On a dusty road in Yemen in 2018, Houthi soldiers pulled Amy Leah Potter's car over at gunpoint. The country was engulfed in civil war, and the government had fallen under the control of the Houthis, a military group many consider to be a terrorist organization.

Amy Leah, a nurse, health-care advocate, and Lakehead alum, had just arrived in the Middle East with the humanitarian non-profit Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders. After an hour and a half of negotiating, MSF secured Amy Leah's release after reassuring the Houthis that she was there as part of an agreement with them to open an emergency room, two operating rooms, and patient care wards.

 Amy Leah (right) in Yemen with an MSF colleague. This distinguished alum has a Bachelor of Administration (1998), a BA in Political Studies (2000), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (2003), and an RBA in Psychology (2003) from Lakehead.

"We treated anyone who was injured in the conflict—women, men, and children," she explains. The fear Amy Leah felt that day dogged her throughout her two assignments in Yemen. "The conflict was so close that bullets were hitting the safehouse and medical facility, and the walls were shaking because of the shelling."

The journey from Thunder Bay, where Amy Leah grew up, to working around the world has been a winding one.

Before completing her nursing degree in 2003, Amy Leah earned business administration, political studies, and psychology degrees at Lakehead. "I couldn't make up my mind about what I wanted to do—my brothers still tease me about it. I ultimately gravitated to nursing because I felt that if I could help others, I should."

Since making that fateful decision, she's been a nurse in Canada, the United States, Guatemala, the United Arab Emirates, Tanzania, Sierra Leone, Sudan, and Gaza as well as Yemen.

Her first overseas job was in 2007 while on a break from a full-time nursing job at a large Seattle hospital and a part-time job as an organ donation coordinator.

She went to mountain villages throughout Guatemala with Servant Ministries to provide basic health care and to screen people for common illnesses. "It was such a rewarding experience that it sparked my vocation for global health."

Several sojourns to Guatemala were followed by a stint as a clinical mentor at Tanzania's national hospital and three years at an opulent new hospital in Abu Dhabi.

A family seeks health care in Guatemala. “People walked for miles to get to our clinics,” Amy Leah says. To strengthen her nursing abilities, she earned a Master of Global Health from the University of Manchester and a Diploma in Tropical Nursing from the University of London.

"I was a nurse and an assistant nursing manager in Abu Dhabi, where I had to learn the correct protocol to deal with royalty who were patients there," Amy Leah says. She left Abu Dhabi in 2017 for her first MSF assignment—a rotation in Sierra Leone doing pediatric care.

"It was a huge shock to go from Abu Dhabi, where people were drinking coffee with gold flakes sprinkled on top, to a place where children were dying because there weren't enough beds and equipment to treat the rampant malnutrition and disease. All the books don't prepare you for that, but the staff from Sierra Leone taught me everything, and I made a lot of great friends."

While spending a month at a makeshift MSF clinic in southern Gaza, Amy Leah captured this photo of a bomb explosion.

In 2024, she went to Gaza, where she found overwhelmed hospitals and ambulances dumping people on the floor. "There was also constant bombing—one mental health worker lost seven family members."

Amy Leah's career recently took a new turn. She's become a policy and advocacy senior specialist with Operation Smile. At this nonprofit, which is based in Virginia where Amy Leah now lives, she campaigns for better access to essential surgeries for people around the globe.

"It took me years to realize that you're not going to make the difference that you hope," she says, "but the little victories make it worth it."

The English Language Center is looking for warm, open-hearted individuals and families to host international students throughout the year.

As a homestay host, you’ll offer more than just a place to stay—you’ll provide a sense of belonging and a cultural bridge. Hosts are invited to an info session to get started and receive a monthly contribution to help with household expenses.

Open your door to the world—apply today. If you're interested in becoming a Homestay Host, please contact Shania Yu at slc.elc@lakeheadu.ca for more details and how to apply.

"Defensor, o Estratega Contra a Resignação” ("Defensor, the Strategist against the Status Quo”), a book by Lakehead graduate Debora Cruz (HBASc'21, MA'23), will be released in July 2025 by Chiado Books.

The book was written in the form of a biographical interview with Defensor Oliveira Moura, the Defender of Viana com Castelo.

Oliveira Moura was the first politician, since the end of the dictatorship in Portugal (1974), who won the elections in Viana do Castelo as an independent running with the support of the center-left of the political spectrum.

After accomplishing his dream of becoming a doctor in his home town he adopted social medicine as a tool to improve the well being of its people and decided to run for mayor, winning the local elections for 4 consecutive terms and transforming the city during 16 years.

In 2025, celebrating his 80th birthday he describes his life fighting against the status quo, recalling with the author some of the battles they both lived and witnessed from different perspectives: the politician and the journalist. Family, friends, and adversaries provided contributions with their testimonies as well.

