Change in leadership as Normand Labrie is reinstated as president

TORONTO, May 2, 2024 /CNW/ – The Board of Governors of the Université de l'Ontario français (UOF) announces the appointment of Mr. Normand Labrie as president of the UOF. This transition follows the decision of Mr Pierre Ouellette to end his term at the end of this university cycle and not to return September 2024.

The Board of Governors is pleased to welcome Mr. Normand Labrie to the UOF team. As one of the pioneers who founded the Université de l'Ontario français, Mr. Labrie has played a crucial role in this historic milestone for French-language higher education. His unwavering commitment and extensive expertise will contribute to the expansion and impact of this flagship institution, which represents a cornerstone in the development of both the Franco-Ontarian and Canadian Francophone communities.

Significant contribution and firm commitment to UOF

Since I was one of the pioneers of this major project when it was still just a wish, Normand Labrie actively participated in the conception, planning and establishment of UOF. He played a fundamental role in shaping the university's academic direction and laying the foundation for its programs.

Mr. Labrie has achieved a high level of credibility and brings a wealth of experience in teaching, research, governance and management. Some of the notable positions he held University of Toronto bear witness to this reality. For example, he was director of the Center de recherches en éducation Franco-Ontarienne at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Educationand served as associate dean for programs and associate dean for research and graduate studies at the same institute, where he also served as interim dean until recently.

Mr. Labrie also served as scientific director following an appointment by the Fonds de recherche du Québec – Societé et Culture Quebec Government Cabinet. He was also active in numerous scientific committees Canada and international. Since 2018 he has been a board member of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canadawhere he currently serves as Vice President and Chairman of the Board.

As UOF seeks financial sustainability in the coming years, Mr Normand Labrie will continue the efforts already initiated in this regard. In addition, he will make the necessary efforts to strengthen the UOF's current foundations to drive significant growth. By focusing on the relevance and excellence of programs, new study opportunities are opened to meet the market's need for a bilingual workforce and close collaborative relationships are maintained with the Ontario Government and partnerships with institutions and community organizations, Normand Labrie will ensure that the Université de l'Ontario français achieves its sustainable development and secures the future of higher education “by and for” Francophones in Ontario.

Quotes

“The UOF Board of Governors is pleased to benefit from Mr. Labrie’s valuable experience and strong leadership. His comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and expertise will enable him to pursue the critical mission of this knowledge and innovation institution, which is to solve problems. The current and future interests of the Franco-Ontarian student community also thank her Pierre Ouellette for his contributions over the past three years. He was instrumental in developing new programs focused on sectors with high demand in the labor market and contributed to the successful launch of the university and its facilities amid the pandemic.”

Jacques Naud, Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Université de l'Ontario French

“I am excited to join the dedicated team of professors and professionals at UOF. I am deeply committed to the raison d'être of this institution and will work with humility and determination towards the realization of UOF's goals.” I feel privileged to be part of the UOF team to represent the interests of our student community and all of our francophone communities .”

Normand Labrienew president of the Université de l'Ontario French

About Université de l'Ontario French

With a range of bachelor's degrees, short programs and certificates, UOF offers educational programs focused on contemporary issues such as responsible management, learning, immigration, diversity and inclusion, constant digital innovation, and the sustainable and equitable development of our societies and surrounding areas. From the city center TorontoStudents take courses, complete assignments, and gain work experience that opens doors for many companies in need of qualified bilingual staff.

SOURCE Université de l'Ontario French (UOF)

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