Thursday, February 13, 2014 ­­— Orillia, ON

In the interest of further contributing to the economic growth and development of Orillia and Simcoe County, Lakehead University President & Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Brian Stevenson, today announced the establishment of the President’s Advisory Council on Economic Development for Simcoe County, or PACED Simcoe. This new council is comprised of regional industry and business leaders.

“PACED’s purpose is to advise me on how Lakehead University can fulfil an even more integral role in the economic development of the City of Orillia and Simcoe County,” explained Dr. Stevenson, who will serve as Chair of the new council. “Council members will help me determine where our University can best contribute to Orillia and Simcoe County, and how to measure that success.”

PACED members were selected based on individual skill sets, and include representatives from the City’s and region’s municipal, business, and the Aboriginal communities. Here are PACED Simcoe’s initial members:

• Donna Hewitt — Director, Corporate & Strategic Initiatives, Township of Oro-Medonte
• Robert Lamb — CAO, Township of Tay
• Dan Landry — Economic Development Manager, City of Orillia
• Will McGarvey — President, Shadowbox Learning Services
• Rex Meadley — President and Chief Engineer, C.C. Tatham & Associates Ltd.
• Elisabeth Riley — President & CEO, Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital
• Dave Ritchie — Councillor, Township of Tay
• Kevin Wassegijig — Director, Continuous Improvement, Casino Rama
• Dr. Kim Fedderson — Dean & Vice-Provost (Orillia Campus), Lakehead University
• Frank Cappadocia — Associate Vice-Provost (Orillia Campus), Lakehead University

Will McGarvey, the recipient of Lakehead University’s 2013 Civitas Award, said, “I look forward to seeing how our group’s recommendations and counsel will help Lakehead University and its president have an even greater impact on the economic prosperity of Orillia and Simcoe County for years to come.”

President Stevenson recently created PACED Northwest to guide Lakehead University’s economic development activities in that region of the province, as well.

PACED Simcoe’s initial members (Front Row, l to r): Kevin Wassegijig, Director, Continuous Improvement, Casino Rama; Dr. Brian Stevenson, President & Vice-Chancellor, Lakehead University; Elisabeth Riley, President & CEO, Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital; Dr. Kim Fedderson, Dean & Vice-Provost (Orillia Campus), Lakehead University; Dr. Kim Fedderson, Dean & Vice-Provost (Orillia Campus), Lakehead University; (Back Row, l to r: Frank Cappadocia, Associate Vice-Provost (Orillia Campus), Lakehead University; Rex Meadley, President and Chief Engineer, C.C. Tatham & Associates Ltd.; Will McGarvey, President, Shadowbox Learning Services; Donna Hewitt, Director, Corporate & Strategic Initiatives, Township of Oro-Medonte; and Robert Lamb, CAO, Township of Tay.  Missing from photo: Dan Landry, Economic Development Manager, City of Orillia; and Dave Ritchie, Councillor, Township of Tay.

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Media: For more information, please contact Communications Officer, Kathy Hunt, at (705) 330-4008 (ext. 2014), or kjhunt3@lakeheadu.ca.

In 2015, Lakehead University will celebrate 50 years of exceptional education. Guided by a new Strategic Plan (2013-2018), our University is known for providing an education focused on independent thinking, unconventional scholarship, and a close sense of community. About 9,700 students and 2,000 faculty and staff learn and work in ten faculties at two campuses, in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Home to Ontario’s first new Faculty of Law in 44 years (Fall 2013) and the Northern Ontario School of Medicine's West Campus, Lakehead is among Canada’s Top 10 undergraduate universities (2014 Maclean’s University Rankings), as well as 1^st in Ontario and 2^nd in Canada for its innovative research (Re$earch Infosource). Our Orillia campus is the first in North America to be built entirely to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) standards. Share your Lakehead story as it relates to our Strategic Plan at www.lakeheadu.ca/presidents-office/nurturing-passion, and learn more about Lakehead at www.lakeheadu.ca.

Lakehead students L-R: Taylor Hosanna, Nick Dzikowski, Lucas Bauer and Ben Anderson.

Tuesday, March 25, 2014 – Thunder Bay, ON 

Lakehead’s accounting students placed first at this year’s Gathering of Accounting Associates, Professionals, and Students (GAAPS) competition out of 12 undergraduate teams from across Canada.

