Dr. Moira McPherson, President and Vice-Chancellor, and Dr. Andrew P. Dean, Vice-President, Research and Innovation, cut the ribbon at the grand opening of Lakehead's CASES building. Brian McKinnon, left, from Lakehead's Board of Governors, participated in the ceremony with Acting Mayor Iain Angus, Don Rusnak, MP for Thunder Bay – Rainy River, Judith Monteith-Farrell, MPP for Thunder Bay-Atikokan, graduate student Jocelyn Bel, and Dr. Pedram Fatehi, associate professor in Chemical Engineering and Canada Research Chair in Green Chemicals and Processes.

November 30, 2018 – Thunder Bay, ON 

The grand opening of Lakehead University’s new Centre for Advanced Studies in Engineering and Sciences (CASES) on Friday, Nov. 30 was a prelude to the exciting moments that will occur in the new state-of the art facility for many years to come.

The opening featured a ribbon cutting and tours of the attractive offices, labs, and state-of-the-art equipment.

Four of Lakehead’s newest Canada Research Chairs, three research support units, the Faculty of Graduate Studies and more than seven leading research programs and laboratories are located in the 42,000-square-foot building, which is LEED Gold certified and cost more than $26.2 million to design, construct, and equip.

The CASES building is now home to:

• The Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Mining and Exploration
• The Aboriginal Mentorship Program
• The Biomass Utilization Laboratory
• The Prototype Development Facility
• The Nano-Materials and Advanced Technologies Innovation Centre
• The Laboratory for Integrated Freshwater Science
• The Community Ecology Energetics Laboratory
• The Human Origins Laboratory
• The Office of Sustainability
• And INGENUITY – a business incubator space

Everyone at Lakehead University is thankful to the federal government, the province, the City of Thunder Bay, and to donors for supporting the development and construction of CASES.

The project will receive $7.96 million from the Government of Canada, $1.54 million from the Province of Ontario, $5 million from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation, $1 million from FedNor, $1 million from the City of Thunder Bay, $6.56 million in capital funding from Lakehead University and $855,783 in equipment funding also from Lakehead.

“Modern learning spaces are key to helping students develop the skills they’ll need for the good jobs of today and tomorrow,” said the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Federal Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, who was unable to attend the opening due to prior commitments.

“Our government’s investment in Lakehead University is another step forward in our plan to boost innovation and grow the Canadian economy,” he said.

Thunder Bay’s Liberal Members of Parliament also helped encourage the federal government to invest in CASES.

“Congratulations to Lakehead University on the grand opening of the Centre for Advanced Studies in Engineering and Sciences,” said the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay-Superior North and Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour.

“The well-paying jobs of our future depend on supporting our innovators and industries. Our government invested $9 million in this important facility because we know that supporting innovation and research is critical to ensuring a strong and diverse economy for our region. I look forward to hearing about the great projects that will be developed,” she said.

“Congratulations to everyone at Lakehead University on the opening of the CASES building,” said Don Rusnak, MP for Thunder Bay – Rainy River.

“I have no doubt that this new and exciting project will bring great things to our region and further position Northwestern Ontario as a leader in the innovation economy. Investing in postsecondary infrastructure is essential to attracting and retaining a highly skilled workforce, encouraging entrepreneurship and boosting the local economy. I am looking forward to seeing the great things CASES will bring to Northwestern Ontario,” Rusnak added.

“Ontario’s government for the people is proud to invest $5 million in the Centre for Advanced Studies in Engineering and Sciences,” said Ross Romano, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines.

“Our investment will support innovative research, create good jobs and encourage entrepreneurship in northern communities – sending a strong signal to the world that Ontario is open for business,” he added.

Michael Gravelle, MPP for Thunder Bay – Superior North, played an important role in the provincial funding for CASES, along with Bill Mauro, former MPP for Thunder Bay – Atikokan and mayor-elect for Thunder Bay.

“The new Centre for Advanced Studies in Engineering and Sciences at Lakehead University will provide more opportunities for our students to conduct ground-breaking research and innovation in Thunder Bay,” Gravelle said.

“Projects like the CASES facility are essential for attracting top students and researchers, who bring new and innovative ideas that promote social, technological, and economic growth in our region. I am truly proud of this joint project that will profoundly benefit the students of Lakehead University, the people of Northern Ontario, and the scientific research community as a whole,” he added.

The business incubator space known as INGENUITY will allow students and community members to work on creating their own start-ups in Northwestern Ontario, perhaps opening the next Apple, Netflix, Nike or Amazon.

Acting Mayor Iain Angus attended the grand opening on behalf of the City of Thunder Bay.

