Nipissing Celebrates Impact of Philanthropy

Students in the Fine Arts and Visual Arts (FAVA) program at Nipissing University are benefiting from new professional‑grade studio equipment, thanks to a generous donation. A new UV exposure unit has been installed in Monastery Hall, significantly improving the screen‑printing process used in coursework, independent projects, and outreach activities. The purchase of the unit was made possible by a generous donation from Professor Emeritus, Dr. Dennis Geden, and his wife, Sandie, in memory of Dr. James Redpath, former Chancellor of Nipissing University, and longtime supporter of the arts and Nipissing’s FAVA program. The UV exposure unit is integral to the screen-printing process of making stencils using photographic emulsion and ultraviolet light. It replaces an aging unit, enabling students to create screens for printmaking with greater speed and ease. “This equipment is going to have a big impact for students” says Katelyn Adams, fourth-year student at Nipissing University and Chair of the University’s Art Society. “As a printmaker, I’m excited to use this for my own work, in addition to making use of it for the Fine Arts Society events. It’ll make a great addition to the studios at Monastery Hall.” The exposure unit will be used in the screen-printing course, as well as upper-year courses such as Advanced 2D Studio, and Directed Studio Research and Professional Practice. Additionally, FAVA runs numerous outreach workshops in screen printing each year for high school students. “There is a remarkable difference in the consistency and predictability of results with a professional grade unit like this one,” said Laura Peturson, Associate Professor of Fine Arts and Visual Arts. “It will influence the level of ambition and complexity in student projects.” The program’s faculty, staff, and students extend their warmest thanks to the Geden family for their generous donation.

On March 19, Nipissing University celebrated the generosity of its donors and the achievements of student award recipients at the annual Student Awards and Donor Social, held at the NUSU Student Centre. Hosted by the University’s Advancement team, the event brought together students who have received scholarships, bursaries, and awards and the donors who made these opportunities possible. The celebration offered a meaningful space for students to share their appreciation, and for donors to connect with the students whose education they helped support. “This event is one of the most meaningful moments in our year,” said Steven Smits, Manager of Alumni and Advancement. “It puts faces and stories to the generosity of our donors and reminds students that there’s a community behind them, invested in their success. Those connections are what make this event so special.” For donors, these awards are often established in honour of loved ones, personal connections to the University and the City of North Bay, or a shared belief in the power of education to strengthen communities. “I feel motivated to continue to support Nipissing University because I see the benefits to students,” shared Karen Charles, donor and Nipissing University interim Director of Finance. “I’m constantly reminded of the stresses that they are under and I don’t want financial difficulties to be one of those concerns.” For many students, scholarships, bursaries, and awards play an important role in making their post-secondary education possible. Beyond easing financial pressures, these supports allow students to dedicate more time to their studies, research, leadership opportunities, and community involvement. “It’s amazing to know that there are people who support the student community and want to give back to the community,” said Angelique Obrecht, recipient of the Coleen Joanne Whitford Memorial Bursary, “It’s really inspiring for me to keep working hard and do my best.”

