Alumni Advisory Board

Alumni Awards NUAAB Execs

Our Alumni Advisory Board is an integral part of the Nipissing University community. Alumni represent the continuity of traditions; their collective experience has shaped the University as it is today and their achievements are one of the criteria by which Nipissing University is valued.

Nipissing University's Alumni Advisory Board (NUAAB) has many ways for alumni to be active members of the Nipissing University Community and never leave home. All graduates of Nipissing University are members of Nipissing University's Alumni Association and there are no membership fees.

Nipissing's Alumni Advisory Board provides support for alumni programs, communications, events, branch and chapter outreach, scholarships and other initiatives. When alumni participate in the special programs offered by our service providers, the Alumni Board benefits and we are able to increase what we offer you - our alumni.

Join the NU Alumni Advisory Board

Share your voice, ideas, and experience by joining the Alumni Advisory Board and helping shape future alumni engagement.

Objectives

The objectives of the Board are:

  1. to represent the interests of Alumni 
  2. to contribute in as many ways as possible to the welfare, prestige and excellence of Nipissing University; 
  3. to support the overall advancement of Nipissing University; 
  4. to encourage and promote a spirit of collegiality and unity among alumni 
  5. provide a means for continuing the relationships alumni enjoyed as students; 
  6. to build a culture of philanthropy among the Lakers Family; and,
  7. to serve as a communications vehicle to the alumni community on the work and plans of Nipissing University and its impact on the alumni community.

Our objectives are achieved by various social and fundraising events, programs and services organized by Alumni Relations, in conjunction with the Alumni Advisory Board. 

There is immense potential for active involvement of alumni in the activities of the university. In addition, because of their experiences, graduates can best promote the ideals and values of Nipissing University to the external community. Thus, graduation represents the continuation of a strong relationship with Nipissing University. In order to fulfill our objectives and remain a traditional and vital, part of the university community, we are seeking your support and involvement.​​​

Alumni Privacy Statement

Introduction

The Nipissing University Alumni Advisory Board (NUAAB) and the Alumni Relations Office are committed to protecting the privacy of our alumni. We respect the confidentiality of all alumni information and ensure it is handled with the utmost care.

Collection of Personal Information

We collect personal information from various sources, including student records, event registrations, and direct interactions with alumni. This information may include your name, contact details, degree information, and participation in university activities.

Use of Personal Information

Your personal information is used to:

  • Maintain contact with you and inform you about university news, events, and services.
  • Facilitate alumni programs, including events, networking opportunities, and affinity partnerships.
  • Support fundraising efforts and other university initiatives.

Disclosure of Personal Information

We do not sell or rent your personal information. Your information may be shared with third-party service providers under strict confidentiality agreements for the purpose of sending communications on behalf of the university. These providers are contractually obligated to protect your information and use it only for the specified purposes.

Third-Party Providers

We may use third-party apps and platforms to host alumni events, manage communications, and provide services. These third-party providers are carefully selected and are required to comply with our privacy standards. They are contractually obligated to protect your personal information and use it only for the purposes specified by Nipissing University.

List-Matching Services

We may use list-matching services, such as those provided by Canada Post, to ensure the accuracy of our alumni contact information. These services help us update and maintain current addresses and other contact details. Any information shared with these services is handled under strict confidentiality agreements and used solely to update our records.

Communication Preferences

You have the right to opt-out of any communications from Nipissing University or the Alumni Relations Office. You can specify your communication preferences, including the types of mailings you wish to receive at any time. Use this form to update your preferences.

Security of Personal Information

We take appropriate measures to protect your personal information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. Access to your information is restricted to individuals who need it to perform their duties and have signed confidentiality agreements.

Your Rights

You have the right to:

  • Access your personal information held by the university.
  • Request corrections to your personal information.
  • Withdraw your consent for the use of your personal information for specific purposes.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about this privacy statement or the handling of your personal information, please contact us at alumni@nipissingu.ca or 705-474-3450 ext. 4573.

