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Students Explore Costa Rica on Educational Trip

Students Explore Costa Rica on Educational Trip

Teaching opportunities abroad contribute to student engagement

(July 4, 2023) - On May 1, 2023, 27 Laurentian University students and community members departed for an incredible eleven day educational trip to Costa Rica. This voyage offered many opportunities for learning about Costa Rican culture and folklore. Students had ample opportunity to engage in a plethora of activities including a visit to Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna Waterfall, Monteverde Butterfly Garden, the Monteverde Cheese Factory, local markets in the Central Pacific Coast, the Manuel Antonia National Park, the San José National Park and the Parque Francisco Alvarado. 

Group leader and Full Professor, School of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, Dr. Roger Couture, spoke enthusiastically about this educational experience that was enjoyed by all who attended: “The first educational trip of 2023 to Costa Rica was wonderful, as we were able to see a wide variety of vegetation, trees, birds, butterflies and animals. Our hikes to volcanos and waterfalls were also amazing.”

The trip was also a family affair, as Dr. Couture’s son Luc Couture, Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology (2023) alumnus said: “During this amazing trip, we had the opportunity to explore not only biodiverse rainforests and cloud forests but also the breathtaking tropical beaches and volcanoes of Costa Rica. In addition to immersing ourselves in the natural wonders, we were fortunate to learn about Costa Rican traditions and culture. With the great company of like-minded individuals my age, this journey became an unforgettable educational experience that enriched our understanding of the incredible diversity and beauty of Costa Rica.” Luc is eager to commence his first year of medical school at NOSM University this fall. 

Fourth year student majoring in Biology and minoring in Environmental Chemistry, Mackenzie Hobbs from the small town of Massey Ontario described her experience on the trip as “absolutely incredible!”. Mackenzie continued to say that “as a biology student and someone who loves the natural world, I was extremely happy to see so many nature based educational excursions on this trip. It was a dream come true witnessing the immense biodiversity, various microclimates, and unique ecosystems of Costa Rica such as the Santa Elena Cloud Forest. Having a very knowledgeable local guide that educated us on the various species of plants and animals, history, and ecology of the areas we visited was a huge bonus. Costa Rica is a beautiful country and their efforts to protect and conserve their land is inspiring!”

For some like Alex McFadden, the trip to Costa Rica provided them with a new perspective on local biology. Alex added, “I’m a first-year Biochemistry student who has lived in Sudbury all my life, so this region has always seemed familiar and ordinary to me. But that has completely changed since the Costa Rica trip. I was so impressed with the plant and animal biodiversity that, upon our return home, I have become a tourist of our local biology with a new appreciation for nature. Thanks to this trip, and the people I was fortunate enough to share the experience with, every new natural curiosity has become absolutely fascinating.”

The next educational trip is already underway in its planning and will depart for Iceland, May 3, 2024. In 2025, a trip to Peru will be planned. Click here for more information about both voyages. 
Those with interest or questions about participating are encouraged to contact the Group Leader Roger Couture, PhD rcouture@laurentian.ca.

Laurentian University Partners with Rick Hansen Foundation to Deliver Accessibility Certification Training

Laurentian University Partners with Rick Hansen Foundation to Deliver Accessibility Certification Training

(June 15, 2023) - Laurentian University is pleased to announce its partnership with the Rick Hansen Foundation to deliver the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC) Training program over the next year. This collaboration aims to promote and advance accessibility in Canada's built environment, fostering inclusivity and equal opportunities for all individuals, including those with disabilities.

Beginning June 26th, the RHFAC course will now be offered by Laurentian University. The program equips participants to play a pivotal role in Canada's accessibility movement. It will enable professionals involved in planning, design, and construction to develop a comprehensive understanding of accessibility from the perspective of individuals with vision, hearing, and mobility disabilities.

"We are honored to have been selected by the Rick Hansen Foundation to help deliver this important program," said Christina Sckopke, Manager of Micro-Credentials and Non-Credit Programming in the Centre for Continuing Learning at Laurentian University. "This partnership allows us to contribute to creating a more inclusive society by equipping professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to enhance accessibility in the built environment.”