“Lakehead University is a key component of the economy of Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario, and the City of Thunder Bay is pleased to strategically invest $1 million in the Centre for Advanced Studies in Engineering and Sciences,” Angus said.

“We fully expect that investment will grow the economy of our community and region and will be paid back multiple times over the next decade or more,” he said.

The facility includes a new transmission electron microscope and an x-ray photoelectron spectroscope – two important tools that will aid in research and innovation while also attracting new faculty and students to the University.

“Congratulations to Lakehead University on the grand opening of the Centre for Advanced Studies in Engineering and Sciences,” said Judith Monteith-Farrell, MPP for Thunder Bay-Atikokan.

 “CASES will be a hub for research, innovation, and job creation for Thunder Bay and throughout Northwestern Ontario. I believe that CASES will be an important part of attracting and retaining a highly skilled workforce as we grow our region’s economy,” she added.

“At Lakehead University we recognize the valuable role our students, researchers, faculty, staff and alumni play in strengthening our communities and advancing our economies,” said Brian McKinnon, member of Lakehead’s Board of Governors, who spoke on behalf of Board Chair Ross Murray, Q.C.

“That’s the reason Lakehead’s Board of Governors approved this project when it was still under discussion,” he added.

“CASES will allow Lakehead University researchers to have state of the art facilities to embark on research that will lead to exciting new discoveries and applications in science and engineering,” Dr. Dean said.

“The strong support of the city, province and federal government to this project is very much appreciated and shows the commitment of each of these levels of government to investing in innovation, student training and entrepreneurship,” he added.

“This beautiful new building will attract students, staff and faculty to Lakehead University,” said Dr. Moira McPherson, Lakehead’s President and Vice-Chancellor. “The equipment and laboratories in CASES will allow faculty and students to perform research that will solve important problems and develop technologies and processes that will have a direct impact on regional economic development.”

– 30 –

Media: For more information or interviews, please contact Brandon Walker, Communications and Marketing Associate, at (807) 343-8177 or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

Lakehead University has approximately 9,700 full-time equivalent students and 2,000 faculty and staff in 10 faculties at two campuses in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Lakehead is a fully comprehensive university: home to Ontario’s newest Faculty of Law in 44 years, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and faculties of Engineering, Business Administration, Health & Behavioural Sciences, Social Sciences & Humanities, Science & Environmental Studies, Natural Resources Management, Education, and Graduate Studies. Maclean’s 2019 University Rankings place Lakehead University among Canada's Top 10 primarily undergraduate universities and in 2018 Research Infosource named Lakehead Research University of the Year in its category for the fourth consecutive year. Visit www.lakeheadu.ca.

October 12, 2018 – Thunder Bay and Orillia, ON

Maclean’s 2019 University Rankings have once again included Lakehead University among the country’s Top 10 primarily undergraduate universities.

Compared to 2018’s results, Lakehead University climbed one spot to eighth in Canada and to second in Ontario in its category.

Lakehead’s President & Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Moira McPherson, attributes Lakehead’s improvements in the rankings to the University’s learned-centred approach on the University’s campuses.

“We have made significant investments in recent years that demonstrate our ongoing commitment to provide a university experience where our students’ unique needs and potential are embraced,” said Dr. McPherson.

Among Canada’s primarily undergraduate universities, the 2019 Maclean’s University Rankings places Lakehead in the top spot regarding Citations (scholarly output), second place in Total Research Dollars, third in Social Sciences and Humanities grants, third in Library Acquisitions, and fourth in Scholarships and Bursaries.

Compared to Ontario’s primarily undergraduate universities, the Maclean’s University Rankings puts Lakehead in a tie for first place for Library Expenses, second in Student-to-Faculty Ratio, second in Student Awards, second in Operating Expenditures per Student, second in Social Sciences & Humanities grants, and third in Faculty Awards.

Dr. McPherson said the unique educational experience offered at Lakehead University positions graduates to successfully transition into the workforce. Approximately 94.5% of graduates find employment within two years of graduation, and 91% are using skills they developed through their undergraduate education. 

“We know that our small class sizes, attractive locations in Thunder Bay and Orillia, and the opportunity for undergraduate students to participate in ground-breaking research are just a few of the reasons people choose Lakehead University," added Dr. McPherson. 

In addition to once again being ranked among Maclean’s top 10 primarily undergraduate universities in the country, in 2017 Lakehead was also named Canada’s top research university in its category by Re$earch Infosource for the third consecutive year.

Start your Lakehead journey by experiencing our campuses from the comfort of your own home. Visit lakeheadu.ca/virtualtour to get started!