Terms of Reference

Nipissing University Alumni Advisory Board

1. MANDATE

1.1 The purpose of the Nipissing University Alumni Advisory Board (NUAAB) is to act as a liaison between Nipissing University and the alumni. They represent the alumni of Nipissing University.

1.2 The purpose of the Nipissing University Alumni Advisory Board (NUAAB) is to provide advice and feedback to the Board of Governors of Nipissing University on its directions, policies, and services as they affect the Nipissing University community.

2. OBJECTIVES

2.1 The objectives of the Nipissing University Alumni Advisory Board are to:

  • Represent the interests of Alumni;
  • Contribute in as many ways as possible to the welfare, prestige and excellence of Nipissing University; 
  • Support the overall advancement of Nipissing University; 
  • Encourage and promote a spirit of collegiality and unity among alumni; 
  • Provide a means for continuing the relationships alumni enjoyed as students; 
  • Build a culture of philanthropy among the Lakers Family; and,
  • Serve as a communications vehicle to the alumni community on the work and plans of Nipissing University and its impact on the alumni community.

3. RIGHTS

3.1 In the event that the NUAAB determines its membership or terms of reference not to be appropriate, it shall have the power to recommend and implement amendments to these Terms of Reference. This requires a two-thirds vote from the board and previous notice to make any changes.

3.2 The NUAAB may strike ad-hoc committees when needed.

4. MEMBERSHIP

4.1 The NUAAB shall consist of a maximum of 13 voting members, preference to representation from community member and staff/faculty member. Diversity with regards to skill, graduation class and community involvement will be evaluated. Each member will have voting rights with the exception of the Alumni Relations Coordinator, Manager of Advancement, Past President, Past Vice-President.

4.2 Membership shall include the following representatives:

  • Nipissing University Alumni - 10
  • Nipissing University Student Alumni (NUSA) - 1
  • Nipissing University Student Union (NUSU) - 1
  • Board of Governors Representative – 1
  • Past President & Past Vice-President Finance (invited back for 1 year) – 2
  • Alumni Relations Coordinator Ex-officio (Act as Secretary/Non-Voting Member) – 1
  • Manager of Advancement Ex-officio or designate – 1

4.3 Nipissing University Alumni include graduates from North Bay Normal School, North Bay Teachers’ College, Nipissing University College, and Nipissing University.

4.4 Members serve a three-year term and may stand for a maximum of two consecutive terms.

4.5 An Executive consisting of a President and Vice-President will be nominated and elected at the last regular meeting of the NUAAB every three years. Alumni must hold the Executive positions; the Executive may be re-elected for a maximum of two consecutive terms.

4.6 The commencement of the Board member’s appointment shall be June 1 of each year unless an appointment is made mid-term to replace a vacated position on the Board.  The retirement date shall be April 30th of each year.

4.7 Retiring Members/Resignations: A board member may retire and resign at any point via email or verbally at a meeting.

4.8 The commencement of the student representatives' appointment shall be May 1 of each year unless an appointment is made mid-term to replace a vacated position on the Board.  The retirement date shall be April 30 of each year.

4.9 Applications may be submitted throughout the year. Applications will be reviewed in the last meeting each year (May).

4.10 Responsibilities of Board Members:

  • Attend a minimum of 3 scheduled meetings per year in person, via telephone or video conferencing.
  • Attend the Annual Retreat
  • Offer service and support at alumni events
  • Initiate outreach to alumni and bring questions or suggestions raised by alumni to the NUAAB for discussion
  • Attend Homecoming

4.11 Meeting Etiquette:

  • Members shall abide by time guidelines, stick to the agenda, and make an effort to guide themselves using the philosophy of “principles before personalities”. Each member will maintain a positive, friendly and open environment where all contributions are welcomed. Members are expected to listen to others without interruption and to speak in turn.
  • If three meetings or key events are missed, the President or Executive may ask the member to step down.

5. QUORUM

5.1 A majority of all voting members in attendance or via proxy shall constitute a quorum for the meetings of the NUAAB.

6. PROCESS

6.1 The Nipissing University Alumni Advisory Board meets a minimum of 6 times per year including the annual retreat meeting. Succession planning and critical path will be determined at the annual retreat. An agenda for each meeting shall be sent a week prior to the meeting.

