2012, David launched the Northern Ontario Film Studios, the first and only film studio in Northern Ontario providing a wide range of equipment and services to help grow the industry. The company was named Company of the Year for 2023 at the Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards.

Karim Omri - Karim has a Bachelors of Engineering and a Masters of Applied Science from Laurentian University. With his education, Karim has become a Consulting Engineer and launched Komri Engineering in 2013, a company offering structural, mechanical and electrical engineering services as well as architectural design. In 2019, Karim was awarded a 40 Under Forty by Northern Ontario Business. 

“I always look forward to celebrating Global Entrepreneurship Week, I have the privilege of meeting some great entrepreneurs in my work and I'm incredibly proud of the achievements of our alumni. Congratulations to Kielyn Marrone, Kati McCartney, Christina Visser, David Anselmo and Karim Omri on your success,” said Gisele Roberts, Director of Research and Innovation at Laurentian.

For more information about the Foundry, visit their website, Twitter, Instagram, or email foundry@laurentian.ca.

Inspiring the Next Generation of French Language Teachers

Inspiring the Next Generation of French Language Teachers

Accomplishments of Christian Laforge and Amanda Dion-Groleau, Baccalauréat en éducation graduates.

(November 22, 2023) - Many of us can think back to our school-age years and remember a moment where a teacher inspired us. 

The science teacher who tapped into your curiosity about the universe. 
The business teacher who showed you how to be your own boss. 
The English teacher who introduced you to a joy for reading. 

All of these moments were created by individuals who are passionate about teaching. Christian Laforge and Amanda Dion-Groleau, graduates from one of Laurentian University’s French language teaching programs, Baccalauréat en éducation (consécutif), are two of these passionate people.

Christian Laforge is currently a high school teacher in Timmins. His passion for teaching was only discovered once he became an active member of the Laurentian community. In 2014, Christian moved to Sudbury from his hometown of Grand Falls, New Brunswick to obtain his Masters in Experimental Psychology from Laurentian. 

Upon completion of his degree, Christian began his first teaching position as a lecturer within Laurentian’s psychology department. Through five years of teaching at the university level, Christian took on many additional roles around the Laurentian campus, including positions with Academic Advising and with Liaison. “My interactions with future students was a big motivator for me to enroll in a Bachelors of Education to be able to work with high school students,” said Christian.

Upon graduation, Christian was fortunate to have two full-time offers to choose from. “In both cases, the French teaching program helped me secure those positions so quickly, even to the point where I had options, which was incredible. Looking at the data, it appears that teaching in the French language has a high hireability right now,” he said.

As Co-Director of Shad Canada’s Laurentian University chapter, a not-for-profit organization who equip youth to tackle social and economic challenges via STEAM and entrepreneurial lens, Christian is still an important contributor towards campus life. “I had a great journey and enjoyed my time at the university very much. I feel like my education from Laurentian prepared me for what I needed to know to become a teacher.”

Amanda Dion-Groleau is another example of a passionate educator. Currently she is teaching French to Canadian government employees through a virtual format in her hometown of North Bay. She studied at Laurentian to obtain a Bachelor of Arts with a specialization in Psychologie in 2016 and a Baccalauréat en éducation (consécutif) in 2018.

“Never had I thought I would be teaching adults virtually with my degree but it’s been great. It is not where I would have predicted my career to lead me, but life gives you opportunities and you have to take them. I like where my path has taken me,” she said.

Due to Amanda’s ample experience in the classroom during her placements, which included unit planning and teaching four different grade levels, she was well equipped to teach French after graduation. Although her degree was aimed at educating younger students, Amanda learned crucial differentiation skills to design creative and engaging lessons that even her adult audience benefits from.

Educating her students to become fluent in French is a passion for Amanda. “I am proud of my language and culture. It is important for me to keep teaching in French because I like being able to share my language with more people. I want to encourage people to learn French through welcoming environments with engaging lessons,” Amanda said.

Looking forward, Amanda hopes to work towards becoming a pedagogical advisor, a role that will find her educating other French teachers how to structure lessons in more engaging and differentiated ways.

Preserving Anishinaabemowin Through Land Engagement

Preserving Anishinaabemowin Through Land Engagement

Laurentian students launch Biodiversity Reclamation Trail featuring Anishinaabemowin plant names.

(November 9, 2023) - As Laurentian University’s campus was artfully transformed by autumn, a trail on campus was also transformed in an effort to preserve Anishinaabemowin and plant knowledge. The Laurentian Environmental Sustainability Committee has dedicated efforts to enhance a walking trail behind the Vale Living with Lakes Centre. 

With funding from the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada, the team developed over 25 plant identification signs displaying the Anishinaabemowin names of native plants found along the Biodiversity Reclamation Trail. Elder Sandra Corbiere and youth member Jade Corbiere of Wahnapitae First Nation worked in collaboration with the Environmental Sustainability Committee to provide the Anishinaabemowin plant names and record the proper pronunciation of each for the QR codes on signage along the trail.

