Shaping our collective impact
Word from the rector
A community supported by its talents and history
The Community Report 2025–2026 tells the story of an agile and creative community whose members learn, adapt, and work together to boost their impact. It reveals the continued collective commitment driven by the ULaval Institutional Plan 2023–2028: Working Together to Boost Our Impact and the University’s ability to transform itself, year after year, while remaining true to its core missions.
As it approaches its 175th anniversary, Université Laval continues to grow, fostered by the knowledge it has gained, supported by its talents, and firmly rooted in its history. This trajectory is inseparable from the responsibility to cultivate an attractive environment and a climate of excellence.
The recognition we received from Forbes this year, as Canada’s best employer, proves that investing in people pays off. It underscores that our future is built on what we do best: grow people to grow our impact.
Sophie D’Amours
Rector
Success factors
To be a university that stands out for the scale of its impact, our ULaval Institutional Plan 2023– 2028: Working Together to Boost Our Impact sets out six success factors to be met and strengthened. For each of these, discover five remarkable initiatives that were started or completed in 2025–2026. Each project is linked to one or more sustainable development goals, reflecting the collective efforts of our community.
Being collaborative and innovative
That means pushing the boundaries to find new solutions and implement innovative practices through alliances and participatory projects, both internal and external, that engage communities.
More reliable hydroelectric turbines
Making hydroelectric power more reliable and efficient requires the ability to predict outages and potential turbine breakdowns. This is what Professor Sébastien Houde’s team will be working on with the MD-Francis project. In collaboration with six multinational companies, including Hydro-Québec, and four universities, this project has secured a grant of $5 million. Advanced diagnostic tools will drive innovation in monitoring systems and digital twins.
Promoting Indigenous knowledge
The first recognition ceremony held with the First Peoples celebrated promising projects that represent the path to reconciliation: the Guardians of the Land nanoprogram, the archaeology microprogram, and the summer school focusing on Indigenous life and knowledge. Each in their own way, these projects promote the knowledge of First Peoples and fully and proudly recognize their cultures.
First cohort for Aventure médecine
A first group of 35 students from the Aventure médecine project completed their preclerkship in May 2025, in Lévis and Rimouski. This initiative, involving several regional partners, contributes to the training and retention of new medical professionals in the regions. The growing interest in learning medicine outside the major urban centres was confirmed as the 57 available spaces for 2026–2027 were quickly snapped up at both locations.
Transforming governance
To mark its 20th anniversary, the Collège des administrateurs de sociétés released a white paper entitled Vers un cadre élargi de gouvernance [Towards a Broader Governance Framework]. Written with the contribution of Professor Charles Baron and directors of certified companies, the work proposes to expand the role of boards of directors by assigning them responsibility for the sustainability of organizations and their ecosystems. This publication confirms the leadership role of our university while contributing to the evolution of governance practices.
Connecting ideas to build bridges
The partnerships and innovation website boosts the visibility of research expertise, infrastructure, and support services to external partners and the academic community to foster the development of collaborations and partnerships. It highlights the services available in relation to partner research, intellectual property, technology transfer, and the application of research findings. It also showcases successful collaborations with businesses and organizations in various sectors, illustrating the tangible benefits of these partnerships.
More reliable hydroelectric turbines
Making hydroelectric power more reliable and efficient requires the ability to predict outages and potential turbine breakdowns. This is what Professor Sébastien Houde’s team will be working on with the MD-Francis project. In collaboration with six multinational companies, including Hydro-Québec, and four universities, this project has secured a grant of $5 million. Advanced diagnostic tools will drive innovation in monitoring systems and digital twins.
Promoting Indigenous knowledge
The first recognition ceremony held with the First Peoples celebrated promising projects that represent the path to reconciliation: the Guardians of the Land nanoprogram, the archaeology microprogram, and the summer school focusing on Indigenous life and knowledge. Each in their own way, these projects promote the knowledge of First Peoples and fully and proudly recognize their cultures.
First cohort for Aventure médecine
A first group of 35 students from the Aventure médecine project completed their preclerkship in May 2025, in Lévis and Rimouski. This initiative, involving several regional partners, contributes to the training and retention of new medical professionals in the regions. The growing interest in learning medicine outside the major urban centres was confirmed as the 57 available spaces for 2026–2027 were quickly snapped up at both locations.
