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PAGE 8 In This Issue Over 250 registrants from across Canada, , U TODAY ALGOMA Mexico and the United States attended the Fifth Annual Building Reconciliation Forum held Staying Connected: Message from the Alumni Council Chair 4 at Algoma University. Moving Forward During Unprecedented Times: The President’s message 5 Algoma U Becomes a Family Affair 6 Truth and Reconciliation: Algoma U committed to moving forward 8 Shifting Our Perspective 11 Showcase a Huge Success 12 Sault Ste. Marie Campus Master Plan Update 13 The New School of Life Sciences & the Environment: 14 The next evolution of programming at Algoma U Environmental Science Program Offers Opportunities to Algoma U Student 16 Dr. Jenna Congdon: Pursuing her love of science 17 Experiential Learning at Algoma U Bridges the Skills Gap 18 Algoma U Celebrates Graduating Students 20 Algoma U’s Brampton Campus Applauds Graduate Achievements 22 Graduate Success in the North 23 Algoma U Grads Powering the Sault’s Economic Development 24 Algoma U Community Promotes Diversity Beyond Campus 26 Drs. Payandeh Create a Lasting Tribute 28 Prince Women’s Institute & Prince Township Pay it Forward 29 2019 John R. Rhodes Dinner Honours McDougall Family and Scholarship Recipient 30 Annual Homecoming Festivities Reconnect our Growing Alumni Family 32 University Partners with Colleges on 2+2 Agreements 34 Partnering to Make Accessible in Remote Northern Communities 35 A Member of the Algoma U Family Retires After Decades of Service 36 Algoma University Appoints Mario Turco as Second Chancellor in School 37 Alumnus Creates New Bursary to Help Black Students 38 Tremendous Response to Algoma University Student Emergency Fund 40 Exciting Varsity News 41 Looking Back at Our Events 42

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS PHOTOS CONTRIBUTING For information about this Algoma University Alumni Joanne Nanne, Kenneth Armstrong WRITERS publication, please contact: Magazine is printed in Canada. Canada Post Publications Marketing and Communications Peter Howard Marc Capancioni Algoma University Algoma U Today is published Mail Agreement Coordinator Meaghan Kent Jessica Ferlaino c/o Communications Department by the University for the no. 40005450 [email protected] Megan Parlowe Brian Leahy 1520 Queen Street East University’s alumni, faculty, staff Janie Pepin Rick McGee Return Undeliverable Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, and friends. The magazine is Bev Teller, CFRE, Cody Spahr Dr. Nadine Robinson Canada P6A 2G4 the University’s primary vehicle Canadian Addresses to: Alumni & Development Officer Stories North Megan Parlowe 705-949-2301 ext. 4122 for providing information ALGOMA UNIVERSITY [email protected] Darren Taylor [email protected] on the accomplishments of 1520 Queen Street East Brian Leahy, alumni, faculty and students, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario Director of Communications Algoma University Alumni and on significant issues and Canada P6A 2G4 [email protected] Magazine is published by the developments within the Communications Department of University community. Algoma University.

ALGOMA U TODAY 3 ALUMNI CHAIR’S MESSAGE ALUMNI STAYING CONNECTED Message from the Alumni Council Chair

t is with great pleasure that I have alumni family, and we hope that as the had the opportunity to serve as Algoma U and alumni communities IAlumni Council Chair. I have been a continue to grow, that we, as alumni, member of the Alumni Council since are able to continue to give back to 2011 and have been fortunate enough help pave the road for our future to meet so many great alumni over graduates. the years. I encourage you to reach out to Whether for networking our Alumni Association and share opportunities, career advancement, your stories, so they too can be engaging in recruitment and heard. Every minute a new memory is reputation building activities for the created. Help us ensure that they will University, or providing input and never fade. Come out and support the support to help shape the educational University’s activities and recapture experience for future students, those memories while we witness it is important for alumni to stay new memories being made. I look connected to their university. It truly is forward to seeing many faces, both a lifelong relationship, and one that I new and old, as the Thunderbird pride value very much. continues to grow. Over the past years, we have seen the school and our alumni base expand larger than ever. Although we were unable to hold traditional Convocation ceremonies this Spring, there are many new graduates that Patrick Murray – BBA we would like to welcome to our (Business Admin/Accounting) 2011

4 ALGOMA U TODAY 2020 SUMMER PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE MOVING FORWARD DURING UNPRECEDENTED TIMES The President’s message

his is an exciting time for Algoma learning and new opportunities - and to share our stories with your friends University as we move through we are ready! The University is being and family! Thank you for your continued Tthis period marked by transformational guided by the strategic thinking and support - together, we are making a change. We are experiencing leadership empowered through the difference. unprecedented and record growth, we are Board and Senate retreats and the Wishing all our alumni and members moving forward with new academic and resulting strategic priorities shared in the of our extended community nothing but research programs on all three expanding President’s Annual Report. This fall we the best in the weeks and months ahead, campuses and in partnership with the look forward to unveiling and beginning and until we are able to meet in person, communities we serve, and we are making the implementation of the Sault Ste. I encourage you all to stay well, stay safe, significant investments in capital projects Marie Campus Master Plan, continuing and stay connected! We love sharing and infrastructure. Currently, we welcome with Phase 3 campus developments the progress and successes with you and a growing Indigenous presence, increased (programming and space enhancements) remember, you are always welcome to local enrolment and an international in Brampton and an expanded partnership visit or participate in events on campus. enrolment spanning over 50 countries; with Northern College that grows Take care and all the best! this brings a beautiful and rich diversity to University programming opportunities our communities and to our classrooms. within this region of the province. The future is bright for Algoma. The summer issue of Algoma U Today, While the current pandemic and its highlights a number of individuals, groups impact have caused us to reconsider some and initiatives that exemplify who we are Asima Vezina, strategies, we are confident that through and what it is like to be part of the AU President and Vice-Chancellor this crisis will also come tremendous family. Enjoy this issue and don’t forget Algoma University

ALGOMA U TODAY 5 ALUMNI PROFILE ALUMNI PHOTO COURTESY OF DARREN TAYLOR/SOOTODAY DARREN OF COURTESY PHOTO

6 ALGOMA U TODAY 2020 SUMMER ALUMNI PROFILE ALUMNI ALGOMA U BECOMES A FAMILY AFFAIR Written by Nadine Robinsonn

he Chief of the Missanabie Cree First Since then, his wife Natalie has also he couldn’t do it without her support. Nation, Jason Gauthier, had never graduated from Algoma with honours in Chief Gauthier did ask for another term. Treally thought about university until his in 2019, at the same time that “It was a significant victory, and I saw it as father, Dennis Latrielle, attended Algoma his stepson Michael Tremblay graduated a testament to the work we were doing. University College in the mid-eighties for with the same degree. I negotiated a resource revenue sharing Sociology. “He was very proud and put a Even though he had been asked several agreement as the lead negotiator on tribal lot of work into his studies. I remember times, before running for council of the council with the Ontario government being at his graduation and seeing the Missanabie Cree First Nation, Gauthier and negotiated a substantial federal accomplishment on his face, especially as wanted to finish his degree. He wanted settlement. We also got our land back a mature student in his mid-forties, who the credibility of backing up his life after 112 years. That said, my biggest came to the Sault with nothing, experiences with academics. Gauthier accomplishment is maintaining family at from Toronto.” completed his course work in 2009, and the same time as making this happen. Chief Gauthier’s mother, Lois Carolyn officially graduated in 2010 with a BA Every chance I have, I am with them.” Nolan, graduated from Algoma next, with (Hons) Sociology, which he completed in In August of 2019, Chief Gauthier was a major in 1994. only three years. again re-elected, in a decisive victory over Having grown up fascinated by his “I loved being at Algoma, so I took as his closest opponent. “We had doubled mother’s psychology books, Gauthier many courses as I could, and I participated the number of voters, which meant our began his studies at Algoma in Psychology in the summer institute credit programs engagement efforts were working.” in 2006, but wasn’t interested in the as well.” Chief Gauthier maintains his connection biology side of psychology. His academic In 2010, Gauthier was elected to with Algoma U by doing lectures on advisor suggested that he speak to council, by just three votes, as the fifth of applied sociology and reconciliation.“It’s Dr. Deborah Woodman. “I was hooked. I five councillors. When Chief Kim Rainville nice to be able to give back and inspire the took classes with Drs. Jan Clarke, Harvey chose not to run in 2013, students to think differently. Briggs, and Deborah Woodman. I like to Gauthier stepped up. He It’s nice to be able to Algoma was a very say that I got a major in Woodman, and ran against another Algoma give back and inspire accommodating, safe place a minor in Psych.” U graduate, Jutta Horn to learn. It is also special the students to think “I was also almost starstruck with (daughter of Shirley Horn, because of the recognition of Dr. Linda Savory Gordon. She has had who is also an Algoma differently. the First Nation relationship such an impact on the community. I feel grad and the Chancellor with University, very fortunate to now be working with of Algoma University). Gauthier won and the history of the building itself as a a mentor.” narrowly. While happy with the win over residential school.” During his time at Algoma, Gauthier was a respected opponent, Chief Gauthier was He is proud to note that the Missanabie a teaching assistant for Dr. Julian Hermida, concerned with the number of votes cast: Cree First Nation has one of the highest and was inspired by Hermida’s ability to “Such low turnout and complacency gave percentages of post-secondary degrees, engage students. Hermida also published me my mandate to get people engaged.” at approximately 30 percent of their one of Gauthier’s papers on Restorative In 2016, he asked his wife if “we” should members, many of whom studied at Sault Justice in his online law journal. run for Chief again, acknowledging that College and Algoma University.

PHOTO LEFT: MOTHER AND SON GRADUATE TOGETHER, NATALIE GAUTHIER WITH SON, MICHAEL TREMBLAY.

INSET PHOTO: CHIEF, JASON GAUTHIER

ALGOMA U TODAY 7 UNIVERSITY SUCCESS UNIVERSITY

TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION: Algoma U committed to moving forward Written by Rick McGee

8 ALGOMA U TODAY 2020 SUMMER UNIVERSITY SUCCESS UNIVERSITY

rowing recognition of Algoma figure out a place to come together, to University as a national and reconnect, to share our stories and talk Ginternational leader in truth and about these experiences.” reconciliation emerged from a seminal Those grassroots efforts — supported 2019 conference at the school’s Sault Ste. by key Algoma faculty— set the stage for Marie campus. dramatic breakthroughs that followed. Over 250 registrants from across In 2006 then-Algoma University College Canada, Australia, Mexico and the United and the Shingwauk Education Trust States attended the Fifth Annual Building signed a covenant to support each other’s Reconciliation Forum, presented in mission. Further, the agreement called for partnership with . the realization of Garden River First Nation Algoma was a joint host with Shingwauk Chief Shingwauk’s vision of a “Teaching Kinoomaage Gamig, , Wigwam.” It would prepare and the University students for success in modern society of Northern British Columbia. without compromising their traditional From October 8 through 10, culture and knowledge. “It’s been a huge, huge opportunity representatives from 61 universities, Two years later Algoma became an but it’s one that had a foundation Indigenous community leaders, First independent, degree-granting institution. that’s already been established. Nations Elders, Residential School Its new charter featured a special The great work that’s been done by Survivors, partners and students shared mandate to “Cultivate cross-cultural Algoma University and Shingwauk ideas and best practices“to advance learning between Aboriginal communities Kinoomaage Gamig over the last healing and reconciliation.” and other communities, in keeping with few years has been based on the Algoma’s expanding leadership profile the history of Algoma University College work of the Truth and Reconciliation has been long in the making, said Liz and its geographic site.” Commission and that has been Elizabeth Edgar-Webkamigad, a Forum Algoma is located on land provided by attributed directly to the Survivors organizer and Director of the Shingwauk Shingwauk and his community for the of Shingwauk and the role that they Residential Schools Centre at Algoma U. education of their young. The legendary have played here not just locally and “This didn’t just happen overnight. The Chief also believed settlers should learn to regionally but also nationally.” grammas and grandpas that I’ve been live in harmony with the Anishinaabe and working with have been doing this work all of creation. Isadore Day, former Ontario Regional for 44, 45 years now. They are the ones A 2018 addendum to the covenant Chief, Founder & CEO Bimaadzwin who came here when it was a residential brought Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig school. They are the same ones who into the partnership. Provincial legislation gathered in 1981 and said we need to ...continued on page 10

