Together, for a collective impact
Word from the rector
Inspiring stories from an engaged community
In 2023–2024, Université Laval demonstrated its commitment to achieving the success factors described in its institutional plan to assert itself as a high-impact university: Collaborative and innovative in both research and teaching, Agile and proactive, like members of the First Peoples, Committed to an interdisciplinary approach to sustainable development goals, Civic-minded and engaged in its community and society as a whole, Inclusive and diverse thanks to numerous integration projects and International thanks to the mobility of its members and their collaborative spirit.
These success factors have sustained and inspired our community over the past year. They encourage us to act together to have a greater impact. Our university has also made a name for itself through a number of transformative initiatives to help address new challenges.
The stories presented in this report provide insight into the richness, diversity, vitality and creativity of our institution. What’s more, each meets at least one of the United Nations’ 17 sustainable development goals to which our university is committed.
I thank our entire community as well as the members of the bodies involved for their commitment and determination in preparing for the future.
Sophie D’Amours
Rector
Success factors
To be a university that stands out for the scale of its impact, our institution must implement and reinforce six success factors. For each success factor, discover five examples of projects started or completed in 2023–2024. Each project is linked to and demonstrates our community’s commitment to one or more sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Being collaborative and innovative
That means pushing the boundaries to find new solutions and implement innovative practices through alliances and participatory projects, both internal and external, that engage communities.
GPS-independent autonomous robotic vehicles
Dominic Baril, Simon-Pierre Deschênes and Pierre-Hugo Vigneux started Tessellate Robotics, a mobile robotics company that came out of research done at Université Laval. They created a localization system for off-road autonomous vehicles deployed in conditions where no GPS signal is available. This innovation is key to the use of these vehicles in the agriculture, mining and defence industries.
Nature-based education for young children
Professor Caroline Bouchard’s Petite enfance, Grandeur Nature joint research unit builds on the synergy and dialogue between research, educational, and practice communities to further knowledge about nature-based education in early childhood education services. Together with her team, she is developing tools to meet the needs of the educational and research communities, policy makers and community stakeholders.
Philanthropy helps spur medical advances
The work of Professor Éric Vigneault and Professor Lucie Germain contributes to the well-being of cancer patients and burn victims. Both hold research chairs, with Dr. Vigneault specializing in imaging-guided brachytherapy and Dr. Germain in stem cells and tissue engineering. Thanks to the renewal of a $2.4 million grant, they continue to make medical advances in partnership with the Fondation du CHU de Québec – Université Laval.
A network for sustainable development around the world
The Réseau intersectoriel francophone pour les objectifs de développement durable (RésODD) is a unique collaborative hub designed to help meet the United Nations 17 SDGs. The partnership, made up of French-speaking communities in Canada, aims to have an international impact. It fosters innovation and speeds progress towards a more just, equitable and sustainable world. RésODD has more than 50 members from all walks of life.
Inventory of urban trees
Prof. Janani Sivarajah and her team of the Chaire de recherche sur l’arbre urbain et son milieu [Urban Tree and Environment Research Chair] have surveyed the citizens of Québec City to learn more about the number and health status of trees on private land. The participatory project improves our knowledge of the overall status of the canopy in the city and helps us to better understand what motivates people to plant trees.
GPS-independent autonomous robotic vehicles
Dominic Baril, Simon-Pierre Deschênes and Pierre-Hugo Vigneux started Tessellate Robotics, a mobile robotics company that came out of research done at Université Laval. They created a localization system for off-road autonomous vehicles deployed in conditions where no GPS signal is available. This innovation is key to the use of these vehicles in the agriculture, mining and defence industries.
Nature-based education for young children
Professor Caroline Bouchard’s Petite enfance, Grandeur Nature joint research unit builds on the synergy and dialogue between research, educational, and practice communities to further knowledge about nature-based education in early childhood education services. Together with her team, she is developing tools to meet the needs of the educational and research communities, policy makers and community stakeholders.