The Laurentian Environmental Sustainability Committee, housed at the Vale Living with Lakes Centre, is a student-led group spearheading the university’s efforts towards fulfilling the Nature Positive Pledge. By making the Nature Positive Pledge, Laurentian is committed to being part of an important journey towards a liveable, biodiverse planet. The goal of the Nature Positive Universities, a global joint initiative of the UN Environmental Programme and the University of Oxford, is to restore nature at higher education institutions by reducing their environmental footprint.

The project focused on local Indigenous community consultation and learning in preparation for the event. Visitors have a space to learn some Anishinaabe language and plant names in an interactive way on campus, highlighting the importance of Indigenous language preservation. 

An event was hosted on October 26th, 2023 for community members to celebrate and explore the Biodiversity Reclamation Trail. Elder Linda Toulouse (Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation) led and guided the community trail walk. Dominic Beaudry, Associate Vice-President of Academic and Indigenous Programs at Laurentian, spoke at the event about the importance of Anishinaabemowin language preservation.

“Over the years to come, we hope this space will become a well-used resource for learning and deepening connections with nature. Our goal is for the trail to serve as a place of education where people can come together to learn, reflect, and engage with the land,” said Anastacia Chartrand, chair of the Laurentian Environmental Sustainability Committee.

After all her hard work and dedication toward the Laurentian community, Anastacia graduated on October 28th, 2023 from the Masters of Science Communication program. She plans to remain active within the Environmental Sustainability Committee team throughout this year as Avery Morin and Benoit Lalande take the reins with new leadership roles.

“Community collaboration is an integral part of projects like these, so it was amazing to see people from so many communities and organizations come together for this event, ”said Taylor Nicholls, Laurentian’s Environmental Sustainability Committee Indigenous Relations Liaison, Masters of Biology candidate, and member of Wahnapitae First Nation.

The Environmental Sustainability Committee at Laurentian hopes to continue making positive contributions to further respect and connect to the land. Ongoing efforts from the committee include biodiversity assessments, creating a model forest, water quality assessments, developing a student community garden, and increasing student involvement.

For more information regarding the Laurentian Environmental Sustainability Committee, visit their Facebook page, instagram or email environment@laurentian.ca.

Laurentian University moving forward with Transformation Plan

Laurentian University moving forward with Transformation Plan

Detailed plan sets road maps for improving systems, processes, and policies supporting the University’s mission and financial sustainability

November 2, 2023 – Laurentian University is pleased to be moving forward with its operational transformation program following its recent approval by the Laurentian University Board of Governors. The Plan now awaits approval by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities.

“We believe this Transformation Plan, along with the upcoming Strategic Plan, will lay the foundation for a sustainable future where Laurentian University fosters growth and opportunity for all” says Dr. Sheila Embleton, Interim President and Vice-Chancellor. “While there is still a lot of hard work ahead, we emerge confident that we have the right plan for a vibrant future.”

After months of consultation and engagement sessions with faculty, staff and the community, Deloitte, working closely with the University, drafted detailed road maps for the operational transformation of four key areas: Information Technology (IT), Finance, Human Resources (HR) as well as Registrar Services and Student Affairs (RSSA). This Transformation Plan is informed by earlier recommendations from the NOUS Group and the Auditor General’s report on Laurentian University. 

The University would like to acknowledge those who served on the Transformation Consulting Group (TCG) and the more than 120 people who participated (faculty, staff, students, alumni) in engagement sessions over the spring and summer. This plan would not have been possible without their tireless effort throughout this planning process and their continued support will be paramount during the implementation process.

Next steps are already in motion as the Transformation Plan Implementation Office (TPIO) is in the process of building its team, which will be made up of members from each of the four workstreams, along with supporting resources. As required by the University's Plan of Arrangement, the TPIO will be supported by a third-party through Plan Implementation. Deloitte has been retained until October 2024 to fulfill this obligation at a cost not to exceed $972,920. Together, they will be responsible for prioritizing tasks outlined in the plan and overseeing the delivery of each milestone within established timelines. As we progress through implementation we look forward to continuing to work with our labour partners as key stakeholders. 

The University has already begun its review of the current Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system which began in September, and will continue through December. Data collected through this process will be used to determine whether it will continue with its current software or seek out an alternative integrated system to best  serve our institution’s needs.

 

Highlights

The phased, implementation-ready plan addresses four administrative areas of the university: human resources, finance, registration services and student affairs (RSSA), and information technology. Key features include:

  • Human resources: Establishing foundational standards, streamlining and stabilizing operations and increasing efficiency. Includes requirements for talent recruitment, and work plans for case management and human resources information (HRIS) systems.  
  • Finance: Modernizing the finance function with deep integration with the university’s enterprise resource planning (ERP) strategy and enhancing current systems and processes.
  • RSSA: Clarifying content and services for staff, faculty and students, to support research, teaching, and the graduation of students – including a supportive and intentional approach to student life.
  • Information technology: Defining roles and responsibilities, driving accountability, and improving decision-making and transparency through technology-related governance and frameworks. Includes implementing a Service Catalogue to capture and communicate service level targets to better set expectations with users around timeframes. 

 A website will be developed in the coming weeks which will serve as a hub for all information and communication pertaining to the Transformation Program and its progress, tracking the work being done according to the timeline provided.

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