ALGOMA U TODAY 9 Continued from page 9... passed in 2017 had made it that period was the 2007 one of nine Ontario Aboriginal Indian Residential Schools Institutes forming a“unique Settlement Agreement. It UNIVERSITY SUCCESS UNIVERSITY Indigenous pillar of Ontario’s included establishment of publicly supported post- a Truth and Reconciliation secondary education and Commission, which ultimately training system.” produced 94 “calls to “Shingwauk Kinoomaage action” for healing between Gamig can provide those Indigenous and non-Indigenous land-based and culture-based populations. Then, only days experiences, while Algoma after the commission’s actual provides opportunities for founding in June 2008, Prime students to study psychology, Minister Stephen Harper business, social work and the apologized, on behalf of the various other programs that Government of Canada, to we currently offer,” Edgar- all Aboriginal peoples for the Webkamigad continued. abuses and suffering caused by Among watershed residential schools. advancements nationally in ...continued on page 11

“Given our special mission, “This has been an A-plus-plus Algoma University has event — really outstanding increasingly assumed a with a deep rich context, leadership role in supporting terrific people and beautifully national truth, reconciliation organized. It’s been an and healing efforts. The outstanding national event. recent success of the 5th People are impressed by Annual National Building Algoma. They’re deeply Reconciliation Forum is one touched by talking and meeting key example. Furthermore, the with Survivors and hearing Reclaiming Shingwauk Hall their stories. They’re impressed project has helped Algoma by Sault Ste. Marie and how the share the historical significance of our site and the true history of city has also embraced reconciliation.” Canada’s residential school era with an ever-increasing number of visitors. Our efforts are making a positive difference to this Paul Davidson, President, Universities Canada important national dialogue.”

Asima Vezina, President and Vice-Chancellor, Algoma University

“I was so happy and thrilled to “The most important thing that learn that so many university I wanted to highlight was that presidents were coming from just because residential schools across Canada. To me, that was are closed, it doesn’t mean that a gigantic thing. I think from the ugliness still isn’t present some of the ones I’ve spoken in day-to-day lives. I am the to, they learned so much in second generation out. I had the short time they have been three grandparents that went here. Education is so fantastic. to residential schools. I wanted Everything went so well. It to really share the perspective couldn’t have been better.” of being second generation out — it still affects me. I was Shirley Roach, Elder, Shingwauk Residential School Survivor, chosen to represent my school and that was a big honour.” Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig Governor Makayla Webkamigad, Algoma University student and Forum presenter

10 ALGOMA U TODAY 2020 SUMMER

Shirley Horn participated Canadians appreciate the “I think this effort to reclaim broader public across Canada. in the Forum as both Algoma tragedy, the outcomes and the the memory of the residential Likewise, some folks remarked University’s Chancellor and a ramifications of the residential school in the University is on the uniqueness of the space Shingwauk Residential School schools. So, that to me is awe-inspiring. I have never and the impact of centring SUCCESS UNIVERSITY Survivor. probably the biggest takeaway. seen anything like this. This Survivor voices and narratives “I thought the Forum How do we now start to is important for teachers, throughout the Reclaiming was very much needed as heal? How do post-secondary students and visitors. The Shingwauk Hall exhibit.” part of the journey towards institutions exhibit is Jay Jones, the son of reconciliation,” she said. “In and leaders in “I think the most meaningful not former Residential School the halls of academia, we education help important part of just at Algoma students and President of have the makers of the future. find our true this is that we shared but for the history the Children of Shingwauk This whole reconciliation place in society? stories, because not of Canada.” Alumni Association, addressed process started with a group of It started with many Canadians Other delegates during the Forum’s Shingwauk Residential School education and attendees opening and closing segments. appreciate the tragedy, Survivors who wanted to move it will end with conveyed similar “To do what they’re doing their issues forward. To be education. It’s the outcomes and the thoughts, said here at Algoma is a great where we are now is another ongoing.” ramifications of the Krista McCracken, thing,” he said during an step forward towards our goal. The Forum’s residential schools.” Researcher/ interview. “To do what they’re It will take many, many years Survivor-led Curator in the doing here, you have to have for truth and reconciliation to presentations and displays Shingwauk Residential the right heart. To me it’s an happen. It is essential if Canada portraying life at Shingwauk School Centre. educational facility learning is to have peace and harmony Residential School left lasting “The Forum visitors’ about the true history of with Aboriginal people.” impressions on visitors. Dr. comments were Canada and they’re willing to Shingwauk Kinoomaage Peter Geller, Vice Provost overwhelmingly positive teach everyone else about it. Gamig President & Academic and Associate Vice-President with many reflecting on the You need to know the truth Dean Della Anaquod Academic at the University of importance of sharing the before you can reconcile. This commented from another the Fraser Valley in Abbotsford, history of the Shingwauk site whole country is on a healing perspective. British Columbia, was moved and the history of residential journey. We need to forgive by Algoma’s permanent “I think the most important schools, and the importance of each other. That’s a huge part Reclaiming Shingwauk Hall part of this is that we shared this information being available for me. You have to forgive to exhibit. stories, because not many to teach students and the move forward.”

SHIFTING OUR PERSPECTIVE Written by Rick McGee

n innovative program University classrooms and Residential Schools Centre called SHIFT (Shifting off-campus sessions help before the conference began AIndigenous Frontline Tactics) build cultural awareness. to help enhance their guests’ is helping to build “equitable, First Nations experts often stays. respectful and trusting participate. “We heard stories of terror relationships” between the Plans are underway to and sadness in the past, Sault Ste. Marie Police Service expand SHIFT. The City of Sault and stories of unbelievable and Indigenous peoples. Ste. Marie, the justice system resilience,” said the Delta’s “All police officers and and child welfare are among Lindsey Onishenko. “The civilian staf — about 200 other sectors interested. residue Survivors live with people in total — will have Big strides are being made in is quite real and palpable. I gone through the training by the private sector, too. shared what we learned with the time we finish,” said Liz The Delta Sault Ste. Marie our team. Our partnerships Edgar-Webkamigad, Director Waterfront was a Co-host/ with Algoma and the Centre of the Shingwauk Residential Community Partner for are vital.” Schools Centre at Algoma. the Fifth Annual Building The Centre visit built on The two organizations Reconciliation Forum. other reconciliation-based DR. HUGH STEVENSON, CHIEF OF POLICE collaborated to develop Two Delta employees visited work the hotel began over a - SAULT STE. MARIE POLICE SERVICE a customized curriculum. the University’s Shingwauk year ago.

ALGOMA U TODAY 11 UNIVERSITY SUCCESS UNIVERSITY BRAMPTON CAMPUS SHOWCASE A HUGE SUCCESS Written by Brian Leahy

t was a distinct honour to host so many community partners, advocates and “We are celebrating the next phase of officials at the Algoma University Brampton Campus Showcase held this past the City of Brampton and its partnership IMarch, just days before provincial COVID-19 restrictions were initiated. with Algoma University. We have the Thank you to everyone who took the time to explore our expanding campus, world in this city, and it is the perfect and share in this exciting milestone. We look forward to expanded partnerships, mosaic for Algoma to succeed.” student spaces and innovative programming. Mayor Patrick Brown Without such exceptional support from the Brampton community, Algoma U would not be where we are today.

12 ALGOMA U TODAY 2020 SUMMER

SAULT STE. MARIE PLANNING FUTURE CAMPUS MASTER PLAN UPDATE Written by Brian Leahy ver the past year a range of internal and external stakeholder consultations have taken place under Othe leadership of international planning experts, the IBI Group, to help shape a new Campus Master Plan (CMP) in Sault Ste. Marie. A final virtual consultation session is being scheduled in mid-September prior to the final plan being presented to the Algoma University Board of Governors later in the month. When completed, initiatives included within the plan will help support the continued development of the campus as we continue to expand our regional impact and chart a path to support targeted enrolment growth. Some highlights include: • Development of the concept for the Mukqua Waakaa’igan (Bear Place), formerly known as the National Centre (SRSC) • Secure support to establish the Ontario Mental Health and Addictions Research and Training Institute in partnership with Sault Area Hospitals, the School of Medicine, Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig and • Finalized plans for new infrastructure for the School of Business & Economics in Sault Ste. Marie • Improved spaces for the School of Computer Science & Technology • Expanded/improved student spaces including offices for the Algoma University Students’ Union (AUSU) • And much, much more We look forward to sharing updates in the fall and thank everyone who has contributed to the planning process to date.

PHOTOS LEFT TOP PHOTO: CAMPUS MASTER PLANNING SESSION

MIDDLE PHOTO: SHOWN FROM LEFT TO RIGHT, MINISTER OF COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES, THE HONOURABLE ROSS ROMANO, ASSOCIATE MINISTER OF MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTIONS, MICHAEL TIBOLLO, DR. PEDRO ANTUNES, EXECUTIVE LEAD RESEARCH, ALGOMA U, DR. BRANDON SCHAMP, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY, ALGOMA U, AND DEPUTY PREMIER OF ONTARIO, THE HONOURABLE CHRISTINE ELLIOTT GATHER TO LEARN ABOUT THE ONTARIO MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTIONS RESEARCH AND TRAINING INSTITUTE.

BOTTOM PHOTO: SHOWN LEFT, THE HONOURABLE LISA MACLEOD, MINISTER OF HERITAGE, SPORT, TOURISM AND CULTURE INDUSTRIES, AND MINISTER OF COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES, THE HONOURABLE ROSS ROMANO (FAR RIGHT), VISIT ALGOMA U TO ANNOUNCE $2 MILLION IN NOHFC FUNDING TO COMPLETE THE ANISHINABEK DISCOVERY CENTRE. SHOWN IN CENTER, CHILDREN OF SHINGWAUK ALUMNI ASSOCIATION MEMBER AND RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL SURVIVOR, JACKIE FLETCHER.

ALGOMA U TODAY 13 r. Brandon Schamp signed his contract with the Biology department at DAlgoma University in 2008, when the

PROGRAM PROFILE PROGRAM institution was still a part of . When he arrived months later, Algoma had become an independent THE NEW SCHOOL OF university. From that point on, he had the unique opportunity to take part in the institution’s evolution. LIFE SCIENCES & THE Today, an associate professor with the Biology department, Dr. Schamp reflects on that time as, “a great opportunity,” ENVIRONMENT: which afforded him and his colleagues,“a lot of say in how we would shape the new Biology program,” which included creating The next evolution of a new four-year Biology program and working to grow enrolment. Dr. Schamp provided an indication of programming at Algoma U how much the program has grown in Written by Jessica Ferlaino capacity and size, “When I began, the first- year biology class had seventeen students, many of which were taking the course as an elective in Psychology. This fall, there are over seventy-five students in that class, and most of them are completing majors in Biology or Environmental Science,” the latter of which was introduced in 2018. There has always been a strong link between the Biology and Psychology departments at Algoma University because of the overlapping nature of the two areas of study, and the same can be said for Biology and Environmental Science, which is why it made sense to come together in collaboration to develop the School of Life Sciences & the Environment. Collectively, the Biology, Psychology and Environmental Science programs at Algoma University’s Sault Ste. Marie campus are playing host to just under three hundred students majoring in the subjects, a number that is expected to grow next year as the environmental science program continues to grow. “The three programs represent strengths at the university, with Biology and Psychology programs having strong enrolment, and with the Environmental Science program already up to over thirty students before we’ve even run the program for a full three years,” said Dr. Schamp. The new School of Life Sciences & the Environment is a collaborative effort to bring together the faculty of the Biology, Psychology and Environmental Science programs to create an integrated approach to teaching that emphasizes evidence- based scientific reasoning. ...continued on page 15

14 ALGOMA U TODAY 2020 SUMMER PROGRAM PROFILE PROGRAM

ABOVE PHOTO: DR. BRANDON SCHAMP SPEAKS TO CLASS.

