Amphibians and reptiles have long captivated biologist Dr. Adam Algar. These cold-blooded animals—known as ectotherms—can help us understand how animals evolved, how they survive in ecosystems across the globe, and how they're responding to Earth's warming environment.

Dr. Algar joined Lakehead in 2021 after spending 10 years at the University of Nottingham in the United Kingdom where his research focused on lizards that are native to the Caribbean and Southeast Asia.

"Are ectotherms struggling, or is climate change enabling them to expand their geographic ranges?" Dr. Algar asks. "We need to understand how species are living now to better predict how they'll be affected by climate change. Gathering this information is crucial to developing conservation policies and strategies."

Dr. Algar primarily studies frogs living in northwestern Ontario. "It's a really exciting ecosystem because northwestern Ontario is a boreal forest in the transition zone from hardwood to coniferous trees."

He has a team of graduate and undergraduate researchers who are part of his laboratory dedicated to studying the ecology and evolution of ectotherms. One current project, in partnership with the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority (LRCA), is recording and monitoring frog and bird calls to determine which species are present and track long-term changes. "We're already learning about what affects their breeding season," Dr. Algar says.

It's Not Easy Being Green

A gray tree frog hangs out at a pond. "I became really interested in animal biodiversity after growing up running around the woods of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia," Dr. Algar says. "Globally, we probably don't know about more than half of the species that exist."

One of the reasons Dr. Algar studies frogs is that they're sensitive to environmental changes. "They're the canary in the coalmine—an early warning sign of what's happening in an ecosystem."

Specifically, he investigates how frogs behave throughout the short northwestern Ontario breeding and growing season when they are active. Dropping temperatures prompt frogs to bury themselves under leaf litter and wait for snow to insulate them. "That's why it's a problem when we have cold winters and no snow." During the winter, frogs' hearts almost stop and they go into a state of torpor. Incredibly, several frog species create antifreeze to replace much of the water in their bodies to stop their cells from bursting.

The gray tree frog is one of the species Dr. Algar's lab is studying. "They're a stunning little frog, one to two inches in length, with bumpy skin that changes colour from grey to vibrant green. They also have bright yellow legs and large toe pads to stick to trees." Their range begins in Texas and, in recent decades, has expanded into the Thunder Bay region. "Any species that inhabits such a vast area must be harbouring some fascinating eco-evolutionary secrets," Dr. Algar says.

If people are lucky enough, they might see these frogs stuck to the windows of their camps on summer evenings. "They're attracted to light because the insects they eat are attracted to light," he explains. "And they start calling around 10 o'clock at night. It's a loud short trill often mistaken for a bird."

Ectotherms like this brown anole lizard (Anolis sagrei) get their heat from their environment, often by basking the sun, instead of generating it internally like mammals. "This means they have a low metabolic rate and require less food. But  when the temperature tips too far, either hot or cold, it can have deadly consequences," Dr. Algar says.

Dr. Algar's research is dissolving traditional boundaries between localized field ecology and large-scale macroecology that uses modelling and large datasets. "I use our fieldwork data to test and inform our macroecology models to see if the models are working.

We also measure how temperature affects how far frogs can jump and how fast tadpoles can swim. It's like the animal Olympics."

Dr. Algar engages in this painstaking work to lay the foundation for conservationists. "I don't want to live in a world where springtime is no longer greeted by the choruses of frogs."

Lakehead University is in the top 10 per cent globally of universities making an impact by advancing sustainability and positive societal change and was named the top-ranked university with under 10,000 students in Canada and North America in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. These prestigious rankings assess universities' success in delivering on the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to solve our planet's most pressing challenges. Dr. Algar's work addresses SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life Below Water, and SDG 15: Life on Land.

Thunder Bay, Ont. - Indigenous students completing one of Lakehead University’s Indigenous Access Programs will be formally recognized with an official credential honouring their educational journey and achievements.

Beginning this year, graduates of the Indigenous Transition Year Program (ITYP), Indigenous STEM Access Program (ISTEM), and Indigenous Nursing Entry Program (INEP) will receive a parchment during convocation, formally acknowledging the academic and personal milestones they have reached as they prepare for further study, employment, or the next steps in life.