Transforming governance
To mark its 20th anniversary, the Collège des administrateurs de sociétés released a white paper entitled Vers un cadre élargi de gouvernance [Towards a Broader Governance Framework]. Written with the contribution of Professor Charles Baron and directors of certified companies, the work proposes to expand the role of boards of directors by assigning them responsibility for the sustainability of organizations and their ecosystems. This publication confirms the leadership role of our university while contributing to the evolution of governance practices.
Connecting ideas to build bridges
The partnerships and innovation website boosts the visibility of research expertise, infrastructure, and support services to external partners and the academic community to foster the development of collaborations and partnerships. It highlights the services available in relation to partner research, intellectual property, technology transfer, and the application of research findings. It also showcases successful collaborations with businesses and organizations in various sectors, illustrating the tangible benefits of these partnerships.
Being agile and proactive
That means inventing new ways of doing things, acquiring new knowledge, working together, and taking the initiative.
New spaces for the next generation in health
Increasing the size of the medicine, nursing, and pharmacy cohorts has required the creation of new, modern training spaces. Under the coordination of project manager Loïc Jouan De Kervenoael, several teams have put their expertise to work to make this initiative a reality. These state-of-the-art laboratories demonstrate the University’s commitment to improving both access to and the quality of health care through the development of a highly skilled workforce.
Changing careers, transforming lives
The members of the first cohort of the qualifying master’s degree in early childhood and primary education have graduated—an important step in addressing the shortage of teachers in Québec. This intensive program for people who already have degrees in other disciplines leads to a teaching certificate in two years. This initiative, spearheaded by Christine Hamel and Vincent Richard, offers individuals from a variety of backgrounds the opportunity to teach in classrooms across Québec with solid training as well as distinctive professional grounding.
CursUL: Simplifying day-to-day management
Education management is now made easier through the CursUL portal, a tool that allows for close monitoring of academic records, including specific pathways, progress notes, schedules, and deadlines. A powerful tool that generates significant time savings, CursUL was developed on the initiative of the pharmacy program’s management team—Roxane Réhel, Jessica Gauthier, Nancy Giguère, and Ann-Sophy St-Louis—in collaboration with SPRINT.
Escape game at the library
Inspired by a real theft in 1981, the escape game Enquête à la Bibliothèque [Investigation at the Library] immerses players in a quest covering all seven floors of the library at the Jean-Charles- Bonenfant Building. Through the use of various spaces and tools, the activity encourages students to discover and build a sense of ownership of resources and services in a fun way. Numerous students, including Jade Gauthier, Rosalie Caron, and Maëlis Fixot, have successfully competed the mission!
High-performance computing for teaching
Led by sector head Christian Bilodeau and assistant director Marie- Hélène C.-Bouffard and subsequently deployed by the IT and education teams, this infrastructure opens up new opportunities for digital learning and teaching through artificial intelligence. Since winter 2025, more than 2,000 students spread across 32 courses have completed over 65,000 hours of processing time. This makes it possible to access, within an educational setting, power previously reserved for specialist environments.
New spaces for the next generation in health
Increasing the size of the medicine, nursing, and pharmacy cohorts has required the creation of new, modern training spaces. Under the coordination of project manager Loïc Jouan De Kervenoael, several teams have put their expertise to work to make this initiative a reality. These state-of-the-art laboratories demonstrate the University’s commitment to improving both access to and the quality of health care through the development of a highly skilled workforce.
Changing careers, transforming lives
The members of the first cohort of the qualifying master’s degree in early childhood and primary education have graduated—an important step in addressing the shortage of teachers in Québec. This intensive program for people who already have degrees in other disciplines leads to a teaching certificate in two years. This initiative, spearheaded by Christine Hamel and Vincent Richard, offers individuals from a variety of backgrounds the opportunity to teach in classrooms across Québec with solid training as well as distinctive professional grounding.
CursUL: Simplifying day-to-day management
Education management is now made easier through the CursUL portal, a tool that allows for close monitoring of academic records, including specific pathways, progress notes, schedules, and deadlines. A powerful tool that generates significant time savings, CursUL was developed on the initiative of the pharmacy program’s management team—Roxane Réhel, Jessica Gauthier, Nancy Giguère, and Ann-Sophy St-Louis—in collaboration with SPRINT.