Philanthropy helps spur medical advances
The work of Professor Éric Vigneault and Professor Lucie Germain contributes to the well-being of cancer patients and burn victims. Both hold research chairs, with Dr. Vigneault specializing in imaging-guided brachytherapy and Dr. Germain in stem cells and tissue engineering. Thanks to the renewal of a $2.4 million grant, they continue to make medical advances in partnership with the Fondation du CHU de Québec – Université Laval.
A network for sustainable development around the world
The Réseau intersectoriel francophone pour les objectifs de développement durable (RésODD) is a unique collaborative hub designed to help meet the United Nations 17 SDGs. The partnership, made up of French-speaking communities in Canada, aims to have an international impact. It fosters innovation and speeds progress towards a more just, equitable and sustainable world. RésODD has more than 50 members from all walks of life.
Inventory of urban trees
Prof. Janani Sivarajah and her team of the Chaire de recherche sur l’arbre urbain et son milieu [Urban Tree and Environment Research Chair] have surveyed the citizens of Québec City to learn more about the number and health status of trees on private land. The participatory project improves our knowledge of the overall status of the canopy in the city and helps us to better understand what motivates people to plant trees.
Being agile and proactive
That means reinventing new ways of doing things, acquiring new knowledge, working together, and taking the initiative.
The Minister of Higher Education honours five of our members
The Minister’s Award for Higher Education recognized the outstanding work of five members of our community. Kathleen Lechasseur, Charles-Olivier Amédée-Manesme and Ivan Tchotourian, full professors, as well as Pierre-Luc Brisson, assistant professor, and Martin Dubé, lecturer, have been recognized for their inventiveness and commitment to effective teaching strategies. The awards also encourage the production of innovative educational resources in French.
Graduation ceremony on ancestral lands
The first 18 Indigenous people from the Guardians of the Land program, including Stacy Bossum, received their certificates at Mushuau-nipi, a highly symbolic Innu millennium site on the banks of Rivière George. The training provides First Peoples with the skills needed to protect the land, waterways and resources of their ancestral lands. This is the first francophone program of its kind in Canada.
Promoting healthy lifestyles
The Nautilus Plus Educational Leadership Chair in the Promotion of Healthy Lifestyle Habits, created by Professor Kadia Saint-Onge, is dedicated to producing innovative teaching tools to energize and optimize skills training for all levels of education. An interactive and collaborative learning space provides the student community with the tools they need to help change the public’s lifestyle habits.
Reflection on the use of artificial intelligence tools
The growing use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) systems is transforming the teaching and learning experience. A working group looked at the issues raised by these tools and proposed clear principles regarding their use. Several projects were launched to explore this technology. Presentations and training activities, including on assessment and academic integrity, help the entire university community make informed decisions.
A sports symposium
The Synergy symposium was a chance for executives and professionals from Québec university sports centres to get together without the traditional rivalries. It was a great opportunity to share best practices with a view to improving practices within each organization. Université Laval has positioned itself as a leader in this regard by hosting the event, which was attended by 125 people from 11 universities, including Julie Dionne, Catherine Moisan, Andréane Girard, Luc Lamontagne and Jean-Noël Corriveau.
The Minister of Higher Education honours five of our members
The Minister’s Award for Higher Education recognized the outstanding work of five members of our community. Kathleen Lechasseur, Charles-Olivier Amédée-Manesme and Ivan Tchotourian, full professors, as well as Pierre-Luc Brisson, assistant professor, and Martin Dubé, lecturer, have been recognized for their inventiveness and commitment to effective teaching strategies. The awards also encourage the production of innovative educational resources in French.
Graduation ceremony on ancestral lands
The first 18 Indigenous people from the Guardians of the Land program, including Stacy Bossum, received their certificates at Mushuau-nipi, a highly symbolic Innu millennium site on the banks of Rivière George. The training provides First Peoples with the skills needed to protect the land, waterways and resources of their ancestral lands. This is the first francophone program of its kind in Canada.
