Alumni Awards 2024

About Dr. Joyce Helmer

Dr. Joyce Helmer is a distinguished academic and dedicated advocate for Indigenous education and health. Born and raised in Timmins, Ontario, she currently resides in northeastern Ontario. Joyce has built an impressive career spanning various fields, including curriculum development, advocacy, research, and community service.

In the early 1970s, Joyce graduated from one of the first accredited Early Childhood Teacher Education (ECTE) programs. Over the span of 50 years, she went on to earn her Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) and Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Leadership from Nipissing University, demonstrating her commitment to advancing educational practices. Her academic journey continued with a Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) from Athabasca University, where she completed a dissertation titled The Hollow Bone Hunter’s Search for Sacred Space in Cyberspace: A Two-World Story in January 2012. Joyce also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Laurentian University (2006), a Postgraduate Certificate in Indigenous Community Health Approaches from St. Lawrence College in partnership with FNTI (2014), and was awarded a full scholarship as a participant in the Indigenous Health Research Program at Johns Hopkins University.

Joyce’s professional career is marked by her contributions to curriculum development and teaching at several institutions. She is currently a Curriculum Advisor/Specialist at the First Nations Technical Institute (FNTI) in Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory and has served as a Project Lead for Kenjgewin Teg Education Institute’s Tri-Indigenous Institute Collaboration as part of an eCampus Ontario initiative. Joyce is also an Associate Professor at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, where she contributes to Northern and Rural Health modules, most recently working with the National Consortium for Indigenous Medical Education on creating curriculum resources for improving cultural safety in medical schools in Canada. She has affiliations with Laurentian and McMaster Universities, as well as the Physician Assistant Program at the University of Toronto.

Her extensive experience includes leadership roles such as Academic Chair at Wabnode Centre for Indigenous (Aboriginal) Services at Cambrian College and Lead Instructional Designer and Assistant Professor for the community-based Bachelor’s Degree of Social Work at Université du Québec, in partnership with the Cree Health and Social Services Board of James Bay, Quebec.

In addition to her teaching and curriculum roles, Joyce has led significant research projects. As Lead Principal Investigator for the “Two-Eyed Seeing Pathways to Reconciliation” project, she focused on advancing culturally safe healthcare and education for Indigenous Peoples in Northern Ontario. Her research and publications cover various topics, including Indigenous health and education, and she has presented at international gatherings such as the Healing Our Spirits Worldwide Traditional Gathering in Hawaii (2010) and Edmonton (2007).

Joyce has also been actively involved in Indigenous-based educational and health workshops, including facilitating a Five-Weekend Research Program with the Ontario College of Family Physicians and contributing to the Tri-Council Policy Statement online tutorial. Her work has earned her recognition and invitations to speak across Canada and globally, reflecting her significant impact in the field.

Dr. Joyce Helmer’s career and community involvement underscore her dedication to advancing Indigenous education and health, making her a respected leader and advocate in her field.

About Mabel Plourde-Doran

Mabel Plourde-Doran, an accomplished professional in physiotherapy and education, is an Honours graduate of Nipissing University’s Bachelor of Physical and Health Education (BPHE) program. Her outstanding academic achievements at Nipissing University include being named Valedictorian, receiving the David Marshall Leadership Award, President’s Gold Medal Excellence Award, Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology Award, and Tembec Citizenship Award. Mabel's dedication to her studies and leadership in the field set a high bar for future students.

Mabel further distinguished herself as a trailblazer by being the first Nipissing BPHE graduate to pursue the Master of Physical Therapy program at Western University. Her academic prowess continued to shine, earning the Ontario Graduate Scholarship for two consecutive years, the Barbara Edwardson Orthopedic Award, Canadian Physiotherapy Association Orthopedic Award, The Physical Therapy Faculty Award, and a second Valedictorian Award.

