As St. Mary’s University prepares for its President’s Gala on March 6th, in celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8th, the spotlight shines on women in leadership—those who are paving the way for future generations. In this spotlight, we are proud to feature Laura Cochrane, St. Mary’s University’s Registrar, whose career in higher education has been defined by a commitment to student success and institutional growth.
The Registrar at the university is where a student’s journey begins with admissions and culminates at convocation, marking the start of their alumni chapter. Laura Cochrane’s journey to becoming the Registrar at St. Mary’s was anything but conventional. A student-athlete who transferred institutions before completing her degree, Laura’s unique academic path gave her invaluable insight into the challenges faced by students. This experience led her to a career dedicated to supporting students, first through student success programs and later in leadership positions that allowed her to shape university policies on a broader scale.
“The opportunities I’ve had over the last 17 years have aligned with my passion for both people and process,” Laura shares. “Working directly with students early in my career was fulfilling, but leadership has given me the chance to have a broader impact through policy enhancements and institutional changes.”
Her commitment to educational equity and growth led her to pursue a Master of Arts, Integrated Studies (with a focus on Educational Studies and Equity Studies), further shaping her leadership approach. For Laura, leadership in higher education isn’t just about managing systems—it’s about creating meaningful change that improves the student experience.
As a woman in a leadership role, Laura has faced her share of challenges. There were times when she felt her voice wasn’t fully heard or taken as seriously as she had hoped. However, these obstacles have only strengthened her resolve.
“Being a woman in leadership has taught me to become a stronger, more empathetic leader. I’ve learned to push through adversity and turn those moments into opportunities for growth,” she reflects. “These challenges have shaped me into a better advocate for both my team and the students we serve.”
The Power of Mentorship
Throughout her career, Laura has been fortunate to be inspired by many women who have influenced her leadership style. From Fran Anderson, who taught her the value of collaboration, to Susie Kennedy, who encouraged her leadership development, these mentors have left a lasting impact.
“Each of these women contributed something important to my understanding of leadership. Fran showed me the power of collaboration, Anna Hughes demonstrated the strength of quiet wisdom, and Tara Hyland-Russell taught me the importance of making my team feel heard,” says Laura. “Their influence has been immeasurable in my personal and professional growth.”
For young women considering careers in academia or leadership roles, Laura emphasizes the importance of mentorship, learning from mistakes, and building a strong support network.
“Find mentors who can guide you and help you recognize your strengths and areas for growth,” she advises. “You will make mistakes, but that’s okay. Learn from them and keep moving forward. Having a great support system, both personally and professionally, is key to navigating the challenges ahead.”
Looking back on the progress women have made in leadership, Laura acknowledges the strides we’ve taken but notes that work remains. The increasing presence of female leaders across various sectors is a positive shift, but there’s still much to be done to ensure women’s voices are heard.
The Path Forward
“We’ve made progress, but we need to continue creating spaces where everyone feels comfortable contributing. Ensuring that all voices, especially marginalized ones, are heard is a vital next step in the journey,” she says.
For Laura, the theme of this year’s President’s Gala, Women in Leadership, goes beyond just holding a title. To her, leadership is about embodying qualities like integrity, empathy, adaptability, and confidence—characteristics that transcend any specific role or position.
“Leadership is about how you show up, how you empower others, and how you lead with a sense of purpose and care,” Laura reflects. “It’s not just about a job title—it’s about being a role model for others and inspiring them to lead in their own unique way.”
As International Women’s Day approaches, Laura Cochrane’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting women in leadership—both those leading today and those who will lead in the future. Her journey of growth, resilience, and mentorship reflects the enduring impact women can have in shaping the future of higher education.
Join us on March 6th in Calgary at the President’s Gala as we celebrate Laura Cochrane and other extraordinary women who inspire us to lead, grow, and make a difference. Purchase your tickets to the gala today by clicking here!