6.2 The NUAAB may decide to schedule additional meetings if necessary.

6.3 If required the executives can request votes be conducted via email.

7. REPORTING

7.1 The Alumni Relations Coordinator, as part of the Advancement Office, will maintain and update the website of all relevant events, services, and information pertaining to the NUAAB.

7.2 The NUAAB reports to the Nipissing University Board of Governors and Senate.

7.3 The NUAAB reports to the Nipissing University Alumni through the various communication channels.

8. BOARD MEMBER JOB DESCRIPTIONS

President

  • Represents the Alumni population at alumni events
  • Ensures meeting stays on topic, on time and that all members have opportunity in discussion
  • Creates agendas with the assistance of the Office Administrator & Alumni Relations Advisor
  • Attend the scheduled Board of Governors meetings (arranges for a replacement from within the Board if attendance is not possible)
  • Sits on the Alumni Awards Selection Committee

Vice-President

  • Provides budget guidelines and financial reports
  • Represents the Alumni population at alumni events
  • Speak on behalf of the NUAAB President if they are unable to attend an event
  • Assist President in duties and responsibilities

Alumni Relations Coordinator

  • Acts as the Recording Secretary for the NUAAB. Responsible for the organization of meeting logistics including taking and distributing meeting agendas and minutes
  • Update and advise on Alumni Relations activities and events
  • Coordinate the media and promotion submissions with the President and Vice-President
  • Assist with event planning
  • Coordinate promotional materials
  • Coordinate Alumni Award nominations and bring forward to the NUAAB for review and selection

9. COMMITTEES

9.1 The committees constituted by the NUAAB shall be as follows:

  • Communications
  • Events
  • Special committees, consisting of persons appointed by the Board for specific duties of a non-recurrent nature whose powers will expire with the completion of the task assigned.

9.2 NUAAB members will be asked to serve on at least one committee.

9.3 A minimum of 1 chair, 1 vice-chair and 1 general member will compose the committee(s).

9.4 Committee chairs will be determined at the first meeting of the academic year.

  1. The committee chair will identify the vice-chair once membership has been determined.

9.5 Committee assignments shall reflect the goals of the strategic plan.

9.6. Vacancies occurring in the membership of a committee (including its Chair) shall be filled by individuals selected by the President of the NUAAB.

Notwithstanding such vacancies, the remaining members of the committee shall have authority to exercise the full powers of the committee, providing that a quorum is present (see section 9.11 below).

9.7 An annual schedule of regular meetings will be provided to all Board members at the beginning of the year.

9.8 Meetings, other than regular meetings, may be held at the call of the chair of the committee or, in his/her absence, at the call of the vice-chair of the committee. The meeting shall be held at such places and at such times as the chair or vice-chair of the committee respectively may appoint. Notice of every meeting so called shall be sent by electronic means to each member not less than three days before the meeting is to take place by the Alumni Relations Coordinator or the committee chair.

9.9 A resolution signed by all members of a committee shall have the same force and effect as if passed at a regularly constituted meeting.

9.10 The chair of a committee shall preside at meetings, and in his/her absence, the vice-chair of the committee shall preside. If both the chair and the vice-chair of the committee are absent, the members present shall appoint one of their number acting-chair to preside at the meeting.

9.11 A majority of the voting members of a committee shall constitute a quorum.

9.12 Each voting member of the committee present at a meeting shall be entitled to one vote.

9.13. All questions at a meeting shall be decided by a majority of the votes of the members present. The chair or acting chair may vote on all motions, and any motion on which there is an equality of votes shall be deemed to be negative.

9.14 A record shall be kept of the proceedings of every meeting of each committee, and it is the responsibility of the Alumni Relations Coordinator to receive a report from the recording secretary of the committee of such proceedings following the meeting.

9.15 Change of membership on all committees shall take effect after the first general NUAAB meeting of the academic year (usually in September).