Currently, Mabel has returned to Nipissing University to teach a BPHE course for the 2024 Fall term and is a full-time Professor in the Occupational Therapist Assistant/Physiotherapist Assistant (OTA/PTA) program at Canadore College, where she has made significant contributions to the field. She was a nominee for the Minister’s Awards of Excellence by the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities in 2022 for her work on expanding educational resources through an innovative collaboration with Zaporizhzhia State Medical University (ZSMU) in Ukraine. Mabel also played a key role in developing the first intensive OTA/PTA program in Ontario and promoting experiential learning opportunities through the Village initiative, which emphasizes intergenerational and interprofessional learning.

In addition to her role at Canadore College, Mabel works part-time as a physiotherapist at Manual Physio Solutions in North Bay. Her expertise in physiotherapy was recognized in 2015 when she won the Reader’s Choice Award for "Best Physiotherapist in North Bay." In 2019, she achieved the prestigious Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physiotherapy (FCAMPT) designation, reflecting her advanced training in orthopedics and hands-on therapy. Mabel is also a mentor for Nipissing University BPHE placement students and actively involved in community service.

Mabel’s engagement with Nipissing University continues through her roles as a guest lecturer and speaker, where she has contributed to the BPHE program by sharing her insights and expertise. Her commitment to the field extends beyond her professional and academic achievements, as evidenced by her volunteer work. She serves as Co-Chair of the Parent Involvement Committee for the Nipissing-Parry Sound Catholic District School Board and the Catholic School Advisory Council at St. Luke’s Elementary School. Mabel has also facilitated physiotherapy skills workshops for Specialist High Skills Major programs and participated in various outreach and marketing efforts for both Nipissing University and Canadore College.

Her additional certifications and continued education, including the Simulation Canada Keystones of Healthcare Simulation Certificate Program and various specialized training in pelvic health and concussion management, underscore her dedication to advancing her skills and enhancing student outcomes.

Mabel’s positive influence, professional excellence, and unwavering support for her community make her an exemplary representative of Nipissing University. Her accomplishments reflect a profound commitment to her profession and a dedication to mentoring and inspiring future generations.

About Nakissa Koomalsingh

Nakissa Koomalsingh, widely known as Keesa K, is a pioneering advocate for women's sports in Canada and the founder of HOOPQUEENS, a groundbreaking initiative that introduced Canada’s first paid league for women’s basketball. Her profound impact on the sport stems from her experiences as a former varsity athlete, where she witnessed firsthand the inequities faced by women in sports. This drove her commitment to transforming the landscape of women’s basketball by creating opportunities that elevate and support female athletes.

Keesa launched HOOPQUEENS in 2020 with a vision to provide a platform where women could compete and train at a high level. Under her leadership, HOOPQUEENS has grown into a prominent organization dedicated to promoting gender equality in basketball. The organization offers a wide range of programs, including skills development sessions, mentorship, and off-the-court opportunities, all designed to empower women and foster their growth in the sport.

In addition to her work with HOOPQUEENS, Keesa is an accomplished leader with a strong connection to Nipissing University. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Nipissing University in 2006, where her foundation in sports and community engagement began. Her experiences at Nipissing University helped shape her approach to leadership and advocacy in sports.

Keesa’s efforts extend beyond the court as she works tirelessly to inspire women to forge their own paths and challenge existing barriers. Her advocacy is not just about sports but about creating broader societal change and providing women with the tools and opportunities to succeed.

Her commitment to improving the reality for women athletes has been widely recognized and her influence continues to grow. Keesa Koomalsingh remains a significant figure in the movement for gender equality in sports, with her work at HOOPQUEENS serving as a testament to her dedication and vision.

Through her impactful work and inspiring leadership, Keesa continues to drive positive change in women’s basketball and beyond, embodying the spirit of empowerment and equality she so passionately advocates for.

About Colin Vezina

Colin P. Vezina is a proud graduate and lifelong supporter of Nipissing University. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences with honors in 1988 while balancing his demanding role as Editor of the North Bay Nugget and his active involvement in the community. Colin’s dedication to higher education was recognized in January 1989 when he was named an Honorary Fellow of Nipissing University. Throughout his career, he consistently promoted the university, encouraging others to pursue post-secondary education and highlighting the accessibility of its programs. Alongside his wife, Noreen, Colin established the Nipissing Vezina Bursary, which provides financial support to deserving students facing financial challenges. The Vezinas cherish the personal notes they receive from bursary recipients and the overall impact they continue to have on the university community.