Dear Donors, Alumni, Students, Staff, Faculty, and Community Members, Because of you, 2025 was a year of opportunity and transformation for Nipissing students. As we approach the end of another year, we find ourselves reflecting on the remarkable strength of the Nipissing University community. Whether you are a donor, alumni, student, staff or faculty member, volunteer, or friend of the University, your presence and contributions have shaped this year in meaningful ways. At NU, we have always believed that collective impact matters – that our University is only as strong as the community that surrounds it. This year, you demonstrated just how powerful that impact can be. Since January 1, 417 donors have made 949 gifts to support students and programs across your campus. With a median gift of $50, the story of this year is how hundreds of people, like you, choose to show up for students in any way they can. It is a powerful reminder that when many people come together, their generosity adds up to something extraordinary. Thanks to your support, students received 435 Donor Funded Scholarships, Awards, and Bursaries this year – each one reducing financial pressure and helping a student stay focused on their studies, their well-being, and their goals for the future. Students will tell you that your generosity makes a difference. One student shared: “This bursary has significantly alleviated my financial burdens, allowing me to concentrate more on my studies… Your support is an investment not only in my education, but in the future of my community.” Another reflected: “Knowing that someone believes in me is incredibly encouraging. Your generosity motivates me to work harder and strive to one day give back to future students, just as you have supported me.” You are shaping a future filled with opportunity. Your support is not just a gift – it’s a partnership in creating confident, capable graduates who will make a lasting impact. Thank you believing! This year, we’ve seen the NU community engage in many other ways beyond giving. Alumni returned to campus, volunteers offered their time and expertise, faculty and staff supported students inside and outside the classroom, and community members stood alongside students at events, celebrations, and moments of recognition. Each of these contributions – big and small – helped strengthen the fabric of your NU. Thank you for being there! If you feel inspired to deepen your involvement before the year ends, you are whole heartedly welcome to support Nipissing University in any way that resonates with you. You may also reach out to the Advancement team to learn more about what’s happening at NU. Whether through a gift, a conversation, or your continued presence in the community, your school spirit makes a meaningful difference. As we look ahead to 2026, we do so with gratitude for all of those who continue to shape Nipissing through their generosity and time. Our community reminds us that progress is never made alone – it is built through the steady, collective commitment of individuals who believe in students and in the future of your University. Together, you are building a future where every student feels supported and empowered to succeed. Thank you for being part of their journey. We wish you a peaceful holiday season and a joyful start to the year ahead. Warm regards, Steven Smits Manager, Alumni & Advancement Nipissing University

Students at Nipissing University living with physical disabilities will soon have access to a transformative new opportunity thanks to a generous partnership with Canadian Foundation for Physically Disabled Persons (CFPDP). The newly established "Honourable Vim Kochhar Award" will be awarded annually to two students who demonstrate resilience and potential while living with disabilities. The awards are made possible through a $110,000 donation from CFPDP in partnership with the Shah Family Foundation. With matching funds from Nipissing, the endowment fund of $220,000 will provide support in perpetuity. This award offers more than financial support—it’s a statement of inclusion, equity, and belief in the power of education to change lives. It marks the first award of its kind at Nipissing, and it is designed to help remove financial barriers that can stand in the way of academic success and personal growth. “On behalf of Nipissing University, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to CFPDP in collaboration with the Shah Family Foundation for their generous gift and commitment to students,” shared Dr. Kevin Wamsley, President and Vice-Chancellor at Nipissing University. “The support of these two organizations will make a meaningful difference in the lives of students with disabilities, helping to ensure all students are empowered to succeed.” The award is named in honour of The Honourable Vim Kochhar, founder and volunteer Chair and CEO of CFPDP, and a tireless advocate for accessibility and inclusion for over four decades. His legacy continues to inspire change across Canada, and this award ensures that his vision reaches future generations of students. “Our partnership with Nipissing and other universities and colleges ensures lasting resources for students with disabilities while nurturing tomorrow’s leaders,” says Hon. Kochhar. “This effort reflects the Shah Family Foundation’s commitment to providing meaningful resources that foster individual growth and strengthen communities. We are very grateful for their partnership to help make this initiative possible.” “This endowment allows us to recognize and support the incredible potential of students living with disabilities,” said Dr. Scott Russell, Chancellor of Nipissing University. "We’re honoured to partner with CFPDP to create more equitable opportunities for future generations of Lakers.” “These endowment funds, named in recognition of The Honourable Vim Kochhar, reflect our shared belief that education is a powerful tool for empowerment and opportunity,” says Kris Shah, President of the Shah Family Foundation. “By helping students with disabilities pursue their academic goals, we hope to build a legacy of inclusion, resilience, and progress that will benefit individuals and communities across Canada for generations to come.” Eligible students at Nipissing will be able to apply for the award beginning in the 2026/2027 academic year, with the goal of helping them thrive academically, socially, and professionally.