Promoting healthy lifestyles
The Nautilus Plus Educational Leadership Chair in the Promotion of Healthy Lifestyle Habits, created by Professor Kadia Saint-Onge, is dedicated to producing innovative teaching tools to energize and optimize skills training for all levels of education. An interactive and collaborative learning space provides the student community with the tools they need to help change the public’s lifestyle habits.
Reflection on the use of artificial intelligence tools
The growing use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) systems is transforming the teaching and learning experience. A working group looked at the issues raised by these tools and proposed clear principles regarding their use. Several projects were launched to explore this technology. Presentations and training activities, including on assessment and academic integrity, help the entire university community make informed decisions.
A sports symposium
The Synergy symposium was a chance for executives and professionals from Québec university sports centres to get together without the traditional rivalries. It was a great opportunity to share best practices with a view to improving practices within each organization. Université Laval has positioned itself as a leader in this regard by hosting the event, which was attended by 125 people from 11 universities, including Julie Dionne, Catherine Moisan, Andréane Girard, Luc Lamontagne and Jean-Noël Corriveau.
Being interdisciplinary
That means pooling our strengths and knowledge to tackle increasingly complex problems by sharing experiences and points of view.
An opportunity to share experiences
The student forum L’interdisciplinarité: un catalyseur d’innovation responsable [Interdisciplinarity: A Catalyst for Responsible Innovation] gave 60 people from 25 graduate programs the opportunity to hear about the wonderful interdisciplinary journey of the seven panelists who came to share their experiences. The forum, coordinated by Seima Souissi and Simon Bilodeau-Carrier, was designed to allow the leaders of tomorrow to express themselves on a key issue. The event demonstrates the commitment of the student community and Université Laval to responsible innovation.
Supporting the biofood industry
The Ça Relève! project offers students the chance to work in multidisciplinary teams to solve real-world problems in the biofood industry. Ask Guillaume Morin and Amélie Loiselle, who had the opportunity to work on the organic farm, Camerise Milou. Ça Relève! promotes the transfer of scientific and technical knowledge to businesses and brings together employers and future leaders in sustainable food.
Responding to the climate emergency
Chantier d’avenir en action climatique, a new individualized master’s program, received a $1 million donation from Promutuel Insurance to fund scholarships and projects by students such as Raphaël Baril and Astrid Guillaume. The program involves innovative approaches like inter-faculty teaching and intervention projects with organizations committed to climate action. The grant also supports Institut en environnement, développement et société.
Combining expertise in northern research
Members of the research community have joined forces to address the complex challenges of the North. Their findings are presented in the 2017–2022 Sentinel North research compendium. The scientific compendium presents knowledge in an integrated fashion and demonstrates how interdisciplinarity can help us better understand the major changes occurring in the northern environment and their impact on local and global populations.
Taking action for sustainable development
The adoption of the new Sustainable Development Strategy – Horizon 2030 demonstrates Université Laval’s audacity and remarkable track record in sustainable development. The concrete measures proposed revolve around the themes “teaching and research,” “the campus environment” and “the university and society.” The measures are based on 21 sectorial plans and strategies. More than 100 people from 27 different units mapped out the university’s sustainability targets and commitments.
An opportunity to share experiences
The student forum L’interdisciplinarité: un catalyseur d’innovation responsable [Interdisciplinarity: A Catalyst for Responsible Innovation] gave 60 people from 25 graduate programs the opportunity to hear about the wonderful interdisciplinary journey of the seven panelists who came to share their experiences. The forum, coordinated by Seima Souissi and Simon Bilodeau-Carrier, was designed to allow the leaders of tomorrow to express themselves on a key issue. The event demonstrates the commitment of the student community and Université Laval to responsible innovation.
Supporting the biofood industry
The Ça Relève! project offers students the chance to work in multidisciplinary teams to solve real-world problems in the biofood industry. Ask Guillaume Morin and Amélie Loiselle, who had the opportunity to work on the organic farm, Camerise Milou. Ça Relève! promotes the transfer of scientific and technical knowledge to businesses and brings together employers and future leaders in sustainable food.