Participants will learn to assess the meaningful accessibility of the built environment and identify potential barriers faced by individuals with disabilities. The program also introduces Universal Design principles, current legislation, and standards related to accessibility. Upon successful completion, participants will be eligible to take the RHFAC Professional Exam. 

To enroll in the RHFAC, participants must meet specific prerequisites. These include having a diploma or a minimum of two years of completed post-secondary studies in architecture, engineering, urban planning, interior design, or a related program. Individuals with equivalent combinations of lived experience and built environment knowledge are also encouraged to inquire about eligibility.

The RHFAC will be delivered synchronously online through teacher-led classes, utilizing Brightspace and Zoom. Tuition grants will be available for residents of Ontario.

For more information on the RHFAC, please contact Christina Sckopke, Manager of Micro-Credentials and Non-Credit Programming at Laurentian University, at 705-675-1151 ext 3321 or continuinglearning@laurentian.ca

Vernon Cameron elected as Chair of Laurentian University Board of Governors

Vernon Cameron elected as Chair of Laurentian University Board of Governors

(June 12, 2023) - Laurentian University is pleased to announce the appointment of Vernon Cameron as the incoming Chair of the Board of Governors, effective July 1st, 2023. Cameron's extensive leadership experience and commitment to higher education make him an exceptional choice to lead the Board during this transformative period.

“I am looking forward to continuing to provide leadership through collaboration, transparency, and respect. As a proud alumnus of Laurentian University and the Faculty of Management, I am honoured to serve as Chair,” said Cameron.

Cameron joined the Board in April of 2022 and is an accomplished executive, having spent the last 19 years in the U.S. in the public and private sectors. Cameron spent 12 years leading Private Equity companies in President and Chief Executive Officer roles. For Cameron, Laurentian University is a constant through his family, with his father, son, and daughter all having graduated from Laurentian. 

Cameron will succeed Jeff Bangs, whose significant contributions as the outgoing Chair have greatly benefited Laurentian University. Bangs oversaw the University’s exit from the CCAA process, the renewal of the University’s Board of Governors, and initiated both the organizational transformation and strategic planning processes to implement recommendations provided by Ontario’s Auditor General and as required by the creditor-approved Plan of Arrangement. 

Laurentian University extends its sincere gratitude to Jeff Bangs for his exceptional leadership and dedicated service as Chair of the Board of Governors.

More About Vernon Cameron

After graduation from Laurentian in 1984, he became a chartered accountant in 1986 and received his Executive MBA from the Katz School of Business at the University of Pittsburgh in 2008. He has served on multiple Board committees including: Executive Committee, Audit Committee,  Finance Committee, Property Development and Planning Committee, Staff Relations Committee, and the Pension Committee.

Terms for the sale of Laurentian University’s real estate assets are established

Terms for the sale of Laurentian University’s real estate assets are established

(June 8, 2023) - Laurentian University has established an agreement on a Term Sheet for the sale of real estate worth up to $53.5M. The Term Sheet will help Laurentian University implement its Plan of Arrangement as part of the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA) process.

This Term Sheet outlines a proposed structure for the transaction which allows the province of Ontario to purchase seven University parcels of land, allowing both parties to explore the potential transaction. After due diligence, including consultations with Indigenous communities, specific assets will be confirmed for sale. The net proceeds of the sale will be used to pay the University’s creditors as set out in the CCAA Plan of Arrangement.

“The University has been focused on exploring the transfer of certain real estate with minimal impact to the operations of the University and this Term Sheet will do just that. This is an important milestone in the University’s Exit Loan Financing Agreement. I expect that the community of Greater Sudbury, who passionately expressed the importance of the trail system and green space, will be satisfied with what is outlined in the transaction,” said Dr. Sheila Embleton, Interim President & Vice-Chancellor of Laurentian University.

The due diligence process will serve to confirm that public trails (including the Trans Canada Trail System and the Rainbow Route Sudbury trail network) are properly identified. The University will retain ownership of all other lands and will seek to strengthen partnerships with the community for the ongoing use and enjoyment of Laurentian’s natural spaces. The University seeks to ensure continued public access to the trail networks and green space.