“Providing alternate pathways to university is essential for supporting Indigenous learners,” said Denise Baxter, Vice-Provost, Indigenous Initiatives. “Through our access programs, we recognize that the traditional route to postsecondary education isn't the only way, and we are committed to honouring students as they transition into first year in a way that reflects their unique journeys.”

The new credential, approved in April 2025, is titled Gii Gashkatoon Gii Kendaaswin Mazina'igan: Indigenous Access Programs [Gee (hard g sound) - Gush-ka-toon Gee (hard g sound)-Ken-daa-swin Ma-zin-eye-gan]. In Anishinaabemowin, the name means “You completed your education and certificate.” Lakehead University's Elders Council gifted it the name.

“The name carries deep meaning—it speaks to achievement and the recognition of important milestones,” said Baxter. “When students are acknowledged for completing their first credential, it affirms their success and inspires them to keep moving forward—whether that’s further study, joining the workforce, or continuing their education at Lakehead.”

She added, “When we spoke with students in the program, they shared how proud they were to work toward convocation and be celebrated by their community. It’s more than a credential—it’s a step forward, and a recognition of everything they’ve overcome to get here.”

Malakai Mawageesick, a recent Indigenous Transition Year Program graduate, shared what the credential means to him. “With education being such a primary focus within today's social climate, it isn't always accessible. The Indigenous Transition Year Program recognizes Indigenous students' potential and nurtures excellence and identity.” 

“Indigenous students already face unique challenges, systemic barriers, and stigma in daily life. ITYP is more than a pathway to post-secondary—it is a support system, a community that tends to the fire held within Indigenous students. Completing the Indigenous Transition Year Program isn't just a personal achievement but a step of collective progress,” added Mawageesick.

Lakehead University has offered Indigenous access programming since the 1990s, creating alternative opportunities for Indigenous learners who may not meet conventional entrance requirements. The new credential builds on this legacy by formally recognizing and celebrating student achievement at a pivotal point in their academic journey.

At convocation, Lakehead Indigenous graduates wear a yellow honour cord symbolizing pride, success, and the strength of Indigenous knowledge and culture. This year marks the first time Indigenous Access Program graduates will receive the newly formalized credential as they cross the stage.

Lakehead will honour all graduates during its Thunder Bay convocation ceremonies on May 29 and 30 at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium.

For more information about Lakehead University’s Indigenous Access Programs, visit lakeheadu.ca/indigenous. For details about convocation, visit lakeheadu.ca/convocation.

Orillia, Ont. - Lakehead University will celebrate the achievements of 730 graduates at its Orillia campus convocation ceremony on June 5, 2025.

“Crossing the convocation stage signifies not just the conclusion of a chapter—it represents a transformation,” stated President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Gillian Siddall. “During their time at Lakehead, our graduates have developed their knowledge, confidence, and resilience. The entire university community is honoured to celebrate their achievements and to be a part of their journey. Congratulations to the class of 2025!”

This year’s ceremony will also recognize the leadership, contributions, and community impact of four local residents with the conferral of one honorary degree and three distinguished awards: Ligaya Byrch will receive this year’s honorary degree, Chief Ted Williams will be awarded the title of Fellow of the University, and Barbara Jones and Anne Hilliard will be presented with this year’s Civitas Award.

“The Lakehead community is excited to celebrate the incredible work and local contributions of this year’s honourees,” said Dr. Siddall. “This year’s recipients have all had a tremendous impact on Lakehead Orillia, our city, and our region in various ways. I’m pleased that we’re celebrating their commitment and outstanding leadership in a way that is not only meaningful but establishes their lasting legacy with Lakehead University.”

Ligaya Byrch
Doctor of Humane Letters
With a track record of service and success in supporting LGBTQ+ communities across Ontario, Ligaya Byrch started her work as a volunteer in the community of Windsor and on campus at the University of Windsor. This activism grew in popularity and recognition as she created her award-winning spoken-word show, LesBiQ Airwaves on CJAM Radio. She was involved in developing the needs assessment and collection of information required to write a proposal, which led to the funding of primary health care for transgender individuals living in Simcoe Muskoka. Located in Orillia, this clinic serves over 3,000 people and is the only one of its kind between Toronto and Sudbury. Ligaya’s work has spanned the fields of healthcare, non-profit community health, public health, family health teams, community health centres, and hospitals.