Escape game at the library
Inspired by a real theft in 1981, the escape game Enquête à la Bibliothèque [Investigation at the Library] immerses players in a quest covering all seven floors of the library at the Jean-Charles- Bonenfant Building. Through the use of various spaces and tools, the activity encourages students to discover and build a sense of ownership of resources and services in a fun way. Numerous students, including Jade Gauthier, Rosalie Caron, and Maëlis Fixot, have successfully competed the mission!
High-performance computing for teaching
Led by sector head Christian Bilodeau and assistant director Marie- Hélène C.-Bouffard and subsequently deployed by the IT and education teams, this infrastructure opens up new opportunities for digital learning and teaching through artificial intelligence. Since winter 2025, more than 2,000 students spread across 32 courses have completed over 65,000 hours of processing time. This makes it possible to access, within an educational setting, power previously reserved for specialist environments.
Being interdisciplinary
That means pooling our strengths and knowledge to tackle increasingly complex problems by sharing experiences and points of view.
Intersecting perspectives on women’s health
Professor Anne-Marie Gagné-Julien brought together researchers from a range of backgrounds for an interdisciplinary study day dedicated to issues related to women’s health and the medicalization of the female body. The discussion drew on perspectives rooted in history, ethics, sociology, psychology, and religious studies to deepen understanding of women’s experiences, challenge the status quo, and open up new avenues for cooperation.
Transforming society through justice
Organized by Professor Nadia-Elena Vacaru in collaboration with the Institut Notre-Dame du Bon-Conseil de Montréal, this international symposium brought together individuals from the worlds of research, practice, and community action to focus on transformational social justice. Discussions combined the perspectives of philosophy, theology, history, sociology, and social intervention to illuminate contemporary challenges related to the environment, migration, inequality, and collective responsibility.
New innovation hub for sustainable materials
The Institute for Sustainable Materials brings together complementary expertise to address sustainability challenges. It will play a strategic role in the major transitions of our century related to energy, circularity, and responsible innovation, both in Québec and internationally. Its research and training activities are based on an interdisciplinary approach that integrates environmental, social, economic, and ethical dimensions. This new entity is headed by Jean-François Morin and Sébastien Dubus.
Democracy at the heart of the debate
For the panel discussion Défendre la démocratie : pourquoi et comment [Defending Democracy: Why and How], the Research Chair in Democracy and Public Ethics, led by Professor Patrick Turmel and supported by the philanthropic commitment of Power Corporation of Canada, brought together a number of experts to reflect on the threats weakening contemporary democracies. The conversation focused on topics such as disinformation, social media, artificial intelligence, and polarization, stressing the importance of rigorous research and the essential role of universities as spaces for free, nuanced, and informed dialogue.
First chair in support of veterans
A new Teaching Leadership Chair (CLE) led by assistant professor Pascale Marier-Deschênes supports veterans living with chronic pain, which affects 41% of all veterans. This initiative includes the development of a bilingual online program focused on self- management of pain. It also helps to raise awareness within the student and faculty communities about the realities faced by these individuals and their families.
Intersecting perspectives on women’s health
Professor Anne-Marie Gagné-Julien brought together researchers from a range of backgrounds for an interdisciplinary study day dedicated to issues related to women’s health and the medicalization of the female body. The discussion drew on perspectives rooted in history, ethics, sociology, psychology, and religious studies to deepen understanding of women’s experiences, challenge the status quo, and open up new avenues for cooperation.
Transforming society through justice
Organized by Professor Nadia-Elena Vacaru in collaboration with the Institut Notre-Dame du Bon-Conseil de Montréal, this international symposium brought together individuals from the worlds of research, practice, and community action to focus on transformational social justice. Discussions combined the perspectives of philosophy, theology, history, sociology, and social intervention to illuminate contemporary challenges related to the environment, migration, inequality, and collective responsibility.
New innovation hub for sustainable materials
The Institute for Sustainable Materials brings together complementary expertise to address sustainability challenges. It will play a strategic role in the major transitions of our century related to energy, circularity, and responsible innovation, both in Québec and internationally. Its research and training activities are based on an interdisciplinary approach that integrates environmental, social, economic, and ethical dimensions. This new entity is headed by Jean-François Morin and Sébastien Dubus.