The total land identified in the Term Sheet covers 68.75 acres, which represents approximately 9% of the University’s total 750+ acres. There are also five buildings identified in the Term Sheet, which would be fully or partially leased back to Laurentian or NOSM University:

  • East Residence
  • Vale Living with Lakes Centre and Watershed Building
  • Northern Ontario School of Medicine
  • Health Sciences Building
  • Security and Maintenance Building

With this non-binding Term Sheet, the University is now in a position to explore the sale of these assets and work together with the province of Ontario to negotiate a purchase and sale agreement, by no later than November 28, 2025.

Board of Governors to Elect New Chair

Board of Governors to Elect New Chair

Jeff Bangs to step down after critical tenure as Board Chair

(June 2, 2023) - Laurentian University’s Board of Governors will soon elect a new Chair as current Board Chair Jeff Bangs has announced that he will step down from the volunteer role at the end of the current term. 

Bangs joined the Board in December of 2021 and became Chair shortly thereafter. He led the Board through a critical period of time as Laurentian University exited the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA) process. During his tenure, the University saw significant transformation. Bangs led the renewal of the University’s Board of Governors, successfully passed a new budget for the current fiscal year, and initiated both the organizational transformation and strategic planning processes to implement recommendations provided by Ontario’s Auditor General and as required by the creditor-approved Plan of Arrangement. 

“Aside from needing to strike a new balance between my business and volunteer commitments, two main factors have led me to this decision; the successful appointment of my partner as the University’s General Counsel, and concerns related to my health,” said Bangs. 

“To me, given the level of interaction between the Chair, the Board and the General Counsel, it is not appropriate for me to continue in my role. Several months ago, before that search began, I declared a conflict and left the oversight of that search to a committee led by Interim President Embleton. While some have suggested to me that a way can be found to stay on in some capacity, I do not ever want to put the University or the new General Counsel in a real or perceived conflict of interest.” 

“I’ve also recently had a wake-up call about my own health that will require my full attention in the coming weeks and months. I do feel confident with my prognosis and I'm confident I'll be as good as new, soon enough. Until then, I’ll be focusing on my health.” 

Bangs leaves his role having made a profound impact on the future of Laurentian University and is optimistic about what the institution may achieve in the future. “I am confident that I am leaving the Board in good hands with people whose focus is on building a stronger and more transparent future for Laurentian. I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and to that end, will remain available as a resource to the Board and to the University for as long as necessary.”

A process is now underway to select a new Chair. 

Laurentian University Receives Innovation Funding to Grow Awareness in Automotive and Mobility Sector

Laurentian University Receives Innovation Funding to Grow Awareness in Automotive and Mobility Sector

Provincial funding to implement projects supporting career opportunities in critical sector

(June 1, 2023) - Laurentian University’s Goodman School of Mines has been awarded $448,550 from the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN) and the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) to develop activities with local partners for the Regional Future Workforce (RFW) program, which will help introduce students to careers within Ontario’s automotive & mobility sector.

The funds from the RFW program will be used to fund a project called “Electrifying the Future”, which consists of three components:

  • “MineOpportunity: the automotive and mobility edition”
  • Summer Camps
  • Education Campaign

Nicole Tardif, Program Coordinator at the Goodman School of Mines will be coordinating the projects. “We are looking forward to introducing these activities to Northern Ontario. We have such a unique position to support the automotive and mobility sector and are interested in showing off these great career opportunities for students to explore,” said Tardif.

The RFW Program is a pilot program through OVIN designed to encourage students of all ages, across all regions of Ontario, to pursue careers in the automotive and mobility sector. This work will focus on reducing the stigma associated with automotive industry careers and prioritize engagement with students from equity-deserving and underrepresented groups. 

"Electrifying the Future" is a bilingual (English/French) set of projects, supported by the RFW program, that aims to build awareness of post-secondary programs that lead to careers in the electric vehicle supply chain from mineral exploration all the way to the automotive and mobility industry. The project includes  a promotional campaign that will aim to bring awareness to a variety of career options in this industry. 

