Lakehead University in Canada will celebrate the launch of a new Research Center for Sustainable Communities next week, school officials announced.

The center will focus on interdisciplinary research that supports sustainable communities. It is based on three core areas of research: social justice, political economy and environmental sustainability.

"I am extremely proud of this accomplishment," Kim Fedderson, dean & vice-provost of Lakehead University's Orillia campus, said in a statement. "Since our campus opened in 2006, we have been focused on a community-centered approach. This Centre will now be a cornerstone for supporting all aspects of community sustainability."

The research center was approved by Lakehead University Senate last March and its unconventional approach to research, with an emphasis on multi-disciplines and collaboration, will be a catalyst for research funding and community partnerships.

The launch event takes place on Tuesday, Nov. 18 from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. in the cafeteria at Lakehead's University Avenue campus.

"This is an opportunity for community members and representatives of organizations and businesses in the region to learn more about the planned activities of the Centre and ways to get involved," said Nanda Kanavillil, director of the new center.

Lakehead is known for providing an education focused on independent thinking, unconventional scholarship, and a close sense of community. About 9,700 full-time equivalent students and 2,000 faculty and staff learn and work in ten faculties at two campuses in Orillia and Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP to nkanavil@lakeheadu.ca.