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

Jan. 20, 2022
For Immediate Release

Waterloo – For the third 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.

“At Laurier, we take great pride in supporting the next generation of talented employees and preparing them for all the opportunities and challenges of the future,” said Deborah MacLatchy, Laurier president and vice-chancellor. “Our university is a place where people can grow – both professionally and personally.”

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.

“Once again, 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.
• Summer Mentorship Program, a mentorship program to support social entrepreneurs at the school with the opportunity to work on their social venture through a paid mentorship program.
• 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 2021, Laurier was named one of Canada’s greenest employers for the third 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.