I begin this mandate with great enthusiasm and with a sincere desire to contribute to the life of our Faculty.

After having held different roles within FSS, I see this mandate as a natural continuation of my commitment to our community, but also as a meaningful opportunity to support the people who bring it to life every day.

What motivates me deeply is contributing to the conditions that allow all members of our community to have what they need to succeed. This requires listening and dialogue, as well as careful attention to the policies and practices that shape our Faculty life. In this role, I hope to help identify what can be improved, transformed or strengthened in order to have a positive impact on individuals and on the community.

This mandate also includes an important dimension related to equity, diversity and inclusion. This dimension echoes my own research on Francophone communities in minority settings, particularly in Ontario and Acadia, as well as my engagement in initiatives related to anti-racism. These experiences have led me to reflect on power relations, on voices that are less often heard, and on the conditions that allow for more equitable and meaningful participation. The work of Indigenization and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples also holds an important place for me, because it invites us to transform the ways we conduct research, teach, work and build community.

I also wish to recognize the remarkable work accomplished by Martin Lalumière in this role, whose commitment helped structure the Faculty’s governance. It is a privilege to continue this work, in dialogue with unit heads, professors, staff members, the Faculty Executive, as well as students.

Mireille McLaughlin