– 30 –

Media: For more information or interviews, please contact Brandon Walker, Communications and Marketing Associate, at (807) 343-8177 or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

Lakehead University has approximately 9,700 full-time equivalent students and 2,000 faculty and staff in 10 faculties at two campuses in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Lakehead is a fully comprehensive university: home to Ontario’s newest Faculty of Law in 44 years, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and faculties of Engineering, Business Administration, Health & Behavioural Sciences, Social Sciences & Humanities, Science & Environmental Studies, Natural Resources Management, Education, and Graduate Studies. Maclean’s 2019 University Rankings place Lakehead University among Canada's Top 10 primarily undergraduate universities, and 2017, Research Infosource named Lakehead Research University of the Year in its category for the third consecutive year. Visit www.lakeheadu.ca.

May 30, 2018 – Thunder Bay, ON

Lakehead University graduates will receive important words of wisdom from three exceptional students at this year’s convocation ceremonies on Friday, June 1 and Saturday, June 2 at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium.

Lisa Tocheri is speaking on Friday, June 1 at 2 pm.

During her three years studying in Lakehead’s Bora Laskin Faculty of Law, Tocheri learned practical skills that will help her find success as a lawyer.

“This does not just refer to knowing how to do my job, but other things such as communicating with clients, having confidence in myself, working with colleagues on projects or files, and so on,” Tocheri said.

“At Lakehead we get to immerse ourselves into the practicality of our careers. We are taught not just to know the work we’re doing, but to also know the job we hold and how to be successful both inside and outside of the workplace.”

One challenge she faced at the beginning of her studies was the inclination to compare herself to classmates, especially since Lakehead has smaller class sizes than other universities.

“Everyone discusses work, grades or accomplishments with each other, so it’s hard to not compare yourself academically to another student,” Tocheri said. “To assist with this our professors would instead encourage us to work together and understand that in the real world you have to be on a team with your colleagues. It’s more important to be supportive of each other so that everyone can be successful.”

 Her speech will focus on how Lakehead has provided her with various life lessons or “keys to success” that are non-academic related.

“You don’t really realize until you graduate that you’ve not only learned the work that you were taught in class, but you also have gained so much knowledge in your development as a person and who you want to be in your career. We’re not just taught what is in the books, we’re taught how to grow and thrive as individuals in the workplace and in our daily lives.”

Tocheri plans to work in a law firm after graduation.

“I want to ensure I am always advocating for access to justice and that whoever I help can get the legal assistance they need.”

 Click here to watch Lisa's speech.

Sabeera Azhar is speaking on Saturday, June 2 at 9:30 am.

Azhar is graduating from Lakehead University’s Honours Bachelor of Commerce program, majoring in Accounting. She will also receive the President’s Award during convocation for occupying a position of responsibility in student organizations and for her activities and achievements.

Her speech will focus on graduates being the leaders of tomorrow and that they must lead the change they want to see in the world.

“I believe leadership is a key skill for all graduates to have,” she said. “Due to the small class sizes, my professors were able to challenge me starting in first year, which gave me the opportunity to develop and grow. 

“Accounting is an industry that is always changing and evolving and Lakehead has allowed me to become resilient and be at the forefront of that change.”

 In February of this year, Azhar travelled to Toronto with three third-year students for the ACHIEVE competition, where the team came in first place. This year’s competition dealt with persevering in the face of pressure from superiors to bend the rules.

She felt humbled to be the only fourth-year student chosen to participate on behalf of Lakehead, especially after they won.

“It was honestly a surreal moment,” she said, adding that she participated in the ACHIEVE competition in 2017 as well.

“It was a bit daunting (the first year). We didn't place or win that year, but I learned a lot and made some amazing memories.

“So when I was selected to go to the competition as a fourth-year student, I was excited and up to the challenge. Of course, credit goes to the whole team. We couldn't have won without the hard work of all team members.”

 The ACHIEVE competition taught her that leadership is about being flexible by adapting to your environment.

“Throughout the competition we were put in challenging roles, which meant we had to take into account the strengths and weaknesses of all team members in order to be successful. Another thing I learned was that being a leader means you have to communicate with those around you,” she said.   

A message she would give to her first-year self is “to not stress too much about school and enjoy the little things in life.”

“Everything will work out as it was written by God,” she said. “Back in first year, crossing that stage at graduation seemed daunting, but now I will soon do just that. I am excited to see what the future holds for me.”

Azhar currently works full-time at an accounting firm in Thunder Bay. She plans to earn her Certified Public Accountant designation by returning to Lakehead University for the Graduate Diploma in Accounting program in September. 

 Click here to watch Sabeera's speech.

Shelby Rooney is speaking on Saturday, June 2 at 2 pm. Rooney transferred to Lakehead University in her second year of studying political science.