“The School arose out of to prospective students,” provide a number of examples request for the proposed a series of meetings and something that is especially including the Ontario Forest master’s program in biology discussions we held regarding important given the addition Research Institute which, has been completed, health how we wished to proceed and of psychology programming at “has continually supported science specializations have grow as a group of like-minded the Brampton campus, which researchers in the Biology been approved, and the scientists and educators,” is underway. department, allowing us to Psychology program has explained Dr. Schamp of the When asked about student use their research Arboretum been successfully introduced shared goals of the various growth, Dr. Schamp highlighted for projects spanning over ten in Brampton, the focus will disciplines of study. that, “with the natural growth years.” remain on building the tools Collectively, the School of our environmental sciences Other community partners and resources to improve can offer greater experiential program, our expanded of mention were the Hiawatha the rate of student success in learning opportunities for options for students pursuing Highlands Conservation terms of knowledge, skills and students, where, as Dr. Schamp the health sciences, and our Authority that allows research capacity. said, “Students learn to expectation that we will have to be conducted in the In the future, students of become scientists while taking a master’s program in biology, Conservation area, the Invasive the School of Life Sciences their degrees,” through lab it is reasonable to expect the Species Centre, as well as & the Environment can look courses, internships, volunteer School to grow to five-hundred the Forestry forward to greater experiential opportunities and summer majors within the next five to Centre, which, prior to the learning opportunities and research positions. ten years.” Convergence Centre being improved access to problem- One remarkable way that Algoma University graduates built, provided labs for faculty based learning approaches to the School of Life Sciences & are already making a great to teach many of the biology guide and help them make the the Environment name for the courses offered. most of their time at Algoma is expanding both institution in Dr. Schamp noted, University. “Students learn to programming and many different “Additionally, as we move By offering expanded opportunity for become scientists careers, but along in our development of training, research and career students is through while taking their to elevate a Master of Biology, we have advancement opportunities the introduction degrees.” the degree received considerable support student success rates of graduate-level of knowledge from a number of external will continue to improve, programming, a Master and experiential learning groups, including the Sault Ste. enrolment will continue to of Science, Biology (MSc), opportunities for students in Marie Innovation Centre.” grow and the school will which would be a milestone the School of Life Sciences Dr. Schamp and the entire continue to expand and evolve. achievement for the & the Environment, there School of Life Sciences & the This will position Algoma institution. is continued effort to foster Environment are tirelessly University as a recognized By remaining focused on collaborations amongst faculty committed to improving leader, and recognized improving program quality, and partnerships with the local program quality to drive destination for students Dr. Schamp firmly believes community. positive outcomes for students, interested in programs offered that, “we can drive positive “There is tremendous attracting the attention of by the School of Life Sciences outcomes for students and support in the community prospective students and & the Environment. consequently increase the for the School,” said Dr. employers alike. attractiveness of our programs Schamp who went on to Once the new program

ALGOMA U TODAY 15 STUDENT PROFILE STUDENT

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE PROGRAM OFFERS OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALGOMA U STUDENT Written by Nadine Robinson KAITLYN PLASTINO

aitlyn Plastino just completed her a variety of databases on herbaceous how humans are impacting them.“I want third year of the Environmental plots in northeastern North America, and to do my part in protecting our earth, and KScience program at Algoma U, but you’d determined the proportions of these forage I knew that by choosing the Environmental never know it from all of the experiences species in comparison to other vegetation Science program I would be one step she’s amassed so far. Plastino has already species. I really enjoyed the independence ahead.” beefed up her academic resume with: given to me during my internship, and Plastino also took part in an volunteer work in the labs, research the experience I gained on working with international exchange to Korea through opportunities, an internship, being a part databases and spreadsheets. ( . . . ) I feel a Algoma University at Soonchunhyang of the Algoma Student Ambassadors lot more prepared for what it will be like to University. “In addition to language Program, participating in the Biology work on my honours thesis, and for what it classes, I took a World Politics and Global Club, and experiencing an international might be like to conduct database research Issues class and an Introduction to Korean exchange to Korea. as a potential job in the future.” History class. I really loved learning The experiences available to students Her favourite place on campus is Korean, and it’s something that I want to at Algoma U set the university apart in Dr. Brandon Schamp’s research lab. continue. I learned a lot of things from that Plastino’s view, and they’ve allowed her to “There’s a lot of plants and large experience that I’ll keep with me for the learn that she is capable of a lot. “Because windows that really make a comfortable rest of my life.” of the guidance of the professors, atmosphere. The people who work or After graduation, Plastino is thinking classmates, and friends I’ve met here, I volunteer there are so friendly and make of travelling to Japan and South Korea definitely have a better idea about what I’d it a calm space for me to do work, before she begins a master’s program and like to do in my future.” including on my continued work with is interested in seeing if she can do her This past summer, Plastino helped forage species.” master’s in either of those countries. A retrieve field data on white- Plastino’s favourite class so trip back to Korea would get her back to throated sparrows for “I want to do my far is Conservation Biology. her favourite food, Dak Galbi, a spiced mix Dr. Jennifer Foote’s research. “I learned a lot about so of grilled chicken, cabbage, rice cake, and part in protecting She is also currently working many different species and sweet potatoes. on scanning and annotating our earth, and the importance of protected “I would recommend Algoma U to recordings of Connecticut I knew that by areas. It also showed me how people who are looking to get something Warblers in the Boreal Forest choosing the a seemingly simple solution extra out of their university education. You for Dr. Foote’s research. Environmental can have such a large impact truly get to know your teachers and your Plastino also did an Science program on wildlife. It’s inspired me classmates, and there’s plenty of volunteer internship in Dr. Brandon I would be one toward the potential path of opportunities for you to gain experience in Schamp’s Plant Community step ahead.” working in conservation as a the things you’re interested in. Additionally, Ecology lab. “I read scientific future career.” Algoma U prides itself in its diversity of literature and compiled a list She feels that environmental students, staff, and partners, so there’s of forage species (plants grown to feed science was the right path for her to learn many different perspectives to learn if you livestock). Then I collected data from more about the natural environments and have an open mind.”

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DR. JENNA CONGDON: Pursuing her love of science Written by Nadine Robinson

JENNA CONGDON, PH.D.

enna Congdon, born and raised in the Cheryl Reed-Elder proposed that I work snowboarding, and attended most of the Sault, chose Algoma U to study Biology as a paid Teaching Assistant (TA), and I themed pubs and events on campus. Jin 2009. Her brother Spencer attended later became the head TA under Laurie Congdon continued her education, Algoma before her, in Computer Science, Bloomfield’s supervision. I likely wouldn’t earning her Master’s and most recently and he had spoken highly of his education. have had these opportunities in larger her Ph.D. from the University of Alberta “Algoma U offered everything that other classes at another university.” focussed on Comparative Cognition universities did, but without having to The summer following graduation, and Behaviour. She is now working as move away from home when I was still Congdon worked for Dr. Laurie Bloomfield an Instructor in the Department of trying to figure out what I wanted to be funded through the NSERC USRA, before Psychology at U of A. Congdon has 18 when I grew up.” moving away for graduate school. “I (first- and co-authored) publications, Her dream as a kid was to be a mix of thank her for choosing me as a volunteer including a textbook chapter. She Ms. Frizzle (Magic School Bus), Bill Nye research student as well as an NSERC has attended multiple international the Science Guy, and Ace Ventura Pet USRA student. She prepared me well conferences presenting her research, Detective, because she loved animals and for work in the lab and experience with including seeing her mentor Dr. Dave science. She avoided prompts from people studying songbirds.” Brodbeck at the Conference on who told her that she should teach as she Congdon credits all of “They guided Comparative Cognition annually. was terrified of public speaking. her Psychology professors me throughout, “I cannot say enough good Congdon’s path changed after taking as being integral to shaping offering things about my experience at Intro Psychology with Dr. Dave Brodbeck her into who she is today. experiences Algoma U -- it made me who I as an elective. She was hooked on “People like Dave Brodbeck, which allowed am. I would not have had the psychology, and she decided that she Laurie Bloomfield, and Paul opportunities I did if it were not me to figure out wanted to be “the female Dave Brodbeck.” Dupuis taught me that being for Algoma U and the close-knit She also got over her fear of oral a scientist is the greatest what I liked… and community it provided. I can’t presentations in his class.“I have never job, meant for some very thanks to that believe that I ever considered met a more passionate instructor, and he cool people. They guided experience I saw going elsewhere and am so later became my honours supervisor.” me throughout, offering my future. I was thankful I didn’t. At Algoma, I Through her drive and love of experiences which allowed me never a number.” started dating my now husband, psychology, she received a BSc (Honours) to figure out what I I met some of my best friends, Psychology, cum laude in 2013. She was liked… and thanks to that I saved a lot of money and also on the Dean’s Honours List, and experience I saw my future. I was never a have an even better relationship with maintained the Algoma University Award number.” my parents because I stayed at home. of Excellence – Silver, for all four years. When not studying in the cafeteria, And I got all the information, skills, and “The small class size allowed me to or spending time with her boyfriend T.J. reference letters to be successful in getting get to know my professors, and that MacIntyre (now her husband, whom she into graduate school and beyond. … My landed me a volunteer research position started dating at Algoma U), Congdon was husband and I wear our matching Algoma in Dwayne Keough’s laboratory first. Then active in Welcome Week every year, taught U grad rings with pride.”

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EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING AT ALGOMA U BRIDGES THE SKILLS GAP Written by Jessica Ferlaino

usiness and industry aren’t the only education an institution can offer students. of career skills in university students,” ones concerned that a skills gap and By offering hands-on experience, students explained Dawn White, Director of Btalent shortage exist in the labour market. can gain practical skills and relevant Experiential Learning and International According to research conducted by work experience that match their career Affairs. the Higher Education Quality Council of aspirations and provide them a more There is a strong body of literature to Ontario, post-secondary students in the direct path into a career upon graduation. suggest the impact of focusing on EL is province also believe a gap exists between After a collaborative planning process enormous, especially in terms of student a university education and their future with the Board of Governors, Senate, learning and retention. Retention is an careers. and University Administration in 2018, important part of Algoma University’s One of the most viable ways to bridge Algoma University identified EL as one of strategic enrollment plan. To support the gap between education and career its four strategic priorities and as such, its tracking and evaluation efforts in paths is to have educational institutions has dedicated a great deal of resources this regard, Algoma is in the process and the business community come to support the growth and development of implementing a coding system in its together and collaborate to identify the of EL. Student Record System to better manage shortfalls in existing educational and “The priority responded to an enhanced the complex EL offerings the institution training programs to address today’s focus by students, parents and the Ministry has to offer. workforce needs. of Training, Colleges and Universities “One of Algoma’s strengths is the Experiential learning (EL) has been on the importance of fostering career proven to enhance the value of an preparedness and the development ...continued on page 19

