Laura Stanbra celebrates her retirement after over a decade at Algonquin College
Posted on Thursday, August 29th, 2024
After over 12 years of unwavering dedication to Algonquin College as our Vice President of Student Services, Laura celebrated her well-deserved retirement with the College community on Wednesday, Aug. 28, with refreshments, beverages, speeches, a caricature gifted from President and CEO Claude Brulé, and a custom painted paddle for her lake house.
Her colleagues past, and present, remarked on her work ethic and vision for Student Services, describing her as a pillar of strength, a source of guidance, and a true leader who touched the lives of thousands of learners throughout her career. Laura was an integral contributor to the College’s growth, championing all areas of Student Services and leaving behind a legacy to be proud of as joins the ranks of excellent female leadership from Algonquin College.
Laura Stanbra pictured with her painted paddle gifted by Krista Marsden and Lois Pollock.
Laura’s post-secondary career has extended almost forty years in the fields of student services, development and alumni relations. Prior to joining the College as director, Student Support Services in 2011, Laura served in progressively more challenging roles at Concordia University, including university registrar; managing director, student support services; director, financial aid and awards; and director of alumni relations.
President Claude Brulé gifting Laura Stanbra a caricature.
The Algonquin College community gathered to celebrate Laura’s retirement.
As vice president, Laura led Student Services which encompasses the student life cycle and leads a diverse management team responsible for numerous student services and student engagement programs. In addition, Laura oversaw the College’s marketing and student recruitment activities and served as the primary liaison with the Algonquin Students’ Association.
Laura holds a Diploma in Commerce from John Abbott College, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, and a Master of Arts, Public Policy & Public Administration, both from Concordia. In 2005, Laura received her professional accreditation as a certified fundraising executive. In 2015, she received the Chris Warburton Award of Excellence from the Algonquin Students’ Association in recognition for outstanding contribution to student life at Algonquin College.
Laura has long been a champion for learner-driven decision-making and continuous improvement. As the executive sponsor of the R3 Project, she has been committed to the transformative work that is rethinking, redesigning and reimagining how Algonquin College does business. Her genuine care for learners and employees alike truly makes her stand out as a remarkable leader. Laura’s presence will be missed but her impact will be felt for years to come.
Congratulations, Laura!