Université Laval
Centre de recherche sur les matériaux renouvelables

Encounters & Cultures: Manon Mestre and Hossein Alinezhadavalzali’s Project to Strengthen Diversity and Inclusion at the University!

9 February 2026

The joint EDI committee of CRMR‑CERMA warmly congratulates Manon Mestre and Hossein Alinezhadavalzali, doctoral students in Wood Engineering and Bio-based Materials under the supervision of Véronic Landry, for receiving the CRMR‑CERMA EDI Grant. Their project, entitled  «  Encounters & Cultures: Promoting Diversity and Inclusion at the University », is part of an ambitious initiative to strengthen equity, diversity, and inclusion within our research centers.

The main goal of this initiative is to enhance the welcoming and integration of new members, encourage the exchange of ideas and cultures, and strengthen the bonds within the university community. It involves creating spaces conducive to collaboration, socialization, and the sharing of experiences and cultures, thereby fostering lasting and enriching relationships.

To achieve these goals, the project includes:

  • Creating intercultural meeting spaces that promote dialogue, exchange, and mutual discovery among researchers and students from diverse backgrounds;
  • Highlighting the diversity present in our centers, by showcasing members’ experiences, perspectives, and skills;
  • Raising awareness on equity, diversity, and inclusion issues through participatory activities and workshops designed to enhance understanding and engagement;
  • Promoting collective well-being and cohesion, to create an inclusive, stimulating, and harmonious environment for all members of the centers.

Through this project, the commitment to building open, inclusive, and diversity-respecting research communities is reaffirmed. The CRMR‑CERMA EDI Grant provides concrete support to initiatives that promote not only scientific excellence but also the personal and professional development of all members.

Three activities are already planned as part of this project. The first, “Intercultural Meeting,” will take place on Monday, February 9, from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM, in Rooms 2320–2330 of the Gene-H.-Kruger Pavilion.

We invite you to join us for a friendly lunchtime gathering to meet members of CRMR and CERMA, engage in conversation, and get to know each other in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you are new or already established, this meeting is the perfect opportunity to build connections, participate in small cultural activities, and enjoy a pleasant time together  (See poster).

🥤 Coffee, tea, and cookies will be available

Registration required: EDI meeting

We look forward to seeing many of you!

For further information, please contact the project organizers directly:

To learn more about the project, please visit: RENCONTRES & CULTURE POUR PROMOUVOIR LA DIVERSITÉ ET L’INCLUSION À L’UNIVERSITÉ

 By: Besma Bouslimi

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