Democracy at the heart of the debate
For the panel discussion Défendre la démocratie : pourquoi et comment [Defending Democracy: Why and How], the Research Chair in Democracy and Public Ethics, led by Professor Patrick Turmel and supported by the philanthropic commitment of Power Corporation of Canada, brought together a number of experts to reflect on the threats weakening contemporary democracies. The conversation focused on topics such as disinformation, social media, artificial intelligence, and polarization, stressing the importance of rigorous research and the essential role of universities as spaces for free, nuanced, and informed dialogue.
First chair in support of veterans
A new Teaching Leadership Chair (CLE) led by assistant professor Pascale Marier-Deschênes supports veterans living with chronic pain, which affects 41% of all veterans. This initiative includes the development of a bilingual online program focused on self- management of pain. It also helps to raise awareness within the student and faculty communities about the realities faced by these individuals and their families.
Being civic-minded and engaged
That means mobilizing people and communities to work together towards social progress so that knowledge is generated and shared to meet their needs.
La Table du Pain: Nourishing student success
Each week, more than 370 food baskets are distributed by the Table du Pain through the new food support fund. This initiative helps to meet the basic needs of students experiencing financial hardship. Far more than a food bank, this project promotes mutual support and exchange within the student community. The commitment of volunteers, including Giresse Mpey Ilimi, a master’s student in political science, testifies to the solidarity expressed by this initiative.
An exceptional season for cross-country skiing
Opening the Campus nordique, cross-country skiing in Montmorency Forest had a remarkable season in 2025–2026. More than 10,000 visitors took advantage of exceptional conditions over 53 days of activities. Thanks to the concerted efforts of several units on campus, skiers from Québec and beyond enjoyed an exceptional experience. The warm welcome, availability, and agility of the personnel were much appreciated.
A laboratory open to society
The new Laboratoire de sociologie publique at the Charles-De Koninck Building was opened in a spirit of collaboration and citizen engagement. This forum, which promotes action on social issues, aims to strengthen ties between the University and the community. Laurence Godin, Director of the Department of Sociology, is passionate about making research more accessible and connected to the concerns of the population.
When art enhances research
The study Vieillir en diversité et en équité [Aging in Diversity and Equity] came to life at the Musée de la civilisation through an exhibition highlighting the work of Professor Émilie Raymond and her team. This installation was co-created with seniors of diverse backgrounds, whether immigrant, LGBTQ+, Indigenous, or living with a disability. It sheds light on the results of the research, amplifies lesser-known voices, and sets out how ageing can take place in a more just and dignified way.
Honouring the Rouge et Or legacy
The Rouge et Or marked its 75th anniversary with a flourish by creating a Hall of Fame and inducting a first cohort of 15 notable figures. This cohort includes three builders, two members of the coaching staff, and 10 student athletes recognized for their outstanding contributions since 1950. By adding to its roster year after year, this place of remembrance will give life to a heritage that fosters the pride and sense of belonging of the entire community.
La Table du Pain: Nourishing student success
Each week, more than 370 food baskets are distributed by the Table du Pain through the new food support fund. This initiative helps to meet the basic needs of students experiencing financial hardship. Far more than a food bank, this project promotes mutual support and exchange within the student community. The commitment of volunteers, including Giresse Mpey Ilimi, a master’s student in political science, testifies to the solidarity expressed by this initiative.
An exceptional season for cross-country skiing
Opening the Campus nordique, cross-country skiing in Montmorency Forest had a remarkable season in 2025–2026. More than 10,000 visitors took advantage of exceptional conditions over 53 days of activities. Thanks to the concerted efforts of several units on campus, skiers from Québec and beyond enjoyed an exceptional experience. The warm welcome, availability, and agility of the personnel were much appreciated.
A laboratory open to society
The new Laboratoire de sociologie publique at the Charles-De Koninck Building was opened in a spirit of collaboration and citizen engagement. This forum, which promotes action on social issues, aims to strengthen ties between the University and the community. Laurence Godin, Director of the Department of Sociology, is passionate about making research more accessible and connected to the concerns of the population.