At the beginning of Rooney’s first semester at Lakehead, Dr. Zubairu Wai realized that she hadn't been in the first-year Political Science course that he teaches and asked her to meet in his office.

“He personally welcomed me to the department, asked if there was anything he could do to ease the transition for me, and told me his door was always open if I had any questions or issues,” she said.

She also became involved at the Gender Equity Centre soon after transferring to Lakehead.

“It not only gave me great work experience, but I was quickly welcomed into the LUSU community.”

Rooney said getting involved on campus helped her make friends and made her feel more comfortable at Lakehead University.

“Having professors that took the time to reach out reassured me that I would be supported academically.”

Her involvement at Lakehead helped develop her organizational and communication skills, as well as her ability to work effectively within a team.

“These skills and experiences have helped me and will continue to help as I move forward into professional work environments. I was also able to meet great friends and mentors who have guided and supported me in both academic and personal decisions throughout my university career.”   

Rooney, who will start her Juris Doctor degree at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Law this fall, will use her speech to describe how Lakehead's supportive community and small class sizes provide a great advantage for students.

“At Lakehead, students are able to really get to know their classmates and form meaningful relationships with professors. This network of support is immensely valuable for students to take with them when they graduate,” she said.     

– 30 –

Media: For more information or interviews, please contact Brandon Walker, Communications and Marketing Associate, at (807) 343-8177 or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

Lakehead University has approximately 9,700 full-time equivalent students and 2,000 faculty and staff in 10 faculties at two campuses in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Lakehead is a fully comprehensive university: home to Ontario’s newest Faculty of Law in 44 years, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and faculties of Engineering, Business Administration, Health & Behavioural Sciences, Social Sciences & Humanities, Science & Environmental Studies, Natural Resources Management, Education, and Graduate Studies. Maclean’s 2018 University Rankings place Lakehead University among Canada's Top 10 primarily undergraduate universities, as well as first in Total Research Dollars, second for Citations, and third for Scholarships and Bursaries. In 2017, Research Infosource named Lakehead Research University of the Year in its category for the third consecutive year. Visit www.lakeheadu.ca.

Attendees had the opportunity to interact and explore what hands-on learning means at Lakehead University.

December 5, 2018 – Orillia, ON

The theme of Lakehead University’s 2018 Report to the Community was Engage. Explore. Excel.

The annual luncheon at Hawk Ridge Golf Club on December 5, featured a talk-show style presentation hosted by Lakehead Orillia Principal, Dr. Dean Jobin-Bevans, and interviews with some of the exceptional people who helped make the last year a special one.

“This event exemplifies that after 12 years, Lakehead Orillia remains steadfast in making post-secondary education possible for the communities of Simcoe County and beyond,” stated Lakehead Chancellor Lyn McLeod. “The ongoing commitment of the County of Simcoe and City of Orillia allows Lakehead to continue to develop and grow.”

Guests included Lakehead Orillia criminology program coordinator Dr. Alana Saulnier, alumnus Andrew Petras, a graduate of the Commerce program, and current international student Boluwatife Fabanwo.

As an international student arriving at Lakehead Orillia, Fabanwo had a very different university experience than many students arriving for their first year on campus. He spoke about the shock he experienced pulling up in the taxi. “I didn’t realize Lakehead was in the countryside. I wasn’t used to such a small population – my hometown of Lagos, Nigeria, has over 20 million people,” said Fabanwo.

After getting over the intense homesickness, Fabanwo used his experience to make new connections with faculty, staff, and his peers to make the most out of his time at Lakehead Orillia. Currently, a varsity soccer player and chair of the campus multicultural association, Fabanwo works hard to shed light on the different cultures around campus.

Petras spoke about how an unspoken commitment from a faculty member convinced him to take the road less travelled and go to Lakehead University. “I knew there were going to be growing pains coming to Lakehead Orillia because it was so new, but I looked at it as an opportunity to put my footprint on campus,” he said.

After graduating from Lakehead in 2013, Petras put that tenacity and commitment into his own career. Today, managing a growing financial services business in Simcoe County.

“There many benefits of having this University in this great county, including that I can live here, spend money here, but also volunteer and give back here,” explained Petras to the those in attendance. “Lakehead Orillia was possible and will continue to grow and be successful, because of you.”

Saulnier brought perspective to the issue of police accountability with discussion about her current year-long research project with Durham Regional Police Service around the effect of body worn cameras.

“It’s incredibly important that we evaluate the techniques our legal authorities are using, and that they are also evaluating the practices they are using, to produce better evidence-based policy so our legal system is productive and for us,” she explained.

The Report to the Community was a chance to celebrate the University’s many successes, including the incredible financial impact that Lakehead has on the province.