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opportunities students have to conduct and employers to, as White put it, “bridge also paid to Algoma University’s faculty, research and complete project work the gap and prepare graduates to thrive in especially the Social Work and Community with faculty.” White noted, “There were diverse careers of the twenty-first century.” Economic and Social Development forty-eight students on campus this Students can also take advantage of programs which have long incorporated PROFILE PROGRAM past summer working with faculty on Career Link, which provides them with a strong EL component in their course research projects. In many academic the chance to undertake work experience offerings. programs, students complete hands-on and skill development while earning a “Faculty are reaching out to community research projects to fulfill capstone thesis Co-Curricular Certificate and building a partners to incorporate projects and requirements.” career portfolio. service learning into courses. Faculty Further to research opportunities, Partnership is at the heart of EL at are also reaching out for support as Algoma University students who Algoma University and a major partner they explore new opportunities for their participate in the study abroad program has been RBC, which recently made a students. I am impressed with the level of can now take advantage of internship significant financial contribution in support commitment and creativity as faculty lead programs that have been arranged for of the Career Link program. It will dedicate the EL work,” said White. them in their host countries, which is only funds over a five-year period to help For anyone who graduated from possible because of the support of its the institution continue to invest in its Algoma University over a decade ago, it is international partner universities. students’ skills and career preparedness incredible to see how far the institution Changes have also taken place at through this program. has come in terms of its expanded the programming level to expand the “RBC is also providing support for programming and student supports, both number of courses that include an EL Algoma U to run its own network through in and outside of the classroom: EL is component. From co-operative education Ten Thousand Coffees. Ten Thousand certainly an aspect of growth the school to internships, to service-learning and field Coffees is an online networking platform can be proud of. experiences, the number of opportunities that pairs students with working Algoma University has long thrived on for EL continue to grow and students are professionals,” explained White, which providing a personalized level of learning taking advantage of them. provides students with access to mentors and a tailored experience for students who White explained that the number of with relevant experience, enabling them want to thrive, but in the context of EL, it students who were able to participate in to build professional contacts prior to has certainly elevated the level of service course-based EL with a community partner graduating. and commitment to student success. has grown by over two hundred over the Networking activities, like Ten Thousand Looking ahead, efforts are being past year and a half, while the number Coffees is also an important element dedicated to continuing to enhance both of students completing co-op work term of EL opportunities and, once again, the number but also the quality of the EL placements also experienced growth over partnership is key to providing networking opportunities from which students can that same period. opportunities for students to not only benefit, extending those benefits to the One of the resources available to give them a chance to speak with local entire student population. students participating in EL at Algoma employers in their field, but to recognize “In the long-term, the goal is to have University is the Experiential Learning the needs of the business community and all students at Algoma, regardless of Hub, a physical and virtual space with the skills required to achieve their career which program they are in, have options a, “mission to help students navigate goals. to participate in hands-on learning meaningful career paths by facilitating Algoma University works in partnership opportunities. The aim is for all graduates learning experiences that build at the public, private and institutional of Algoma U to possess the professional professional skills, knowledge, and values level to offer EL experiences for students. skills, knowledge, and expertise needed to and to connect academic learning to real- White acknowledged that EL at Algoma navigate meaningful career paths based world experiences,” said White. University would not be possible, “Without on their individual interests and areas of The Experiential Learning Hub at Algoma the support of the Government of Ontario expertise,” explained White. University brings together faculty, students through its Career Ready Fund,” credit was

ALGOMA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH AND INNOVATION, MEMBERS OF ALGOMA U, RBC AND THE COMMUNITY CELEBRATE RBC’S CAREER LINK CONTRIBUTION. EL HUB.

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ALGOMA U CELEBRATES GRADUATING STUDENTS ALGOMA U SAULT STE. MARIE CAMPUS CLASS OF 2019

iven the current global pandemic, our 2019 Convocation ceremonies from Josephine-ba Mandamin was the Algoma University has deferred the Sault Ste. Marie, Brampton and recipient of the 2019 Alumni Achievement G2020 Spring Convocation until it is safe to give a sampling of what’s in store. Award. The Alumni Achievement Award for all to gather. A virtual graduation Algoma University celebrated the acknowledges the professional, civic, and ceremony was held in June 2020, as a achievements of its graduating students personal accomplishments of an Algoma precursor to the future ceremony, where during the 2019 Convocation ceremony alumnus/a who has graduated within Anusha Kunasingam earned the 2020 held at the Roberta Bondar Pavilion the last 10 years. Nokimis (Gramma) Governor’s Silver Medal for exceptional located on the beautiful Sault Ste. Marie Bidasige Josephine-ba Mandamin was academic achievement. Established waterfront. Algoma University Chancellor an Elder and an environmental activist in 1873, the medal is one of the most Shirley Horn conferred degrees on 234 from Wikwemikong Unceded Territory. prestigious awards that can be received candidates of the Class of 2019, while also She was well known for her work in the by a student in a Canadian educational awarding 67 certificates. preservation of water, the healing of institution. The Silver Medal is awarded Melissa Reed earned the 2019 Governor water and the advocacy of water. She is an to the undergraduate student who General’s Silver Medal for exceptional alumna of Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig achieves the highest academic standing academic achievement. Reed earned a and Algoma University, graduating in upon graduation with distinction from a degree in Psychology 2012 with a degree in Anishinaabemowin. bachelor’s degree program. and is now attending the Faculty of Gramma Bidasige was a kind and generous We are sharing photos and stories from Medicine at the . Anishinaabe Kwe, one who embraced all

2020 GOVERNOR GENERAL’S SILVER MEDALIST, ANUSHA 2019 GOVERNOR GENERAL’S SILVER MEDALIST, MELISSA FROM LEFT TO RIGHT; DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS, KUNASINGAM. REED WITH ASIMA VEZINA, ALGOMA UNIVERSITY BRIAN LEAHY, ADAM CARPENTER, 2019 DISTINGUISHED PRESIDENT. ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNER, AND ASIMA VEZINA, ALGOMA UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT.

20 ALGOMA U TODAY 2020 SUMMER UNIVERSITY SUCCESS UNIVERSITY

PHOTO ABOVE LEFT: REGISTRAR DAVID MARASCO AND PHOTO ABOVE RIGHT: FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF JOSEPHINE-BA MANDAMIN FROM LEFT TO RIGHT; DALLAS ABITONG, CHANCELLOR SHIRLEY HORN. CEREMONIAL DAUGHTER AND HELPER FOR JOSEPHINE-BA, MELVINA FLAMMAND, SISTER OF JOSEPHINE-BA, AND ANDREW MANDAMIN, HUSBAND OF JOSEPHINE-BA, ACCEPT THE 2019 ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARD POSTHUMOUSLY. that this good life had to offer her. Sadly, University Golf Tournament Committee, distinguished service to Algoma University Josephine-ba passed away in February Alumni Council and the Station Mall/ and/or the community, was presented to of 2019. Her legacy lives on through the Rotary Club Golf Tournament. Adam is Mr. Bob Cooper, a sessional instructor of water walks that she has inspired and not only a successful and active Algoma English. Bob, who has taught numerous passed down to the next generation. University alumnus; he is a mentor and a courses in English, English as a second The Algoma University Distinguished champion of the importance of a post- language and theatre, is also a veteran Alumni Achievement Award recognizes secondary education. (and award-winning) community theatre the accomplishments of an Algoma U The Distinguished Faculty Award, actor, who is a driving force behind alumnus who has reached a pinnacle of recognizing exceptional faculty Theatre Algoma. personal and professional achievement in contribution at the University, was Also presented at the 2019 Convocation his or her chosen field. Adam Carpenter, presented to Dr. Cheryl Reed-Elder. was the newly formed Award of Excellence CPA, CMA and Controller/Owner of R.F. The recipient embodies the ideals of in Teaching. This award recognizes the Contracting was the 2019 recipient of teaching excellence and scholarship with a outstanding efforts made by one full-time this award. Adam is actively involved demonstrated commitment to community faculty and one part-time faculty who in his community having served with a and institutional citizenship. engage, inspire, and motivate students number of organizations, including the The 2019 Honorary Member of Algoma to learn. Recipients of the award went to Safe Community Partnership Board, Sault University award, bestowed upon persons Marissa Ross, part-time instructor and Ste. Marie Basketball Association, Algoma who have contributed distinctive and Dr. Brandon Schamp, full-time professor.

DR. CHERYL REED-ELDER, 2019 DISTINGUISHED FACULTY 2019 HONORARY MEMBER OF ALGOMA UNIVERSITY, PRESIDENT VEZINA (MIDDLE) WITH AWARD OF AWARD RECIPIENT BOB COOPER. EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING RECIPIENTS, MARISSA ROSS (LEFT) AND DR. BRANDON SCHAMP (RIGHT).

ALGOMA U TODAY 21 UNIVERSITY SUCCESS UNIVERSITY ALGOMA U’S BRAMPTON CAMPUS APPLAUDS GRADUATE ACHIEVEMENTS 2019 CONVOCATION AWARD RECIPIENT, IMAN SOHAIL. he academic achievements Economics that launched in the delivered the “Expression of the Algoma University summer 2018. of Thanks” on behalf of the TClass of 2019 studying in “Convocation is a special graduating class. Brampton was recognized time for the University as we Bobby Karmakar delivered during the Spring Convocation recognize student achievement the Alumni Welcome. Ceremony, held in the Atrium and scholarship,” stated David Patrick Brown, Mayor of the of the Brampton City Hall. Marasco, University Registrar City of Brampton served as Chancellor Shirley Horn following the ceremony. “The Honorary Speaker, delivering conferred degrees and University has made student an inspiring convocation certificates on 66 students who success a strategic priority address to all in attendance. successfully completed the and today, we acknowledge “It is an exciting day for the requirements of the Bachelor academic excellence as we Algoma University School of Business Administration honour the graduating class of Business & Economics degree or Graduate Certificate of 2019.” graduates here in Brampton,” in business programs Iman Sohail was the he shared .“I am honoured HONORARY SPEAKER, PATRICK BROWN, offered through the Algoma recipient of the Convocation to have been asked to speak MAYOR OF THE CITY OF BRAMPTON Award, presented to the SPEAKS TO CONVOCATION GRADUATES University School of Business at Convocation today. I want AND GUESTS. & Economics. This was the graduating student with the to extend best wishes to the first graduating class from highest overall academic graduates in their next pursuit. the School of Business & achievement. She also I encourage you to pursue a business career in Brampton!”

ALGOMA UNIVERSITY BRAMPTON CAMPUS CLASS OF 2019

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GRADUATE SUCCESS SUCCESS UNIVERSITY IN THE NORTH

lgoma University celebrated the In addition to celebrating the academic accomplishments of its achievement of those who successfully Agraduating students from Algoma U completed their studies, incoming Algoma at Timmins on Friday, May 24 at the University student Amanda Carter was Northern College Spring 2019 Convocation recognized during the 2019 Northern Ceremony. College Grad Awards Ceremony, held on Algoma University President and Thursday evening. Vice-Chancellor, Asima Vezina, conferred Carter is the second-ever recipient degrees on students who successfully of the Commitment to ‘Northern. Value.’ Bursary. The bursary is awarded PICTURED ABOVE: COMMITMENT TO ‘NORTHERN. completed the requirements of the VALUE.’ BURSARY RECIPIENT, AMANDA CARTER. Honours Bachelor of Social Work to Northern College graduates who and Bachelor of Arts in Community are continuing their post-secondary Development programs offered in education through Algoma U offerings in Timmins. Timmins. The bursary is tied to a special “We are delighted to participate joint admissions agreement established in the Northern College Convocation between Algoma University and Northern PICTURED BELOW LEFT TO RIGHT: DONNA ROGERS, ceremony and to share as a partner in the College. VP, ACADEMIC AND RESEARCH; SUPPORT SERVICES celebration of the success of both Northern COORDINATOR-TIMMINS, EMILENE DUMOULIN; CHANTAL MANN; JOCELYNE AUBE; SHALISSA College and Algoma University students. Congratulations to all 2019 and 2020 HANNABERRY; NATALIE BEDARD; ANICK FONTAINE; Congratulations to each and every one Algoma U graduates! CASSANDRA BROUSSEAU; PRESIDENT AND VICE- of the graduates celebrating today!” said CHANCELLOR, ASIMA VEZINA; AND UNIVERSITY REGISTRAR, DAVID MARASCO. Vezina.