Responding to the climate emergency
Chantier d’avenir en action climatique, a new individualized master’s program, received a $1 million donation from Promutuel Insurance to fund scholarships and projects by students such as Raphaël Baril and Astrid Guillaume. The program involves innovative approaches like inter-faculty teaching and intervention projects with organizations committed to climate action. The grant also supports Institut en environnement, développement et société.
Combining expertise in northern research
Members of the research community have joined forces to address the complex challenges of the North. Their findings are presented in the 2017–2022 Sentinel North research compendium. The scientific compendium presents knowledge in an integrated fashion and demonstrates how interdisciplinarity can help us better understand the major changes occurring in the northern environment and their impact on local and global populations.
Taking action for sustainable development
The adoption of the new Sustainable Development Strategy – Horizon 2030 demonstrates Université Laval’s audacity and remarkable track record in sustainable development. The concrete measures proposed revolve around the themes “teaching and research,” “the campus environment” and “the university and society.” The measures are based on 21 sectorial plans and strategies. More than 100 people from 27 different units mapped out the university’s sustainability targets and commitments.
Being civic-minded and engaged
That means working together toward social progress so that knowledge is generated and shared to meet the needs of communities.
Biomedical research presented at the museum
The exhibition Dans l’oeil de la recherche, presented at the Musée de la civilisation, gave the public the opportunity to learn about the research projects conducted at the CHU de Québec – Université Laval. Members of the research community discussed the fun, innovative and inspiring aspects of a scientific career. This has strengthened ties between science and society and schools and academia.
Science explained to children
La science, pas si compliquée ! is a project designed to popularize science and led by a team including Sarah-Joëlle Bertrand and Mathieu Dessureault, in collaboration with elementary school teachers. It demonstrates that research addresses concrete issues of interest to young people. This fun and educational initiative comprises video clips in which experts answer questions raised by students aged 6 to 10.
Art as a tool for introspection and relaxation
The student community in philosophy and theology and religious sciences was able to enjoy a unique opportunity for relaxation, reflection and introspection at the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec through the Moments Velours activity. The project, coordinated by outreach worker Hélène Lévesque, provided a contemplative and introspective present-time experience that allowed participants to slow down and re-connect with their senses and emotions while doing art.
Free dental care for the less fortunate
A $750,000 agreement with GreenShield Canada will provide free oral care to 225 low-income people in the Québec City area. This training project instills strong values in students like doctoral student Karl Sanscartier. It helps them develop an ethical and professional approach, sensitizes them to the social impact of their profession and provides a vision centred on the needs of patients, regardless of their socio-economic status.
Summit on the student experience and academic success
This student summit, presented by CADEUL, AELIES and Université Laval, was an opportunity to share ideas and reflect on important themes on facilitating academic success and enhancing the university experience. Summit participants like Antoine Chrétien made suggestions related to mental and financial health, an inclusive campus, teaching approaches and community service. The recommendations made provide avenues for dealing with the challenges raised.
Biomedical research presented at the museum
The exhibition Dans l’oeil de la recherche, presented at the Musée de la civilisation, gave the public the opportunity to learn about the research projects conducted at the CHU de Québec – Université Laval. Members of the research community discussed the fun, innovative and inspiring aspects of a scientific career. This has strengthened ties between science and society and schools and academia.
Science explained to children
La science, pas si compliquée ! is a project designed to popularize science and led by a team including Sarah-Joëlle Bertrand and Mathieu Dessureault, in collaboration with elementary school teachers. It demonstrates that research addresses concrete issues of interest to young people. This fun and educational initiative comprises video clips in which experts answer questions raised by students aged 6 to 10.
Art as a tool for introspection and relaxation
The student community in philosophy and theology and religious sciences was able to enjoy a unique opportunity for relaxation, reflection and introspection at the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec through the Moments Velours activity. The project, coordinated by outreach worker Hélène Lévesque, provided a contemplative and introspective present-time experience that allowed participants to slow down and re-connect with their senses and emotions while doing art.
