Laurier appoints Tarah Brookfield dean of Liberal Arts, Human and Social Sciences

June 5, 2026
For Immediate Release

BRANTFORD – Wilfrid Laurier University has appointed Tarah Brookfield dean of the Faculty of Human and Social Sciences and the Faculty of Liberal Arts for a two-year term beginning July 1.

A faculty member at Laurier’s Brantford campus since 2009 and interim dean of both faculties for the past year, Brookfield has a track record of interdisciplinary teaching, community-engaged research and institutional leadership.

“Dr. Brookfield is a collaborative leader who excels at balancing strategic vision and operational leadership,” said Heidi Northwood, Laurier’s provost and vice-president: academic. “I am thrilled she will continue to work with students, faculty, staff and partners to further the success of these two faculties in Brantford.”

Brookfield earned a PhD in History from York University in 2009 after earning a master’s degree from the University of Waterloo and a bachelor’s degree from McGill University. She joined Laurier in 2009 with cross-appointments in Contemporary Studies, History, and Youth and Children Studies. Her nationally and internationally recognized research, including two books and numerous articles, focuses on women’s feminist and peace activism as well as youth’s lives during times of crisis and war.

“I look forward to working with the students, staff, and faculty in Human and Social Sciences and Liberal Arts, as well as community partners, to foster a culture of innovative learning, equity, and critical thinking,” said Brookfield.

About Laurier’s Faculty of Human and Social Sciences and Faculty of Liberal Arts

Laurier’s Faculty of Human and Social Sciences offers undergraduate and graduate programs across six academic sub-units, where students study complex social issues and build practical experience. Areas of study include Health Studies, Criminology, Policing, Public Safety, Psychology, Game Design and Leadership.

Laurier’s Faculty of Liberal Arts includes traditional arts programs and interdisciplinary fields of study, offering undergraduate and graduate programs in 10 academic sub-units including English, History, Human Rights, Indigenous Studies, Law and Society, Social Justice, User Experience Design, and Youth and Children’s Studies.