The Office of Community Engagement & Lifelong Learning (CELL) at Lakehead University Orillia is making a big difference by bringing people together through learning, offering a wide variety of programs that are open to everyone, no matter their background.
At its core, CELL is about creating learning experiences that are welcoming, inclusive and truly accessible. Whether you’re a senior looking to stay sharp and connected, a young student interested in the environment, or someone who never thought they would have a chance to attend university, the department has something for everyone.
One standout program at CELL is Third Age Learning Lakehead (TALL). This program gives older adults the chance to take part in a learning series throughout the year. Each series features expert speakers who talk about interesting and meaningful topics. TALL also offers a great way for seniors to meet new people and stay engaged—something that became especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Another program that CELL offers is Humanities 101. This outreach program opens the door to a university-style learning experience for people who might not otherwise be able to afford or access post-secondary education. Since 2012, this program has helped many people gain confidence and discover new possibilities for their future.
CELL also runs the Ontario Master Naturalist Program, the first program of its kind in Canada. Students gain hands-on knowledge and are encouraged to take what they’ve learned and apply it in their own communities, helping to protect the environment and educate others.
These programs are just a few examples of why CELL is such a worthy recipient of this year’s OrilliaMatters Community Builders Award for Hall of Fame.
“This is an exciting thing and such a big honour,” said Nicky Locker, director of CELL. “I think it’s very deserving based on the impact that I’ve seen these programs have on the community.”
“This just verifies the place that Lakehead has within the community and for the department itself. It solidifies the community relationships that are so important in terms of lifelong learning and the opportunities that this department creates for community members,” she shared.
“This recognizes the foundational work that Dr. Linda Rodenberg, our current principal, did to open the doors to create programming that not only appeals to the community but is responsive to community needs,” Locker added.
By creating accessible and meaningful learning experiences, CELL proves that learning really can be for everyone—and that when a community learns together, it grows stronger together.
The Hall of Fame award celebrates an individual or group whose visionary efforts have had a profound and lasting impact on the community.
Congratulations to the team at The Office of Community Engagement & Lifelong Learning!
This award is proudly sponsored by Rockwater Wealth Management.
