Empowering individuals through education is central to Saint Paul University’s values. For this reason, the University is proud to continue its partnership with the Ottawa Mission to host Discovery University on campus.
Discovery University is a program that offers non-credited university-level courses to marginalized adults — including those who may be struggling with substance use, dealing with health challenges or experiencing homelessness. It is offered twice a year with courses taught by instructors from Carleton University and Saint Paul University.
“As a long-time partner of the program, we are proud to welcome Discovery University to our campus,” said Louis Patrick Leroux, Rector of Saint Paul University. “This initiative reflects who we are as a university. Our values and our mission call us to reach out to everyone in our community, to meet people where they are, and to empower them through education. Discovery University does exactly that.”
“We’re so grateful to our community partners, volunteers and our students who together make Discovery University what it is — a reminder that learning is for everyone,” shared Emma Pratt, Discovery University Coordinator.
The fall session — which features two courses — began on September 25 and will run for a total of 10 weeks.
In the Classroom
Dr. Richard Feist, Associate Professor in the School of Ethics and Public Affairs, leads the Discovery University initiative at Saint Paul University.
He has participated in the program for nearly a decade, serving on the program’s Board of Directors and recruiting professors to lead courses.
“Discovery University gives the students an opportunity to meet professors and experience higher education without judgement or expectation,” explains Dr. Feist. “But it has also been an eye-opening experience for me. It’s given me the opportunity to work with a community of individuals that is often overlooked. These students are here because they want to be. They bring genuine curiosity and it’s a pleasure to explore and discuss philosophy with them.”
This term, he is co-teaching a course on women philosophers with Dr. Monique Lanoix, Full Professor in the School of Ethics and Public Affairs. The course is designed around assigned readings with an emphasis on classroom discussions:
“I don’t change the material from a typical course — I just make the runway a little smoother,” explains Dr. Feist. “I provide a little more context and supportive notes for the readings. Then, we explore the ideas together in class.”
Beyond learning, the program offers opportunities for personal growth and fostering community.
“The classroom fosters a sense of belonging and helps reduce isolation for folks who may be prone to it,” explains Pratt. “Students have shared how they’ve made meaningful connections and friendships and find so much joy and purpose in participating in the courses.”
This is something Dr. Feist has witnessed firsthand.
“It takes real courage to walk into the classroom, to be vulnerable and open to a new challenge,” he explains. “Some students start by being nervous just to be in the room, but by the end they are asking questions and participating in discussions. It’s always moving to witness that transformation.”
The fall session will end with a graduation ceremony on December 4, where students will be recognized for their 10 weeks of study and the courage it took to participate.