9.16 COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE

The Communications Committee is responsible for developing content and recommending strategies to promote strategic and relevant messaging on a variety of platforms to alumni and the community. These messages will aim to celebrate the accomplishments of alumni and the University, as well as provide opportunities to strengthen the connections with alumni and the community. These communications apply to a variety of platforms and materials including:

  • Website
  • E-Newsletter
  • Social Media
  • NUAAB Recruiting Materials
  • Internal Board Communication
Membership
  • 1 Chair
  • 1 Vice-chair
  • At minimum one general member
  • Alumni Relations Coordinator, ex-officio (non-voting)

9.17 EVENTS COMMITTEE

The Events Committee is responsible for developing and fostering alumni engagement through strategic events throughout the year. Some of these events include:

  • Alumni Awards
  • Homecoming
  • Convocation
  • NUAAB Member Onboarding & Orientation
Membership
  • 1 Chair
  • 1 Vice-chair
  • At minimum one general member
  • Alumni Relations Coordinator, ex-officio (non-voting)

9.18 SPECIAL COMMITTEES

The NUAAB may, from time to time, appoint special committees. Unless specifically provided by the resolutions by which they are constituted, such committees shall automatically be dissolved on the date of the first meeting of the NUAAB in the next year following that in which they were appointed. Such committees may, at the discretion of the NUAAB, be reappointed with the same or different membership

Membership

To be determined at time of appointment.

 

Updated November 11, 2021

Sponsorship Application

Please click on the following links to download the application and mandatory budget:

Sponsorship Requests

Purpose:

The following are the desired outcomes for NUAAB’s efforts. These five outcomes are used as a point of reference when deciding how to allocate resources. The primary desired outcomes of NUAAB efforts are:

  • To raise funds to further the objectives of the NUAAB and Nipissing University
  • To support the University’s student recruitment efforts
  • To enhance the reputation of the University
  • To enhance the public profile of the University
  • Foster alumni engagement;
  • And other efforts that support the long-term success of the above.

Eligibility:

  • An individual or group of students must be a registered full or part-time Nipissing University student
  • Projects must be student focused for the benefit of Nipissing students and/or alumni
  • Projects that have political or religious affiliations must be academic in nature

How to Apply (check list):

Submit the application form and attached copies of the following support materials:

  • A detailed budget (form provided) – must include expenses, other sources of funding, and specific amount requested from the NUAAB
  • A description of how you will use the funds (For example speaker sponsorship, conference registration, etc.)
  • A description of how the NUAAB will be recognized as a sponsor
  • A description of how the funds will assist to build upon and showcase the culture of Nipissing University, enhance the quality of education or campus life, benefit groups of students and/or alumni, and/or reflect the mandate of the NUAAB
  • Other information deemed helpful to the NUAAB in selecting recipients
  • Copy of promotional materials
  • All groups approved of funding must follow up with a detailed written report about the project or event
  • If sponsorship is approved provide one page summary of how the funding was used and any photos taken for use by NUAAB to publish on Social Media.

Sponsorship amounts will vary depending on the number of applications and the amount of available funds. It is imperative that your application detail how your project or event aligns with the NUAAB's criteria (stated in the application). However, each submission will be judged on a case-by-case basis for potential funding.

​Sponsorship requests received after the event date will not be considered.

Join the Alumni Advisory Board

The Alumni Advisory Board meets a minimum of five times per year; as well as, for an annual planning retreat. Terms are for three years and may be renewed twice for a maximum of six years. 

Candidates outside the North Bay geographic area are also eligible to claim a reasonable amount of travel expenses as per the Long-Distance Travel policy of the Advisory Board.

Why get involved?

The Board provides an opportunity to “give something back” to your alma mater. Involvement provides you with a chance to meet fellow alumni, create friendships, network, and further your professional and personal skills. Participation means you become part of a winning team, and are associated with like-minded individuals who wish to have fun while contributing to the betterment of the University.​

If you are interested, please complete the application below:

Alumni Advisory Board Application Form »

Who can join?

