Manon Lemonde

With the university since its first days, Manon Lemonde, RN, PhD has seen it repeatedly surpass expectations. While many doubted a new university in Durham Region could provide students with the same education and experience as more established institutions in the province, she has watched UOIT become a leader, building a solid reputation for the research, innovation and graduates it produces.

Manon is confident UOIT will continue to eclipse expectations. The university has bold plans to increase its capacity to support the 20,000 students that are expected to be enrolled by 2030. Donors like Manon are a big reason for this exceptional growth. Their commitment to building a future-minded university drives ambitious research, fosters cultural and community engagement and supports graduates who will become the next generation of citizen leaders.

Manon and her husband, Pierre Hinse, were among the early arrivals to the new UOIT campus in 2003. She began teaching the university's first class of nursing students and Pierre enrolled in the undergraduate Mechanical Engineering program. Both have contributed to shaping this institution. Each has served on the Board of Governors – Manon representing faculty and Pierre representing students. And Pierre, who went on to acquire a Bachelor of Engineering and then a Master of Applied Science in Automotive Engineering at UOIT, even played a role in building ACE, the university’s multi-purpose dynamic testing facility, by travelling to pick up special parts for the building. Today he works at ACE as a Development and Operations Instrumentation Engineer in the university's Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. 

"We've seen UOIT transition from a university whose name few knew to one that is widely known and respected because of the success of our graduates," says Manon. "Being innovative put us a step ahead." Referencing the field of health care in which she works, she points out the aging population and the need to educate students to be ready for new challenges. "Fortunately, we have the technology here. The simulation lab, for example, prepares them for the real world."

Still, she says students need a helping hand. "Pierre and I came here as a team and were fortunate to have access to people who helped us on our path. We were treated generously and with courtesy." Now they want to contribute to the success of others.

"As a professor, I see students' reality. University is expensive. Many students have part-time jobs to help pay for their education but still need extra money. By giving back we can contribute to their success. As I say to my students, I'm here to work with you. We are collaborators working together to build your competence and readiness for tomorrow's world."

"UOIT has become a well-known and respected university in a short period of time because of the quality of our graduates. They really are prepared for tomorrow's work. By giving to this university we can facilitate students' journeys to complete their studies and have successful careers."

- Manon Lemonde, RN, PhD