Laurier’s ninth International Women’s Day luncheon to highlight leaders strengthening education

Feb. 25, 2026
For Immediate Release

WATERLOO — Wilfrid Laurier University and the International Women’s Forum’s ninth annual International Women’s Day luncheon will feature a panel of Laurier alumni, faculty and education-sector leaders who are working to address the evolving education needs of our communities.

The sold-out event will take place on March 6 at the Delta Waterloo.

Building Futures: Strengthening education from kindergarten to university campus features Ami Shah (BBA ‘04), CEO & co-Founder of award-winning social-emotional learning (SEL) platform Peekapak; Nicole Robinson (MSW ‘07), equity and inclusion officer-Indigenous focus at Waterloo Region District School Board; and Maria Cantalini-Williams, dean of Laurier’s Faculty of Education and researcher in the areas of innovation in education, collaborative inquiry, early childhood and work-integrated learning models.

The panel will be moderated by Machelle Denison, chief executive officer of children’s literacy charity, Strong Start, and a member of the Waterloo chapter of the International Women’s Forum.

“Education is a critical pillar in building strong, thriving communities,” said Deborah MacLatchy, Laurier president and vice-chancellor. “I am inspired by the Laurier alumni, researchers and sector leaders who are driving innovation, building connections, and advancing knowledge in ways that respond to the educational needs of our communities.”

Event details

• Date: Friday, March 6, 2026
• Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
• Location: Delta Hotels Waterloo