The Nipissing University Alumni Advisory Board is open to all alumni of the Nipissing family, as well as community members. This means graduates of:

Nipissing University

Nipissing University College

North Bay Teachers College

North Bay Normal School

North Bay Model School

PLEASE NOTE: The NUAAB reviews applications each spring, depending on if the need to fill positions arises. If you are interested please fill out the application and we will keep it on file.

Further information on the role and responsibilities of an Alumni Advisory Board member can be obtained by contacting Alumni Relations at 705-474-3450 ext. 4573 or alumni@nipissingu.ca.


NUAAB Members 2025-2026:

Ex-Officio Members

Steven Smits

Manager, Alumni & Advancement

Email: stevensmits@nipissingu.ca

Phone: 705-474-3450 ext. 4404

Tyler Levesque, BA '22

Alumni Relations Coordinator - Alumni communications, programs and events, affinity partnerships, Homecoming, degree frames, and administrative support for the Nipissing University Alumni Advisory Board.

Email: tylerle@nipissingu.ca

Phone: 705-474-3450 ext. 4819

NUAAB President Laurel Muldoon

Laurel Muldoon, BA Hons '15, MESc '19

President

Laurel graduated in 2015 with a Bachelor of Art’s Honours specialization in Environmental Geography. She also obtained two certificates from Nipissing in Geomatics and Environmental Planning. Laurel's love for the environment, and Nipissing University, led her to pursue a Master’s in Environmental Science and she graduated in 2019. Laurel has lived in North Bay for almost 13 years and has made it her home. Laurel decided to join the Nipissing University Alumni Advisory Board (NUAAB) to be an advocate for Nipissing's graduate programs and the opportunities that arise when attending a small school. She hopes to provide a voice for our students and assist NUAAB to make positive steps forward with outreach and involvement for and with students. She is honoured to be an active member of the Nipissing University community and to be a part of the NUAAB. She looks forward to continuing to work closely with administration, faculty, staff, students and graduates to highlight what NUAAB can offer.  

NUAAB VP Melissa Larochelle

Melissa MacNabb, BA '99

Vice President

Melissa's family has a long history in the North Bay and surrounding area. She graduated from Nipissing University with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. With this degree she then moved to the United States to work and travel. Melissa returned to Ontario in 2009 to start a career in the financial services industry. In 2016 she was able to move back to North Bay with a progression in her career to management. She is currently the Branch Manager at TD Canada Trust. Melissa is passionate about wellness and mental health. She became a yoga instructor in 2016 to share this passion with others. Since then, she has been teaching yoga classes at the University and supporting with developing the Nipissing University women's volleyball team. She joined the Alumni Advisory Board in 2021 to increase her connection with the University and to increase engagement with other alumni.

Robyn Jones portrait

Robyn Jones, MESC '20

Robyn completed a Honours B.Sc. in Water Resource Science and a Certificate in Geomatics from Lakehead University in 2016. She continued her education at Nipissing University through the Masters of Environmental Science program and graduated in 2020. She hopes that her time on the alumni advisory committee will help bring positive changes to the Nipissing community. Currently, she works for the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. 

Eric Yung portrait

Eric Yung, BBA '07, BEd '09

Eric is a graduate of the Bachelor of Business Administration program with a Bachelor of Education in intermediate and senior divisions. Eric has also completed additional qualifications for Special Education Part 1. Born in Hong Kong, Eric came to Canada with his family at the age of 6 residing in Toronto until 1994 when his family made the move to Mattawa, Ontario to open a family business. Eric eventually made the move to North Bay in 2002. During his years at Nipissing he was a member of the Men's Volleyball team as well as the Men's Soccer Team and was recognized as the Al Carfagnini Male Athlete of the Year in 2006 and 2007. Upon graduation, Eric began his career as an educator at local schools and began volunteering his time to athletic programs as a Head Coach within the Near North District School Board. In 2010, Eric became the Head Coach here at Nipissing University and in 2013 led the team to Nipissing's first and only National Championship win. In 2017, he was selected, along with three of his varsity student-athletes to represent Canada as Nipissing Lakers at the World Universiade Games (FISU) games in Tai Pai, Taiwan. He is currently the Head Coach for the Nipissing University Men's Volleyball program. He is also an instructor within the Physical and Health Education program here at Nipissing University. In addition, he is the Owner of Yung Gunz Academy, focused on developing local athletes through Soccer and Volleyball. Eric is also an active member of the North Bay Sports Hall of Fame board. Eric continues to play a vital part in the growth and development of student-athletes both on and off the court and prioritizes community and alumni relations.