Free dental care for the less fortunate
A $750,000 agreement with GreenShield Canada will provide free oral care to 225 low-income people in the Québec City area. This training project instills strong values in students like doctoral student Karl Sanscartier. It helps them develop an ethical and professional approach, sensitizes them to the social impact of their profession and provides a vision centred on the needs of patients, regardless of their socio-economic status.
Summit on the student experience and academic success
This student summit, presented by CADEUL, AELIES and Université Laval, was an opportunity to share ideas and reflect on important themes on facilitating academic success and enhancing the university experience. Summit participants like Antoine Chrétien made suggestions related to mental and financial health, an inclusive campus, teaching approaches and community service. The recommendations made provide avenues for dealing with the challenges raised.
Being inclusive and diversified
That means bringing talent together, fostering debate and promoting creativity by providing a fair and respectful study, work and living environment.
More inclusive student residences
A project to combat homophobia and transphobia has had a broad impact on the community. It reached 700 employees and students living on campus through some 20 activities supervised by qualified people such as Leila Adebayo, Ali Frih, Marie-Ange Niwemugeni and Adje Josué-Stevens. The initiative promotes inclusion and sexual and gender diversity through the type of themes addressed as part of the student residence program.
Spaces designed for students who are parents
Students who are parents can work comfortably with their young children thanks to designated spaces at the library in the Jean-Charles-Bonenfant building. The Halte Boutchou and the student desk with playpen space provide easychairs with foot rests, tables with bottle warmers, changing tables, and an area to park strollers. This is one of the ways Université Laval supports the members of its community who must balance studying and parenting. Najla Arous and baby Samy Adam were delighted with the furniture designed just for them.
Employment Integration assistance
The Première expérience de travail au Québec [First work experience in Québec] project helps international students and graduates adjust to working here. Sinare got her first job at OpSens under the supervision of Frédéric Couët. The project, supported by the Secrétariat à la Capitale-Nationale, is made possible through the work of an entire team, including Sophie Isabelle and Amélie Bédard.
Leadership chair to fight inequality
The purpose of the new National Bank of Canada Teaching Leadership Chair in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Education is to put strategies in place to help students succeed and develop their full potential and to encourage professional practices aimed at fighting injustice in education. The chair, headed up by assistant professor Émilie Doutreloux, makes Université Laval an ally in the fight against educational and social inequalities.
A program for young Indigenous leaders
The BMO Young Indigenous Leaders program supports forestry students like Chloé Arias through scholarships for internships, community-specific projects, and mentorships. The program, funded by a $500,000 donation, is based on a vision for a sustainable future and an inclusive society. It is designed to help develop the forestry skills and entrepreneurial spirit of First Peoples students.
More inclusive student residences
A project to combat homophobia and transphobia has had a broad impact on the community. It reached 700 employees and students living on campus through some 20 activities supervised by qualified people such as Leila Adebayo, Ali Frih, Marie-Ange Niwemugeni and Adje Josué-Stevens. The initiative promotes inclusion and sexual and gender diversity through the type of themes addressed as part of the student residence program.
Spaces designed for students who are parents
Students who are parents can work comfortably with their young children thanks to designated spaces at the library in the Jean-Charles-Bonenfant building. The Halte Boutchou and the student desk with playpen space provide easychairs with foot rests, tables with bottle warmers, changing tables, and an area to park strollers. This is one of the ways Université Laval supports the members of its community who must balance studying and parenting. Najla Arous and baby Samy Adam were delighted with the furniture designed just for them.
Employment Integration assistance
The Première expérience de travail au Québec [First work experience in Québec] project helps international students and graduates adjust to working here. Sinare got her first job at OpSens under the supervision of Frédéric Couët. The project, supported by the Secrétariat à la Capitale-Nationale, is made possible through the work of an entire team, including Sophie Isabelle and Amélie Bédard.
