Recipient of a 2024-2025 Alumni Student Leadership Award, Lauren Lockhart has worked tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of others, contribute to campus life, and promote student and community inclusion. Progressing from volunteer to co-president of UNB S.P.R.I.N.G., Lauren now leads over 90 UNB student volunteers in facilitating inclusive, interactive programming for over 30 children with disabilities. As an active member of UNB Best Buddies, Lauren also volunteers her time, providing companionship to adults with disabilities.

Across campus, Lauren has also served as a notetaker for the Student Accessibility Centre, as a volunteer RedShirt for the UNBSU Orientation Program and as a student ambassador for the Faculty of Kinesiology, while also working as a student fundraiser for the UNB Office of Development and Donor Relations. Lauren is active in her community, volunteering with the Fredericton Rotaract Club in support of their mission to make positive and long-lasting change for the community.

What inspired you to enrol in UNB’s Faculty of Kinesiology?

When enrolling in the Faculty of Kinesiology, I was drawn to its tight-knit community and the countless opportunities for experiential learning. The faculty has allowed me to create meaningful relationships with my professors, fellow students, and others at UNB. I enjoy that the program focuses on various lenses of health, especially from a holistic standpoint.

A large draw was also the faculty’s new kinesiology building. The building holds space for collaboration, hands-on learning opportunities through teaching labs, and well appointed labs for conducting groundbreaking research.

What has been the most rewarding or exciting part of your academic studies?

Beginning my honours has been the most exciting and rewarding part of my academic studies. While research was not the path I'd originally planned to pursue, it is one of the best decisions I have made. UNB’s Perinatal-Pediatric Health & Development Studies (PEADS) Lab has ignited my passion for research. My honours project has allowed me to apply previously learned skills to a larger scale project. Learning about the research process has been intriguing and exciting.

While at UNB, I’ve also discovered one of my true passions - working with those with disabilities. Through participation in the UNB S.P.R.I.N.G. program, I’ve learned the importance of recreation-based activities for children with disabilities and the need for more programming and designated inclusive spaces for those with varying abilities. By volunteering and holding the role as co- president for the past two years, I’ve been proud to lead a team of over 90 dedicated volunteers supporting 30+ children. The experience has been incredibly rewarding, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed partaking in the program.

How do you stay involved in student life on campus?

Since I was a young child, I’ve always sought opportunities to help others. My passion was sparked at an early age. I’ve always aimed to participate in as many volunteer opportunities as possible for the benefit of others. UNB campus life has provided opportunities for me to act as a student ambassador and peer mentor for the Faculty of Kinesiology, both the marketing coordinator and co- president for the UNB S.P.R.I.N.G. program, a volunteer new research-based collective (HIPPP-CC), a volunteer for UNB Best Buddies, a notetaker for the Student Accessibility Centre, and a Redshirt for the UNBSU Orientation. These opportunities have allowed me to meet those outside of my faculty, collaborate with others, and build teamwork skills, all while helping others for the greater good.

How has receiving the Alumni Student Leadership Award positively impacted your UNB experience?

The Alumni Student Leadership Award has contributed greatly towards a positive educational experience at UNB. Because of the financial support the award has offered, I’ve been able to focus less on finances and more on my studies. This is very important for me, as I intend to pursue graduate school upon graduation. I am eternally grateful for the support from UNB alumni. Thank you.

What makes you Proudly UNB?

I am Proudly UNB because of the immense number of opportunities that the university provides for its students. Through practicums, directed studies, and research opportunities, students are able to dive further into their passions while receiving credit towards their degrees. UNB also offers a large array of resources to support students and ensure their success. With the Math Learning Centre, Peer Assisted Learning, UNB’s counselling services, and countless other services, students can seek support where needed.

What are your future plans once you’ve completed your undergraduate degree?

Upon graduation, I plan to complete an accelerated Master of Science in Kinesiology at UNB. While completing my honours research, I’ve developed a strong passion for the research process. Research has encouraged me to think in new ways and to gain a greater appreciation for the field of kinesiology. In the future, I also hope to complete a MSc in occupational therapy, fulfilling my true calling - working with those with disabilities.

How do you hope to continue staying connected to UNB in the future as an alum?

I will remain an active alum to ensure that future students continue to succeed and have the resources and connections they need to enrich their UNB experience. I will always take every opportunity to share my gratitude for all the opportunities that UNB provided me and to find ways to give back to this institution and to future UNB students.