The winning Lakehead team was comprised of fourth-year accounting students Ben Anderson, Lucas Bauer, Nick Dzikowski, and Taylor Hosanna. This isn’t the first time Lakehead’s accounting students have done well in the competition – they finished second in 2013, first in 2011 and third in 2010.

“The fact that Lakehead students excel in competitions like this time and time again really shows the quality of education we receive here,” said Hosanna.

“All of our professors provide us with the technical knowledge we need for success, but it’s more than that. The presentations, group work and extracurricular activities that our professors encourage us to participate in give us a well-rounded set of skills which prepare us for these competitions and for the working world as well,” Hosanna said.

The conference was recently hosted by the University of Manitoba, which placed second. Team Lakehead’s first-place ranking earned them a trophy and $1,500 in prize money. 

"It was really great to be back this year and build on last year’s success,” said Dzikowski. “We definitely learned from mistakes made in the prior year and used our experience in the competition to our advantage.

“The cases were unique and challenging but everyone assumed their roles quickly and our presentations were well executed. We learned that the winning team isn't necessarily the one with the most detailed analysis or flashiest slideshow, but rather the one that is confident and best able to justify its conclusions to the judges,” he said.

Bauer echoed his teammate’s comments. “By using our experiences from last year, our team had a strong advantage in knowing how to work and communicate with each other effectively,” he said. “Although our team faced challenges during the competition, our comfort level was a calming influence and a key to our success.”

The annual GAAPS includes an accounting-based case competition, guest speakers and networking events. 

Anderson said his favourite aspect of the competition was the networking opportunities. “The event was a chance to meet many students and even some professionals in a casual setting,” Anderson said. “If I ever decide to work in Manitoba, I'll always have access to that network."

Lakehead Associate Professor of Accounting, Dr. Camillo Lento, said the students’ success is a testament to their hard work and the quality of the University’s Business program.

“These students represented all of their peers at Lakehead University, and everyone is excited that the team placed first.  It is great to see the students achieve such great results after all of their hard work.”

Lakehead was also represented by a second team consisting of third-year students Salvatore Tozzo, Meagan Ellis, Rachel Labate, and fourth-year student Justin Donaldson.

The Lakehead GAAPS Team is thankful for support from the Northwestern Ontario Chartered Accountant Association (NWOCAA). For more information about GAAPS, visit: http://asbaa.ca/gaapsconference/

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Media: For more information, please contact Brandon Walker, Media Relations Officer, at (807) 343-8177, or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

In 2015, Lakehead University will celebrate 50 years of exceptional education. Guided by a new Strategic Plan (2013-2018), our University is known for providing an education focused on independent thinking, unconventional scholarship, and a close sense of community. About 9,700 students and 2,000 faculty and staff learn and work in ten faculties at two campuses, in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Home to Ontario’s first new Faculty of Law in 44 years (Fall 2013) and the Northern Ontario School of Medicine's West Campus, Lakehead is among Canada’s Top 10 undergraduate universities (2014 Maclean’s University Rankings), as well as 1^st in Ontario and 2^nd in Canada for its innovative research (Re$earch Infosource). Our Orillia campus is the first in North America to be built entirely to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) standards. Share your Lakehead story as it relates to our Strategic Plan at www.lakeheadu.ca/presidents-office/nurturing-passion, and learn more about Lakehead at www.lakeheadu.ca.

Socorro Woodman paints the outside of her mask, inspired by the way she believes people see her.

Tuesday, March 25, 2014 – Thunder Bay, ON

More than 200 Lakehead University students recently learned about the human face of caring through an interactive mask-making project that will help shape the nurses that they will become.

The goal is to teach Bachelor of Science in Nursing students about caring by helping them understand themselves, others and the world they live in. 

The project, called An Aesthetic Expression of Caring Through Mask Making and Storytelling, was funded by the Associated Medical Services Phoenix Foundation: Call for Caring Grant.

During one of the first days of class, last September, first-year Bachelor of Science Nursing students were paired with a complete stranger from their class whom they would make a mask with.

“This experience was hands-on, nitty-gritty reflective learning,” said Socorro Woodman, a student who participated in the project. “Not only did we wrap plastic and then layers of plaster over a stranger’s face, but then we had that done to ourselves.”