Leadership chair to fight inequality
The purpose of the new National Bank of Canada Teaching Leadership Chair in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Education is to put strategies in place to help students succeed and develop their full potential and to encourage professional practices aimed at fighting injustice in education. The chair, headed up by assistant professor Émilie Doutreloux, makes Université Laval an ally in the fight against educational and social inequalities.
A program for young Indigenous leaders
The BMO Young Indigenous Leaders program supports forestry students like Chloé Arias through scholarships for internships, community-specific projects, and mentorships. The program, funded by a $500,000 donation, is based on a vision for a sustainable future and an inclusive society. It is designed to help develop the forestry skills and entrepreneurial spirit of First Peoples students.
Being international
That means taking action and making an impact beyond Quebec’s borders by encouraging collaborative research and attracting and welcoming newcomers.
Recruitment mission to Morocco
Recruitment missions provide an innovative service to Québec businesses and provide the student community with on-the-ground experience. Deloupe, which was looking for 10 welders, is one of the success stories. Student Viviane Olivier, a recruitment officer, accompanied by Amélie Gilbert, travelled to Morocco to meet with 60 potential candidates. Based on their recommendations, the company was able to find the workers they needed.
More effective breast cancer screening
Professor Jacques Simard, in collaboration with Professor Douglas Easton of the University of Cambridge in the UK, has made a promising breakthrough in identifying women with an increased risk of breast cancer. An extensive international study has revealed new genes associated with the disease. The result is better screening approaches and clinical care, and lower risk.
The impact of faculty mobility on research
A pilot mobility program has allowed members of 8 faculties to work in 15 countries. It supports the development of international research partnerships. For example, Assistant Professor Marie-Élise Samson travelled to Australia as part of her work to reduce the carbon footprint of the farming industry. The pilot program has led to new research projects and agreements.
Talking agriculture and biodiversity in Québec City
More than 250 experts from 39 countries exchanged views in Québec City at the International Symposium on Agriculture, Biodiversity and Food Security: From Commitments to Actions, co-chaired by Professor Geneviève Parent. The event shows what the École supérieure d’études internationales is capable of accomplishing with the future Carrefour International Brian- Mulroney. École supérieure d’études internationales wants to make Université Laval an ideal place to organize this type of interdisciplinary and international exchange.
Improving brain health and well-being
The launch of the Canada Excellence Research Chair in Neuroplasticity will enable Professor Steven Laureys and his partners, such as Professor Yves De Koninck, to understand how meditation, better sleep quality and physical activity transforms the brain, thereby improving brain health and well-being. The fact that this prestigious research chair was awarded to Université Laval reinforces its position, and that of Québec City, as international leaders in neuroscience and mental health research.
Recruitment mission to Morocco
Recruitment missions provide an innovative service to Québec businesses and provide the student community with on-the-ground experience. Deloupe, which was looking for 10 welders, is one of the success stories. Student Viviane Olivier, a recruitment officer, accompanied by Amélie Gilbert, travelled to Morocco to meet with 60 potential candidates. Based on their recommendations, the company was able to find the workers they needed.
More effective breast cancer screening
Professor Jacques Simard, in collaboration with Professor Douglas Easton of the University of Cambridge in the UK, has made a promising breakthrough in identifying women with an increased risk of breast cancer. An extensive international study has revealed new genes associated with the disease. The result is better screening approaches and clinical care, and lower risk.
The impact of faculty mobility on research
A pilot mobility program has allowed members of 8 faculties to work in 15 countries. It supports the development of international research partnerships. For example, Assistant Professor Marie-Élise Samson travelled to Australia as part of her work to reduce the carbon footprint of the farming industry. The pilot program has led to new research projects and agreements.
Talking agriculture and biodiversity in Québec City
More than 250 experts from 39 countries exchanged views in Québec City at the International Symposium on Agriculture, Biodiversity and Food Security: From Commitments to Actions, co-chaired by Professor Geneviève Parent. The event shows what the École supérieure d’études internationales is capable of accomplishing with the future Carrefour International Brian- Mulroney. École supérieure d’études internationales wants to make Université Laval an ideal place to organize this type of interdisciplinary and international exchange.
