Staff Listing
The friendly and dedicated team at International Student Support is here to help you make the most of your time at Laurier. Even though we're not physically in our office on campus, we're still available to support you. Email us to set up an appointment, to get answers to your questions, for support or just to say hi!
Connect with our:
We look forward to connecting with you!
International Student Advisors
International Student Leaders (ISLs) are upper-year students who can give you a student perspective on everything about Laurier and are a great resource if you have questions.
Mike Aguiar – International Student Advisor, Student Engagement
I'm a graduate of Laurier Brantford myself, so I know firsthand what a special place Laurier is to study. When I finished my undergrad, I taught in Korea for a year and I've been involved in international education ever since. Stop by my office to chat about academics, ways to get involved in the Laurier community, transitioning into a new culture or the latest Marvel movies.
Contact Information
- E: maguiar@wlu.ca
- T: 519.884.0710 x4551
- Campus: Waterloo
Jane Desmond – International Student Advisor
Contact information:
- E: jdesmond@wlu.ca
- T: 519.756.8228 x5969
- Campus: Brantford
Charlene Mak – International Student Advisor, Immigration and University Regulations
I'm a first-generation Canadian with parents from Hong Kong. I grew up seeing the struggles and barriers that newcomers face and am never surprised by the strength and courage people have when faced with these challenges. I learned how to bridge the gap between the Chinese and Canadian cultures and am trying to do the same for my children. Depending on the day you ask me, I will either be Canadian or Chinese but I will always say yes to sushi. Looking forward to getting you know you and hear about your successes.
Contact Information
- E: cmak@wlu.ca
- T: 519.884.0710 x6840
- Campus: Waterloo
Candace Stewart-Smith – International Student Academic Transition Advisor
I am a former international student at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, so I personally can relate to the various feelings you have when thinking about your journey to a new country and to an academic system that brings new challenges and opportunities. I enjoy meeting new people and sharing stories on life so I hope that you will come to meet me. I have your best interests at heart and I wish you a warm welcome to your new life!
Contact Information
- E: cstewartsmith@wlu.ca
- T: 519.884.0710 x4545
- Campus: Waterloo
Administrative Staff
Claire D'Alton – Administrative Assistant/Receptionist
Welcome to Laurier International! I am the first face you will be greeted with when you come into our office.
I have been with Laurier International since January 2013, and I have loved every minute of meeting our new international students.
Contact Information
- E: cdalton@wlu.ca
- T: 519.884.0710 x2227
- Campus: Waterloo
Peter Donahue, RISIA – Associate Director, International Student Support
I have been working with international students for close to 25 years and currently I am the Chair of the Waterloo Region's Immigration Partnership. I look forward to meeting you during the various community events organized by International Student Support.
Contact Information
- E: pdonahue@wlu.ca
- T: 519.884.0710 x6704
- Campus: Waterloo
Devyn Healey-Seadon – Administrative Assistant/Receptionist
I am one of the first people you'll meet when you come to the Laurier International office. I'm familiar with the campus and the community and I'm always happy to provide you with advice and recommendations.
Be sure to say hi when you come by!
Contact Information
- E: dhealeyseadon@wlu.ca
- Campus: Brantford
Jennifer Will – Communications Assistant
Contact Information
E: jewill@wlu.ca
T: 519.884.0710 x4085
Ben Yang – Director, Global Engagement
As a former international student from China, I have first-hand experience with making a successful transition to university in Canada. In moving from a service user to a service provider, I have worked with thousands of international students to help them find their own success in university. I look forward to the ways I can help you be successful while at Laurier.