Chief Ted Williams
Fellow of the University
Chief Ted Williams is a proud member of the Chippewas of Rama First Nation and a respected leader and entrepreneur with over 40 years of service to his community. Known both for his iconic chainsaw bear carvings and his role as the current Chief of Rama First Nation, he was instrumental in the successful development of Casino Rama—a $200 million project completed in just 18 months. His diverse background includes work as a real estate agent, membership on the Ontario Parole Board, and over 13 years as a consultant and speaker specializing in leadership, strategic planning, and personal development. Above all, Chief Ted takes the greatest pride in his family: his wife of 46 years and their two accomplished children.

Anne Hilliard and Barbara Jones
Civitas Award
Anne Hilliard and Barb Jones are both prominent members of the vibrant seniors' community in Orillia, and keen advocates of lifelong learning. In 2018, they were instrumental to establishing Third Age Learning Lakehead (TALL), a program that has now hosted more than 100 lectures in the Orillia community, providing seniors with opportunities to learn and connect. The first series, "The 60s: The decade that changed the world?" was followed by others, including those addressing climate change, fake news, aging in place, music, and - most recently - artificial intelligence. Both Anne and Barb retired from exceptional careers in 

education, and their passion for lifelong learning, Lakehead, and the community is incredible.

More information on Convocation 2025 ceremonies can be found at lakeheadu.ca/convocation.

An initiative supported by Lakehead’s Wellness Strategy and Sustainability Plan, the Office of Sustainability invites you to participate in the TBay On the Move Active Commute Challenge (tbayonthemove.ca) this June. Not only will you have the chance to win fantastic prizes, but you'll also contribute to a healthier environment and community.

The Active Commute Challenge is a friendly, city-wide competition that encourages daily commuters to choose sustainable modes of transportation for the benefit of their health and the environment.

For the month of June, hundreds of employees across Thunder Bay will swap their vehicle and cycle, walk, run, bus, carpool, rollerblade, or telecommute! Any non-motorized form of transportation, such as rollerblading, skateboarding, unicycling, or canoeing, is also considered a healthy and sustainable commute.

Registration is open--when registering please select or enter Lakehead University as your workplace.

Any employee who logs at least one commute where they did not drive alone will be entered to win a $50 gift certificate to various local businesses. Winners with the most kilometres travelled will receive a $100 gift card. Anyone who registers prior to June 1st and logs an active commute during the first week of the challenge will be entered into a draw to win 1 of 5 early bird prizes including a bike tune-up or a $100 gift card from local bike shop.

In 2019 we participated in the Commuter Challenge and we had 8 per cent of workplace employees participate and we won in our employee category, but we lost first place status to the TBRHSC last year. TBay on the Move Active Commute Challenge is a new but similar program. Let’s increase our employee participation to 10 per cent! Register today and make us the institution with the highest participation again.

See tbayonthemove.ca for more challenge details and to register.

Still have questions? Visit our information booth, grab a snack or beverage, and register in person June 2, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in The Agora.

Lakehead Orillia: Want to participate? You can do so through a different, but similar challenge, Commuter Challenge (https://commuter.commuterchallenge.ca/register/individual).

The 2025 issue of our annual Shared Voices magazine is now available online and in print. The theme of this year's magazine is capacity building through education and knowledge-sharing. Shared Voices consists of articles from our member institutions, Thematic Networks, partners, friends, and the broader UArctic community. Inside, you'll find stories about revitalizing Indigenous languages, broadening participation in polar sciences through informal STEM education, developing engineering education in Greenland, building an internship program with focus on permafrost, and many others.

Read it online as individual articles, or download a PDF at: https://www.uarctic.org/about-us/shared-voices-magazine/shared-voices-2025/.

Orillia, ON (May 23, 2025) – In a historic announcement with the potential to profoundly advance access to quality healthcare and education in the community, Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital (OSMH) and Lakehead University are excited to announce that an agreement has been formed to explore the construction of a new hospital on the university’s campus located on University Avenue in Orillia.