Two in-person events will also be implemented to provide elementary, high school and postsecondary students interactive experiences. First,  students in grades 7-12 in Northern Ontario will compete in “MineOpportunity: the automotive and mobility edition” (June 7 & 8) at Dynamic Earth. In this game, students work together to become the “wealthiest” team by successfully answering questions, completing challenges and activities about technology, engineering, geosciences, the environment, careers, corporate social responsibility and the automotive and mobility industry.

Second, two weeks of free summer day camps from July 17-21 and July 31-August 4th, 2023 will be offered for students aged 10-14 years.. STEM and non-STEM lessons and activities will be delivered at three locations (Laurentian University, Cambrian College and College Boreal), along with a one-day field trip to key partners in the project:  Epiroc, Technica Mining, and Laurentian Chrysler.

The “Electrifying the Future” program will inspire coming generations to get involved in the industry by stimulating interest in career choices. It will also raise awareness for emerging trends of innovation and technology in the industry, as well as the importance of critical minerals.

Local Researcher Honoured as Jane Goodall Fellow in Conservation Biology

Local Researcher Honoured as Jane Goodall Fellow in Conservation Biology

Dr. Jackie Litzgus selected to win prestigious award

(May 30, 2023) - Laurentian University is proud to announce that Dr. Jackie Litzgus has been chosen as the first recipient of the Jane Goodall Research Fellowship in Conservation Biology. This esteemed recognition is in honor of Dr. Litzgus's groundbreaking work in safeguarding endangered species, particularly the reptiles facing critical challenges in Ontario.

Dr. Litzgus, a distinguished scientist, has garnered numerous accolades throughout her career, including the Laurentian University Research Excellence Award and Ontario Nature's Conservation Leadership Award. Currently serving as the Director of the Vale Living With Lakes Centre, she leads the Cooperative Freshwater Ecology Unit, a team dedicated to advancing freshwater ecosystem research and conservation. The distinction was presented personally by Dr. Jane Goodall herself, the globally renowned environmentalist. Dr. Goodall visited Sudbury for the world premiere release of her captivating IMAX Science North Film titled "Reasons for Hope."

“On my office wall hangs a poster showcasing many formidable women of science, women I look up to, Dr. Goodall among them. It is both humbling and awe-inspiring to be recognized with a fellowship bearing Dr. Goodall’s name. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to give more focus to the conservation work that my students and I do” said Dr. Litzgus. 

During an intimate meeting to discuss their shared commitment to preserving nature, Dr. Goodall and Dr. Litzgus had the opportunity to engage with Tharusha Wijewardena, a remarkable Laurentian University student from Sri Lanka and a PhD candidate. In recognition of exceptional dedication to biodiversity conservation, Tharusha will be the recipient of a Jane Goodall Student Scholarship, an award made possible by Laurentian faculty and staff, the first of its kind at Laurentian University.

The joint efforts of Dr. Litzgus, Dr. Goodall, and the faculty members at Laurentian University exemplify their passion for environmental stewardship and their commitment to nurturing future leaders in the field of conservation biology. Recently, the University announced a commitment to join the Nature Positive University Alliance (NPUA), to support the prioritization of nature restoration within the higher education sector.

Dr. Jennifer Johnson named Dean of Arts

Dr. Jennifer Johnson named Dean of Arts

Five-year appointment will begin July 1, 2023

(May 23, 2023) - Laurentian University is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Jennifer Johnson as the new Dean of Arts, effective July 1, 2023, for a five-year period. Dr. Johnson is an accomplished researcher with extensive administrative experience and a passion for working with students and supporting their academic success. 

"Dr. Johnson is a strong leader who brings considerable experience and expertise to the role of Dean of Arts. Her pragmatic approach, her understanding of the opportunities within the Faculty of Arts and the University more broadly, along with her focus on people and community position her very well to lead the Faculty forward,” said Dr. Brenda Brouwer, Interim Provost and Vice-President Academic.

“I am looking forward to collaborating with our talented faculty members, working with our students, and all of our community partners. Together, we have a unique opportunity to redefine our future at the Faculty of Arts. There is so much potential in what we can achieve together,” said Dr. Johnson. 

