Dr. Melville (Mel) William Bartley was a geologist in Northwestern Ontario. His contribution to the development of the mining sector within the region was very influential. He graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1934, as well as obtaining the degree of Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Toronto in 1940. He was the founding Principal of Lakehead University Technical Institute, and was the first chair of the Lakehead University Board of Governors from 1965 to 1969.

Founded as Lakehead Teachers' College in 1960. Joined Lakehead University and became the Faculty of Education in 1969. Includes undergraduate and graduate programmes, professional development for teachers, and the Department of Indigenous Education. Since the opening of Lakehead's Orillia Campus, Education programmes have been available on both campuses.