Lakehead University adds approximately $1.4 billion per year to Ontario’s gross domestic product. The annual economic impact of the University’s Thunder Bay campus on the province was $1.3 billion, while its Orillia campus contributed $122.7 million. Lakehead University is responsible for 6,277 full-time equivalent jobs.

“The Report to the Community is a chance to celebrate the year’s successes and connect with the communities within Northwestern Ontario and Simcoe County,” said Ross Murray, Q.C., Chair of Lakehead University’s Board of Governors.

Dr. Moira McPherson, President and Vice-Chancellor, highlighted the new strategic plan and the University’s exceptional faculty, staff and students, and thanked everyone who has helped the University achieve greatness. She also acknowledged how Lakehead is helping students succeed in a fast-paced, competitive world.

“These last 12 months have been punctuated with many successes and celebrations,” Dr. McPherson said. “Today was an opportunity to meet some of the people who learn, teach, and advance research, scholarly and creative work at Lakehead—each empowering themselves and our learners to become the next generation of leaders by sharing their passion for discovery and learning.”

Visit openyourworld.ca to view Lakehead University’s Report to the Community.

 – 30 – 

(Pictured below) Lakehead University Chancellor Lyn McLeod (left) and President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Moira McPherson (second from left) are pictured with (from left) alumnus Andrew Petras, current student Bolu Fabanwo, criminology program coordinator and professor Dr. Alana Saulnier, and third year criminology student and event emcee Courtney Holmes.

Media: For more information or to request an interview, contact Jaclyn Bucik, Marketing & Communications Associate, 705-330-4008 ext. 2014 or jaclyn.bucik@lakeheadu.ca.

Lakehead University has approximately 9,700 full-time equivalent students and 2,000 faculty and staff in 10 faculties at two campuses in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Lakehead is a fully comprehensive university: home to Ontario’s newest Faculty of Law in 44 years, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and faculties of Engineering, Business Administration, Health & Behavioural Sciences, Social Sciences & Humanities, Science & Environmental Studies, Natural Resources Management, Education, and Graduate Studies. Maclean’s 2019 University Rankings place Lakehead University among Canada's Top 10 primarily undergraduate universities and in 2018 Research Infosource named Lakehead Research University of the Year in its category for the fourth consecutive year. Visit www.lakeheadu.ca.

December 3, 2018 – Thunder Bay and Orillia, ON

On Giving Tuesday (November 27), Lakehead University’s alumni and friends invested a record $63,001.10 to support the University’s students. Since first participating in 2016, Lakehead University’s Giving Tuesday initiatives have generated $162,215.10 for student financial aid.

“We’re thrilled with the participation in this year’s initiative,” said Deb Comuzzi, Lakehead University’s Vice-President, External Relations. “This is the third year that Lakehead has participated in Giving Tuesday and each year we’ve seen more donors participating and more dollars invested in our students.”

Debra Woods, President of the Alumni Association of Lakehead University, said she was extremely happy with this year’s success.

“Thank you to everyone who donated to Lakehead University,” she said. “Our alumni and friends, in Canada and around the world, answered the call with unparalleled generosity.”

A special thank you to the Alumni Association of Lakehead University, which matched the first $25,000 in gifts.

– 30 – 

Media: Jaclyn Bucik, Marketing & Communications Associate, at 705-330-4008, ext. 2014 or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

Lakehead University has approximately 9,700 full-time equivalent students and 2,000 faculty and staff in 10 faculties at two campuses in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Lakehead is a fully comprehensive university: home to Ontario’s newest Faculty of Law in 44 years, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and faculties of Engineering, Business Administration, Health & Behavioural Sciences, Social Sciences & Humanities, Science & Environmental Studies, Natural Resources Management, Education, and Graduate Studies. Maclean’s 2019 UniversityRankings place Lakehead University among Canada's Top 10 primarily undergraduate universities and in 2018 Research Infosource named Lakehead Research University of the Year in its category for the fourth consecutive year. Visit www.lakeheadu.ca.

(Pictured) William Russ plays Kwa in Gwaai Edenshaw and Helen Haig-Brown’s film Sgaawaay K’uuna-Edge of the Knife. Photo credit Niijang Xyaalas Productions. Copyright Isuma Distribution International.

November 28, 2018 – Orillia, ON

Lakehead University Orillia is proud to announce a special screening of the Canadian feature film, Sgaawaay K’uuna (Edge of the Knife), on Monday, December 3 at 4 p.m.