Toronto, Ont. – Dr. Adrienne Galway, President and CEO of the Ontario Council on Articulation and Transfer (ONCAT), announced funding to support projects that help students access postsecondary opportunities across Ontario’s public colleges, universities, and Indigenous Institutes. From April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025, ONCAT awarded $2.04 million in funding for 29 institutional projects.

“ONCAT’s funding for institutional projects will reduce barriers and smooth transitions for learners,” said Dr. Galway. “We prioritize innovative initiatives with the potential to scale or be adopted across institutions, that help learners successfully navigate their academic journey and receive appropriate recognition for previous academic and work experience. Our mission is to ensure that learners complete their postsecondary credentials and transition successfully into the workforce."

“Our province’s postsecondary education programs are building Ontario’s workforce of today and tomorrow,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “Our government is proud to support ONCAT and their critical efforts to reduce barriers for students looking to get the training they need to begin successful careers that meet our province’s labour market needs.”

“Lakehead University thanks ONCAT for supporting these three impactful projects that will help students access and navigate postsecondary opportunities,” said Dr. Michel S. Beaulieu, Lakehead’s Associate Vice-Provost (Academic). “Through collaboration with other post-secondary and education partners, these projects strengthen Lakehead’s ongoing commitment to providing accessible, inclusive learning opportunities for Indigenous learners and serving members and veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces.”

Creating Engineering Pathways for Military-connected Learners ($95,000)
Lead institution: Lakehead University
Partner organization: Georgian College
Project summary: Led by Dr. Janusz Kozinski, Faculty of Engineering, this project will develop specialized pathways for military-connected learners to enroll in accredited Bachelor of Engineering programs. By recognizing the skills and experiences from the Canadian Armed Forces, the project will expand access to programs that support in-demand labour market sectors.

Expanding Pathways for Education-related Programs ($60,000)
Lead institution: Lakehead University
Partner organizations: Confederation College, Georgian College
Project summary: Led by Kaylin Kainulainen and Dr. Tanya Kaefer from the Faculty of Education and Dr. Michel S. Beaulieu this project expands pathway opportunities for Education-related diploma and degree programs. By supporting learners from Central and Northern Ontario with pathways into the Keewatinase Indigenous Teacher Education program, the project improves access to postsecondary education and in-demand careers.

Actualizing Indigenous Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition ($100,000)
Partner organizations: Six Nations Polytechnic, Canadore College, Kiikenomaga Kikenjigewen Employment & Training Services
Project summary: Led by Dr. Anita Vaillancourt, School of Social Work, and with participation also from the Office of Indigenous Initiatives, Department of Indigenous Learning, and the Faculty of Education, this project facilitates the co-creation of Indigenous Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition knowledge and strategies. The project will support the multi-institutional development of policies and practices that promote culturally relevant postsecondary education for Indigenous learners.

For a complete overview of 2024-25 ONCAT-funded institutional projects, visit oncat.ca.

Three students are sending a huge thank you to the Municipal Retirees Organization Ontario (MROO). Each of them received MROO scholarships during the 2024-25 academic year, helping them pursue their postsecondary dreams in professions that will strengthen their communities. Congratulations!

Kay-Lynn (KC) Woilford

Honours Bachelor of Social Work, 2024
Master of Social Work Student (Gerontology)

"Lakehead's Centre for Education and Research on Aging and Health and my social work professors have been very supportive and encouraging."

Master of Social Work student Kay-Lynn (KC) Woilford is balancing her academic studies with a full-time job at a Thunder Bay long-term care home. "I'm a mom and registered social worker who's worked with older adults for over 15 years," KC says.

KC received an MROO Targeted Scholarship, which is awarded to Ontario graduate students doing research or pursuing a career that will positively affect the lives of older adults. She says she is specializing in gerontology because, "I really enjoy getting to know older adults, learning their stories, and making health care better." When KC isn't studying or working, she's an active community volunteer. Her master's project investigates the disenfranchised grief that PSWs grapple with when their patients in long-term care facilities die. "I'm trying to understand how we can support PSWs as staff members who support everybody else.

Receiving an MROO Scholarship feels like a validation of my gerontology work," KC says. "It's allowed me to take some time away from work, focus on my studies, and look at my research with fresh eyes."

Cameron Henny

Honours Bachelor of Science Student
Education Student (Math and General Science)

"I've had a really positive experience at Lakehead," Cameron says. "The profs have been great, and I've appreciated the small class sizes in my second year."

Mathematics and education student Cameron Henny has just finished his second year at Lakehead and is well along the path to becoming a mathematics teacher. "I'm good at math, but I've always had to study and put in the work, so I can relate to students who are struggling or need a bit of assistance," says Cameron, who's interested in teaching grade 7-12 students when he graduates. "Fortunately, I've had good role models who've made math fun—I want to be like them and make math accessible to everybody."

It was his work as a lifeguard and swim instructor at a local pool that made Cameron realize that he enjoys working with children of all ages. Now, he's strengthening his teaching skills as a mentor with Let's Talk Science—an outreach program for elementary students that encourages interest in the STEM disciplines.

