Joël Dickinson has been named Laurentian University’s dean of the Faculty of Arts, a role she's served in on an interim basis since last August.
“I’m humbled to be selected for the role,” Dickinson said, in a press release.
“Arts programs and courses are fundamental in helping graduates navigate the complex societal issues we face today and in the future. We also have some truly amazing faculty members with great ideas - I can't wait to work collaboratively with them.”
“Dr. Dickinson is an exceptional leader and her commitment to Laurentian University has been felt in many areas,” said Serge Demers, Laurentian's interim vice-president, academic and provost.
“From her collaborative approach to committee work, to her focus on the student experience, we are very fortunate to have her take on this role.”
Dickinson received her Ph.D. in psychology from the University of New Brunswick in 2006. She was first appointed at Laurentian University in July 2007 as assistant professor.
She was promoted to associate professor in July 2014 and promoted to full professor in July 2018. She was chair of the Department of Psychology from July 2015 to August 2018, when she was then asked to take on the position of interim dean of the Faculty of Arts.
She was also the winner of the Laurentian University Teaching Excellence Award in 2016.
Dickinson has demonstrated her leadership in many ways, even beyond her academic appointments, the press release said.
First, as a member of multiple committees within Laurentian University - the 2017-2023 Strategic Planning Committee, the university Senate, and the Laurentian University Native Education Council (LUNEC).
Second, her leadership expands to our Greater Sudbury community as she was a participant in the Northern Leadership Program - a year-long program in partnership with Laurentian University, City of Greater Sudbury, Science North, and Child Community Resources.
Finally, within the Laurentian community, her efforts in developing and delivering a Safe Space Training Course from September 2015 to September 2018. This training session highlighted the importance of being an ally to the LGBTQ2-S community and was delivered to over 900 participants.
The Selection Committee for the role (chaired by Demers) was impressed with her commitment to the university’s bilingual and tricultural mission, said press release said.
The Selection Committee also felt that Dickinson’s interpersonal skills and collegial approach to problem solving would be an asset not only for the Faculty of Arts but for Laurentian University.