A parcel of land on the south side of Lakehead’s Orillia campus has been identified as the preferred site to build the new hospital, pending provincial government approvals and the exploration and negotiation process between the organizations.

“We are thrilled that Lakehead University could be the future home to Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital,” said Carmine Stumpo, President and CEO of OSMH.

“There’s a dynamic and powerful synergy between hospitals and universities that we’ve fully embraced in Orillia since the University first opened in 2006.  Becoming next door neighbours would create infinite possibilities to advance those partnerships and progress for decades to come.”

“This is a major milestone on our journey in planning for a new hospital and we couldn’t have a better partner than Lakehead University.  Not only does the location make great sense in terms of patient accessibility, it also allows our organizations to deepen our relationship even further for the benefit of the communities we serve,” said Lawre Pietras, Chair of the OSMH Board of Directors.

The Hospital is now working with the University to determine how the land could be developed to house the new hospital.

“Lakehead University is committed to working with the communities we serve to help shape a brighter future through strengthened services and opportunities that open doors for students and future generations to thrive,” said Dr. Gillian Siddall, President and Vice-Chancellor of Lakehead University.

“The City of Orillia is growing and critical services like healthcare and education need to expand to meet people’s needs. Through Lakehead and OSMH coming together in partnership, we can achieve more together as we work with our provincial and municipal partners to build this great community. Lakehead is excited to imagine the possibilities ahead,” added Dr. Siddall.

Lakehead University already maintains a very strong relationship with OSMH and this new development will only strengthen these partnerships and collaborations in ways that benefit communities beyond our campus borders, explained Dr. Linda Rodenburg, Principal of Lakehead’s Orillia Campus.

In 2023, OSMH and Lakehead signed an MOU formalizing their longstanding partnership and creating space to engage in discussions around academic and non-academic program development, scholarly and health-related projects and research, and collaborative long-term planning, such as opportunities for sharing of human and capital resources.

“Our partnership with the hospital has the potential to transform healthcare delivery and create new opportunities for research, co-op, and work-integrated learning, and healthcare-related program development,” said Dr. Rodenburg. “Together, we have the opportunity to change the way we deliver healthcare and education in Orillia and across the region.”

“Identifying Lakehead University as the preferred site for the new Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital is an exciting and significant step forward,” said Hon. Jill Dunlop, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response of Ontario; MPP, Simcoe North.

“As the community continues to experience unprecedented growth, moving this project and partnership forward will continue to be a top priority to support the future healthcare needs of Orillia and surrounding communities.”

Selection Process

The process to identify and select a preferred site was thorough and comprehensive, starting in 2019 with the completion of a community-wide Criteria Survey to determine the most important factors to consider when assessing potential locations. Emergency Services Access, Vehicular Access and Parking were the top 3 criteria identified by the more than 1,100 respondents.

In 2023, OSMH initiated an Expression of Interest (EOI), an open invitation to any Orillia landowner with available property that met the basic size and servicing requirements to submit their property for consideration.

An independent Site Selection Task Force with broad community representation was then formed that reviewed technical site evaluations of each viable property conducted by Stantec Architecture Inc.  Upon satisfaction of the Task Force and OSMH Future Hospital Committee, the Hospital’s Board of Directors and University’s Board of Governors subsequently endorsed the proposal which led to the ratification of a Letter of Intent between the Hospital and University to explore the possibility of building a new hospital at the site.

For more information and to stay up to date on the Hospitals’ redevelopment projects, visit the Future Hospital page on our website, www.osmh.on.ca

Thunder Bay, Ont. - Lakehead University will celebrate the achievements of 1,999 graduates at its Thunder Bay campus convocation ceremonies on May 29 and 30, 2025.

“Crossing the convocation stage signifies not just the conclusion of a chapter—it represents a transformation,” stated President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Gillian Siddall. “During their time at Lakehead, our graduates have developed their knowledge, confidence, and resilience. The entire university community is honoured to celebrate their achievements and to be a part of their journey. Congratulations to the class of 2025!”