"My MROO Scholarship is reducing my financial stress by helping me pay for tuition, books, and lab equipment," Cameron says. "Thank you, MROO! I'm grateful to be one of the lucky recipients."

Moira Menard

Bachelor of Science in Nursing Student

"Lakehead's nursing program is a close and diverse community where you can always talk to your instructors," Moira says.

Second-year nursing student Moira Menard has known since childhood that her heart lies in health care. "My older sister, who is an ER nurse and Lakehead alum, inspired me to go into this field. She would always share stories at the dinner table about her nursing studies."

Since high school, Moira has found ways to express support and care for her fellow community members. She volunteers with Our Kids Count, the Thunder Bay Regional Health Science Centre's Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP), and the Lakehead University Nursing Association. She's also participated in the Northern Ontario School of Medicine's Camp Med and Compass North.

"After I graduate, I want to give back to the community that's served me so well and be someone people can rely on," she says.

"It's amazing to be recognized with an MROO Scholarship," Moira adds. "It means that I'll be able to accomplish my goal of being part of a health-care team. The scholarship allowed me to purchase scrubs, a stethoscope, a blood pressure cuff, and a lab kit."

The Lakehead University Student Union (LUSU) executive team was at the Orillia Campus on June 4 to announce a $400,000 commitment to Orillia Campus Expansion. Members of the LUSU leadership team including (from left to right) Donkenny Ikeh, VP Advocacy; Dhanvi Gahlawat, VP Orillia; Farhan Yousaf, Executive Director; Brandon Rhéal Amyot, Governance and Advocacy Officer; Aliss Chavarri, President; and Felix Ikokwu, VP Operations, presented Dr. Gillian Siddall, Lakehead's President and Vice-Chancellor with the gift. 

Orillia, Ont. – An inspiring student leadership gift from the Lakehead University Student Union (LUSU) will unlock the next phase in Lakehead University’s Orillia Campus expansion project.

Announced Wednesday, the $400,000 gift reflects the student union’s commitment to enhancing the student experience and fostering a thriving Lakehead Orillia campus community.

“We’re proud to play a meaningful role in shaping a space where current and future students can learn, connect, and belong,” said Aliss Chavarri, President of the Lakehead University Student Union, during the announcement. “This is more than just a financial commitment - it’s an investment in the future of Lakehead Orillia and the surrounding region.”

Wednesday’s historic commitment–the largest one-time gift from LUSU to the university–will support the next phase of planning for a new building on the Orillia Campus.

With a growth plan of 10 new programs and 3,500 learners by 2032, the university is committed to expanding the Orillia Campus to support a growing student body and academic community, increasing pathways and programming for local students to pursue well-paying careers that will set them up for a bright future in the communities they call home.

“Together, Lakehead University and LUSU are committing to Lakehead Orillia students–present and future,” explained Dr. Gillian Siddall, President and Vice-Chancellor. “The strong, collaborative spirit and shared vision of Lakehead in Simcoe County is opening the door to an exciting future filled with opportunity and growth – for our university, our students, and our region.”

The planned academic building will address long-standing needs for more accessible, functional, and student-centered spaces, including an Indigenous student centre, instructional spaces, a centralized student services hub, and a new home for LUSU with space for clubs, activities, and a resource centre to address food insecurity.

With students at the heart of their mission, LUSU is ensuring they will have the best on-campus experience through academic and social programming and opportunities, explained former VP-Orillia and LUSU’s governance and advocacy officer Brandon Rhéal Amyot.

“Student experience encompasses all aspects of life at university, from academics to support services to campus life and extracurricular activities,” they explained. “Students in Orillia have long wanted these exceptional experiences, and today we are giving them that and more! Today’s gift wouldn’t be possible without the advocacy and support of our past and present union student leadership and students.”

Earlier this year, the university celebrated a $15 million commitment from the County of Simcoe to Lakehead’s Orillia Campus expansion project. Today’s gift from LUSU brings the total raised to just over $15.4 million.

“Our partners believe in our mission to make exceptional education accessible, close to home,” said Dr. Siddall. “This is a powerful reminder of how our work continues to inspire those around us and reinforces our role as a hub of innovation, education, and social impact in the region.”

Lakehead’s case for expansion is rooted in deep relationships throughout the region and confirmed by data that tells an inspiring story about community transformation. Since Lakehead arrived in 2006, there has been a 147% increase in university degree enrolment throughout the region – contributing to strengthening the economy, building up the local workforce and empowering people to be the architects of their lives.

An estimated 93% of Lakehead’s domestic student population faces barriers to attending university, such as financial need or being the first generation in a family to pursue post-secondary education. Despite these barriers, and because of the exceptional level of support that Lakehead students receive, including hands-on experiential learning, Lakehead has the second-highest graduation rate among Ontario’s primarily undergraduate universities, according to the Maclean’s magazine 2025 annual university rankings.

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).