“Trusting someone to cover your mouth and nose, however brief, is incredibly humbling,” Woodman said.

Dr. Michelle Spadoni, Associate Professor in the School of Nursing, explained the concept of the design of the inside and outside of the students’ masks: “The outside of their masks is painted to represent the way students believe people see them while the inside is painted the way students see themselves.”

Students began the project by communicating with their partner through a website, having never met them, previously. They then had to find and get to know their partner on the first day of class.

While making the mask, they had to cover their partner’s face with plastic wrap, providing a small hole to breathe through. Next, four layers of plaster were applied to the person’s face. After 45 minutes, the mask was removed and the other person’s mask was applied.

“As a group, we were immediately vulnerable to each other’s stories and we connected deeply with each other from the very get-go,” said Heidi Zettel, a student who participated in the project.

“We learned that knowing our self directly relates to the quality of care we will be able to provide to our future patients. We are now more aware that every person has their own story and that each of those stories is invaluable. I feel very thankful for this experience,” Zettel added.

The masks are displayed along Lakehead University’s The Row — along the second-floor hall where Administration’s offices are located in the University Centre — until the end of March.

“The Row is our very own art gallery and a hallmark of our students’ creativity,” said Lakehead President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Brian Stevenson. “These masks are not only another example of the imagination of our students; they illustrate the importance of believing in yourself and connecting with others.”

These colourful and unique expressions of self and identity also represent a partnership between faculty in Lakehead University’s School of Nursing, the Office of Aboriginal Initiatives and Department of Athletics.

Dr. Michelle Spadoni, Dr. Pat Sevean, and the Director of the School of Nursing, Karen Poole, will present the project’s outcomes at two national conferences:

Canadian Association of School of Nursing — Nursing Education Conference (Halifax) May 25-28th, 2014 (both poster and paper presentation); 

Canadian Conference on Medical Education — Creating Space IV Conference (Ottawa) April 25 & 26, 2014 poster and panel guest of Dr. Brian Hodges (Project Lead AMS Phoenix Foundation Call for Caring Grant). 

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Media: For more information, please contact Brandon Walker, Media Relations Officer, at (807) 343-8177, or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

In 2015, Lakehead University will celebrate 50 years of exceptional education. Guided by a new Strategic Plan (2013-2018), our University is known for providing an education focused on independent thinking, unconventional scholarship, and a close sense of community. About 9,700 students and 2,000 faculty and staff learn and work in ten faculties at two campuses, in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Home to Ontario’s first new Faculty of Law in 44 years (Fall 2013) and the Northern Ontario School of Medicine's West Campus, Lakehead is among Canada’s Top 10 undergraduate universities (2014 Maclean’s University Rankings), as well as 1^st in Ontario and 2^nd in Canada for its innovative research (Re$earch Infosource). Our Orillia campus is the first in North America to be built entirely to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) standards. Share your Lakehead story as it relates to our Strategic Plan at www.lakeheadu.ca/presidents-office/nurturing-passion, and learn more about Lakehead at www.lakeheadu.ca.

Friday, March 14, 2014 – Thunder Bay, ON

A new textbook written by a Lakehead University professor empowers elementary school teachers with more effective ways to support their students in learning and using mathematics.

Mathematical Models for Teaching (Canadian Scholars’ Press) is based on new theories about the teaching and learning of elementary mathematics. The ground-breaking textbook argues for a new pedagogy that goes above and beyond routine memorization.

“Based on our research about teachers’ learning, and grounded in a framework of models and modeling, this resource is designed to support growth in teachers' specialized understanding of mathematics content,” explained the textbook’s author, Dr. Ann Kajander, an Associate Professor in Lakehead University’s Faculty of Education.

“Lakehead is known for its exceptional support of pre-service teachers' mathematical development and this resource is another example of that,” said Dr. Kajander, 2014 recipient of the Margaret Sinclair Memorial Award Recognizing Excellence and Innovation in Mathematics Education.

Co-author Tom Boland — a Lakehead BEd graduate, classroom teacher, and facilitator — explained that to be an effective teacher of mathematics, educators need to be more than simply ‘procedurally fluent’ with mathematical operations. “Teachers need a deeper, more conceptual understanding of the mathematics we teach,” he said. “The use of models and reasoning provides this necessary conceptual basis.”