Improving brain health and well-being
The launch of the Canada Excellence Research Chair in Neuroplasticity will enable Professor Steven Laureys and his partners, such as Professor Yves De Koninck, to understand how meditation, better sleep quality and physical activity transforms the brain, thereby improving brain health and well-being. The fact that this prestigious research chair was awarded to Université Laval reinforces its position, and that of Québec City, as international leaders in neuroscience and mental health research.
Transformational initiatives
To help address emerging challenges, Université Laval is establishing itself as a high-impact university where teaching and research serve the common good. To that end, we are deploying six transformational initiatives. Here are some examples of the 105 projects started or completed in 2023–2024.
Lifelong learning
Development of the EdTech Innovation Network
Educational innovation requires the development of new technological tools. The EdTech Innovation Network encourages experimentation, and experience-sharing, spurs discoveries, and supports original initiatives to integrate information technologies into university education. This approach facilitates access to cutting-edge solutions and accompanying resources to promote the development of digital teaching skills. The network’s effectiveness is made possible by people like David Samson, Marie-Hélène Croteau-Bouffard and Marie-Claude Mailhot.
Knowledge, science, and society
Promoting scientific entrepreneurship
The campaign to promote scientific entrepreneurship has helped nurture the entrepreneurial spirit of the graduate student community. The emergence of science-based businesses generates concrete research projects that improve the community’s well-being. Several events have been held, including a round table with numerous partners to strengthen our university’s position as a leader in Québec’s innovation ecosystem.
A vibrant campus
5,000 cyclists ride to promote sustainable health
The entire university community got involved in preparing and presenting the Grand défi Pierre Lavoie. The 5,000 cyclists who participated made the campus an even more vibrant and exciting place to be. The sporting event was highly successful, reached a broad base and raised awareness about the vitality of our community. It also strengthened our sense of belonging to the University, reinforced partnerships and fostered a culture of sustainable health.
Simplified, personalized outreach services
An enhanced support service
A multidisciplinary team reviewed practices to offer better support using a Lean approach. The exercise has reduced the time spent on posting internship offers. As a result, internship advisors have more time to support and promote students looking for internships.
Climate ambition
Funding new initiatives
The climate action fund, Fonds d’action climatique, in collaboration with Caisse Desjardins de l’Université Laval and Coop Zone, supports projects by the university community aimed at fighting climate change. It facilitates and promotes climate action by funding emerging and transformative initiatives. Professor Étienne Berthold’s initiative helps reinforce climate action in the Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Land Development. This is a tangible way to help students Laurence Duquette and Justine Blanchard learn.
The well-being of our community
Taking charge of your health
Hundreds of community members, like Louis Germain and Pascale Martineau, participated in the Grand défi ULaval, which encourages healthy lifestyle choices with respect to nutrition, physical activity and sleep. The invitation provided access to a comprehensive health assessment, kinesiology coaching and free access to the PEPS for three months. The project strengthens Université Laval’s role as a leading player in prevention and the promotion of sustainable health.
Recognition
Awards and distinctions
Every year, Université Laval recognizes the excellence and achievements of its students and faculty, outstanding personalities and graduates. Their success is remarkable and inspiring. Here is an overview of some of the awards and honours awarded throughout the year.
Hommage to a pioneer
In 1938, Jeanne Lapointe became one of the first secular woman to graduate from Université Laval, and in 1940, it’s first female literature professor.An intellectual with progressive ideas and a multidisciplinary culture, she helped modernize and democratize Québec’s education system.
She was involved in improving girls’ access to and inclusion in schools and has paved the way for other women in higher education. Her legacy is a symbol of women’s progress and empowerment. It must serve to inspire future generations, both men and women, to pursue her work toward equity and inclusion.
The educational sciences building was renamed after her to recognize her legacy and accomplishments.
