Ben Collins appointed to lead Wilfrid Laurier International College

23rd Jul, 2021   Feature story:

In March 2021, Wilfrid Laurier University and Navitas announced a strategic partnership to transform international education at the university and expand learning opportunities for international and domestic students alike.

Today, Navitas announced that Mr. Ben Collins has been appointed as the inaugural College Director and Principal of Wilfrid Laurier International College (WLIC). Based out of the university’s Brantford campus, Mr. Collins will lead the development and growth of WLIC and its highly customized program designed to prepare international students for academic success.

Mr. Collins joins WLIC from York University where he led the largest English Language Institute in Canada. He brings a history of demonstrated success building and delivering high-quality, innovative programs through domestic and international partnerships, and a longstanding commitment to advocacy on behalf of international students.

Mr. Collins earned a B.Comm with Honours from the University of Guelph; a M.ED. in TESOL from the University of Tasmania; and a Certificate in Language Program Management from Mount Royal University.

“WLIC will provide a world-class pathway to Laurier for international students, and I am thrilled to be a part of it. Through high-quality education and student support, we will be building on Laurier’s well-earned reputation for student experience,” said Mr. Collins. “Having grown up in Southwestern Ontario, I am excited for our students to join the beautiful community of Brantford, and the opportunities this partnership can bring to the area.”

Laurier has ambitious redevelopment plans for One Market and is building toward accelerated growth in program offerings and student enrollment at its Brantford campus. The partnership with Navitas plays a key role in achieving these goals. WLIC students from around the world will enrich the Brantford campus and surrounding area, while the broader growth plans for the campus will deliver long-term economic, cultural and social benefits for both students and the broader community.

Mr. Collins joins WLIC in early August. The College’s first cohort will commence their studies remotely in September. WLIC will welcome all students in-person to the Brantford campus in January 2022.