Mathematical Models for Teaching’s comprehensive approach addresses areas of mathematical study identified as problematic for teachers, and guides readers through the development of understanding that supports student learning.

Unlike traditional mathematical resources for educators, each chapter of Mathematical Models for Teaching assists in the formation of underlying concepts to support appropriate and developmental classroom learning, while cross-chapter references encourage readers to make critical connections. Topics include what teachers need to know about numbers and operations, patterning and algebra, geometry, spatial sense, measurement, data management, and probability.

To purchase a copy of Mathematical Models for Teaching, visit Canadian Scholars’ Press at www.cspi.org.

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Media: For more information, please contact Brandon Walker, Media Relations Officer, at (807) 343-8177, or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

In 2015, Lakehead University will celebrate 50 years of exceptional education. Guided by a new Strategic Plan (2013-2018), our University is known for providing an education focused on independent thinking, unconventional scholarship, and a close sense of community. About 9,700 students and 2,000 faculty and staff learn and work in ten faculties at two campuses, in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Home to Ontario’s first new Faculty of Law in 44 years (Fall 2013) and the Northern Ontario School of Medicine's West Campus, Lakehead is among Canada’s Top 10 undergraduate universities (2014 Maclean’s University Rankings), as well as 1^st in Ontario and 2^nd in Canada for its innovative research (Re$earch Infosource). Our Orillia campus is the first in North America to be built entirely to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) standards. Share your Lakehead story as it relates to our Strategic Plan at www.lakeheadu.ca/presidents-office/nurturing-passion, and learn more about Lakehead at www.lakeheadu.ca.

March 12, 2014 – Thunder Bay, ON

The Lakehead University Native Student Association is hosting its annual powwow at the C.J. Sanders Fieldhouse from Friday, March 14 until Sunday, March 16.

The theme for this year’s powwow is re-uniting the community, which was decided after recent events in Thunder Bay resulted in social upheaval and a further division between local communities.

“The spring powwow is an inclusive cultural event – a powerful social connector that brings people together,” said Natasha Wesley-Iserhoff, Powwow coordinator. “The powwow is the nucleus of bridge building that revives, restores, awakens, and is at the core of reviving community relationships and co-operation,” she said.

“This annual powwow fosters and promotes understanding and compassion to the historical friendship between local communities,” Wesley-Iserhoff said.

This inclusive powwow will be led by the acclaimed host drum, Whitefish Bay Singers from Naotkamegwanning First Nation, with renowned local and regional drum groups.

“As a participant or observer you will experience the different dance styles and feast on traditional First Nation food.  The significance of singing and dancing in a circle symbolizes a continuation of life and a strong community.  The powwow brings the circle of people close together, closer to their community and culture.  It is a shared desire and expectation that things will go well,” Wesley-Iserhoff said.

“This powwow is organized by the Aboriginal students, faculty and staff of Lakehead University and we see it as a key event for building bridges between students, the university and communities,” she added.

Lakehead University President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Brian Stevenson, observed that recent events in Thunder Bay have revealed how far aboriginals and non-aboriginals can still be from each other. “LUNSA’s powwow is an opportunity for all peoples and communities to come together and understand and experience the wonderful, rich culture of First Nation, Métis, and Inuit peoples,” said Dr. Stevenson.

Agenda:

• Friday, March 14: Warm-up 6-10 pm
• Saturday, March 15: Grand Entry at 1 pm and 7 pm, Traditional Feast at 5 pm
• Sunday, March 16: Grand Entry at 12 pm, Closing Ceremonies until 5 pm

Special Guests:

• MC: Nathan Moses, Pic River First Nation
• Arena Director: Todd Genno, Pic River First Nation, Jake Achneepineskum, Pays Plat First Nation
• Spiritual Advisor: Kalvin Ottertail, Lac La Croix First Nation
• Host Drum: Whitefish Bay Singers, Naotkamegwanning First Nation

For general information about the powwow, please contact Wesley-Iserhoff at (807) 343-8814 or by email at nrwesley@lakeheadu.ca.

