THUNDER BAY — Wrapping up her first year as president and vice-chancellor of Lakehead University, Gillian Siddall took time to reflect on the accomplishments of the institution on Friday. Participating in three convocation ceremonies, where hundreds of students crossed the stage to collect their degrees, Siddall said the past few days had been "beautiful," including her installation ceremony with Fort William First Nation on Wednesday. Siddall spoke about the rally for Palestine held by students and faculty at convocation.
She specifically noted her pride that participants were not disruptive to Lakehead University graduates. "First of all, we absolutely support the right of students to express themselves freely and to gather to do so. "We want to be transparent about our investments, and that group is scheduled to meet with our board of governors at its next meeting, which is next month.
They'll have an opportunity to speak directly to the board, including me about what their concerns and questions are." Siddall said she is happy to be back at Lakehead. "This university is a gem in the Ontario post-secondary system.
It's the only comprehensive university in Northern Ontario, and that provides such an amazing opportunity for our students to choose from a wide range of disciplines and be with students who are studying in a wide range of disciplines." Siddall is especially proud of the growing partnership with the University of Guelph for a veterinary program. "The whole idea.
