Students at Lakehead University will soon have access to enriched experiences through a new outdoor learning space dedicated to Indigenous education, cultural engagement, and community connection thanks to a $1 million donation from BMO.
In recognition of BMO's generous $1 million gift announced at the Research and Innovation Awards ceremony, Dan Adams, Vice President of Indigenous Banking at BMO Financial Group, was presented with a piece of Indigenous artwork by Denise Baxter, Vice-Provost Indigenous Initiatives at Lakehead University, on behalf of the university. (Photo Credit: Patrick Chondon)
This generous support, spread over five years, aligns with Lakehead University's commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, student success, and forming meaningful partnerships with like-minded organizations. The new outdoor learning space is part of the university's broader, ongoing, and evolving Gichi Kendaasiwin project. The space will serve as a gathering place for Indigenous learners, fostering connections among students, Elders, and knowledge keepers while supporting key programs like the Indigenous Transition Year Program and the Indigenous Cultural Traditions Club.
BMO's donation underscores its dedication to supporting education for Indigenous peoples and students, and creating lasting, student-focused impacts.
"BMO is proud to support this Indigenous learning space in partnership with Lakehead University," said Helen Siebel, Head of Employee and Corporate Giving, BMO. "This five-year commitment will support students by providing a meaningful connection and enriched education to advance Truth and Reconciliation. Investing in the communities we serve is inspired by BMO's Purpose, to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life."
"This partnership with BMO is a pivotal moment for Lakehead University as we deepen our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and embed the concept of Gichi Kendaasiwin - meaning higher knowledge' in Ojibwe - that is designed to create inclusive, culturally relevant spaces that empower Indigenous learners and foster community connections," said Dr. Gillian Siddall, President and Vice-Chancellor of Lakehead University. "Lakehead is dedicated to fostering a campus that celebrates Indigenous culture, learning, and leadership. This new Indigenous learning space will be a place for students to connect, learn, and grow, and it will serve as a lasting reminder of our dedication to Truth and Reconciliation. Lakehead is grateful to BMO for helping us lay a solid foundation for a stronger, more inclusive future at Lakehead University."
Lakehead University is committed to strengthening Indigenous learning experiences at the university. Approximately 13% of Lakehead's student population identifies as Indigenous, and these student experiences will be enhanced by the revitalizing and reimagining of the Gichi Kendaaswin project. Through renewed leadership under Dr. Gillian Siddall, deep collaboration with Indigenous leaders and community members, and emerging funding partners like BMO, Lakehead is refining the vision for Gichi Kendaasiwin to ensure it aligns with the contemporary needs and aspirations of the community it aims to serve.
The creation of this new outdoor learning space marks the first step in this journey toward a renewed concept of Gichi Kendaaswin at Lakehead University - laying the groundwork for a sustainable, impactful space that will foster Indigenous-led learning, cultural revitalization, and a welcoming environment for all.
"As the Chair of the Ogimaawin Indigenous Education Council, I am deeply grateful and excited for BMO's support. This is more than just a donation - it is a meaningful recognition of the importance of creating spaces where Indigenous learners can connect, grow, and carry forward our ways of knowing," said Precious Anderson, Ogimaawin Indigenous Education Council (OIEC) Chair. "For too long, Indigenous peoples have been historically disadvantaged in educational spaces, and Gichi Kendaasiwin represents a commitment to changing that narrative. It is about honouring our teachings, languages, and communities, and this partnership, rooted in the spirit of reconciliation, helps bring that vision to life in a powerful and lasting way."
BMO's contribution will be recognized at Lakehead University's Research and Innovation Awards of Excellence Gala on February 27, 2025, where representatives from BMO and Lakehead will participate in a cheque presentation ceremony.