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Media: For more information, please contact Brandon Walker, Media Relations Officer, at (807) 343-8177, or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

In 2015, Lakehead University will celebrate 50 years of exceptional education. Guided by a new Strategic Plan (2013-2018), our University is known for providing an education focused on independent thinking, unconventional scholarship, and a close sense of community. About 9,700 students and 2,000 faculty and staff learn and work in ten faculties at two campuses, in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Home to Ontario’s first new Faculty of Law in 44 years (Fall 2013) and the Northern Ontario School of Medicine's West Campus, Lakehead is among Canada’s Top 10 undergraduate universities (2014 Maclean’s University Rankings), as well as 1^st in Ontario and 2^nd in Canada for its innovative research (Re$earch Infosource). Our Orillia campus is the first in North America to be built entirely to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) standards. Share your Lakehead story as it relates to our Strategic Plan at www.lakeheadu.ca/presidents-office/nurturing-passion, and learn more about Lakehead at www.lakeheadu.ca.

March 6, 2014 – Thunder Bay, ON

Lakehead University’s Research and Innovation Awards Reception was held on Thursday, March 6 to celebrate the dedication and hard work of researchers and students.

“Because of this passion, Lakehead University was recently ranked number one in Ontario and number two in Canada for research by Re$earch Infosource,” said Dr. Rod Hanley, Acting Vice-President (Research, Economic Development and Innovation) and Provost and Vice-President (Academic).

Dr. Han Chen, a professor in the Faculty of Natural Resource Management, is the recipient of Lakehead University’s Distinguished Researcher Award in the NSERC category.

Dr. Chen has made amazing progress by establishing a vigorous, externally funded research program in forest ecology, attracting $2.5 million in funding since joining Lakehead University in 2003.

He has established a strong research team consisting of MSc and PhD students and postdoctoral fellows. In the last 10 years, seven PhD and nine MSc students have successfully graduated under Dr. Chen’s supervision, all continuing with their research careers.

“Dr. Chen has been acknowledged as a leader in forest ecology and was invited to be a keynote speaker more than 20 times at conferences and university departmental research seminars during his time at Lakehead,” Dr. Hanley said.

Also recognized on Thursday was Dr. Pauline Sameshima, who was presented with a framed letter from Prime Minister Stephen Harper congratulating her for being Lakehead University’s newest Canada Research Chair.

Last year Dr. Sameshima, an Associate Professor in Lakehead’s Faculty of Education, was awarded a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Arts Integrated Studies.

Dr. Sameshima was also awarded more than $25,000 by the Canada Foundation for Innovation Leaders Opportunity Fund to develop an Arts Integrated Research Lab at Lakehead University.

Her current work at Lakehead focuses on arts integrated studies in methamphetamine addiction, cervical cancer, dementia and pre-service teacher preparation.

Dr. Sameshima came to Lakehead from Washington State University where she taught Arts Integrated Research in the Teacher Education Program and the Cultural Studies and Social Thought in Education Graduate Program.

She has published three books and various articles, exhibited research artwork, won an early career award from the American Educational Research Association and was recognized with a civic engagement award from the University of Washington State.

“A special thank you and congratulations to all of our recipients,” added Dr. Hanley.

Other recipients include:

High Output and Publication Excellence Award

• Zaid Altaany, PhD Biotechnology
• Cassandra Ostrom, MSc Chemistry

Best of the Best Awards

Oral Presentation

• Robert Jackson - PhD Biotechnology

Poster Presentation

• Nadiya Dragneva, PhD Biotechnology

Postdoctoral Fellows Poster Awards

• First Place: Maduraiveeran Govindhan
• Second Place: Wen Tao Sui
• Third Place: Lana Ozen

Innovation Award

• Sapanbir S. Thind, PhD Chemistry and Materials Science

Building Research Capacity Award

• Dr. Chander Shahi, Faculty of Natural Resource Management

Contributions to Research Award

Dr. Christopher Parkes, Department of English

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Media: For more information, please contact Brandon Walker, Media Relations Officer, at (807) 343-8177, or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

In 2015, Lakehead University will celebrate 50 years of exceptional education. Guided by a new Strategic Plan (2013-2018), our University is known for providing an education focused on independent thinking, unconventional scholarship, and a close sense of community. About 9,700 students and 2,000 faculty and staff learn and work in ten faculties at two campuses, in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Home to Ontario’s first new Faculty of Law in 44 years (Fall 2013) and the Northern Ontario School of Medicine's West Campus, Lakehead is among Canada’s Top 10 undergraduate universities (2014 Maclean’s University Rankings), as well as 1^st in Ontario and 2^nd in Canada for its innovative research (Re$earch Infosource). Our Orillia campus is the first in North America to be built entirely to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) standards. Share your Lakehead story as it relates to our Strategic Plan at www.lakeheadu.ca/presidents-office/nurturing-passion, and learn more about Lakehead at www.lakeheadu.ca.

