NORDIK Institute, Algoma University’s community-based research organization, has appointed Sean Meades as acting director of the organization.
Meades takes his position as Dr. Gayle Broad nears her planned retirement, from her role as NORDIK’s director of research, in July. He has a Master’s degree in linguistics and applied linguistics from York University and is currently a PhD candidate with the Toronto school.
Throughout Sean’s career of working alongside communities in Northern Ontario, he has contributed to several NORDIK research projects including Downtown Dialogue in Action, which explored crime prevention through social development in Sault Ste. Marie’s Downtown, and Graffiti Reframed, which focused on public dialogue about the nature of graffiti and increasing opportunities for youth artistic engagement.
Sean’s first research with NORDIK was a case study of the Sioux Lookout Anti-Racism Committee and the impact of cross-cultural relationship building to strengthening the social economy in the northwestern Ontario community.
“It’s an honour to take on this role and to work closely with such a strong team of dedicated researchers and change makers,” Meades said in a release.
“NORDIK has played a tremendous role in building collaborations between Algoma University and communities throughout Northern Ontario and building capacity in our own communities to tackle the challenges that face us with a holistic, inclusive approach. I look forward to continuing that legacy.”
Since its inception in 2007, NORDIK Institute has completed more than 120 community-based research projects; formed diverse, local, regional and international partnerships; and built capacity in the North, through countless student placement and employment opportunities.