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ALGOMA U GRADS POWERING THE SAULT’S ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Written by Marc Capancioni

DAN HOLLINGSWORTH

o drive growth and prosperity, communities across Canada “In a nutshell, if a company is looking to establish or expand, and around the world use a variety of economic development we’ll help them assess the business model to identify potential Tmodels. These tried-and-tested tools are designed to improve funding opportunities and other resource requirements,” said economic well-being and quality of life for citizens. Hollingsworth, who became Director of Economic Development In Sault Ste. Marie, there are a number of organizations that for the City of Sault Ste. Marie in January 2020. “A large part work to diversify the economy by attracting and supporting of our time is spent meeting and interacting with current and businesses, fostering cultural vitality, and drawing aspiring business owners. When we meet with clients, visitors to the city. To generate successes, the one of the first questions we ask is: ‘What can we do agencies are powered by professional staff teams. to help you succeed?’” Many of these individuals are Algoma University “In my economic Economic developers typically work with alumni. development private sector firms. But they also work to support Take, for example, Dan Hollingsworth, who roles, I have organizations such as post-secondary institutions. graduated from Algoma U in 1990 with an partnered with Throughout his career, Hollingsworth has regularly Honours Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. local post- collaborated with Algoma University on expansion and Since then, he has worked for a number of secondary development projects. organizations, including the Sault Ste. Marie institutions “A thriving post-secondary sector is vital for the local Economic Development Corporation, RAPIDS on projects. economy,” he said. “Over the years, I’ve been pleased Community Investment Inc., and the Government It’s great to and proud to have worked with the Algoma U team on of Canada’s FedNor regional economic work with the a number of growth initiatives. It’s great to see things development agency. come full-circle. In my economic development roles, I In all of these roles, Hollingsworth’s job was to university I have partnered with local post-secondary institutions work with partners to drive economic growth in graduated from.” on projects. It’s great to work with the university I the city and throughout Northern Ontario. He led graduated from.” teams that undertook a variety of activities and For Algoma U alums working at economic and initiatives, including investment attraction, export development, community development agencies, Josh Ingram is another prime innovation applications, tourism development, and helping example. From 2016 to 2019, he was Executive Director of the entrepreneurs start and grow businesses. Sault Downtown Association. The non-profit organization helps

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JOSH INGRAM TODD FLEET

Queen Street businesses – between Pim Street and Dennis Street skills,” said Ingram, who graduated from Algoma U in 2009 with – organize, finance and carry out physical improvements. a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and History. Ingram is still The association is an advocacy group for small businesses in the utilizing these skills as he more recently accepted a position with downtown core of Sault Ste. Marie. It’s also a social enterprise Northern Credit Union as their Community Impact Manager. that coordinates and hosts free events for the community, Todd Fleet, Arts & Culture Coordinator for the FutureSSM including the annual Moonlight Magic and holiday tree-lighting division of the City of Sault Ste. Marie, also credits Algoma party. University for helping drive his career trajectory. In recent years, the organization facilitated a He graduated in 2003 with an Honours Bachelor community art project, in partnership with the “The problem- of Arts degree (cum laude) in Fine Art Studies and municipality, which saw five large-scale murals solving skills I Graphic Design. painted at various downtown locations. In 2019, developed while This education is a perfect fit for Fleet’s position staff also initiated Poutine Feast, now the Sault’s in university have with the municipal government. In the role, he largest food festival. continued to be a coordinates, implements and monitors initiatives The association is now working with the City constant asset to designed to improve the arts, cultural and heritage of Sault Ste. Marie to develop a downtown plaza. sector of the community. my career, and I Once complete, the four-season community “Through my program at Algoma U, I not only gathering place is expected to feature a skating have found that learned the fundamentals of the fine arts and design, rink, stage and large screen, play equipment they are fully but I also learned how to develop a career in the arts, for children, public art, seating, trees and other transferable to culture and heritage sector,” said Fleet, who also amenities. any discipline.” spent 14 years – eight as Curator – working at the Simply put, the Downtown Association Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre. “The problem- fostered many successful initiatives under solving skills I developed while in university have Ingram’s leadership. And he credits his alma continued to be a constant asset to my career, and I mater for allowing him to be a part of these community-wide have found that they are fully transferable to any discipline.” achievements. “My university education helped teach me social interaction

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ALGOMA U COMMUNITY PROMOTES DIVERSITY BEYOND CAMPUS Written by Rick McGee

SHOWN IN PHOTO, ROBERT AND GILBERT TOTIME

s the son of a Ghanian foreign service the University’s culture,” Gilbert continued. in three settings — Algoma University, officer, Algoma alumnus Gilbert “So, we kind of started a pathway for Sault College and the city of Sault Ste. ATotime discovered multiculturalism’s many things to change. We were very, very active Marie,” Gilbert concluded. “There are benefits at a young age. His father’s career in the student government. The University so many opportunities for domestic and meant family moves to different countries learned a lot from us and we learned a lot international students to learn from every four years. from them. It also opened up pathways for each other.” Such experiences helped Gilbert and his us to travel to other parts of Ontario and Beneficiaries of the Totimes’ brother Robert later assume important engage with the Canadian Federation of contributions include international roles in helping Algoma become Ontario’s Students. We learned a lot from that, as students at Algoma University’s most diverse university. well.” Brampton Campus. The Totimes began Business Improvements to institutional policies After coming to Canada from India, Administration studies in 2009 and went a long way towards ensuring that Simran Soi began working towards graduated four years later. But the international students would have the a Business Administration degree in brothers achieved more than academic supports needed to reach their academic Accounting and is now in third year. success. goals. “The University has a lot of international “Robert and I were instrumental in The Totimes’ commitment to diversity students,” she said. “Everyone helps each changing a lot of things when it came extended beyond the campus out into other make Brampton their home. The to diversity at the University,” Gilbert the community. They helped establish staff is also very supportive and they are recalled. “We started a club called the ACCANO (the African Caribbean Canadian always open to helping.” Algoma Multicultural Students Association. Association of Northern Ontario) and the Smaller classes proved especially Robert was President and I was Vice- local celebration of Black History Month, appealing as Soi considered her options. President. We were instrumental in along with other special events. “It is very important for me to connect developing cultural activities, bridging These days, Gilbert remains a strong with my professors and after some the gap between domestic students and voice for diversity and the “go-to guy” extensive research, I determined Algoma international students so they could in the post-secondary environment. He best met my requirements. It is also really experience some of our culture.” currently works as the Student Services exciting to be studying in the heart of Further, the duo became the first black Coordinator at Algoma University’s Brampton. students elected to the Algoma University Brampton campus. “The multicultural environment of Student Union. “I’ve had so many opportunities to grow Algoma, Brampton has really helped me “We were trying to influence changes in as a person and on this diversity portfolio learn new ways of approaching situations.

26 ALGOMA U TODAY 2020 SUMMER

The addition of new perspectives has really of reasons,” said Brent Krmpotich, Director do well — we recognize college credits. helped me refine my critical thinking and of Enrolment Services & International We also have the ability to move pretty grow as a person, as well as professionally. Operations.“Part of it is managing risk, quickly. There aren’t that many levels of

I would recommend Algoma, Brampton to but it’s also important in terms of campus bureaucracy.” SUCCESS UNIVERSITY other international students as I believe culture. You want to be as diverse as Algoma U’s diversity aspirations align the culture and atmosphere are truly possible. The heart of it (diversity) is closely with those of Sault Ste. Marie. In unique. It has a pure feeling of ‘home,’ and probably around educational experience. 2019, the University was named recipient everyone helps each other to grow, which It’s great to have as many points of view in of the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of is one of the best environments to be a class as you can.” Commerce Diversity Award. part of.” In late 2019, Krmpotich travelled This award “recognizes a business or Being President of the Algoma to China for meetings with officials at organization that embraces, celebrates University Business Society, a teaching Beijing Vocational College of Finance and and applies holistic inclusion and assistant and a tutor, Soi leads a very busy Commerce. participation of a diverse people, making life at school. She also participates in many Through an agreement under the workplace a better environment in University events. development, 15 to 20 Chinese students which to work, and the community a After graduating, Soi will pursue CPA would transfer into third-year Business better place in which to live, work and (Chartered Professional Accountant) Administration (Finance and Economics) raise a family.” certification and hopes to join a large and Fine Arts programs for the fall 2020 Jane Omollo, Manager of Newcomer accounting firm. semester. Programs with the Sault Community “Last fall, Algoma welcomed a record But that’s just the beginning, Krmpotich Career Centre (SCCCC), works closely number of students to our University,” said noted. with Algoma and serves as a member of Algoma President and Vice-Chancellor “It’s a 10-year agreement that we’re the University’s Diversity Committee. She Asima Vezina. “Including those of working on with the college. So if it goes and Algoma representatives also partner Anishinaabe descent, these students well — if students come here, enjoy their in other Local Immigration Partnership represent 53 different countries from time and are successful — that would be activities that share a common goal: to across the globe helping to create a 20 students a year for 10 years. make Sault Ste. Marie a very welcoming rich and vibrant cross-cultural learning “Algoma is a welcoming University, small and diverse community. environment both inside and outside the and friendly. That makes a big difference. If “Algoma U has been very supportive,” classroom. Chief Shingwauk’s vision is you’re sending your kids across the world, Omollo said. “Normally, they invite us to coming to life at Algoma — many cultures you want to be sure they’ll be taken care their orientation sessions at the beginning coming together to learn from and with of. That’s the concern of parents. Will they of the semester. So, we go there and have each other. It is beautiful to see and an be safe? Are they going to succeed? Is their a presentation about the services we inspiration for us all!” mental health going to be okay? Algoma provide and how important they are for Algoma’s leadership in diversity will answers a lot of those questions. The Sault the students. become even stronger in the years is a good fit for them.” “Students come here (SCCC) for various ahead. The University anticipates growing Potential international partners find reasons. We have students coming to 3,000 students, about half of them Algoma good to work with, Krmpotich because they are looking for employment international, by 2023-24. added. “We’re flexible and open-minded. or because they have immigration-related “We are working on having a very I would say in Ontario we are experts in concerns and they are looking for support. diverse international student body for lots working with colleges. That’s what we We have students coming here because they are new and they are looking for ways to make connections. Sometimes they are looking to make connections with other cultural groups that they identify with. So that’s how we come in, because we have partnerships with the other cultural groups.” Additionally, SCCC staff help students accompanied by their partner and children to settle in new surroundings. That can mean finding schools, searching for employment and attending a host of other details.

FROM LEFT, DR. SHEILA GRUNER, CESD ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR AND DEPARTMENT CHAIR; LIZ EDGAR- WEBKAMIGAD, DIRECTOR, SHINGWAUK RESIDENTIAL SCHOOLS; ASIMA VEZINA, PRESIDENT AND VICE- CHANCELLOR, ALGOMA UNIVERSITY; DR. VIVIAN JIMÉNEZ-ESTRADA, SOCIOLOGY ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR AND BRITTANY PAAT, ACADEMIC SUPPORT OFFICER ACCEPT THE 2019 SAULT STE. MARIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE DIVERSITY AWARD.

ALGOMA U TODAY 27 Education is an investment for a lifetime.

DRS. PAYANDEH CREATE

Writtena by:lasting Rick McGee tribute

“Both Simin and I are so dedicated to higher education that we decided to provide these scholarships as a lasting tribute to our name for individuals who should be able to benefit from it for their future progress and families.”