In addition to celebrating the graduating class of 2025, Lakehead will recognize three outstanding individuals with honorary degrees and a retired long-serving faculty member with the title of Fellow of the University, honouring their leadership, creativity, and contributions to their fields and communities.

Jean-Paul Gladu, Margaret Kenequanash, and Jennifer Podemski will each be conferred an honorary degree, and Dr. Nancy Luckai and Kevin G. Cleghorn will be named Fellows of the University.

“The Lakehead community is excited to celebrate the incredible work and insights of this year’s honorary degree recipients,” said Dr. Siddall. “Each of them has made meaningful contributions to Indigenous empowerment, economic development, and the arts. Their inspiring voices will surely motivate our graduates as they embark on their journeys into the future.”

2025 Thunder Bay Honorary Degree and Fellow Recipients:

Jean Paul Gladu
Doctor of Commerce

Jean Paul (JP) Gladu is the Principal of Mokwateh and a leader in Indigenous business and sustainable development. With nearly 35 years of experience in the natural resource sector, JP has worked across Canada and internationally with Indigenous communities, industry, and governments to advance economic reconciliation.

He served as President and CEO of the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business for eight years and has held leadership roles with organizations including Suncor, the Institute of Corporate Directors, and BHP’s Forum for Corporate Responsibility. JP holds a forestry diploma from Sault College, a degree in forestry from Northern Arizona University, and an Executive MBA from Queen’s University. He is a senior fellow with the Macdonald-Laurier Institute and a 2024 Public Policy Forum Honouree.

The degree of Doctor of Commerce will be conferred on Thursday, May 29 at the 9 a.m. ceremony at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium. 

Margaret Kenequanash
Doctor of Humane Letters

Margaret Kenequanash is CEO of Wataynikaneyap Power and a visionary leader in First Nations infrastructure and governance. A member of North Caribou Lake First Nation, she was elected her community’s first female Chief in 1996 and has spent more than 25 years in senior leadership roles, including as Executive Director of the Shibogama First Nations Council.

At Wataynikaneyap Power, Margaret led the Indigenous-owned project that connected 17 remote First Nations to Ontario’s power grid, ending their dependence on diesel and improving quality of life through clean, reliable energy. She is widely respected across First Nations and governmental sectors for her tireless advocacy and commitment to Indigenous-led development.

The degree of Doctor of Humane Letters will be conferred on Thursday, May 29 at the 2 p.m. ceremony at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium. 

Jennifer Podemski
Doctor of Fine Arts

Jennifer Podemski is an award-winning actor, writer, director, and producer whose work has reshaped Indigenous representation in Canadian film and television. Of Anishinaabe and Ashkenazi heritage, Jennifer co-founded Big Soul Productions and later launched Redcloud Studios Inc., producing groundbreaking content that centers Indigenous voices.

Her creative work includes the acclaimed series Little Bird and The Other Side and performances in Degrassi, Blackstone, Empire of Dirt, and Cardinal. In 2020, she founded The Shine Network Institute, a nonprofit that supports Indigenous women in the screen and media industries. Jennifer continues to be a force for storytelling, representation, and mentorship in Canadian arts and culture.

The degree of Doctor of Fine Arts will be conferred on Friday, May 30 at the 9 a.m. ceremony at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium. 

Dr. Nancy Luckai
Fellow of the University

Dr. Nancy Luckai is Professor Emerita in the Faculty of Natural Resources Management and a proud Lakehead alumna, having earned undergraduate and master’s degrees in forestry before completing a PhD from the University of Guelph. Her expertise in forest ecology and soils led to the creation of the FoReST Lab, a nationally accredited facility that supported research, industry, and community partners for over 20 years. Her work has earned her several honours, including Lakehead’s Innovation Award and the Woman of Influence (Public Sector) Award from the Northwestern Ontario Businesswomen’s Association.

A dedicated volunteer, Dr. Luckai has served on the boards of the Nanabijou Childcare Centre, the National Training and Development Centre, and Lakehead’s Alumni Association, where she was named Director Emerita. She also served as Deputy Provost and continues contributing to forestry education as a Canadian Forestry Accreditation Board reviewer.

The title of Fellow of the University will be bestowed on Friday, May 30 at the 9 a.m. ceremony at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium.