Sgaawaay K’uuna – directed by Gwaai Edenshaw and Helen Haig-Brown – is the first feature-length film to be shot completely in the Haida language.  Set in the mid-1800’s on the remote islands of Haida Gwaii, the film follows two families as they reunite at a seasonal fishing camp. Conflict erupts between Adiits’ii and his best friend Kwa after Adiits’ii’s recklessness results in a tragic accident. Adiits’ii seeks refuge in the wilderness, where he is mentally and physically pushed to the brink of survival and transforms into Gaagiixiid – the Haida Wildman. In spring, the families return to the fishing camp to find that Adiits’ii has survived the winter. They set out to capture him; and must discover whether they can drive out the supernatural power to restore Adiits’ii to humanity.  

Sgaawaay K’uuna will be followed by a question and answer session with actor William Russ (Kwa) and production manager Dana Moraes. The screening will take place at 4 p.m. in room 1033, at the Orillia campus.

Admission and parking is free.

– 30 –

Media: For more information or to request an interview, contact Jaclyn Bucik, Marketing & Communications Associate, 705-330-4008 ext. 2014 or jaclyn.bucik@lakeheadu.ca.

Lakehead University has approximately 9,700 full-time equivalent students and 2,000 faculty and staff in 10 faculties at two campuses in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Lakehead is a fully comprehensive university: home to Ontario’s newest Faculty of Law in 44 years, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and faculties of Engineering, Business Administration, Health & Behavioural Sciences, Social Sciences & Humanities, Science & Environmental Studies, Natural Resources Management, Education, and Graduate Studies. Maclean’s 2019 University Rankings place Lakehead University among Canada's Top 10 primarily undergraduate universities and in 2018 Research Infosource named Lakehead Research University of the Year in its category for the fourth consecutive year. Visit www.lakeheadu.ca.

Matt Olinski, middle, a Lakehead University Civil Engineering graduate, discusses the Steel Bridge Team's success in 2018 with teammate Mack Barber, left, and master of ceremonies Jocelyn Bel.

November 28, 2018 – Thunder Bay, ON

The theme of Lakehead University’s 2017/2018 Report to the Community was Engage. Explore. Excel.

Lakehead University PhD student Jocelyn Bel was the master of ceremonies for the annual luncheon at the Valhalla Inn on November 28, which featured interviews with some of the exceptional people who have made a major impact on the university.

Guests included Matt Olinski and Mack Barber, two recent graduates of Lakehead’s Civil Engineering program who were on the University’s award-winning Steel Bridge Team this year, and Lakehead’s Dr. Matt Tocheri, Canada Research Chair in Human Origins and associate professor in Anthropology at Lakehead University.  

Olinski and Barber described how exciting it was for the team to place first in the AISC/ASCE regional competition in Iowa City in April and 10^th in the AISC/ASCE national competition in Illinois in May.

They spent 2,000 hours over eight months to meticulously design, optimize, manufacture and practice assembling the 18-foot-long model bridge, which could hold more than 2,500 lbs.

Dr. Tocheri talked about the extinct ‘hobbits’ of human evolution (Homo floresiensis) from the Indonesian island of Flores.

Using a complete replica of the skeleton of Homo floresiensis, created by a 3D printer located in his new Human Origins Laboratory in Lakehead University’s CASES building, he demonstrated the similarities and differences with the skeleton of modern humans (Homo sapiens).

Audience members were able to touch and examine the 3D-printed replica ‘hobbit’ bones while Dr. Tocheri was speaking.

The Report to the Community was a chance to celebrate the University’s many successes, including the incredible financial impact that Lakehead has on the province.  

Lakehead University adds approximately $1.4 billion per year to Ontario’s gross domestic product. The annual economic impact of the University’s Thunder Bay campus on the province was $1.3 billion, while its Orillia campus contributed $122.7 million. Lakehead University is responsible for 6,277 full-time equivalent jobs.

“The Report to the Community is a chance to celebrate the year’s successes and connect with the communities within Northwestern Ontario and Simcoe County,” said Ross Murray, Q.C., Chair of Lakehead University’s Board of Governors.

Dr. Moira McPherson, Lakehead University’s President and Vice-Chancellor, highlighted the new strategic plan and the University’s exceptional faculty, staff and students, and thanked everyone who has helped the University achieve greatness. She also acknowledged how Lakehead is helping students succeed in a fast-paced, competitive world.

“These last 12 months have been punctuated with many successes and celebrations,” Dr. McPherson said. “Today was an opportunity to meet some of the people who learn, teach, and advance research, scholarly and creative work at Lakehead—each empowering themselves and our learners to become the next generation of leaders by sharing their passion for discovery and learning.”

Visit openyourworld.ca to view Lakehead University’s Report to the Community website.