Dr. Bijan Payandeh

Thanks to the altruism of an exemplary two weeks of rigorous examinations Marie registered massage therapist with Sault Ste. Marie couple, select high- administered by the Royal College of a master’s degree in nursing education; achieving Algoma U students in two Dental Surgeons of Ontario. Jubin, a Thunder Bay orthopedic disciplines will receive recognition and “It was very difficult,” Simin recalled. “It surgeon; and Jian, a Lead Scientist in financial support for years to come. was in Toronto and I was on my own.” Structural Biology with Genentech Pharmaceuticals in California. Drs. Bijan and Simin Payandeh have But the determined young woman came funded new scholarships in their name. through with flying colours. When Dr. “Both Simin and I are so dedicated to Their donation creates two $2,500 Lou Lukenda provided an opportunity higher education that we decided to awards for presentation annually, in his practice, Simin became Sault Ste. provide these scholarships as a lasting beginning in 2020. Marie’s first female dentist. She later tribute to our name for individuals Born and raised in Iran, both Payandehs established her own solo practice and, who should be able to benefit from it were gifted learners who excelled overall, served patients for 38 years. for their future progress and families,” academically. Their accomplishments Bijan continued. “We would like to see Unusually compelling life experiences younger people follow our example.” led to many rewards, including being and deeply held values shaped the selected for scholastic medals from the Payandehs’ largesse and the awards Simin cited the influence of her father. late Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. that have emerged from it. “He sent us all (including her two sisters Simin earned the top marks in her class “The main reason for this scholarship and one brother, who also became for five straight years while completing is that Simin and I came to this country highly respected professionals) to private D.D.S. (Doctor of Dental Surgery) with very little money and although schools when he didn’t have to. He did so studies in her native land. our families could have helped us — because he believed in education. Bijan Meanwhile, merit-based scholarships especially hers — they didn’t offer any and I worked hard. We saved and we helped Bijan fulfill Ph.D. requirements and we didn’t ask for it,” Bijan said. “We started from nothing. We are so glad that in forest biometry during seven years of decided that we were going to do it on we can do this.” study at Oregon State University. our own depending on our dedication, AU President and Vice-Chancellor Just over 50 years ago, the young, newly relying on our own perseverance and Asima Vezina underscored the new married immigrants relocated to Sault so forth. scholarship’s significance: “Access to Ste. Marie to begin a new life together. “We were fortunate enough to be top-quality undergraduate programs In 1968 Bijan had accepted a research blessed with three children who were in areas such as Biology and Computer scientist post with the Great Lakes healthy and bright. We brought them Science continues to be a challenge Forestry Centre, where he worked for up the way we were used to back home for many students. Algoma University three decades. with extreme love and attention, is grateful for the generous support provided by Dr. Bijan and Dr. Simin Major barriers, however, delayed the following the Zoroastrian traditions of ‘Good Words,’ ‘Good Deeds’ and ‘Good Payandeh that will help ensure the start of Simin’s career. She first needed academic dreams of worthy recipients to learn English, including the complex Thoughts,’ in addition to working hard to set an example. They grew up to be from these academic disciplines become terminology of her profession. Next a reality.” came the matter of qualifying for a very successful and very hard working.” provincial licence. That meant passing The children are: Nina, a Sault Ste. Pictured above: Drs. Simin and Bijan Payandeh

28 ALGOMA U TODAY PRINCE WOMEN’S INSTITUTE & PRINCE TOWNSHIP

pay it forwardWritten by: Marc Capancioni

“Our goal is to build a better livelihood for our community, and we see education as a great way to do that.” Sandy Fulcher, Prince Women’s Institute member

The Prince Women’s Institute has a “It’s really important that students sales and other fundraising events. The mandate – to help improve the quality have support,” said Peggy Greco, the organization is part of the Federated of life for its community and residents township’s Chief Administrative Officer Women’s Institutes of Canada, a regis- by promoting personal development and Clerk-Treasurer. “Our Council felt tered charity dedicated to serving cities through education and partnerships. that it was important to provide support and townships across the country to students attending Algoma University. through advocacy and educational A few years ago, the Institute saw an If we can help them – even a little bit – programs. opportunity to further deliver on its the support goes a long way.” mandate. The charitable organization With a rich and storied history of partnered with Prince Township to giving back, the first Women’s Institute establish a scholarship at Algoma U. “Our Council felt that it was founded in 1897 in Stoney Creek, Ontario. Since then, the organization The Prince Women’s Institute and was important to provide spread worldwide with chapters open- Prince Township Scholarship Award support to students ing up in countries throughout the provides $500 annually to a first-year, British Commonwealth, including the full-time student who’s a resident of the attending Algoma United Kingdom, South Africa, New area township. If a first-year student Zealand and Zimbabwe. does not meet this criteria, the award University. If we can help is made available to an upper-year To learn more about the Federated student who does. them – even a little bit – the Women’s Institutes of Canada please visit www.fwic.ca. “Our goal is to build a better livelihood support goes a long way.” for our community, and we see education as a great way to do that,” said Peggy Greco, Prince Township Sandy Fulcher, a member of the Prince Women’s Institute who previously served as the organization’s President Past recipients of the Prince Women’s and Chair. “That’s why our members Institute and Prince Township Scholar- established the scholarship award at ship Award are Graham Slater (2019) Algoma University. We wanted to give and Trista Curran (2018). back to our community by supporting and promoting education.” Meanwhile, to undertake its charitable Pictured above, left to right: Margaret work and give back to the community, Christenson, Prince Women’s Institute; These sentiments were echoed by the Prince Women’s Institute delivers Jenna Bannister, student recipient of the Prince Township. Its Council also saw a number of programs and activities Prince Women’s Institute & Prince Township the scholarship as an opportunity to throughout the year, including bake Scholarship; and Peggy Greco, Prince Township. give back to citizens.

ALGOMA U TODAY 29 UNIVERSITY SUCCESS UNIVERSITY

FAR LEFT; ASIMA VEZINA, ALGOMA UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT AND VICE-CHANCELLOR; MCDOUGALL ENERGY INC, FAMILY MEMBERS FROM LEFT TO RIGHT; DARREN MCDOUGALL, CHRIS MCDOUGALL, BRYAN MCDOUGALL, JENNIFER MCDOUGALL; AND FAR RIGHT; MARK LAJAMBE, DINNER PLANNING COMMITTEE MEMBER. 2019 JOHN R. RHODES SCHOLARSHIP DINNER HONOURS MCDOUGALL FAMILY & SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT

ast October, Algoma University hosted the forefront of a business model that Aguas, who assumed a range of student the 2019 John R. Rhodes Scholarship has successfully guided the family-owned leadership and athletic roles while a LDinner at The Water Tower Inn, raising business for over 70 years. Now in its secondary level student, is also a member $50,000 to support the ongoing issuance third generation of family ownership, of the Algoma University Thunderbirds of this prestigious annual award. the company has grown to become varsity soccer team. The dinner honoured the tremendous one of Canada’s largest marketers and Thank you to all those who made this contribution the McDougall family has distributors of heating oil, propane, a special night to remember! While we made to our community while recognizing gasoline, diesel fuel, and commercial anticipate a delay in this fall’s dinner due the recipient of the John R. Rhodes lubricants, as well as being a leading multi- to the pandemic, we encourage you to Scholarship, Claudia Aguas. brand retailer. watch for updates on the upcoming 20th For the McDougalls, family values and The scholarship recipient, Claudia Aguas, anniversary celebration of the John R. community-minded investment has been is a Psychology student from Ajax, Ontario. Rhodes Scholarship Dinner.

30 ALGOMA U TODAY 2020 SUMMER UNIVERSITY SUCCESS UNIVERSITY

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1. 2019 JOHN R. RHODES SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT, CLAUDIA AGUAS 2. DARREN MCDOUGALL, PRESIDENT, MCDOUGALL ENERGY INC. PHOTOS 3, 4, AND 5: ATTENDING DINNER GUESTS 6. MASTER OF CEREMONIES, DONNA HILSINGER

ALGOMA U TODAY 31 t’s always a pleasure to reunite with old friends, especially when many of them Ifeel more like family! Algoma University’s 2019 Annual Homecoming celebration

CELEBRATING ALUMNI CELEBRATING provided the perfect opportunity for our ever-growing alumni family to gather and reminisce about their time spent at the University, celebrating with old friends and meeting the new generation of T-birds. Over the course of three days, Algoma’s annual fall Homecoming event offered alumni and students an action-packed lineup of events in both Sault Ste. Marie and Toronto. The 2019 festivities commenced on Thursday, September 26th with a sign- making event followed by the annual Alumni Hockey game where players from as far back as the 1970’s laced up their skates for a little friendly competition. On the Friday, past and present members of the Algoma University community were invited to enjoy a dinner celebrating Anishinaabe culture and cuisine. In the evening, Homecoming guests were welcomed to cheer for the Thunderbirds Basketball teams as they took on visiting teams from Nipissing and Humber. The evening ended with the ever-popular Acoustic Open Mic Night where local musicians, including Algoma U alumni, entertained many onlookers at Algoma U’s Speakeasy with the top three performers taking home cash prizes. Homecoming wrapped up on Saturday, September 28th, with students, alumni and guests in Sault Ste. Marie invited to cheer on the Thunderbirds varsity soccer teams in OUA regular season action versus the . Following the game, the Algoma U community was encouraged to head back to campus to cheer on former and current players at the Alumni Basketball game. On the same evening, alumni living in the GTA along with students from our growing Brampton campus had the ANNUAL HOMECOMING opportunity to attend a Toronto Argonauts football game as the team suited up against the Saskatchewan Roughriders at FESTIVITIES RECONNECT the BMO Field. Stay tuned for future Homecoming OUR GROWING details. We look forward to connecting once again!! ALUMNI FAMILY PHOTO LEFT: ALGOMA UNIVERSITY ACOUSTIC OPEN MIC NIGHT

32 ALGOMA U TODAY 2020 SUMMER CELEBRATING ALUMNI CELEBRATING

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1. ALGOMA UNIVERSITY ALUMNI COUNCIL SIGN-MAKING NIGHT 2. ALUMNI BASKETBALL GAME 3. ALUMNI HOCKEY GAME 4. TORONTO ARGONAUTS FOOTBALL GAME 5. ANISHINAABE DINNER 6. WOMEN’S SOCCER GAME VS. BROCK BADGERS 7. CHANCELLOR, SHIRLEY HORN, CENTRE RIGHT, WITH THE HEALING LODGE SINGERS AT THE ANISHINAABE DINNER 8. WOMEN’S THUNDERBIRDS BASKETBALL GAME AGAINST NIPISSING LAKERS

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ALGOMA U TODAY 33 NEW INITIATIVES NEW UNIVERSITY PARTNERS WITH ONTARIO COLLEGES ON 2+2 AGREEMENTS Written by Marc Capancioni

tudents now have another tool to help to work with our college partners while PHOTO ABOVE: PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE them reach their educational, career providing more opportunities for students.” OFFICER OF NORTHERN COLLEGE, FRED GIBBONS AND Sand life goals. These comments were echoed by ASIMA VEZINA, PRESIDENT AND VICE-CHANCELLOR OF ALGOMA UNIVERSITY, SIGN JOINT ADMISSION Algoma U recently signed 2+2 pathways Colin Kirkwood, Vice-President of AGREEMENT. agreements with five Ontario colleges. Academic & Research at Sault College. Under the pacts, graduates from “We entered into the 2+2 agreements to certain two-year diploma programs can provide students with accelerated degree PHOTO BELOW: ASIMA VEZINA, PRESIDENT AND VICE-CHANCELLOR, ALGOMA UNIVERSITY SIGNS JOINT seamlessly transfer to the university – with completion options after finishing the ADMISSION AGREEMENT WITH DR. RON COMMON, all of their credits directly acknowledged requirements of a college diploma,” he SAULT COLLEGE PRESIDENT. and accepted – and earn a related degree said. “The pathways agreements provide in as little as two years. students with an opportunity to obtain The 2+2 option is available to Sault both a college and university credential College graduates from the following in the time normally required to complete programs: Business, Business Accounting, only a university degree.” Natural Environment Technician, Fish Establishing these agreements first and Wildlife Conservation Technician, required Algoma U and its partner colleges Adventure Recreation and Parks to sync their programs and curriculums as Technician, Forestry Technician, Police much as possible. “The 2+2 pathways are Foundations, General Arts and Science, the result of a lot of work on both sides,” and Computer Programmer. said Dr. Rogers. The 2+2 pathways is also open to Meanwhile, from a college pathway individuals with diplomas in Business or direct from high school, to mature or Business Accounting from Northern students and international scholars, there College in Timmins, along with graduates are “many points of access to a university from Computer Programming and the education,” she added. “We’re not ‘one be creative and flexible with our program Aboriginal Community Advocacy programs size fits all.’ We want everyone who wants offerings and pathways agreements. at in Thunder Bay. to learn to have that opportunity.” Removing barriers for students is what For the University, the goal is to provide Algoma U has regular pathways guides and motivates us.” a streamlined experience for students. agreements with most colleges in To learn more about recent pathway “Our objective is to make the transition Ontario. However, unlike the 2+2 pacts, agreements including newly established as seamless as possible,” said Dr. Donna not all credits are transferrable to the partnerships with Rogers, Algoma U’s VP, Academic and university. Dr. Rogers and her academic in Sudbury and in Research “In smaller communities like team are currently working to expand its Scarborough, please visit, Sault Ste. Marie, it’s more natural to list of pathways programs and partner www.algomau.ca/admissions. see collaboration instead of competition institutions. Questions can also be directed to: between post-secondary institutes. We see “We’re very open to collaborating with [email protected] the 2+2 agreements as a great opportunity college partners,” she said. “Our goal is to or 705-949-2301 ext. 4264.