When art enhances research
The study Vieillir en diversité et en équité [Aging in Diversity and Equity] came to life at the Musée de la civilisation through an exhibition highlighting the work of Professor Émilie Raymond and her team. This installation was co-created with seniors of diverse backgrounds, whether immigrant, LGBTQ+, Indigenous, or living with a disability. It sheds light on the results of the research, amplifies lesser-known voices, and sets out how ageing can take place in a more just and dignified way.
Honouring the Rouge et Or legacy
The Rouge et Or marked its 75th anniversary with a flourish by creating a Hall of Fame and inducting a first cohort of 15 notable figures. This cohort includes three builders, two members of the coaching staff, and 10 student athletes recognized for their outstanding contributions since 1950. By adding to its roster year after year, this place of remembrance will give life to a heritage that fosters the pride and sense of belonging of the entire community.
Being inclusive and diversified
That means bringing talent together, fostering debate, and promoting creativity by providing a fair, inclusive, and respectful study, work, and living environment.
Captioning to support learning
Available to the entire university community, an AI-assisted captioning tool improves video content accessibility and promotes more inclusive learning. It supports people who are deaf or hard of hearing as well as allophones, international students, and those who prefer visual or multisensory approaches. Many students who have used captioning in their courses report better understanding and less cognitive fatigue.
Building togetherness
The roundtable Vérités partagées et vivre-ensemble [Shared Truths and Togetherness], facilitated by Professor Jean-Philippe Perreault, brought together Indigenous and non-Indigenous voices to discuss the links between spirituality, land, and ecology. Anthropologist Nicole O’Bomsawin and professors Xavier Gravend Tirole and Cory A. Labrecque combined their expertise to highlight the importance of reciprocity and shared knowledge in building a sustainable and inclusive community on campus.
Taking action against racism
The institutional anti-racism statement is the result of the work and reflections of the anti-racism working group, coordinated by councillor Sana Bouajila. It reaffirms our commitment to building an environment in which every person can exist with dignity, respect, and safety. Informed by past experiences, this commitment aims to transform practices in a lasting way. It translates into concrete actions of education, prevention, and support to combat racism in all its forms.
Creating inclusive spaces
Initiatives supported via the 2026 Dimensions Canada grants competition are making research spaces more inclusive and accessible. Professor François Routhier is leading one of the projects thanks to a $100,000 grant. This money will be used to develop tools and support models for teaching personnel with disabilities. Collaborative approaches such as these help to make practices more equitable and accessible.
Supporting students’ success
As part of a small team dedicated to supporting the community, Joannie Boudreau assists students experiencing financial difficulties. Thanks to this personalized support, a mother was able to continue her education, regain essential stability, and complete her master’s project. This story shows the importance of compassionate, confidential, tailored support that promotes student retention and success.
Captioning to support learning
Available to the entire university community, an AI-assisted captioning tool improves video content accessibility and promotes more inclusive learning. It supports people who are deaf or hard of hearing as well as allophones, international students, and those who prefer visual or multisensory approaches. Many students who have used captioning in their courses report better understanding and less cognitive fatigue.
Building togetherness
The roundtable Vérités partagées et vivre-ensemble [Shared Truths and Togetherness], facilitated by Professor Jean-Philippe Perreault, brought together Indigenous and non-Indigenous voices to discuss the links between spirituality, land, and ecology. Anthropologist Nicole O’Bomsawin and professors Xavier Gravend Tirole and Cory A. Labrecque combined their expertise to highlight the importance of reciprocity and shared knowledge in building a sustainable and inclusive community on campus.
Taking action against racism
The institutional anti-racism statement is the result of the work and reflections of the anti-racism working group, coordinated by councillor Sana Bouajila. It reaffirms our commitment to building an environment in which every person can exist with dignity, respect, and safety. Informed by past experiences, this commitment aims to transform practices in a lasting way. It translates into concrete actions of education, prevention, and support to combat racism in all its forms.
Creating inclusive spaces
Initiatives supported via the 2026 Dimensions Canada grants competition are making research spaces more inclusive and accessible. Professor François Routhier is leading one of the projects thanks to a $100,000 grant. This money will be used to develop tools and support models for teaching personnel with disabilities. Collaborative approaches such as these help to make practices more equitable and accessible.
