Algoma University finds more than 800 new students this semester

NEWS RELEASE
ALGOMA UNIVERSITY
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Today marked the end of an exciting first week of the fall term for an ever-growing number of students at Algoma University.

Over the course of the week, the University welcomed new and returning students, faculty, and staff at campus locations in Brampton, Sault Ste. Marie and Timmins during a range of orientation events, workshops, and social activities.

“We have made tremendous progress as a university community over the past year and the enrolment growth we are currently experiencing is one key metric by which to measure our success,” stated Asima Vezina, President and Vice-Chancellor, during today’s President’s Welcome event in Sault Ste. Marie. In addition to highlighting key initiatives currently underway, the event provided those new to the Algoma community with an overview of the significance of the Thunderbird in Anishinaabe culture and its alignment with the special mission of the University.

Although a more detailed update will be released following the close of the fall registration period, based on preliminary data, overall enrolment is on track to exceed 2018-19 actuals by 20 per cent. Growth is occurring at all three campuses with over 800 new students registering, including over 300 in Brampton.

Although an increase in International students is driving growth, Algoma’s first-year domestic class is double the size of last year's domestic intake. India is the country of origin for the largest percentage of Algoma’s International student population, however, the University’s continued efforts to diversify are paying dividends with the current student body representing 53 countries from around the world.  

The School of Business and Economics, School of Life Sciences and the Environment and Computer Science are the academic program areas that have generated the greatest interest from new students.

“I've grown immensely as a student, athlete, and activist at Algoma U because of the opportunities to take on leadership roles, develop strengths, build community, and challenge my own way of thinking and learning,” shared Marissa Ditoro, AUSU VP Campus Affairs. “My student experience has touched on everything I could have hoped for: learning, seeking and finding adventure, and making a meaningful impact. I hope the O-Week activities this year have helped our new students follow the same path.” 

The University is also busy preparing for the 5th Annual Building Reconciliation Forum being held from Oct. 8 through 10 in Sault Ste. Marie. The event has been designed to engage presidents and their leadership teams in a national dialogue with other senior leaders from across the public and private sector who will collectively consider the role of Canadian Universities entering the next five years of reconciliation in this country.

An impressive agenda of keynote speakers, plenary sessions, land- and culture-based learning activities and social events will ensure a truly memorable experience for all delegates. The university has partnered with other Universities Canada, Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, Nipissing University, Cape Breton University, the University of Northern British Columbia on the event. 

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