March 7, 2014 – Thunder Bay, ON

Lakehead University’s Office of Undergraduate Recruitment is hosting a new Preview Day designed specifically for college students or college graduates who are looking to turn their diploma into a degree.

College Transfer Preview Day will benefit college students or grads who will learn about the different pathways to Lakehead.

Students will also learn more about program-specific admission requirements and can speak to professors to learn about specific programs. Students will also learn to maximize their transfer credits and have an opportunity to tour Lakehead’s campuses.

“Lakehead University has several unique articulation agreements that allow students to transfer from specific college programs seamlessly into a Lakehead degree. We also have many multi-lateral and general transfer agreements allowing college students to enter Lakehead,” said Robert Perrier, Manager of Undergraduate Recruitment.

College students who are thinking of applying or who have already applied to Lakehead are welcome to attend this session. 

“We recognize that college students and graduates may have questions pertaining to their circumstances and academic backgrounds, which is why it’s important to tailor these Preview Days to them,” said Perrier.

College Transfer Preview Days will be held on Wednesday, March 12 at 10 am at the Thunder Bay campus.

Interested participants are asked to register online at www.mylakehead.ca before attending.

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Media: For more information, please contact Brandon Walker, Media Relations Officer, at (807) 343-8177, or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

In 2015, Lakehead University will celebrate 50 years of exceptional education. Guided by a new Strategic Plan (2013-2018), our University is known for providing an education focused on independent thinking, unconventional scholarship, and a close sense of community. About 9,700 students and 2,000 faculty and staff learn and work in ten faculties at two campuses, in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Home to Ontario’s first new Faculty of Law in 44 years (Fall 2013) and the Northern Ontario School of Medicine's West Campus, Lakehead is among Canada’s Top 10 undergraduate universities (2014 Maclean’s University Rankings), as well as 1^st in Ontario and 2^nd in Canada for its innovative research (Re$earch Infosource). Our Orillia campus is the first in North America to be built entirely to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) standards. Share your Lakehead story as it relates to our Strategic Plan at www.lakeheadu.ca/presidents-office/nurturing-passion, and learn more about Lakehead at www.lakeheadu.ca.

Dr. Krishnamoorthy Natarajan, Acting Dean of Engineering, helped launch Research and Innovation Week on Friday, Feb. 28.

February 28, 2014 – Thunder Bay, ON

Lakehead University’s Research & Innovation Week launched on Friday by highlighting some of the booths that will be on display in the Intercity Shopping Centre all day on Saturday, March 1.

“Approximately 20 different booths will be run by Lakehead University researchers and students on Saturday at the Intercity Mall. Research and Innovation Week offers a glimpse into the important questions they answer to make the world a better place,” said Dr. Umed Panu, Associate Vice-President (Research, Economic Development and Innovation).

Innovative and interactive booths will be hosted by several of Lakehead University’s faculties and departments, including Social Sciences and Humanities, School of Nursing, Paleo-DNA Lab, Department of Languages, Department of Sociology, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Natural Resources Management, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Enrolment Services.

“Superior Science will have an exciting activity for children and the Research Matters Curiosity Shop will be a chance for visitors to ask any question that’s on their mind – to be answered by a researcher from one of Ontario’s universities,” Dr. Panu said.

March is National Engineering Month – a chance for young people to learn more about exciting careers in engineering. The Professional Engineers of Ontario are participating in this year’s Research and Innovation Week at the Intercity Shopping Centre.

“Engineers help design the bridges we cross, the buildings we live and work in, the electronic devices we use, the vehicles we drive and the innovative processes and associated software controls that produce a lot of the day to day products we use,” said Dr. Krishnamoorthy Natarajan, Acting Dean of Engineering.

Highlights of this year’s Research & Innovation Week include:

• Saturday, March 1 (9:30 am – 6 pm), Intercity: Research & Innovation Week at the Intercity Shopping Centre. There will be lots to see and do for people of all ages.

