The Rupertsland Institute (RLI) and NorQuest College have partnered to launch a first-of-its-kind hub in Canada for Métis students in the Edmonton area.
The Rupertsland Métis Student Centre located on NorQuest's campus in downtown Edmonton, will deliver culturally specific services and supports to boost the numbers of successful Métis graduates of post-secondary education and offer opportunities for all to engage with Métis culture.
"Rupertsland Institute is extremely proud of the fact that this is a student-led initiative," said Lisa Savill, Director of Metis Education and Post-Secondary Initiatives at the RLI. "The centre concept, the interior design and the exterior graphics have all been created by current and former students. In the creation of this space, the team at RLI worked hard to create a space not only for our Métis students but for all students to come and engage with Métis culture and community."
Services available to Métis students at the centre will include access to METI-S (Métis Education Training Information Services) Advisors, Métis student resources, and additional financial supports to ensure post-secondary success. Non-Métis students can use the centre as a quiet study space and to learn more about Métis culture through the various resources available in the centre.
The centre was officially unveiled on November 9 in a special ceremony. Attendees, including representatives from the two organizations and from the new Otipemisiwak Métis Government (previously known as the Métis Nation of Alberta), celebrated the launch of the centre with cultural entertainment, cupcakes, and a tour of the services it offers to Métis students
A testament to the success of Métis students
"We know that to have the greatest impact, we need to find new ways to engage our communities, our partners, and our learners," said Carolyn Campbell, President and CEO of NorQuest College. "The Rupertsland Métis Student Centre is symbol of how we, along with partners like the Rupertsland Institute, will continue to positively impact our place and our community and ensure the success of learners."
While the centre will be located on NorQuest's campus, the services will be available for Métis students attending any post-secondary school in the region.
Those interested in accessing the services of the Rupertsland Métis Student Centre or in learning more about Métis culture are invited to visit the centre in SCFL room 1-090 at NorQuest College between 8:30 am - 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday.
METI-S Advisors will be available periodically to assist students.