Supporting students’ success
As part of a small team dedicated to supporting the community, Joannie Boudreau assists students experiencing financial difficulties. Thanks to this personalized support, a mother was able to continue her education, regain essential stability, and complete her master’s project. This story shows the importance of compassionate, confidential, tailored support that promotes student retention and success.
Being international
That means taking action and making an impact beyond Québec’s borders by encouraging collaborative research and being a university that attracts and welcomes newcomers.
Leadership in safe sport
Professor Sylvie Parent, Research Chair in Safety and Integrity in Sport, led the organization of the first-ever International Congress on Safe Sport Research. Held in Québec City, the event brought together more than 240 experts from 19 countries to advance research and practices in this growing field. This event confirmed Québec’s leadership in safe sport and laid the foundations for an international movement that will continue in Belgium in 2027.
A productive partnership
Université Laval and Université Côte d’Azur are celebrating 10 years of partnership. Over time, this collaboration has given rise to a dynamic scientific community across Québec and France, reflected in 138 scientific publications, 48 research projects, three teaching leadership chairs, and two associated international laboratories. Renewed for another five years, this alliance will continue to grow around key issues such as artificial intelligence, health, and the environment.
ABEO: For safer travel
The new web-based application ABEO ensures the safe and responsible management of travel for academic and professional purposes, both internationally and within Canada. Its monitoring, safety, and response tools strengthen our ability to act in emergency situations. Initiated by Mylène Grondin, Assistant Director – International Relations, this project was carried out by a team led by Marie-Pier Cotton and Raphaël Paré, information resource lead and analyst respectively, in collaboration with 19 higher education institutions in Québec.
From Shock to Transformation
This international conference brought together experts from the worlds of academia, politics, and economics to reflect on the future of Canada’s foreign economic policy. The meeting addressed the challenges associated with geopolitical tensions, supply chains, and ecological and digital transitions. Jean Charest, Stéphane Dion, Mark D. Wiseman, Louise Blais, Kim Thomassin, and several others shared their analyses and helped to develop concrete courses of action in a changing global context.
Rendez-vous communauté ULaval
Held in Paris, Brussels, and Lille, Rendez-vous communauté ULaval events offer a space for newly admitted students and exchange students to meet alumni and get to know each other before arriving on campus. This initiative fosters a sense of belonging, supports the students’ decision to enrol, and contributes to the University’s international reach. Alexandra Mélançon, Partnerships and Events Lead, coordinates this inter-team project. The first get-togethers saw enthusiastic support and positive results.
Leadership in safe sport
Professor Sylvie Parent, Research Chair in Safety and Integrity in Sport, led the organization of the first-ever International Congress on Safe Sport Research. Held in Québec City, the event brought together more than 240 experts from 19 countries to advance research and practices in this growing field. This event confirmed Québec’s leadership in safe sport and laid the foundations for an international movement that will continue in Belgium in 2027.
A productive partnership
Université Laval and Université Côte d’Azur are celebrating 10 years of partnership. Over time, this collaboration has given rise to a dynamic scientific community across Québec and France, reflected in 138 scientific publications, 48 research projects, three teaching leadership chairs, and two associated international laboratories. Renewed for another five years, this alliance will continue to grow around key issues such as artificial intelligence, health, and the environment.
ABEO: For safer travel
The new web-based application ABEO ensures the safe and responsible management of travel for academic and professional purposes, both internationally and within Canada. Its monitoring, safety, and response tools strengthen our ability to act in emergency situations. Initiated by Mylène Grondin, Assistant Director – International Relations, this project was carried out by a team led by Marie-Pier Cotton and Raphaël Paré, information resource lead and analyst respectively, in collaboration with 19 higher education institutions in Québec.
From Shock to Transformation
This international conference brought together experts from the worlds of academia, politics, and economics to reflect on the future of Canada’s foreign economic policy. The meeting addressed the challenges associated with geopolitical tensions, supply chains, and ecological and digital transitions. Jean Charest, Stéphane Dion, Mark D. Wiseman, Louise Blais, Kim Thomassin, and several others shared their analyses and helped to develop concrete courses of action in a changing global context.
