Former mining exec and Indigenous leader named Laurentian University chancellor

Kristan Straub brings deep family ties and international experience to Sudbury campus

Laurentian University has chosen Kristan Straub, a former mining executive and Indigenous leader, as its next chancellor, creating a powerful connection between the institution and the mining community it serves in Northern Ontario. As a member of Henvey Inlet and French River No. 13 First Nation and a fluent French speaker, university officials said Straub embodies the tricultural mandate that defines Laurentian University's mission in serving anglophone, francophone, and Indigenous communities.

"Kristan Straub is the ideal choice to lead Laurentian into its next chapter," Dr. Lynn Wells, president and vice-chancellor of Laurentian University, said in a news release. "His life and career reflect the very essence of our University's mission: a profound commitment to bilingualism, and the promotion of Indigenous cultures, paired with a drive for innovation that serves Northern Ontario and the world. From his student days to his international leadership roles, Kristan has always been a bridge-builder. We are honoured to have him serve as our third chancellor."

Mining industry background adds strategic value

Straub's professional background includes senior executive positions at major mining companies Wyloo and Glencore Nickel, where he led the renegotiation of the Raglan impacts and benefits agreement. This experience positions him well to understand the challenges and opportunities facing students pursuing careers in mining and related industries.

For Straub, accepting the chancellor position represents both a professional milestone and a deeply personal journey back to his roots in Northern Ontario's mining heartland.

"Returning to Laurentian in this capacity is a deeply moving full-circle moment for me and my family," Kristan Straub said. "This university was the site of my grandfather's advocacy and my own education, and today it is where my children are building their futures. I am eager to advocate for our students and to help unlock the vast potential of the diverse communities across Northern Ontario. Together, we will continue to champion the values of stewardship, reconciliation, and tricultural excellence that make Laurentian a leader on the global stage."

Straub currently leads the Canadian Indigenous Loans Guarantee Corporation as its inaugural president and CEO, where he manages a $10-billion federal program supporting Indigenous equity ownership in major economic projects. His appointment represents a homecoming for someone whose family helped shape the university's Indigenous programs decades ago.

The new chancellor graduated from Laurentian with an honours bachelor of science in geology in 1998 and brings deep personal connections to the Sudbury campus. His grandparents, Art and Eva Solomon, played instrumental roles in founding the university's federated Native Studies Program. When Straub was just twelve years old, he helped his grandfather build the Apology Cairn on campus, a monument commemorating the United Church's apology to First Nations people.

Recognition and installation timeline

Laurentian University awarded Straub an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in June 2025, recognizing his contributions to Indigenous economic development and mining industry leadership. He will officially begin his chancellor duties following a formal installation ceremony planned for this spring.

More information is posted at www.Laurentian.ca