Jason Bramburger - NUAAB Member

Jason Bramburger, BA Hons ’11

Jason Bramburger grew up in Pembroke, Ontario and received a Bachelors of Arts specializing in mathematics and computer science from Nipissing University in 2011. After graduating from Nipissing he went to on to receive an MSc and PhD in applied mathematics from the University of Ottawa in 2013 and 2017, respectively. He is currently an assistant professor of mathematics at Concordia University with research that focuses on pattern formation in models that arise in ecology, combustion, crystallization, plasma physics, and chemical reactions. Prior to his current position he has held prestigious fellowships at Brown University and the University of Victoria. For the 2021-2022 academic year he has been named a fellow of the Institute of Advanced Study in Guildford, UK. He also has a strong enthusiasm for teaching mathematics and mentoring students of all academic levels and over a diverse range of backgrounds.

Roxanne Martin-Pitchenese - NUAAB Member

Roxanne Martin-Pitchenese, BEd ’15

Roxanne Martin-Pitchenese (Wikwemikong Unceded First Nation) is a Anishinaabe Educator, Community Justice Coordinator, Visual Artist and Cultural Activist. A graduate from the Cambrian College Theatre Arts Production, an honours graduate from the Bachelor of Fine Arts/minor in Anishinaabemowin studies from Algoma/Shingwauk University and Bachelor of Education from the Schulich School of Education at Nipissing University, Martin-Pitchenese inspires her community to work with visual interpretations, storytelling and oral history of her surrounding lands and waters of Lake Huron and Superior.

She’s an award recipient for the Ashoka Changemaker Innovative approaches for First Nations people and received the Michaelle Jean Foundation Youth Solidarity Project Recognition at the Art Gallery of Ontario. She is listed on the Wikipedia website for her accomplishments and has established a small home business providing Ojibwe language revitalization resources.

Growing up in Toronto and Northern Ontario, allowed Martin-Pitchenese to have a better understanding of her own self identity and the cultural loss she experienced as a child. Teaching in a northern community allows Roxanne the ability to speak her own language with students and peers, collaborate with community members and have a sense of belonging to better the future for many more generations to come.

Joe Burt portrait

Joe Burt, BEd, BA, ’14

Joe is a graduate of the Concurrent Education program, graduating in 2014 with a Bachelor of Education in junior/intermediate division, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in English Studies, with a minor in History. During his time at Nipissing, Joe was heavily involved in campus life. He was a floor representative, a frosh leader, a Residence Don and Community Advisor. Joe’s passion for the Nipissing experience and campus involvement led to him being awarded the Dave Marshall Leadership Award in 2014. His passion for Nipissing has not wavered which is why he is now working on the Nipissing University Alumni Advisory Board. Joe currently works as an Instructional Designer for the Government of Canada, creating training and learning initiatives on the subjects of diversity, equity and inclusion. In his personal time, you can find him walking his two miniature schnauzers, Ella and Louis, in the Ottawa area.

Riley X.T. McEntee

Riley X. T. McEntee, B.A. (Hons) '24

Riley X. T. McEntee was born and raised in Huntsville, then moved to North Bay in late-2019. He is a graduate of Nipissing University, with an Honours Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy and Political Science. He currently works as a Residence Life Supervisor at Nipissing University. Before this, he was the Nipissing University Student Union President from May 2022 to April 2024. While there, he advocated for change and sought to help many, primarily with food and housing insecurity. He has been a NUAAB Board Member since May 2022 and was honoured to stay on after his time with NUSU ended.

Outside of work and advocacy, he’s often found with his fiancé either at home, attending a community event, or eating a nice meal at a local restaurant.