• Monday, March 3 (7:30-9:30 pm), Lakehead’s ATAC 1003: The Black Death and the Plague of Justinian – Hunting, Trapping and Taming Pandemics of the Past – A talk by Dr. Hendrik Poinar from McMaster University.

• Tuesday, March 4 (6:30-9 pm), Fort William Historical Park: Research Matters - What Matters Now Thunder Bay is a discussion between five prominent Ontario researchers about what research project is relevant now. Register at http://yourontarioresearch.ca/events/what-matters-now/register/.

• Wednesday, March 5 (7:30-9:30 am), Lakehead’s Faculty Lounge: The Power of Partnerships by Earl Miller from MaRS Discovery District, includes a hot breakfast. RSVP by emailing kafettes@lakeheadu.ca

• Wednesday, March 5 (7-9 pm), Lakehead’s UC 1017: The Past and the Future are Present – Race Relations in Canada is a talk by award-winning author Joseph Boyden, inspired by the research Boyden did for his book The Orenda.

All events are free of charge. Please visit www.lakeheadu.ca/ri for more information.

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Media: For more information, please contact Brandon Walker, Media Relations Officer, at (807) 343-8177, or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

In 2015, Lakehead University will celebrate 50 years of exceptional education. Guided by a new Strategic Plan (2013-2018), our University is known for providing an education focused on independent thinking, unconventional scholarship, and a close sense of community. About 9,700 students and 2,000 faculty and staff learn and work in ten faculties at two campuses, in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Home to Ontario’s first new Faculty of Law in 44 years (Fall 2013) and the Northern Ontario School of Medicine's West Campus, Lakehead is among Canada’s Top 10 undergraduate universities (2014 Maclean’s University Rankings), as well as 1^st in Ontario and 2^nd in Canada for its innovative research (Re$earch Infosource). Our Orillia campus is the first in North America to be built entirely to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) standards. Share your Lakehead story as it relates to our Strategic Plan at www.lakeheadu.ca/presidents-office/nurturing-passion, and learn more about Lakehead at www.lakeheadu.ca.

February 27, 2014 – Thunder Bay, ON

Fighting malnutrition with fertilizers, keeping clean water flowing, balancing the environmental consequences of economic growth, wearing smart technology, and exploring Aboriginal rights will be in the spotlight as five leading Ontario university researchers discuss “What Matters Now” during a stop in Thunder Bay.  

Hosted by public broadcaster Piya Chattopadhyay, the discussion will take place at Thunder Bay’s Fort William Historical Park on Tuesday, March 4 from 6:30 to 9 pm.

The free public event is the latest in the popular travelling Research Matters campaign to highlight important university research.  It is part of Lakehead University’s Research and Innovation Week.

“University research really can help us to focus on what’s going to matter next,” says Bonnie M. Patterson, President and CEO of the Council of Ontario Universities, which represents the province’s 21 publicly assisted universities. “But there is also an immediacy to university research that we hope will shine through as a result of this discussion. What does the world need to focus on at this moment? What should our global priorities be to improve lives?” 

Participants are asked to register online at http://yourontarioresearch.ca/events/what-matters-now/register/. Those who can’t attend can watch a live stream online at http://yourontarioresearch.ca/events/wht-matters-now/live-webcast/ 

Researchers will also answer questions from the audience and via social media. 

The public will learn that night who won the grand prizes in the 2014 Virtual Scavenger Hunt, which include several $500 cash prizes for Ontario university students. 

Hundreds of online sleuths have been taking part in the Virtual Scavenger Hunt, which put the spotlight on key research conducted at universities across Ontario. Throughout the month of February, scavengers received 21 online video clues by email. Each clue prompted them to search online to discover research treasure. 

Researchers participating in the What Matters Now event are:

• Margaret (Peggy) Smith, Lakehead University: What is the way forward for Aboriginal peoples and natural resources?
• Maria DeRosa, Carleton University: Can nanotechnology help feed the world?
• April James, Nipissing University: Has Ontario reached a watershed moment?
• Kate Hartman, OCAD University: What kind of microprocessor are you wearing?
• Ross McKitrick, University of Guelph: Can economic growth and environmental protection go hand in hand?

Research Matters travels next to Toronto on April 9 and wraps up in Kingston on May 21. The series kicked off in Hamilton on Nov. 4, and stopped in London, Ont. on Nov. 26.