On September 19, Nipissing University honoured five distinguished alumni during its annual Alumni Awards ceremony held at the Grande Event Centre in North Bay. Hosted by the Nipissing University Alumni Advisory Board (NUAAB), this celebration recognizes the exceptional achievements of alumni who have made significant contributions to their professions, communities, and the University. The Nipissing University Alumni Awards are presented in five categories: the Rising Star Alumni Award, Dr. James Jamieson Influential Alumni Award, the Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award, the Philanthropy Award, and the Honorary Alumni Award. “Each year, we look forward to honour some of our esteemed Nipissing alumni whose passion, dedication, leadership and kindness are making meaningful impacts in their communities and professions,” share Laurel Muldoon, President of NUAAB. The 2025 Nipissing University Alumni Award recipients are: Connor Lafortune, recipient of the Rising Star Alumni Award Connor Lafortune is Anishinaabek, Queer, and Francophone; he uses his understanding of the world to shape his creations as a writer, poet, and musician. He combines the written word with Indigenous beadwork and sewing to recreate the stories of colonization, showcase resilience, and image the future. He works primarily in Life Promotion, harm-reduction, mental health, and Indigenous education. The Rising Star Alumni Award is presented to a recent graduate of Nipissing University who has demonstrated significant achievements on a professional, community, or volunteer basis or has displayed promise of significant future accomplishments. Sabah Khan, recipient of the Dr. James Jamieson Influential Alumni Award Sabah Khan is a strong global leader whose work spans more than a decade across international mobility, public sector administration, private-sector operations, and client services. Working as the International Mobility Coordinator at Nipissing University, she prides herself for being a compassionate changemaker helping to shape a more inclusive and globally connected campus and community future the University. The Dr. James Jamieson Influential Alumni Award is presented to a graduate whose dedication and leadership has influenced significant change and prosperity within their community. Anna Pearson, recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award Committed to inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, equity, and global citizenship, Anna Pearson has taught in both French Immersion and English streams. Anna was an inaugural Professional Associate at Nipissing University’s Centre for the Study of State Violence where she collaborates with scholars to facilitate workshops, experiential programs, and professional development opportunities for Nipissing students and aspiring teachers. For Anna, teaching complex topics based on age-appropriate strategies ensures that the next generation of teachers are empathetic and capable. The Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award is presented to an alumnus whose achievement and excellence in their endeavours have distinguished them as a valued leader. Hayley Heaslip, recipient of the Philanthropy Award Hayley Heaslip brings energy, creativity, and community spirit to everything she does and gives back to her community through her work on the Bonnechere River Park and Trail Project Working Group and the Renfrew Public Library Board. She also hosts the annual Barr Street Block Party, supports Canada Day celebrations, and has volunteered with the Girl Guides of Canada. The Philanthropy Alumni Award is presented to an alumnus or champion of Nipissing University who is making significant contributions to improve their community through their generosity, dedication, commitment, and service. Norm Dokis, recipient of the Honorary Alumni Award Norm Dokis is a professional nature interpreter who uses Indigenous ways of knowing in his land-based teachings. With a lifetime of experience, Norm employs a balanced approach of storytelling, humour, bushcraft skills, history and a variety of topics to provide a holistic educational experience. Norm’s teaching philosophy revolves around inclusion and often uses his quote “reconciliation starts with me” as a starting point to unite numerous organizations. The Honorary Alumni Award is presented to an individual who is not a graduate of the University, but whose actions and dedication have made a positive impact on the Nipissing University experience. “This year’s Alumni Award recipients truly exemplify the incredible impact Lakers make everyday around the globe and we are proud to celebrate their achievements,” shared Dr. Kevin Wamsley, President & Vice Chancellor at Nipissing University. “Each of these remarkable individuals carries with them a shared Nipissing experience that helped shape their journey. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each of them on this well-deserved recognition.” For full biographies of this year’s award winners, visit https://www.nipissingu.ca/alumni/awards/alumni-awards-2025 .