Kevin G. Cleghorn
Fellow of the University

Kevin Cleghorn is a Thunder Bay-based lawyer with a distinguished career in family law, legal education, and public service. A graduate of the University of Manitoba (LLB, BA) and Osgoode Hall (LLM), he is a certified specialist in family law, a family mediator accredited by the Ontario Association for Family Mediation, and a member of the Canadian Academy of Distinguished Neutrals. He has served as a deputy judge in the Northwest Region Small Claims Court since 1999.

Kevin is a past president of the Thunder Bay Law Association and the United Way of Thunder Bay, and a former Chair of Lakehead University’s Board of Governors. He has taught at Lakehead since 1994, was named an external adjunct professor in 2008, and received the Contribution to Teaching Award in 2007. In 2025, he was awarded the James L. Murray Memorial Award for professionalism and civility.

Although elected by the Board as a 2025 Fellow, Kevin will be formally recognized on stage at Lakehead’s 2026 Convocation.

For more information, visit lakeheadu.ca/convocation.

A catastrophic ice storm descended upon central Ontario during the final week of classes at Lakehead—forcing the City of Orillia, the County of Simcoe, and surrounding municipalities to declare a state of emergency. What happened next was a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of Lakehead students, faculty, and staff.

"One morning, I drove past closed roads covered with trees and power lines looking for gas for my home generator," Dr. Chris Glover says. "The devastation was shocking, and so was the eerie quietness. It was like a scene from an apocalyptic show like The Walking Dead." Video Courtesy of Shinomedia

"Everything was fine on March 28 and then things started to fall apart," says Lakehead Orillia Principal Dr. Linda Rodenburg. "I activated our emergency response group as soon as I realized that it would present a serious academic challenge as well as a major weather event. Our approach was to communicate as much as possible and recognize that people were experiencing diverse situations."

Freezing rain rapidly encrusted trees with ice, causing them to crack and fall on power lines. Electricity was cut to the Orillia campus, homes, schools, and businesses across the region—leaving people without heat, power, and water.

"Our priority was keeping students safe, secure, and fed," Dr. Chris Glover says. Orillia Security Services manager T-Bird Prisciak was one of many who stepped up, even finding time to bring a laptop and Tim Horton's coffee and doughnuts to a faculty member trapped in their home by a downed power line in their yard. Photo Credit: Shinomedia

"There were a lot of hardships at once," Dr. Rodenburg says, whose own home lost power. "Damage to property and cars, and food going bad at a time of high grocery costs. The sewage plant also caught fire."

Despite the unfolding crisis, Dr. Rodenburg says that "people immediately came together to help each other. I knew that our community would be amazing, and they were."

"There was a chat group where people offered assistance and things like hot showers," adds Orillia Associate Vice-President Dr. Chris Glover. "Faculty and staff were doing wellness checks to see if people were okay, and LUSU students kept the campus food bank open."

Dr. Glover's greatest concern was for students in residence, even though he was contending with his house being flooded.

"How do we feed students when we can't use the kitchen to cook hot meals?" he says. "The campus had generators that kept refrigerators and freezers running, but not generators to operate the hood fans necessary for cooking on our gas stoves."

His worry was soon eased by Lakehead's food-services provider, who quickly began serving cold breakfasts and lunches. "Dana Hospitality and our cafeteria staff went above and beyond," Dr. Rodenburg says.

And without Lakehead's stellar security and residence life teams, the situation would have been much worse.

"Security immediately rushed to Home Depot and bought charging cords and devices for their office in Simcoe Hall, which has a back-up power system. The staff on campus worked together to ensure that students could power their electronic and medical devices and stay in touch with loved ones," Dr. Glover says.

"I want to thank our Thunder Bay team members who checked in with the Orillia team, offered support, and helped with their workloads," Dr. Rodenburg says. Photo Credit: Shinomedia

Fortunately, power was restored to campus after 32 hours, turning it into a haven where faculty, staff, and their families could have a meal and warm up. "The morning the power came back on at my house, I baked 50 cookies and handed them out to people on campus, and I got 50 different stories about the storm," Dr. Rodenburg says.