34 ALGOMA U TODAY 2020 SUMMER

PARTNERING TO MAKE SOCIAL WORK SUCCESS UNIVERSITY ACCESSIBLE IN REMOTE NORTHERN COMMUNITIES Written by Marc Capancioni SHOWN ABOVE, JOANNE AZEVEDO, LEFT, AND EMILENE DUMOULIN, RIGHT.

JOANNE AZEVEDO EMILENE DUMOULIN It was a very welcomed connectivity in Timmins that When it comes to helping including beading workshops, change of scenery – one you don’t get in the G.T.A.,” people, Emilene Dumoulin colouring events and even that also happened to have she said. “When I moved here, has made a career out of it. gingerbread house-making. familiar surroundings. I was overwhelmed by how And she couldn’t be happier Not only do these forums Growing up in the Greater welcoming everyone was – working in this type of role. help relieve pressure and Toronto Area, Joanne Azevedo from my work colleagues and Dumoulin spent 13 anxiety, they also have a has been working in the child students, to my neighbours years as Executive Director secondary benefit. protection sector for well over and landlord. It was quite of Timmins and District “These activities bring 20 years. More recently, she lovely.” Victim Services. In 2018, students together and began taking on university While teaching classes at she changed gears – but helps them to get to know teaching roles and sharing her Algoma U’s Timmins Campus, continued her occupational each other,” she said. “It’s knowledge with others. Azevedo holds another job path of helping others – and immensely important to bring In April 2019, Azevedo as a casual after-hours Child took on the role of Support the different groups together.” became a Lecturer in the Protection Social Worker for Services Coordinator for Being able to connect Social Work Department at the Kawartha-Haliburton Algoma U’s Timmins Campus, students of varying ages Algoma U’s Timmins Campus. Children’s Aid Society. She’s which offers degrees in and classes together is an She was thrilled to head north also studying for a Doctor of Social Work and Community additional advantage of and pursue this opportunity. Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Social Development. Algoma U, added Dumoulin. Azevedo is no stranger to Work from . In her current position, “We’re a smaller university, the community. Her father With her dissertation focused Dumoulin’s job is to help which allows us to provide grew up just outside Timmins, on the working conditions ensure student satisfaction more engagement with and the family would take of child welfare employees, and success. Duties include students,” she said. regular visits there when she she expects to complete the everything from booking For Dumoulin, delivering was a child. advanced degree in 2021. classrooms and planning this type of support and “I have a strong attachment Meanwhile, to further events, to hosting stress- assistance is extremely to the city,” said Azevedo. “It’s advance the child welfare busting activities, particularly rewarding. “There’s nothing been an interesting journey to field, Azevedo recently during exam season. better than learning that now be living and working in started an initiative, in “It’s all about student a graduating student my late-father’s hometown. I partnership with a colleague satisfaction,” she said. “I recommended to a friend or get to visit places that I know from Northern College, to love everything about my family member to enroll in my dad used to spend time offer Bachelor of Social Work job, especially interacting Algoma University,” she said. in, like the curling rink. We courses to individuals working with students. I come from a “That always puts a smile on have strong family roots in in remote communities in helping field, and I constantly my face.” Timmins.” Ontario. “Our goal is to make remind the students to take As an added benefit social work credentials, such care of themselves first. Self- of living in the Northern as the BSW, more accessible help is very important.” Ontario community, Azevedo for people who live and For stress-busters, especially enjoys the work in remote northern Dumoulin facilitates various smaller town feel. “There’s a communities,” she said. activities for students,

ALGOMA U TODAY 35 STAFF PROFILE STAFF

ABOVE, CELEBRATING AT MARIA MURTHA’S RETIREMENT PARTY, ADMINISTRATION AND STAFF MEMBERS FROM LEFT: REGISTRAR, DAVID MARASCO; TIFFANY GALLIVAN, A MEMBER OF THE ALGOMA U MARIA MURTHA; AND IVANA BRUNI. INSET PHOTO: MURTHA AT ALGOMA UNIVERSITY CONVOCATION 1986.

FAMILY RETIRES AFTER that has taken place. For Murtha, “It’s still small enough to know everyone. Mind you, in recent years with the expansion, it’s DECADES OF SERVICE become harder to know everyone.” Written by Jessica Ferlaino Of the many memorable experiences Murtha had at Algoma University, it was the day it achieved independence, June f you have worked at or attended experienced at Algoma University, it is 28, 2008, that she holds as one of the Algoma University over the past several the physical changes to the campus and most significant. Just as she did that Idecades, Maria Murtha was likely to be a the student demographic that are most day, Murtha hopes Algoma continues familiar face. As an alumna, and later as an remarkable to Murtha. When she was a to grow in terms of size, capacity and employee, she had been around to watch student, it was primarily mature students programming. the institution evolve over the decades who attended Algoma University, and as Moments of reflection like these are and now in retirement, she has embarked a high school graduate she felt like the meaningful because after her many on changes of her own. minority. This is no longer the case. years of study and service with Algoma Murtha was a student at Algoma Today the campus is more diverse, University, Maria has retired. The University College between 1982 and vibrant and youthful and the energy on institution lost a long-standing employee, 1986. She graduated with a Bachelor of campus, which has grown immensely, an always friendly face, and one of the Arts in Accounting and a certificate in is very different. Algoma University has many great people who helped the Business Data Processing. Her career strengthened its capacity to ensure that it institution to grow. with the school began in 1985, when she has the resources to support student and Murtha looks forward to retirement was hired as a summer student and she employee success. including checking items off her bucket had been with the Finance Department Murtha noted, “As a student, I remember list. Although the current pandemic ever since. the computer science classes taking place has delayed her plans, one of the items When Murtha joined the employee at Sault College as we had no computer Murtha and her husband John, including ranks as a student, her job was “to help labs. The Wishart Library, the GLC, the daughters Joanna and Angela are looking them computerize the accounting system,” residence building, the Convergence Centre forward to, is planning trips to Italy which she recalled was done manually were all built during my time here,” which and Ireland. When asked if she had any at the time. She later held the roles have greatly improved the institution’s concluding thoughts, she responded, “I of Bookkeeper, Accounting Manager, ability to deliver exceptional programming will miss the staff, faculty and the students Financial and Accounting Systems Officer, and the quality of campus life. that make up the wonderful Algoma Manager of Financial Services and most The campus, which was previously one family,” but she certainly looks forward to recently, Director of Financial Services. stand-alone building in Shingwauk Hall, is being on vacation for the rest of her life! Of all the changes that she has more expansive and reflects the growth

36 ALGOMA U TODAY 2020 SUMMER

ALGOMA UNIVERSITY SUCCESS UNIVERSITY APPOINTS MARIO TURCO AS SECOND CHANCELLOR IN SCHOOL HISTORY Written by Brian Leahy

lgoma University is pleased to announce that community to the university level advocating the importance of education to leader Mario Turco has been appointed to a four-year the individual and to society in general. Algoma University has Aterm as Chancellor beginning September 1, 2020. “Mario is a exemplary leadership, faculty, and staff. I am impressed with their community champion who truly understands the importance great work, their many accomplishments and ambitious direction of education both to the individual and community,” shared for the future. I look forward to working with all members of the Dr. David Nanang, former Chair of the University’s Board of university and its partners to advance its vision and mission to Governors and the Chancellor Search Committee.“He will be provide first-class education while at the same time cultivating an excellent Chancellor for Algoma University; particularly in cross-cultural learning through partnerships with Indigenous this period of program and enrolment growth where we will communities, organizations and groups. I thank the Algoma welcome increasing numbers of students and employees locally, University Board of Governors, the selection committee, and my provincially, nationally and from across the world.” nominators for their confidence and support in my appointment.” Born in Italy, and immigrating to Canada as Algoma University’s Chancellor serves as the a young child, Turco witnessed firsthand the titular/ceremonial head of the institution and importance of public education as he, his siblings, “I have been confers all degrees. An advisor and supporter to and parents rebuilt their life in a new country. fortunate to the President, the Chancellor is a public proponent Through these experiences and an impressive be associated of the goals and objectives of the University and is 42-year career, including 9 years as Director of with students, an active participant in University activities and the Education for the School Board, educators, and other University community. By acting as an ambassador Turco has become a passionate advocate for stakeholders from of Algoma University, the Chancellor also helps student success, equity and public education. the elementary, to raise the profile of the University as well as Mario is highly regarded and respected for his to the university assist in both relationship-building and fundraising experience, his interpersonal skills, his knowledge, level advocating initiatives. The Chancellor provides support to the and strategic thinking. He has worked extensively the importance of University President, as requested, and promotes with government, school boards, and organizations the University’s Special Mission in regards to cross- across the province and country. education to the cultural learning and Anishinaabe education. This is Since retirement, Turco has been very active individual and to a voluntary, unpaid position. serving in the Sault Ste. Marie community. He society in general.” Turco succeeds Shirley Horn who served in the continues to provide leadership, mentorship and role since 2015. “Our University community is coaching to a range of individuals and currently excited to have Mario Turco appointed to the role serves on the Board of Directors for the Sault Area Hospital as of Chancellor,” said Asima Vezina, President and Vice-Chancellor. First Vice-Chair as well as Chair of the Education Committee and “His skill set will be an important asset as we move forward with Chair of the Recruitment and Selection Committee. our Special Mission, new programming, an aggressive capital plan “I am honoured and pleased to be chosen as Chancellor of and targeted enrolment growth on all three campuses. He is a Algoma University,” stated Mr. Turco. “Working in education has wonderful choice to help the University continue the tremendous been my life calling. I have been fortunate to be associated with work done by Chancellor Horn to raise the profile of Algoma students, educators, and other stakeholders from the elementary, University within the communities we serve.”