This year, a new tradition was born at Nipissing University’s Convocation—one that celebrates compassion, empathy, and the quiet, powerful work of building a better world. The Chancellor’s Medal for Humanity, introduced by Chancellor Dr. Scott Russell and his wife, Catherine Gregory, honours a graduating student who has made a meaningful impact through acts of inclusion, respect, and service. The inaugural recipient is Hayden Lloyd, a nursing graduate whose time at Nipissing has been marked by care for his patients, his peers, and his community. “Hopefully, the Chancellor's Medal will serve to encourage our emerging leaders and graduates to put a premium on respect for human dignity as they go forward in life,” said Dr. Russell. “We feel that personal acts of inclusion, compassion, and respect for our fellow human beings should be strongly valued.” Lloyd’s chapter at Nipissing was deeply rooted in service. In addition to excelling academically, he led stem cell donor drives, contributed to dementia research, and worked on the front lines of healthcare as a personal support worker and clinical extern. His leadership extended to the varsity soccer field, where he was known for uplifting and supporting his teammates. Dr. Russell said what stood out most about Lloyd was his consistency in putting others first, quietly, humbly, and without expectation. “He is the ultimate team player at a time when we need that kind of leader,” Russell said. “His empathy for others and his belief in human dignity for all is paramount.” Lloyd emphasized that the recognition means a great deal, but not for the reasons one might expect. “To me, the work I do is more important than any recognition or money,” said Lloyd. “This award is confirmation that the work I am doing is meaningful and only further motivates me to continue helping others.” Looking ahead, Lloyd plans to begin his career in hospital care and continue supporting others however he can, through his profession, through advocacy, and even by donating his hair to children undergoing cancer treatment. “Tomorrow is never promised,” he added. “Regardless of what I will be doing, I know that my path is paved in compassion and helping others.” With this new award, Nipissing University affirms that academic success is one part of what makes a student exceptional, while character, heart, and humanity matter just as much. And with students like Hayden Lloyd setting the standard, the future looks promising.

Fourth-year Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) students Ricardo Neves and Carlexia Gauthier are wrapping up their time at Nipissing University with a legacy of leadership, generosity, and impact. As executives on the Nipissing University Business Community (NUBC), Neves and Gauthier spearheaded the creation of the Neves-Gauthier Award, a new student-led bursary that recognizes academic excellence and meaningful volunteerism among their peers. The award, valued at $500 and funded annually through fundraising and club operations, marks the first time a student group has established its own award at Nipissing. “We wanted to do something that would last,” said Neves, who served as NUBC’s Director of Operations and is graduating with a concentration in Finance. “As an international student, I’ve seen how limited award opportunities can be, especially for students like me. Creating this bursary was a way to give back to others who are working hard and making a difference.” To be eligible, students must be full-time BBA students in second or third year with a minimum 80% average and a strong record of volunteerism. Applicants are also required to submit a short essay reflecting on how their community involvement has helped them grow personally. Gauthier, who specialized in Marketing and also served on NUBC’s executive team, said the goal was to recognize students who balance academic success with a commitment to their communities. “There are so many students doing amazing things both on and off campus,” she said. “We wanted to celebrate that and encourage others to get involved. Volunteerism is a big part of how Ricardo and I grew during our time at Nipissing.” The duo led the planning of a fundraising event to support the award, teaming up with local spin studio REVolve and securing food donations from Good2Go. Although the event evolved from an ambitious full-day fitness festival into a single, high-energy spin class, it was a resounding success, both in turnout and in funds raised. “The week leading up to the event, we started to feel the excitement building,” said Neves. “Seeing donations come in, signing the contract for the award, and knowing we were making something permanent was a high point of my academic career.” For Gauthier, the experience was a powerful reminder of what student leadership can accomplish. “This is the first time a student group has created an award like this at Nipissing,” she said. “It shows what’s possible when you care about your community and want to make things better for those coming after you.” Their collective hope for future NUBC leaders and student groups across campus is that they draw inspiration from the initiative and continue finding creative ways to give back. Learn more about how donors are supporting students at giving.nipissingu.ca/celebrating-philanthropy