– 30 –

Media: For more information or interviews, please contact Brandon Walker, Communications and Marketing Associate, at (807) 343-8177 or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

Lakehead University has approximately 9,700 full-time equivalent students and 2,000 faculty and staff in 10 faculties at two campuses in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Lakehead is a fully comprehensive university: home to Ontario’s newest Faculty of Law in 44 years, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and faculties of Engineering, Business Administration, Health & Behavioural Sciences, Social Sciences & Humanities, Science & Environmental Studies, Natural Resources Management, Education, and Graduate Studies. Maclean’s 2019 University Rankings place Lakehead University among Canada's Top 10 primarily undergraduate universities and in 2018 Research Infosource named Lakehead Research University of the Year in its category for the fourth consecutive year. Visit www.lakeheadu.ca

November 20, 2018 – Thunder Bay and Orillia, ON

Lakehead University will participate in Giving Tuesday on Tuesday, Nov. 27 – and it could be even bigger than last year.

Giving Tuesday is a relatively new Canadian movement for giving. Seen as the “opening day of the giving season,” it is when charities, companies, and individuals join together to share their commitment, rally for their favourite causes, and think about others.

Lakehead University’s Alumni Association has once again agreed to match donations up to the first $25,000 in new gifts received towards student financial aid. This is an exceptional opportunity to double the impact of everyone's gift. Since 2016, $99,214 has been raised through Lakehead’s Giving Tuesday efforts.
 
By donating to Lakehead on Giving Tuesday, you support the University's hard-working students. Your donation will help fund scholarships and bursaries, enhance the student experience and support student athletes. 

Everyone is encouraged to:

• Make a gift – the Giving Tuesday portal (found at donate.lakeheadu.ca) will open on Tuesday, Nov. 27 at 12:01 am and close at midnight.
• Take a selfie or pose for a photo and post it to your social media page using the hashtag #GivingTuesday and #lakeheadu.  The Annual Fund and Alumni Engagement office will be sure to share your posts on their Twitter, Facebook and Instagram pages. 

Thank you in advance for helping to make Giving Tuesday at Lakehead another great success and thanks to the Alumni Association for its continued generosity.

– 30 –

Media: For more information or interviews, please contact Brandon Walker, Communications and Marketing Associate, at (807) 343-8177 or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

Lakehead University has approximately 9,700 full-time equivalent students and 2,000 faculty and staff in 10 faculties at two campuses in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Lakehead is a fully comprehensive university: home to Ontario’s newest Faculty of Law in 44 years, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and faculties of Engineering, Business Administration, Health & Behavioural Sciences, Social Sciences & Humanities, Science & Environmental Studies, Natural Resources Management, Education, and Graduate Studies. Maclean’s 2019 University Rankings place Lakehead University among Canada's Top 10 primarily undergraduate universities and in 2018 Research Infosource named Lakehead Research University of the Year in its category for the fourth consecutive year. Visit www.lakeheadu.ca.

November 23, 2018 – Thunder Bay, ON

High school students and those interested in learning more about postsecondary education should attend Lakehead University’s open house on Tuesday, Dec. 4.

You and your family and friends are invited to Lakehead University's Fall Preview Day from 9 am to 2 pm. Attend for a chance to win a Freshman Prize Pack valued at $2,000, which includes everything you'll need to make your first year of university epic!

Visit Lakehead’s Thunder Bay campus for an exciting day of exploration and discovery, open to all future students who want to learn more about the Lakehead experience while meeting with your future professors and current students.

Tour campus, discover the wide range of programs through interactive presentations, and explore all that you can do at Lakehead University. Through specialized program tours, you'll experience Lakehead’s facilities and see the environment where you will live and learn.

You will also have the opportunity to tour Lakehead’s exceptional Residence facilities, meet with Resident Assistants and learn all the reasons why living in residence is the place to be.

To register for Preview Day, visit lakeheadu.ca/previewday.

– 30 –

Media: For more information or interviews, please contact Brandon Walker, Communications and Marketing Associate, at (807) 343-8177 or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

Lakehead University has approximately 9,700 full-time equivalent students and 2,000 faculty and staff in 10 faculties at two campuses in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Lakehead is a fully comprehensive university: home to Ontario’s newest Faculty of Law in 44 years, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and faculties of Engineering, Business Administration, Health & Behavioural Sciences, Social Sciences & Humanities, Science & Environmental Studies, Natural Resources Management, Education, and Graduate Studies. Maclean’s 2019 University Rankings place Lakehead University among Canada's Top 10 primarily undergraduate universities and in 2018 Research Infosource named Lakehead Research University of the Year in its category for the fourth consecutive year. Visit www.lakeheadu.ca.

September 5, 2018 – Thunder Bay, ON

Lakehead University Board of Governors Chair David Tamblyn was pleased to announce that following a 15-month search and consultation process, its Presidential Search Committee unanimously recommended that current Interim President & Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Moira McPherson, be appointed the University’s next President & Vice-Chancellor. 