University researchers are improving the health, happiness and richness of life for people around the world. Their work crosses all disciplines and not only changes lives, but is essential to helping government, businesses and communities make informed decisions.

For more details on Research Matters please check out www.yourontarioresearch.ca and follow @OntarioResearch on Twitter.

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Media: For more information, please contact Brandon Walker, Media Relations Officer, at (807) 343-8177, or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

In 2015, Lakehead University will celebrate 50 years of exceptional education. Guided by a new Strategic Plan (2013-2018), our University is known for providing an education focused on independent thinking, unconventional scholarship, and a close sense of community. About 9,700 students and 2,000 faculty and staff learn and work in ten faculties at two campuses, in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Home to Ontario’s first new Faculty of Law in 44 years (Fall 2013) and the Northern Ontario School of Medicine's West Campus, Lakehead is among Canada’s Top 10 undergraduate universities (2014 Maclean’s University Rankings), as well as 1^st in Ontario and 2^nd in Canada for its innovative research (Re$earch Infosource). Our Orillia campus is the first in North America to be built entirely to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) standards. Share your Lakehead story as it relates to our Strategic Plan at www.lakeheadu.ca/presidents-office/nurturing-passion, and learn more about Lakehead at www.lakeheadu.ca.

COU is a membership organization of 21 publicly assisted universities in Ontario. It works closely with the provincial and federal governments to shape public policies that help universities deliver high-quality programs for students and advance the research and innovation that improves the social, cultural and economic well-being of Ontarians.

February 25, 2014 — Thunder Bay, ON

Earl Miller of MaRS Discovery District will talk about the Power of Partnerships, during Lakehead University’s Research and Innovation Week held from March 1-7.

Miller is the Director of Strategic Partnerships for MaRS, and is responsible for government relations and strategic partnerships with industry groups, professional associations, and non-profit organizations. He has a strong stake in commercialization and entrepreneurship.

Miller’s talk is free of charge and includes a complimentary hot breakfast.  It is being held in Lakehead University’s Faculty Lounge on Wednesday, March 5 from 7:30 – 9:30 am. Seating is limited and is on a first come first served basis.  Registrants are encouraged to RSVP kafettes@lakeheadu.ca at their earliest opportunity to guarantee a seat.  

“MaRS is an innovation centre that supports entrepreneurs.  Science and technology are often the basis of many innovations that we help people take to the market,” Miller said. “Partnership means looking at innovation, which is the by-product of many actors in the ecosystem. 

“All have a similar role and are connected. Partnership is important because innovation is a result of a supply chain – no one part of that chain can complete the entire process alone and they all need collaboration to be successful,” Miller added, acknowledging the important role played by universities.

“You need to begin with institutions like universities that have a strong focus on bringing forward new ideas to society,” Miller explained. “These critical foundations of research bring in the talent – the researchers – who take on major problems and work to find solutions.”

Dr. Umed Panu, Lakehead University’s Associate Vice-President (Research, Economic Development and Innovation) said Miller’s presentation will be of interest to several different groups.

“Students and researchers will definitely be interested in this and it will also be geared to anyone who works for a local municipality or takes an interest in economic development,” Dr. Panu said.

For more information, please visit www.lakeheadu.ca/ri.

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Media: For more information, please contact Brandon Walker, Media Relations Officer, at (807) 343-8177, or mediarelations@lakeheadu.ca.

In 2015, Lakehead University will celebrate 50 years of exceptional education. Guided by a new Strategic Plan (2013-2018), our University is known for providing an education focused on independent thinking, unconventional scholarship, and a close sense of community. About 9,700 students and 2,000 faculty and staff learn and work in ten faculties at two campuses, in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario. Home to Ontario’s first new Faculty of Law in 44 years (Fall 2013) and the Northern Ontario School of Medicine's West Campus, Lakehead is among Canada’s Top 10 undergraduate universities (2014 Maclean’s University Rankings), as well as 1^st in Ontario and 2^nd in Canada for its innovative research (Re$earch Infosource). Our Orillia campus is the first in North America to be built entirely to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) standards. Share your Lakehead story as it relates to our Strategic Plan at www.lakeheadu.ca/presidents-office/nurturing-passion, and learn more about Lakehead at www.lakeheadu.ca.