Get to know incoming Faculty of Arts Dean Sofie Lachapelle

June 28, 2021

Sofie Lachapelle will begin her five-year term as the new dean of Wilfrid Laurier University’s Faculty of Arts on July 1. Lachapelle, who was most recently chair and a professor in the Department of History in the College of Arts at the University of Guelph, took some time to answer a few questions about life outside of the classroom.

What is the best advice you've ever been given?

When I first learned to drive, my father told me to always keep in mind where I was going as I was driving. It made particular sense for him as he was notorious for often automatically driving himself to work without realizing it, but I found it useful when thinking about life more broadly. My father also told me that driving is more enjoyable when we take time to appreciate the experience and look at the world around us as we drive. Again, I have found this to be useful about life more broadly – I should always have a sense of where I want to go while remembering to enjoy and fully take in the journey along the way.

What is your most-used app?

Any app with which I can listen to podcasts or radio stations. I love podcasts and I have been listening to radio stations from around the world during the pandemic. I think it helps me feel more connected to the world beyond my dining room table where I presently work.

What is your most-visited website?

Oh, even I prefer not to know this one, though I imagine it is a clothing store. I spend way too much time daydreaming about clothes.

What is the last book you read?

Lately, I have been reading a lot of French-language graphic novels including Olivia Burton’s L’Algérie c’est beau comme l’Amérique and Emmanel Lepage’s Un Printemps à Chernobyl.

The last Netflix series you watched?

Not on Netflix, but highly recommended: Thin Ice, a Swedish political thriller set in Greenland during an Artic summit on climate change.

Who are you most inspired by?

So many people. Everyone in some way or other. Mostly, I am inspired and touched by kindness, hope and courage.

Who sent the last text message you received?

Most probably my daughter!

What is your dream vacation destination?

My favorite vacations are the ones that mix cultural visits and discovering cities, beaches and swimming, hiking and good food. And I love road trips!

For more information about Lachapelle and her background, read the April 23 appointment announcement.