ALGONQUIN COLLEGE
Algonquin Reflects on a Decade of Reconciliation Efforts

Building on a longstanding commitment to supporting Indigenous learners, Algonquin College is marking more than a decade of focused reconciliation efforts inspired by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action. From integrating Indigenous knowledge into courses to strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities, the College continues to take meaningful steps toward creating a more inclusive learning environment. 

On June 12, Algonquin College released a report outlining its response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action. Titled "Minokamì - On Solid Footing," the report offers a high-level snapshot of the initiatives the College has undertaken over the past decade. 

"This work is about more than policies or programs, it's about building relationships and learning from Indigenous communities," said Claude Brulé, President and CEO of Algonquin College. "We're proud of what has been achieved, but we know the journey continues." 

"The past decade has been shaped by the voices and experiences of Indigenous learners, Algonquin College leaders and faculty members and partners," said Anita Tenasco, Director of Indigenous Initiatives at Algonquin College. "Their contributions have guided this work, and we remain committed to listening, collaborating, and growing together."  

Over the past decade, Algonquin College has introduced programs, services, and partnerships aimed at fostering understanding and respect. This includes expanding Indigenous student supports, increasing opportunities for learning from Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers and providing spaces that reflect Indigenous cultures and traditions. While much has been accomplished, the College acknowledges that reconciliation is an ongoing process. 

Other examples include: 

• Creating a department of Truth, Reconciliation and Indigenization (now Indigenous Initiatives). 

• Introducing learning opportunities for faculty, employees and students. 

• Engaging an Indigenous leader to sit on the Algonquin College Board of Governors. 

• Scheduling regular meetings with the President and two Anishìnàbe Knowledge Keepers to deepen his understanding of the Anishìnàbe Algonquin Nation and to help guide the College's reconciliation efforts.  

• Creating Indigenous spaces on campus and including the Anishìnàbe Algonquin language in signage.  

• Establishing corporate partnerships to expand relationship with Indigenous communities and Indigenous learning. 

• Expanding bursaries, scholarships and awards for Indigenous students. 

• Incorporating Indigenous content and teaching methods into curriculum while supporting the creation of Indigenous-focused learning outcomes. 

• Naming Ottawa campus streets in the Anishinàbe language. 

Algonquin College looks forward to continuing this commitment and encourages students, employees and community members to help bring reconciliation to life. 

The report is now available for review. For more information, visit algonquincollege.com/tri.