Dr. Mark Kuhlberg, professor in the School of Liberal Arts, is an award-winning author whose work primarily focuses on Canada's forest history. For his most recent project that will delve into the compelling history of Tembec Industries Inc., Dr, Kuhlberg is leveraging the support of undergraduate students, Sarah Gould and Fiona Symington. Through this unique collaborative opportunity, the students will help tell the story of a company with deep roots in northern Ontario's community and industrial heritage. Students play a significant role in advancing important research projects across Laurentian University but this particular project is taking the student experience to the next level.
Sarah Gould, Mark Kuhlberg, Fiona Symington
Sarah Gould is a fifth-year Concurrent Education student with a Bachelor of Arts in History and a minor in English Literature, Media, and Writing and Fiona Symington is a fourth-year Concurrent Education and History student.
The pair were selected to join Dr. Kuhlberg's research team after taking a few of his courses. Their roles in gathering historical data, conducting interviews, and analyzing archival materials are common contributions for students on research teams. In this particular case, Dr. Kuhlberg has asked the women to take their work a step further by writing book chapters that will be integral to the project's success. As undergraduate students, Sarah and Fiona will be published authors.
"Sarah and Fiona are not just supporting the project, they're crucial to the outcome," said Dr. Kuhlberg. "Their contributions are invaluable, and their involvement will provide them with hands-on experience in historical research while also allowing them to be recognized as co-authors in the forthcoming book. They are both capable of great things and I am happy to have them on the team."
This project not only allows them to engage deeply with an important aspect of Canadian industrial history but also provides a transformative platform for their academic and professional growth.
"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," said Sarah Gould, who has been working closely with Dr. Kuhlberg for two years. "I never imagined I would be part of something so significant. It's empowering to know that our work will contribute to preserving a crucial piece of history."
Fiona Symington echoed her enthusiasm, saying, "Being involved in this project has opened my eyes to what I can achieve. It's incredible to learn how to approach research at such a high level, especially with a story that resonates so deeply within our community."
The book will chronicle the determined efforts of Tembec's workers, who fought against the mill's closure in the 1970s by forming a unique partnership among workers-turned-entrepreneurs, the local community, and various levels of government. The newly-founded company purchased the defunct mill, marking the beginning of Tembec's journey. By integrating personal narratives and historical analysis, the project aims to offer a rich, multifaceted perspective on this exceptional story.
Dr. Kuhlberg, a seasoned historian, emphasized the value of student involvement in this project. "Working with Sarah and Fiona has been a privilege," he noted. "They demonstrate exceptional analytical skills and creativity. Their contributions will not only enhance the book but also inspire them as they move forward in their academic careers."
Both Sarah and Fiona say that, prior to this project graduate studies had not crossed their minds but furthering their education is now a given.
"This has changed my future plans completely. I think you hear a lot that the arts, and history are limiting. Laurentian and Dr. Kuhlberg have proven that that is just not true," Sarah said. "Working on this project has shown me that there is room for historical analysis in so many areas. I personally love women's history and women's hockey so that's an area I see myself exploring further."
"This experience has been transformative. I feel so prepared for my masters," added Fiona. "The history department here is so strong. My professors have had an incredible influence on my future plans. I didn't have a plan beyond undergrad and now I know I'll go on to a masters and a PhD."
The book, which is supported by Forest History Ontario and an angel donor, promises to offer a comprehensive account of Tembec's formation and its impact on the local economy and community. It is expected to be published late 2026. This collaboration between a seasoned researcher and enthusiastic students will yield a quality book but also exemplifies the dynamic and inclusive academic environment at Laurentian University.