Born and raised in North Bay, Colin’s career spans journalism, public relations, military service, and community engagement. He began his journalism career in 1956 as a cub reporter for the North Bay Nugget and rose to become news editor by 1967. After a brief period as Manager of Public Affairs for Chrysler Canada, Colin returned to North Bay in 1972 to focus on his family and community. He resumed his role at the Nugget, becoming Managing Editor in 1977 and Editor from 1981 until his retirement in 1990. Colin’s career continued as Communications Coordinator for the Ministry of Public Safety from 1990 to 1995, and he later founded Nor-Col Communications, where he worked until 2015.

Colin is equally proud of his four adult children: Stephen, Randy, late Colin Jr. (2022), and Laurie - all of whom are college or university graduates. His deep commitment to family and community has shaped much of his life and work.

In addition to his professional achievements, Colin served in the Canadian Army Reserves (1959 - 1962) and later the Royal Canadian Navy Reserve, where he rose to Lieutenant Colonel in 1982. His service earned him several prestigious honors, including the Canadian Forces’ Decoration for Meritorious Service and the Queen’s Silver and Diamond Jubilee Medals.

Colin’s contributions to community service are extensive. He has served on the Board of Directors for St. Joseph’s Hospital and as a founding member of the Heritage Train and Carousel Co. He chaired the Royal Canadian Legion’s Community Service Committee, working tirelessly to support veterans and their families. In 2021, Colin was awarded the Legion’s highest honour, the Meritorious Service Award, for nearly 50 years of service.

Colin’s impact extends to education as well. He chaired the Journalism Advisory Committee at Canadore College and taught a 12-week Communications-Public Affairs course. He also served on the North Bay Police Commission, playing a key role in fostering collaboration within the force and overseeing the construction of a boardroom that was later named in his honour.

A Registered Funeral Celebrant, Colin has served over 200 families in the past 14 years, including many veterans. His commitment to honouring lives, both in life and death, reflects his deep compassion and a lasting legacy in North Bay.

About Dr. Paul Cook

Dr. Paul Cook is the esteemed Chancellor of Nipissing University and the President of Retired Badge Consulting Inc. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, he retired from the North Bay Police Service in 2016, having served with dedication for 34.5 years, including the final 12 years as Chief of Police. His tenure in law enforcement is marked by a reputation for ethical leadership and community engagement.

Dr. Cook’s contributions extend beyond his police career, as he has played a significant role in various professional organizations. He served on the Boards of the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) and the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP), holding notable positions including Vice President of the CACP and President of the OACP. His leadership and commitment continue through his involvement in several volunteer boards within the North Bay community.

In recognition of his exemplary service, Dr. Cook was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters (DLitt) by Nipissing University in 2016. His role as Chancellor highlights his ongoing dedication to the institution, where he also delivered the convocation address that year. Dr. Cook’s commitment to the community is further reflected in his role as an Honorary Colonel Emeritus for the 51 Aerospace Control and Warning Squadron, 22 Wing, North Bay.

A proud graduate of Sheridan College and Canadore College, Dr. Cook furthered his education by attending the FBI National Academy, 213th Session, in 2003. His distinguished career has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Police Exemplary Service Medal (2002 and Bar 2012), the Member of the Order of Merit for Police Forces Medal (2009), and the Officer of the Order of Merit for Police Forces Medal (2013). He also received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012.

Dr. Cook’s extensive service includes past involvement with the Domestic Violence Coordinating Committee of Nipissing, the Ontario Special Olympics Provincial Winter Games Committee, and the World Ringette Championships Committee. His leadership and commitment to sports and community initiatives earned him the Rotary Club Paul Harris Award and the Dedication to Soccer Award from the North Bay Sports Hall of Fame.

As a dedicated leader and community advocate, Dr. Paul Cook’s influence extends through his roles in public service, his contributions to Nipissing University, and his ongoing commitment to fostering positive change in North Bay and beyond. His distinguished career and community service embody the values of excellence and dedication that he continues to uphold.