Ashley Larose is CEO of Science North, an institution that has been a leader in science education and engagement in Canada for four decades.
Science North is committed to inspiring people through hands-on science experiences and has a mission rooted in inclusivity and sustainability. It operates two physical locations in Sudbury, Ontario: Science North and Dynamic Earth. Both serve as key educational and tourist attractions.
Since its founding in 1984, Science North’s mission has been to inspire people to engage with science meaningfully. “From the day we opened the doors in 1984, that’s what we were all about,” said Larose, speaking to blooloop in 2024. She also spoke about how the centre’s programmes have adapted to both the shifting landscape of education and the differing needs of its guests: “We’ve reflected the changing needs of our audiences. Just as people are different now and have different needs than they did in 1984, so we have evolved the way that we serve.”
Ashley Larose became the CEO of Science North in August 2022, following a 16-year tenure with the organisation, during which time she held various leadership roles. She was selected for the position after an international search and succeeded Guy Labine. Larose has a strong background in science and leadership. She previously served as the director of development, where she led major initiatives such as the Go Deeper project at Dynamic Earth.
Larose holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Waterloo and a Master’s degree from Laurentian University, where she focused on freshwater research. Her career also included working as a research scientist in North America before returning to Ontario and joining Science North in 2006.
Under her leadership, Science North aims to continue delivering science education and outreach across Northern Ontario. She is committed to making science accessible to smaller communities and schools.