As part of Laurentian University’s bilingual and tri-cultural mission they have worked diligently over the last decade to improve access, retention and success of Native students.

Currently it is estimated that there are over 900 Native students and 11 faculty that have identified as Native. There are two Native specific programs. The Honours Bachelor of Social Work-Native Human Services at Laurentian University and Native Studies which operates out of the federated University of Sudbury. There is also a Native student support service centre.

As part of Laurentian University’s commitment to Native Education an Office of Academic Native Affairs was established in June 2006. Reporting to the Vice President Anglophone Affairs the Director of Academic Native Affairs was responsible for three key areas designed to enhance Native education at Laurentian University.  These include leading the development of new initiatives in Native academic/research initiatives, the development of the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre, and facilitating strategic directions of Native education.

In 2009, Laurentian expanded the position to Associate Vice-President, Indigneous Programs.  Then in 2011, the position was changed to Associate Vice-President, Academic and Indigenous Programs.  The scope of the office includes supporting academic initiatives related to Indigenous education and research, the development of the ISLC and facilitating LUNEC Strategic Plan.  The Academic portion of the office includes Faculty relations.

The Associate Vice-President of Academic and Indigenous Programs works collaboratively with the Laurentian University Native Education Council (LUNEC), faculty and staff at Laurentian University to enhance and enrich Native student, faculty and community learning, to bridge programs, cultures and communities, to develop and manage the academic infrastructure to provide consistent, quality education in Native Education programs, and to seek out academic collaborations among universities, colleges and with educational institutes in Native communities.

If you require further information:

Dr. Sheila Cote-Meek,

Associate Vice-President,

Academic and Indigenous Programs

(705) 675-1151 extension 3429 

scotemeek@laurentian.ca