Dr. Nairne Cameron

Department of Geography and Geology

Overview

Dr. Nairne CameronDr. Nairne Cameron is an assistant professor in the Department of Geography and Geology. An avid fan of outdoors activities, Cameron found Geography to be a natural fit for her. In the classroom, her interests extend beyond the study of physical phenomena and into the realm of human geography as she encourages her students to take interest in both their own community and communities around the globe.

Cameron grew up in a rural area outside of Ottawa. She credits living in this area, which was close to both agricultural activities and a large urban centre, as first stimulating her interest in different geographical issues such as land-use, transportation and urban geography. She also cites the influence of her family as being an important factor in encouraging her to pursue an academic career.

"My father as a research scientist, and my mother as a science teacher and later travel agent, passed on to me their interest in research, science, nature, and exploring the world," says Cameron. "My sister who lives in Vancouver has also been a great support."

After graduating with her B.Sc. from Queen's University, Cameron would go on to obtain both her M.A and Ph. D. from the University of Ottawa. She identifies her graduate supervisor Dr. Barry Wellar as having been "instrumental" in her academic studies of land use and transportation development.

Upon completing her Ph.D. Cameron would go on to become a post-doctoral fellow at the University of Alberta. It would be here that she would achieve what she considers to be her most important accomplishment.

"While at the University of Alberta, I began working with an Edmonton neighbourhood called Highlands that lost a grocery store 15 years ago. The community continues to mourn the loss, and is frustrated by the legal restrictions preventing the entry of a new grocery store. I have made several presentations and produced a report on this issue."

Cameron has been impressed with both Algoma University and Sault Ste. Marie since her arrival in 2008. She singles out the local cross-country skiing opportunities as being especially noteworthy. However, she also reserves some praise for the quality of education at Algoma U.

"I believe that Algoma is a unique institution," she says. "How many other campuses make maple syrup? I love the size of Algoma, the inclusion of the faculty in the Senate, and the sense of community. The small size means that communications are easier, and there is an opportunity for everyone including faculty, staff, and students to become acquainted with each other."

In the classroom, Cameron enjoys the give-and-take with students. She encourages her students to stay abreast of what is happening both locally and around the world, but she also takes the time to absorb what the students have to teach her.

"I've learned a great deal about Sault Ste. Marie from my students," says Cameron, "especially urban issues."

Cameron feels that the small class sizes and the focus on teaching at Algoma University make the school a great choice for undergraduates. She also notes that Algoma U is closely situate to a number of highly interesting geographical features.

"Algoma is a fantastic location in which to study Geography. The urban community of Sault Ste. Marie and the city's strategic location on the Great Lakes and international border with the United States provide a stimulating setting for exploration of human geography issues. Geographers will appreciate the spectacular physical features of the Algoma Region including the Great Lakes and Canadian Shield, and the outdoor opportunities this area provides."