Philanthropy and alumni relations
350 000
graduates
738
appointments and honours
recognized by our department
18 272
donors, foundations,
organizations and partners
$62.66
million
for scholarships, teaching,
research and infrastructure
$3.96
million
raised by the ULaval
Community Campaign
Impact Report
Read the Rapport d’impact 2023-2024 from the Philanthropy and Alumni Relations Department
Our commitment to sustainability
1st
university in La Francophonie and 19th
in the Times Higher Education Impact 2024 ranking
74%
of undergraduates were introduced
to the values and challenges of sustainable development
61%
of recognized research bodies address an issue
related to sustainable development
46%
reduction in Scope 1 and 2
GHG emissions compared to 2006
15,000
people reached through
the Ulaval Mon Équilibre healthy living program
Contribution to sustainable development goals
The UN Sustainable Development Goals guide our actions to integrate SD principles into our activities.
Financial statements and benchmarks
The financial statements present the University’s financial position, the results of its operations, and its cash flows. The benchmark indicators show how our institution has progressed in its areas of activity. Here is an overview of eight of these indicators.
Financial statements
Earnings (in thousands of dollars)
Investments (in thousands of dollars)
Benchmark indicators
Total student enrolment (academic year)
Université Laval is home to one of the largest student communities in Québec. A yearly enrolment count shows that more than 55,000 students attended Université Laval in 2023–24.
Source: Déclaration au système de gestion des effectifs universitaires
(GDEU) du Ministère de l’Enseignement supérieur (MES)
Number of degrees and certification granted
Université Laval is among the universities that confers the greatest number of degrees in Canada.
Proportion of course registrations by the cours format (Fall session)
The diversity of teaching options offered at Université Laval provides maximum flexibility for students.
Source: Institutionnal date
Proportion of students of international origin in the entire student body (%)
International students, who come from some 130 countries, are largely from France and francophone Africa. Despite the exceptional circumstances in recent years, Université Laval has managed to continue attracting international students.
Source: Déclaration au système de gestion des effectifs universitaires (GDEU) du Ministère de l’Enseignement supérieur (MES)
Proportion of international collborative research publications
More than 50% of research publications under the name of Université Laval professors are the result of collaboration with international researchers.
Source: Observatoire des sciences et des technologies (Clarivate Analytics - Web of Science).
Resarch partners
As one of the largest research universities in Canada, Université Laval includes numerous partners in its research activities
Source: Observatoire des sciences et des technologies (Clarivate Analytics - Web of Science).
Student satisfaction index (%)
Two North American surveys have confirmed for many years that students’ overall satisfaction with the training offered at Université Laval is higher than the average student satisfaction rate at Canadian universities as a whole.
Sources: NSSE (National Survey on Student Engagement) and the CGPSS (Canadian Graduate Programs Satisfaction Survey), conducted on a triennial basis.
Direct greenhous gas budget (scope 1 and 2)
Université Laval, a leader in sustainable development and carbon neutrality since 2015, has ranked 19th in the world and first in La Francophonie in the Times Higher Education 2024 Impact ranking. This ranking assesses the performance of universities in advancing the 17 United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs).
The University also holds the STARS Platinum Award, which measures the sustainable development performance of higher education institutions.
Source: Institutional data
Governance
Members of the Board, the University Council, the management team and the standing committees are committed to supporting innovation and excellence in research and teaching. enriching the student experience and promoting our institution.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors is an independent body that ensures the University is managed in exemplary fashion. It approves and supports the University's strategic priorities and gives major projects the green light.
University Council (UC)
The UC has authority on academic issues such as grades, degrees, certificates, and programs. It is also responsible for various appointments, promotions, and awards at centres and institutes.
Management
Operating under the leadership of the rector, the University's management team is resolutely committed to fulfilling Université Laval's mission and strategic plan.
Permanent commissions
Université Laval's permanent commissions are mandated to develop, coordinate, evaluate, analyze and reflect on a wide range of issues.
