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

Jan. 19, 2021
For Immediate Release

Waterloo – For the second year in a row, Wilfrid Laurier University is being 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.

“This honour is a reflection of Laurier’s commitment to investing in our people,” said Deborah MacLatchy, Laurier president and vice-chancellor. “Providing our young employees with opportunities to grow – both professionally and personally – is a priority for us.”

The Canada’s Top Employers for Young People competition recognizes organizations that offer the nation's best workplaces and programs for young people starting their careers. One hundred winners are 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.

“Laurier is proud to be considered an employer of choice for young people and recognizes the unique value and perspectives young people bring to our institution,” said Pamela Cant, chief human resources and equity officer. “We seek to provide a positive and fulfilling work experience for our younger generation of employees, and also emphasize the importance of providing opportunities for their career growth and progression.”

Among the reasons for selection, Laurier is recognized for its 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 employees to continue their 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.

In 2020, Laurier was named one of Canada’s greenest employers for the second year in a row and received a Waterloo Area Top Employer Award for the third straight year.  

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.