Algoma University partners with Peel District School Board to provide students with a transformational opportunity

BY PAUL JUNOR

The path towards post-secondary education is often challenging for many students from BIPOC communities, especially marginalized ones. In order to increase accessibility, Algoma University has partnered with Peel District School Board to maximize the chances of these students getting into these institutions. On Tuesday, June 11^th, 2024, there was a great turnout at the commencement ceremony by: parents, teachers, students and others for this memorable occasion. On hand were 23 Peel District School Board (PDSB) and 19 Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board (DPCDSB) students who were recipients of university credits. A press release was issued on June 11^th, 2024, which described details about the event.

Rashmi Swarup (Director of Education for PDSB) states, “It is wonderful to see this partnership and LEAP continue to flourish, while providing secondary students with a transformational opportunity to access and experience a post-secondary education while in school. I’ve seen the incredible impact this program has had on our students since its launch in September 2023. PDSB has been on a unique quest to provide students with access, exposure, and experiences that can put students in a competitively advantageous position upon graduation, and our partnership with Algoma University and LEAP is a perfect example of our commitment to that mission.”

Asima Vezina, University President and Vice-chancellor of Algoma University states, “We’re thrilled to celebrate the second cohort of graduates from the Learners Early Access Program (LEAP). LEAP supports historically underrepresented groups in higher education, preparing students for future success. We look forward to the LEAP program and welcoming new students to Algoma U to start their supported journey to university education.”