Rendez-vous communauté ULaval
Held in Paris, Brussels, and Lille, Rendez-vous communauté ULaval events offer a space for newly admitted students and exchange students to meet alumni and get to know each other before arriving on campus. This initiative fosters a sense of belonging, supports the students’ decision to enrol, and contributes to the University’s international reach. Alexandra Mélançon, Partnerships and Events Lead, coordinates this inter-team project. The first get-togethers saw enthusiastic support and positive results.
Transformational initiatives
To help address emerging challenges, Université Laval is establishing itself as a high- impact university where teaching and research serve the common good. To this end, six transformative projects have been deployed as part of the ULaval Institutional Plan 2023–2028: Working Together to Boost Our Impact. Here are a few flagship initiatives among of the 48 launched or completed in 2025–2026.
Lifelong learning
Unlikely encounters
The first edition of Les Rencontres improbables brought together academics, artists, entrepreneurs, and members of the general public for an open and egalitarian dialogue around the word “instant.” Far from the traditional panel format, these exchanges made it possible to explore our relationship with time, caught between urgency and instantaneity. By enabling knowledge and perspectives to meet, they embodied the spirit of a learning society: bringing the University closer to society at large to stimulate collective conversation.
Knowledge, science, and society
NutriFAQ: Countering disinformation in nutrition
NutriFAQ is a new online platform created by the Centre NUTRISS that provides reliable, scientifically validated answers to questions about food and nutrition from the general public. Accessible and easy to understand, this tool aims to counter nutrition disinformation and promote informed healthy eating choices. Led by Professor Sophie Desroches and Professor Benoît Lamarche, NutriFAQ draws upon the knowledge of several experts from the Centre.
A vibrant campus
ULaval 3D signature
Since September 2025, a ULaval 3D signature has had pride of place in the Allée des Cent-Associés, between the Jean-Charles- Bonenfant and Charles-De Koninck buildings. This identity structure is the result of a collaboration between members of the student community, the faculties, and the departments. It represents a distinctive symbol of the campus, supporting a sense of belonging while helping to raise the profile of Université Laval.
Simplified, personalized outreach services
Reinventing the library experience
The library continues to modernize with its new reception and research support counters. Coordinated by Marie-Claude Mailhot, Assistant Director, the project was conceived to meet the changing needs of users and staff. By integrating user experience design, ergonomics, and custom architecture, it aims to provide a more fluid, efficient, and user-friendly experience in a refreshed environment.
Climate ambition
Preparing the campus for climate challenges
To better anticipate the effects of climate change, a broad adaptation project has been undertaken. Based on a view of the current and projected climate as well as a campus-specific risk analysis, this initiative is making it possible to identify the most sensitive areas, enhance response capacity vis-à-vis climate events, and incorporate climate issues into institutional practices. This proactive approach helps to build a more resilient campus and create a safe, sustainable environment that is adapted for the challenges of tomorrow.
The well-being of our community
Opération vitamines: Handing out health
Led by the team at Mon équilibre ULaval, Opération vitamines facilitates access to a healthy diet through the free weekly distribution of fresh fruit and vegetables across the campus’s network of balance spaces. Rotating through 12 buildings, the initiative distributed over 40,000 servings to students during the fall and winter semesters of 2025–2026. The project contributes directly to the well-being and food security of the student community.
Recognition
Every year, Université Laval celebrates the significant achievements of its student, faculty, and graduate community.
Through prestigious awards, it also honours exceptional people whose achievements inspire and shape the future. Here is an overview of the awards given throughout the year.
Philanthropy, sustainable engagement, and internationalization
Through key statistics, this section highlights the scop of our philanthropic actions, the extent of our sustainable development initiatives, and the impact o our international collaborations.
Philanthropy and alumni relations
374 000
alumni making an impact at home
and abroad
7 000
attendees at 28 events for alumni
to reconnect with their network
and enjoy special experiences
612
marks of recognition for alumni
who received a nomination or
award in 2025–2026
28,64 M$
in philanthropic commitments to support
the student community, educational
innovation, research, and infrastructure
upgrades
17 689
individual donors—89% of whom are
Université Laval alumni—plus
foundations and organizations
Impact report
Explore our philanthropic actions, projects, and support, as well as the achievements and commitment of our graduate community.