On May 7, Nipissing University announced a transformational $5M investment to support the continued development and national expansion of Rare Dementia Support Canada (RDS Canada). This gift will support the expansion of dementia research, support services, and education, as well as help establish a dedicated space to house RDS Canada - a centre committed to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by rare and young-onset dementias. Established in 2021 with an initial $400,000 gift from The Hilary and Galen Weston Foundation, RDS Canada was built on the foundation of a multi-component support model developed by Dr. Mary Pat Sullivan, Principal Lead of RDS Canada and Professor of Social Work at Nipissing University. Her work, shaped through a five-year Rare Dementia Support Impact Study in collaboration with Rare Dementia Support UK, has already strengthened national support systems and connected individuals across the country through the creation of online communities of support. “Community-based research and care are essential to our health-care system. When supports are informed by research and rooted in lived experience, we create opportunities for shared understanding, connection, and hope,” said Dr. Kevin Wamsley, President and Vice-Chancellor of Nipissing University. “Through the generosity of The Hilary and Galen Weston Foundation and driven by Dr. Sullivan’s leading research in the field, the RDS Canada team is empowered to continue to lead with purpose and compassion, ensuring that those living with rare dementias have access to leading edge, meaningful, and evidence-informed support.” As RDS Canada enters a pivotal five-year growth phase, this new investment from The Hilary and Galen Weston Foundation will help fuel RDS Canada’s vision to advance research that transforms understanding and care for those living with dementias, empower individuals and families through personalized support and community learning, and foster global connections and national partnerships to shape the future of rare dementia support. The $5 million donation will help: Establish a dedicated national centre to house RDS Canada Enhance capacity to deliver personalized care through the expansion of the current team, including the hiring of an Administrative Director Develop immersive support environments using cutting-edge technology Increase support capacity among healthcare practitioners Build and strengthen national and international research and education partnerships “This generous gift enables RDS Canada to continue to push the boundaries of dementia research and support in Canada – expanding access to information and services, deepening our work with individuals and families affected by dementias, and fostering new approaches to address the unique challenges of rare dementia,” said Dr. Sullivan. “Our community-university partnership model emphasizes the importance of collaboration, and the vital connection between support delivery, research, knowledge sharing, and education. By providing a specialized support community and tailored services for individuals and families with differing support needs, RDS Canada aims to fill a unique gap in dementia support nationwide.” To learn more about RDS Canada, visit: raredementiasupport.ca

On Thursday afternoon, Nipissing University’s Small Cafeteria was filled with warmth, conversation, and heartfelt appreciation as the Alumni & Advancement Team hosted Celebrating Generosity: In Appreciation of Staff & Faculty. This informal yet meaningful gathering offered colleagues the chance to come together, share in light refreshments, and reflect on the deep-rooted culture of giving that shapes our campus community. Far from a traditional recognition ceremony, the event was a tribute to the collective spirit of generosity that quietly powers so much of what makes Nipissing special. Whether supporting students directly, championing campus programs, or contributing financially, staff and faculty play a vital role in creating opportunities and driving impact across the University. “This isn’t about individual recognition, it’s about celebrating what we can achieve together,” said Dr. Kevin Wamsley, President and Vice-Chancellor. “Each gift, no matter the size, reflects the deep care our faculty and staff have for our students and this institution.” And the numbers tell a compelling story. Over the past year, 57 staff and faculty members gave back as donors, making a total of 426 individual contributions. These gifts added up to more than $22,000, generating resources that have gone directly to work supporting students, programs, and projects that advance the University’s mission. Many of these contributions supported two key initiatives: the Student Support Fund and the Student Research Opportunity Fund. These funds are lifelines for students navigating financial strain and are catalysts for those taking their first steps into research, discovery, and academic exploration. “One of the most inspiring things is knowing that a number of our colleagues give every pay period,” said Steven Smits, Manager of Alumni & Advancement. “That kind of quiet, consistent generosity says so much about the culture we’re building at Nipissing. It’s not just about giving, it’s about integrating generosity into the very rhythm of our work lives.” These gifts go far beyond numbers; they enable emergency aid for students in crisis, fuel ground-breaking research, advance Indigenous initiatives, and create welcoming spaces for learning and community. They send a powerful message: our students are surrounded by people who believe in them.