Dr. Johnson currently serves as an adjunct faculty member in the School of Liberal Arts and as the Manager of Laurentian Online with the Centre for Continuing Learning. She previously served as Chair of the Department of Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at Thorneloe University from 2007-2021.  She  holds a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Women’s Studies and Philosophy from Queen’s University, a Master of Women’s Studies from St. Hilda’s College, University of Oxford and a Ph.D. in Women’s Studies, from York University. Her research is based in qualitative interdisciplinary approaches to the study of gender including feminist and critical pedagogies, and community-based research. 

The university community wishes to thank Dr. Parveen Nangia for his leadership over the last year serving as Interim Dean of Arts.

Laurentian University selects StrategyCorp as Strategic Plan Consultant

Laurentian University selects StrategyCorp as Strategic Plan Consultant

Canadian firm engaged to support planning process

(May 4, 2023) - The upcoming strategic planning process at Laurentian University will benefit from an experienced Canadian partner as the University has selected StrategyCorp to assist in the process.

This critical planning process will set a foundation for the University’s future and is the result of a public request for proposals which took place in January and February of 2023. The Strategic Plan will be formed as a result of extensive consultations with groups internal and external to Laurentian University, with a particular focus on strengthening the bilingual and tricultural aspects of the institution.

“This strategic planning process will set a critical foundation for the University’s future. The process will be led by the University, the ideas will come from our community, and we’ll benefit from a partner with vast experience,” said Dr. Sheila Embleton, Interim President and Vice-Chancellor of Laurentian University.

After having recently selected Deloitte as the University’s Transformational Consultant, Laurentian University is poised to continue to renew and evolve in line with the needs of Northern Ontario communities.

The assistance of an external advisor in the strategic planning process is a requirement of the court-approved Amended Plan of Compromise and Arrangement. The Strategic Plan will also consider recommendations provided by Ontario’s Auditor General, the NOUS reports, and the French Language Services Commissioner.

The work to develop the Strategic Plan will begin immediately and is slated to be completed by December 2023. There will be many opportunities for engagement and more information on how to participate will be forthcoming.

 

About StrategyCorp

StrategyCorp is a leading consulting firm specializing in strategic advisory services – government relations, strategic communications, and management consulting – to organizations operating in complex, highly regulated and scrutinised environments. Founded in 1995, and serving clients nationally, StrategyCorp has been involved in some of Canada’s most critical business issues and charged public policy matters, working with clients to create the conditions for their success.

Student General Association elects 2023-2024 leadership

Student General Association elects 2023-2024 leadership

Avery Morin voted President of student association second year in a row

The SGA-AGÉ 2023-2024 executive team from left to right: Timi Aliu, Avery Morin, Zareen Brown and Isaac Vestby.

 

(May 3, 2023) - Laurentian University’s Students’ General Association (SGA-AGÉ) recently held its annual elections for incoming 2023-2024 leadership. Avery Morin, who begins her 4th year in Behavioural Neuroscience and Concurrent Education this fall is eager to lead the SGA-AGÉ in her role as President for the second year in a row. She and other elected student leaders will begin their roles in June:

Speaking about her position and goals for the upcoming year, Morin said: "I’m thrilled to be able to advocate for the students of Laurentian as SGA-AGÉ President and continue to make a difference in my school community. My goal as a student leader is to create a positive environment for current and future students to thrive at Laurentian and with the help of my new team members, I’m confident that we’ll be able to pull it off.”

Since the SGA-AGÉ’s inception in 1960, they have advocated for their members at various administrative and government levels. In addition to their political work by and for students, they organize activities and events that help foster a sense of community amongst students.

“Moving forward, my team plans on increasing engagement throughout the association to ensure that students are informed and connected to the SGA-AGÉ. We’re excited to plan amazing events and work collaboratively with our students to make their time at university the best it can be," said Morin.

For students interested in getting involved with the SGA-AGÉ, by-elections will be held early in the Fall semester of 2023. The Association des étudiantes et étudiants (AEF) and the Graduate Students’ Association (GSA) will also be holding by-election in the fall semester.

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