ULaval Community Campaign
The ULaval Community Campaign mobilized the campus last spring with ambassadors deployed across faculties and units. Under the theme “a gift in your image,” this philanthropic initiative enabled 5,581 individuals to help raise
$3.51 million, surpassing initial targets. These donations will support the student experience, research, and teaching.
Our commitment to sustainability
5th
in the world for climate action
according to the 2026 Times
Higher Education Sustainability
Impact Ratings*
85%
of undergraduates have been
introduced to societal and
environmental issues
1500
students introduced to climate
action via Climate Fresk
52%
reduction in Scope 1 and 2 GHG
emissions compared to 2006
69 000
outreach opportunities achieved
by the Mon Équilibre ULaval
healthy living program
Our commitment to sustainability
Discover the strength of our sustained commitment through collective initiatives that combine innovation, respect for the environment, and a positive impact on society.
International inspiration
6 250
international students from
107 countries
23%
of faculty members come
from outside Canada
1 000
outgoing mobility students
21
international core research
entities
820
partnership agreements
with 545 institutions and
organizations in 61 countries
International inspiration
Discover our university community’s rich and diverse international engagement through a variety of internationalization initiatives both on and off campus.
Financial statements and benchmarks
The financial statements present the University’s financial position, the results of its operations, and its cash flows. The benchmark indicators show how our institution has progressed in its areas of activity. Here is an overview of eight of these indicators.
Financial statements
Earnings (in thousands of dollars)
Investments (in thousands of dollars)
Benchmark indicators
Total student enrolment (academic year)
Université Laval is home to one of the largest student communities in Québec. A yearly enrolment count shows that nearly 57,000 students attended Université Laval in 2025–2026, the highest enrolment in the past five years.
Source: Report to the university enrolment management system (GDEU) of the Ministère de l’Enseignement supérieur (MES)
Number of degrees and certifications granted (academic year)
Université Laval is among Canada’s leading university institutions in terms of the number of diplomas and certificates awarded. In 2025–2026, it achieved a five-year high with a record number of degrees granted.
Source: Institutional data
Proportion of course registrations by course format (academic year)
The diversity of teaching options offered at Université Laval provides maximum flexibility for students.
Source: Institutional data
International students all levels (academic year)
Université Laval, like most Québec and Canadian universities, has seen its international student enrolment levels drop sharply. Various measures imposed by both levels of government have severely affected their attractiveness. Our international students come from some 107 countries, largely from France and French-speaking countries in Africa.
Source: Report to the university enrolment management system (GDEU) of the Ministère de l’Enseignement supérieur (MES)
Proportion of international collaborative research publications
More than 50% of research publications under the name of Université Laval professors are the result of collaboration with international researchers.
Source: Science and Technology Observatory (Clarivate Analytics – Web of Science)
Research funds in millions of dollars
Université Laval is one of Canada’s largest research universities. It ranks seventh among Canadian universities in terms of research revenue.
Student satisfaction index (%)
For many years, two North American surveys have confirmed that students’ overall satisfaction with the education offered at Université Laval is higher than average among students at Canadian universities.
Sources: NSSE (National Survey on Student Engagement) and CGPSS (Canadian Graduate and Professional Student Survey), conducted every three years.
Université Laval annual scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions (tonnes of CO2 equivalent)
Université Laval ranks among the top 5% of universities for its efforts related to the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. It ranked fifth globally for climate action in the 2026 Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings.
The University also holds STARS Platinum certification, which measures the sustainable development performance of higher education institutions.
Source: Institutional data
Governance
Members of the Board, the University Council, the management team, and the standing committees are committed to supporting innovation and excellence in research and teaching, enriching the student experience, and promoting our institution.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors ensures the University is managed in exemplary fashion. It approves and supports the University’s strategic priorities and gives major projects the green light.
University Council
The University Council has authority on academic issues such as grades, degrees, certificates, and programs. It is also responsible for various appointments, promotions, and awards, including at centres and institutes.
Management
Operating under the leadership of the Rector, the University’s management team is resolutely committed to Université Laval’s mission and to the fulfilment of the institutional plan.
Standing committees
The standing committees at Université Laval play a vital role in development, coordination, assessment, analysis, and reflection in areas affecting the student community and teaching and research.
