As far as Alexandra Paul is concerned, Seneca's new Indigenous centre at Newnham Campus is easily one of the nicest things she has ever been a part of.
"Personally, I'm not used to fancy things and this feels like a million dollars," the second-year Early Childhood Education student said of Odeyto at the awakening ceremony on Friday, Sept. 21.
"It gives me a sense of Indigenous pride."
Odeyto, the new home of First Peoples@Seneca, means "the good journey" in Anishinaabe.
The grand opening featured drumming, planting of a white pine a tree of peace and traditional Indigenous refreshments prepared by Anishinaabe chef Charles Catchpole.
Odeyto features a canoe-like structure resting on its side.
The $2.8-million project was made possible with contribution from the provincial government as part of its investment to honour the college system's 50th anniversary.
President David Agnew thanked First Peoples@Seneca for being "incredibly patient," saying the new space is a much-needed expansion to accommodate the important work of our staff and faculty supporting our Indigenous students.
"This is the jewel of the crown," he said. "It's what we wanted to put in the window."
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