Laurier named one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People

Jan. 17, 2020
For Immediate Release

WATERLOO – Wilfrid Laurier University has been recognized as one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People by Mediacorp Canada Inc., organizers of the annual Canada’s Top 100 Employers awards. Laurier is one of only two post-secondary education institutions selected for the honour, and the only one in Ontario.

“Young people are the future of our thriving, multi-campus, multi-community university. Their energy, knowledge and passion for innovation create a dynamic learning environment for our students,” said Deborah MacLatchy, Laurier president and vice-chancellor. “It’s critical for us to continue to invest in the long-term advancement and well-being of our employees by supporting their ongoing professional development and respecting their work-life balance.”

The Canada’s Top Employers for Young People competition recognizes organizations offering the nation's best workplaces and programs for young people starting their careers. The 100 winners were chosen for their efforts to attract and retain younger workers, including offering benefits such as tuition assistance, mentorship and training programs, flexible work options and paid personal days off.

“As new generations enter the workplace, Laurier is proud to continue evolving to meet the changing needs of our employees,” said Pamela Cant, chief human resources and equity officer. “We are listening to our younger colleagues, and their insights are inspiring positive developments for Laurier employees of all ages.”

Among the reasons for selection, Laurier was recognized for progressive workplace initiatives including:

• ASPIRE, a professional skills development training program to help position graduate students and postdoctoral fellows for post-degree success.
• Tuition subsidies for continuing education.
• Early Career Researcher awards, a university-wide recognition of exceptional early career faculty members who make significant contributions to research.
• Three weeks of paid vacation for new employees after their first year on the job.

Laurier was also named one of Waterloo Area’s Top Employers for the second straight year, and has been ranked number one in Student Satisfaction in the annual Maclean’s Rankings of Canadian Universities every year since 2017. Corporate Knights named Laurier the most sustainable campus in Ontario.

As an educational institution, Laurier inspires lives of leadership and purpose in its student community. As an employer, Laurier seeks, fosters and values the same qualities of leadership and purpose in its employee community. Learn more about what makes Laurier a great place to work.