The campus was a stark contrast to the city and region itself, much of which remained without power for 13 days. "As Simcoe County continues to clean up after the storm," Dr. Rodenburg says, "I want to thank everyone for responding with grace, patience, and gratitude." Dr. Glover is in total agreement. "I'm incredibly thankful to be part of the Lakehead Orillia community."

The video and photos in this story were taken by Shinowa Okumura, a fourth-year Honours Bachelor of Arts and Science in Media Studies student who is graduating this June.

Meet the Latest King Charles III Coronation Medal Recipients

Two more Lakehead researchers, and one of their partners, have been honoured for their outstanding community service with a prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal.

Dr. Angela Hovey

Dr. Hovey—an associate professor and graduate coordinator of Lakehead's School of Social Work in Orillia—was awarded and presented the medal by Ontario Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont during a ceremony at Queen's Park in Toronto on May 6. She was chosen for her important work chairing the Hilary M. Weston Scholarship Selection Committee for six years.

Dr. Hovey (left) accepts her King Charles III Coronation Medal and certificate from Lieutenant Governor Edith Dumont (right). Dr. Hovey and her research team also won Lakehead's 2019 Community-Engaged Research Award for their work reducing women's barriers to accessing shelter services. In 2021, she received the student-nominated Contributions to Teaching Award.

The Hilary M. Weston Scholarship commemorates Ontario's 26th lieutenant governor and is awarded annually to two Ontario graduate social work students by an appointed committee of social work scholars.

"The scholarship program represents Hilary Weston's legacy as lieutenant governor who, during her term, became passionate about helping address homelessness and mental health issues," Dr. Hovey says.

As committee chair, Dr. Hovey brought leadership and a strong focus on community-based research, drawing upon her many years of clinical practice experience in the areas of violence, trauma, and substance abuse in federal and provincial prisons, community agencies, and private-practice settings.

"To award this scholarship to students whose research was advancing social work practice with vulnerable populations was inspiring and exciting," Dr. Hovey says, "especially since it's the only dedicated graduate social work scholarship for students conducting mental health research. As a professor, I want to nurture highly skilled social workers who can contribute to this work in a positive way."

For Dr. Hovey, the medal symbolizes her commitment to the social work profession and her efforts to promote student-led scholarship.

Dr. Elaine Wiersma and Bill Heibein

Dr. Wiersma and her collaborator Bill Heibein were jointly presented with their medals by Thunder Bay-Atikokan MPP Kevin Holland (who also nominated them) in an April 22 ceremony at Thunder Bay's Whitewater Golf Club for their extraordinary work supporting people with dementia.

“Supporting people with dementia and their care partners and fighting the stigma I see them experiencing drives my work,” says Dr. Elaine Wiersma (right). “I’ve known people who’ve declined rapidly after a diagnosis because they buy into dementia stigma,” adds her community partner Bill Heibein (left).

Dr. Wiersma is an associate health sciences professor, a researcher with Lakehead's Centre for Education and Research on Aging & Health (CERAH), and the director of the Dementia Café, which gives people with dementia and their care partners the opportunity to socialize and build connections. In addition, she helped establish the North West Dementia Working Group, a grassroots advocacy organization run by people with dementia and their care partners.

"Our work at Lakehead University is done together with the community of those impacted by dementia," Dr. Wiersma says. "It's a collective endeavour."

One of her favourite community partners is 84-year-old Bill Heibein, who was a chartered accountant and the owner of a horse farm when he was diagnosed with dementia. "My doctors gave me three to five years before I would be unable to function properly and would have to go into a home," Bill says. "That was 26 years ago and I'm still living on my farm."

"Bill is inspirational," Dr. Wiersma says. "He's a founding member of the North West Dementia Working Group and the Dementia Café. He also serves coffee and tea and plays in his Bottom of the Barrel band at the Café. Sharing this award with him is a real honour."

"Receiving the medal with Elaine made it very special to me," Bill agrees. "This award affirms that people with dementia can be vital community members. So many people believe the stigma about dementia and give up when they're diagnosed, but our initiatives give people hope by showing them what they're capable of. I tell everyone that being with others and being outdoors are the most important things you can do when you have dementia."