Laurentian University Student Life and Campus Culture
Student life at Laurentian University is defined by a diverse community, a strong commitment to bilingualism, and a vibrant spirit of athletic competition. From comprehensive student governance to award-winning varsity teams, the campus provides a supportive environment for both undergraduate and graduate students to thrive academically and socially.
Student Demographics
The university hosts a diverse population with a significant presence of female students across both levels of study. While the majority of the student body is Canadian, there is a notable international presence, particularly within the graduate programs.
| Category | Undergraduate | Graduate |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 37.5% | 35.1% |
| Female | 62.5% | 64.9% |
| Canadian Student | 94.5% | 87.3% |
| International Student | 5.5% | 12.7% |
Student Governance and Advocacy
Laurentian offers robust representation through its student unions, ensuring that students have a voice in university administration and access to essential services.
Students' General Association (SGA-AGÉ)
The SGA-AGÉ is the largest student union on campus. Operated by a board of directors, it provides essential services in both English and French. In 2016, the association expanded its influence by becoming a member of the Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance.
Association des étudiantes et étudiants francophones (AEF)
Founded in 1974, the AEF (Francophone Students Association) was established by students seeking stronger advocacy for French-language rights. Today, the AEF holds representation on the university's board of governors and senate, as well as committees focused on French-language academic programs. In addition to cultural and linguistic programming, the AEF provides standard union services, including transit passes and health and dental plans.
Campus Media
Communication and creativity flourish through the university's bilingual media outlets. CKLU-FM, the campus radio station broadcasting at 96.7 MHz, serves the community in both English and French and is a member of the National Campus and Community Radio Association.
Print journalism is represented by two newspapers: Lambda (English), which is a member of the Canadian University Press, and L'Orignal déchaîné ("The Unchained Moose") for the French-speaking community.
Athletics and the Voyageurs
The university's varsity teams, known as the Voyageurs, compete across a wide array of sports, including soccer, basketball, rowing, golf, curling, Nordic skiing, and cross country running. The athletic department is led by director Peter Hellstrom.
The Voyageurs have a storied history of success. The women's basketball team is among the most decorated in U Sports history, securing seven national championships and producing notable alumnae such as broadcaster Sylvia Sweeney. The rowing team has also achieved excellence, producing a national team athlete and winning gold medals at the Canadian University Rowing Championships.
Curling has emerged as a powerhouse program. After winning the OUA Curling Championship and the Curling Canada/U Sports Championship in 2017, the women's team secured another national title in the 2018–19 season. Their success continued with a U Sports bronze medal in 2023 and another OUA title in 2024.
The 705 Challenge Cup
The 705 Challenge Cup is a multi-sport rivalry between Laurentian and Nipissing University. Originally starting as a soccer-only competition known as the Riley Gallo Cup, it expanded in 2016. The annual winner is determined by the overall win-loss record across men’s and women’s basketball, ice hockey, and soccer. Nipissing's Lakers claimed their first victory in the 2019-20 season.
Key Facts
- Bilingualism: Student unions (SGA-AGÉ and AEF) and media (CKLU-FM) operate in both English and French.
- Athletic Success: The women's basketball team has won seven U Sports national titles.
- Curling Dominance: The women's curling team won national titles in 2017 and 2019.
- Demographics: Female students make up over 62% of both undergraduate and graduate populations.
- Rivalry: The 705 Challenge Cup tracks head-to-head performance against Nipissing University in four major sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main student unions at Laurentian?
The two primary undergraduate unions are the Students' General Association (SGA-AGÉ), the largest union on campus, and the Association des étudiantes et étudiants francophones (AEF), which focuses on French-language rights and services.
Which varsity sports are offered at Laurentian?
The Voyageurs compete in basketball, soccer, rowing, cross country running, golf, curling, and Nordic skiing, with additional club teams for baseball and lacrosse.
What is the 705 Challenge Cup?
It is a competitive rivalry between Laurentian and Nipissing University, decided by the combined regular-season records in men's and women's basketball, ice hockey, and soccer.
What media outlets are available to students?
Students can engage with CKLU-FM (radio), Lambda (English newspaper), and L'Orignal déchaîné (French newspaper).
How successful is the women's basketball program?
The program is one of the most successful in U Sports history, having won the national championship seven times.