Laurentian approves school of mines

A school of mines has been approved for Laurentian University.

The decision was made at a Tuesday school senate meeting, during which the school of architecture program was also approved.

“We are striving to become the world's leading mining-education centre covering the complete spectrum of the mining cycle from exploration to environmental rehabilitation, including cultural and economic sustainability, management, Native studies, and occupational health and safety,” Michael Lesher, Laurentian's director of mining initiatives, said in a news release. “When students worldwide think about mining, we want Laurentian to be top of mind.” 

Laurentian president Dominic Giroux said the establishment of the school demonstrates a focus on responding to the communities served by the university.

“The establishment of the school of mines represents a very significant step, creating a space for faculty from various disciplines to exchange ideas, better align programs and focus on mining-related research, and in doing so, continuing to establish Laurentian as the go-to university for mining,” he said in the release.