ALGOMA U TODAY 37 ALUMNI PROFILE ALUMNI

ALUMNUS CREATES NEW BURSARY TO HELP BLACK STUDENTS Written by Rick McGee

PICTURED LEFT: KAREEM ROBERTS (CENTER) ACCEPTS ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARD AT 2016 CONVOCATION CEREMONY FROM THEN DIRECTOR OF EXTENSION PROGRAMMING & DISTRIBUTED LEARNING, BRIAN LEAHY (LEFT) AND 2016 ALGOMA UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT, CRAIG CHAMBERLIN (RIGHT). INSET PHOTO: KAREEM ROBERTS

oved by George Floyd’s tragic death and racially charged importance of education and how I can make wise decisions in developments that ensued, Kareem Roberts, Algoma my life,” Roberts continued.“Being part of the Business program MUniversity’s 2016 Alumni Achievement Award at Algoma has set me up for many successes winner, felt compelled to respond in some way. “I wanted to alleviate throughout my career. Now as a faculty Now a Business professor at Algoma’s the stresses of the costs member, I want to give back the knowledge and Brampton Campus, he was guided by the wisdom so that Black students experience I have gained and help students so of a remarkable humanitarian and historic leader. that they can have success in their careers and can concentrate on “I established a new award to help Black lives. students finance their post-secondary education,” their studies and “I wanted to alleviate the stresses of the costs said Roberts, a 2008 Algoma Bachelor of excelling in their chosen so that Black students can concentrate on their Business Administration (Honours) — Marketing programs. I have studies and excelling in their chosen programs. graduate. noticed too many Black I have noticed too many Black students within “I am a firm believer in education. The more students within my my community dropping out of post-secondary we educate people, the more our world is made community dropping education and their primary reason is cost a better place. Nelson Mandela once said, out of post-secondary and I want to help. By providing these types of ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which education and their bursaries this allows more Black students to you can use to change the world.’ I believe that.” primary reason is cost finish university and excel in their chosen future Roberts’ new $500 Black Opportunities careers.” Bursary will be presented annually beginning and I want to help.” Going forward, Roberts hopes to expand the this fall. Black Opportunities Bursary so more students Recipients will be Black Canadian or will benefit from it. Easing learners’ financial International students of African or Caribbean descent who challenges is certain to help them achieve their goals in and are attending Algoma full-time and are contributing to society beyond the classroom. through the power of education. Besides receiving monetary assistance, the award will “My experience as a university student has shown me the strengthen each recipient’s résumé.

38 ALGOMA U TODAY Education is an investment for a lifetime. Your gift changes lives. Invest in an Algoma U student today!

You can change the life of a student. Your donation today will help a student who one day may change our community or change the world! Your donation will provide an Algoma U student with a learning experience that will be cherished for a lifetime. You can give a deserving Algoma U student the chance to reach their goals and dreams; to become the very best that they can be.

Our students are future teachers, business leaders, scientists, doctors, programmers and creators of new knowledge. The possibilities and opportunities are endless!

For more information on how you can invest in the life of an Algoma University student, please contact: Bev Teller, CFRE, Alumni & Development Officer Algoma University, 1520 Queen Street East, Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 2G4 Phone: 705-949-2301, ext. 4125 E-mail: [email protected]

Name: Address: City: Province: Postal Code:

Yes, I would like to invest in an Algoma U student! I wish to contribute by:

MONTHLY GIVING PROGRAM I WOULD LIKE TO MAKE A ONE-TIME DONATION m Preauthorized bank deduction m Cheque enclosed for $ . (Please attach a VOID cheque) deducted (Please make cheque payable to Algoma University.) on the 15th of each month. m Credit card payment in the amount of $ . m I would like to become a monthly donor m VISA m MasterCard by debiting my credit card. Name on card: (Please complete credit card information.) Card Number: Please indicate the amount that you wish Expiration Date: to donate monthly: Cardholder’s Signature: m $20 per month m $10 per month Donations can also be made online at www.algomau.ca/giving/ m $5 per month Please direct my donation to: m $ per month m Algoma U Fund (unrestricted gift) m Arthur A. Wishart Library m Scholarship & Bursaries program m Varsity Sports m m From time to time, Algoma U may publish the Student Emergency Fund names of donors to the Annual Campaign. If you do not wish to have your name publicly Charitable Registration #: listed as a donor, please check here. 8266 30865 RR0001 www.algomau.ca NEW INITIATIVES NEW

TREMENDOUS RESPONSE TO through the “Come Together” Sault Ste. Marie ALGOMA UNIVERSITY STUDENT virtual fundraising initiative. Brampton-based Inzola Construction Inc. made a EMERGENCY FUND generous contribution with Chairman John Cutruzzola Written by Megan Parlowe noting,“our students are the future, we can’t abandon lgoma University wishes Over 470 students applied only helped with the essentials them when their needs are the to extend its sincere for assistance through this but they brought back a sense greatest.” Aappreciation to all those who fund and, thanks to the of security I was lacking, thank All surplus funds generated have generously supported generous response from you,” shared SEF recipient through the initial campaign the Student Emergency Fund donors, the SEF Committee has David Humes. will continue to support (SEF). This past April, the been able to directly assist 295 Numerous donations were students. New funds will be University created the SEF to students with received from flowed through the established help students struggling with financial support individuals, Emergency Bursary to continue financial issues resulting from while helping Our students are organized labour, to support students who, along the COVID-19 pandemic. The another 180 the future, we can’t community with a variety of other needs, Advancement Department students access abandon them organizations, continue to be impacted by reached out to the Algoma additional forms when their needs and corporate COVID-19. University family of employees, of assistance are the greatest. donors. As Algoma University would like alumni, campus unions, available to them well, Algoma to extend sincere gratitude for Board of Governors, and through other University’s the overwhelming kindness external communities in Sault sources. Student and generosity during these Ste. Marie, Brampton, and “During these times of Emergency Fund was one unprecedented times. Thank Timmins. uncertainty, these funds not of the recipients supported you – Miigwech.

40 ALGOMA U TODAY 2020 SUMMER ATHLETICS UPDATES ATHLETICS

EXCITING VARSITY NEWS At the halfway point in the Algoma Stephen Kreyenbuhl (120 KG) both placed ALGOMA U THUNDERBIRDS Thunderbird wrestling team’s competitive 6th, Emily Duchesne (51 KG) placed 7th and WRESTLERS RANK IN season, they were recognized by U David Serra placed 8th. Sports for their hard work and athletic Finishing the season, individual U SPORTS TOP TEN achievements. Five Thunderbird wrestlers Mens rankings had Algoma wrestler, Brody rd PICTURED ABOVE; FROM LEFT, had made the U Sports Top Ten and the Collison ranked 3 (54 kg), Bryce Davis KYLE PRICE, STEPHEN KREYENBUHL, EMILY men’s team was ranked 7th, the highest ranked 4th (68 kg), Stephen Kreyenbuhl DUCHESNE, BRODY COLLISON AND BRYCE DAVIS. placing Algoma has attained since ranked 7th (120 kg) and Emily Duchesne 2013/14. ranked 7th in the Womens 51 kg category. In February, five members of the Algoma “The U Sports rankings help us to University Thunderbird wrestling team reaffirm with our athletes that what we took to the mat against Canada’s top are doing is working. They have made university wrestlers at the 2020 USports a lot of progress technically but the National Wrestling Championships hosted most improvement has been seen with by in St. Catharines. The their own mat intelligence”, says Head Thunderbirds came out hard, and Brody Coach, Trevor Manchester. “The team Collison (54 KG) took home the Bronze has also been working extremely hard to medal. All five Algoma wrestlers competed increase physical fitness, with the focus against the best in the country, all finishing on maintaining explosiveness in the later in the top eight within their respective minutes of a match.” weight classes. Bryce Davis (68 KG) and

In November, Algoma NEW LOOK FOR UNIVERSITY MASCOT “BOOMER” University’s new and improved mascot was COMMUNITY COLLABORATION CO-HOSTS unveiled. The original mascot, 2020 OUA NORDIC SKI CHAMPIONSHIPS a large Thunderbolt named Algoma University and the Soo Boomer, was introduced in Finnish Nordic Ski Club co-hosted the 2008. Although embraced 2020 Ontario University Athletics (OUA) by the University, the large Nordic Ski Championships at Hiawatha and long head piece proved Highlands in February. Rebekah Gwynn a bit cumbersome for was Algoma U’s only student-athlete the wearer. To soften the able to participate, but she came out mascot’s appearance and to hard and found herself on the podium make the Boomer outfit more for an exhibition relay.“Before this year, user friendly and current I had never raced,” Gwynn shared. “I with new team colours, came out for a couple of practices and I new modifications were just fell in love with skiing. This weekend considered. The old costume was a blast.” For both the Women’s & will be cleaned, a new fan Men’s Team Championships, the Carleton installed and some repairs Ravens brought home the gold, the completed for his new home took silver and on the Brampton campus. the Nipissing Lakers finished with bronze.

ALGOMA U TODAY 41 LOOKING BACK AT

4 UNIVERSITY SUCCESS UNIVERSITY OUR EVENTS 3

1 2

7 8

5 6

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15 16

13 14 TH ANNUAL

TH ANNUAL GATHERING AT THE RAPIDS POW WOW 13. ACCANO CANADA’S 2020 ANNUAL BLACK 1. 7TH ANNUAL TRICK OR TRICK NIGHT EVENT ON THE SAULT CAMPUS 2. NORTHERN COLLEGE AND ALGOMA U CO-HOST A HAUNTED TRAIL IN TIMMINS 3. HALLOWEEN DRESS UP ON BRAMPTON CAMPUS 4. ALGOMA U WINS PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD AT LUNG ASSOCIATION’S FESTIVAL OF TREES 5. & 6. SSM SANTA CLAUS PARADE 7. TIMMINS CAMPUS CAROLING CRUIZER 8. ALGOMA U SUPPORTS BELL LET’S TALK 9. SKI, S’MORES & MORE AT SAULT SKI HILL 10. SHINGWAUK ANISHINAABE STUDENTS’ LOUNGE GRAND OPENING 11. 10 TH SHOOT FOR THE CURE RAISES FUNDS BI-ENNIAL TO HELP ANISHINAABE LOCAL YOUNGSTER INENDAMOWIN BEAT LEUKEMIA RESEARCH . SYMPOSIUM 12. 15 15. BRAMPTON STUDENTS CELEBRATE THE HOLI FESTIVAL 16. ALGOMA U AND THE SOO HISTORY CELEBRATION 14. 4 FINNISH NORDIC SKI CLUB CO-HOSTED THE 2020 ONTARIO UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS (OUA) NORDIC SKI CHAMPIONSHIPS AT HIAWATHA HIGHLANDS.

42 ALGOMA U TODAY reating a legacy by investing in futures

lanning is such a major part • Bequests of our lives. We plan for our • Life Insurance Did you know: daily activities, upcoming events • RRSP/RRIF Funds in our personal or professional • Securities In May 2006 the Federal govern- lives and unexpected situations. Planning • Charitable Gift Annuities ment removed the obligation to is both prudent and responsible. • Charitable Remainder Trusts pay capital gains tax on donations Planning is also a thoughtful and important Your commitment to excellence in education of marketable securities to way of approaching our charitable giving. can continue with a gift that is planned today charities. Gifts of marketable Planning gifts to charity through a gift in to prepare for the future. Please consider securities (stocks, mutual funds) your will or through life insurance ensures discussing with your financial advisors today, receive the benefit of a charitable that the causes and organizations that you how you can plan to maintain your legacy and commitment to Algoma University. tax receipt for the fair market have deemed important during your lifetime continue to benefit from your support in value of the security without the For information on how you can leave your perpetuity. There may also be tax benefits and requirement to pay tax on the legacy, and possibly receive considerable tax implications that are important considerations capital gain. The elimination of benefits please complete the following form for your family and heirs, both now and in and return it to: the capital gains tax creates many the future. opportunities and advantages for Bev. Teller, CFRE There are many options available to you donations of stocks rather than Alumni & Development Officer which can help to meet your philanthropic cash, whether for a gift today or Algoma University goals today and possibly provide you and as part of an estate plan. 1520 Queen St, East your estate considerable tax savings in the Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 2G4 future. Such options include gifts through: Ph: 705-949-2301, Ext. 4125

Please provide me with information on making a planned gift to Algoma University through: o Bequests o Securities o Life Insurance o Charitable Gift Annuities o RRSP/RRIF Funds o Charitable Remainder Trusts o Mr. o Mrs. o Ms. o Miss o Dr. Name: Address: City: Province: Postal Code: Tel # (Home) Tel # (Work) E-Mail: o I have already included Algoma University in my estate planning and/or will. Algoma University encourages you to explore the options that best suit your personal philanthropic goals. The information provided will outline the benefits of making a planned gift to Algoma University. We strongly recommend that you consult with your financial and/or legal advisor prior to making your gift to determine specific tax advantages and equirements.r PRESS SIGNS PRINTING COPY CENTRE & DECALS MAIL PROMO MARKETING PRODUCTS DESIGN

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