Mr. Tamblyn said that Lakehead’s Board of Governors voted in support of the Search Committee’s recommendation.

“Dr. McPherson’s experience and impact in various roles at Lakehead, her deep knowledge and understanding of our University and its students, and her passion for our new Strategic Plan are just a few of the reasons why we have asked her to lead Lakehead in the coming years.”

“On behalf of the Board of Governors, I would like to thank Dr. McPherson for all that she has achieved as Interim President & Vice-Chancellor,” added Mr. Tamblyn. “During her distinguished career, her dedication to Lakehead University has been unremitting as she has moved from our classrooms through to our Senior Executive Team.”

Dr. McPherson, who has been Interim President & Vice-Chancellor since January 2018, said “It is an absolute honour to be given this opportunity to lead Lakehead University.”

“With the encouragement of the Board, colleagues, and community partners, we will continue to build on the strengths Lakehead offers as a well-regarded university, as well as a vital member of the economic, social and cultural communities that we support – and that support us.”

During her time as Interim President & Vice-Chancellor, since January 2018, Dr. McPherson has worked with the University’s Board of Governors to oversee Lakehead’s various initiatives and operations through the presidential transition period. Highlights include a pledge from the Province of $10 million for the Gichi Kendaasiwin Centre, development of the CASES building, and the opening of the University Teaching Commons.

Dr. McPherson officially became the seventh, and first woman President & Vice-Chancellor of Lakehead University, effective September 1, 2018.

Dr. Moira McPherson

Dr. Moira McPherson became Lakehead University’s Interim President & Vice-Chancellor in January 2018. Prior to that, she served as the institution’s Provost & Vice-President (Academic) since 2012, where she provided strategic leadership for institutional visioning for academic and community connections, international recruitment and partnerships, as well as program development, accreditations, and resource allocations.

Dr. McPherson began her progressive career at Lakehead University in 1987 as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Education and Athletics. After seven successful years as Director of the School of Kinesiology where she established a strong reputation as a dynamic applied scientist and coach facilitator, Dr. McPherson’s effective collaborative leadership approach led her to being named Associate Vice-President (Academic), a position that saw her design and implement some pivotal new academic processes to achieve the University’s academic goals. After stepping in to serve as Acting Vice-President (Academic) in 2010, she was appointed Deputy Provost in 2011, and subsequently appointed as Provost & Vice-President (Academic) in 2014. 

Dr. McPherson’s understanding of, and commitment to, Lakehead University continues to be demonstrated through her capacity for strategic leadership, a purposeful dedication to students, and her influence on several high impact projects. These projects include the Lakehead University-Georgian College Partnership, a collaboration that is designed to meet the needs of students and employers in Simcoe County; The Gichi Kendaasiwin Centre, a capital project to support a vibrant Indigenous student, faculty and staff presence and foster greater connections with community; and Lakehead’sTelepresenceinitiative, an immersive classroom experience that provides course opportunities to distant learners in rural and remote communities.

Dr. McPherson led the development and implementation of Lakehead University’s 2012-2017 Academic Plan, the University’s transition to the Institutional Quality Assurance process, and to a Strategic Enrolment Management Framework.  She has led the development of the University’s Strategic Mandate Agreements, and established and continues to guide the implementation of the Integrated Planning and Budgeting Process.

Dr. McPherson served two terms on the Ontario Universities Council on Quality Assurance, was a member of the Executive Committee for the Ontario Council of Academic Vice-Presidents, and is the Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors for the Northern Ontario School of Medicine.

Dr. McPherson holds a PhD specializing in Applied Biomechanics from the University of Alberta, and has been regularly sought out for her scholarly and professional expertise in applied kinematic and biomechanical skill analyses by both national and international organizations.

– 30 –

Media: For more information or interviews, please contact Brandon Walker, Communications and Marketing Associate, at (807) 343-8177 or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

Lakehead University has approximately 9,700 full-time equivalent students and 2,000 faculty and staff in 10 faculties at two campuses in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Lakehead is a fully comprehensive university: home to Ontario’s newest Faculty of Law in 44 years, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and faculties of Engineering, Business Administration, Health & Behavioural Sciences, Social Sciences & Humanities, Science & Environmental Studies, Natural Resources Management, Education, and Graduate Studies. Maclean’s 2018 University Rankings place Lakehead University among Canada's Top 10 primarily undergraduate universities, as well as first in Total Research Dollars, second for Citations, and third for Scholarships and Bursaries. In 2017, Research Infosource named Lakehead Research University of the Year in its category for the third consecutive year. Visit www.lakeheadu.ca.