Keyano College has received $697,700 from the Suncor Energy Foundation's post-secondary donation program to advance the College's commitment to integrating indigenous knowledge and culture on campus.
Jay Notay, President & CEO of Keyano College, says this donation will substantiate a far-reaching impact on the engagement of Indigenous students in post-secondary. "For transformation to happen, we must implement curricular and non-curricular programming that is mindful of Indigenous history and ensure that our campus policies and support services align with Indigenous traditions. We must work to honour the needs of First Nations, Metis, and Inuit students and families."
Keyano is set to implement multiple initiatives to promote an inclusive learning environment. The overarching goal is to foster the academic success and the cultural integration of Indigenous students and community members, promoting Indigenous-led solutions, equity, and reconciliation. Two of these initiatives include:
- The formation of an Indigenous Advisory Circle (IAC): The IAC will foster an open dialogue shaped by Indigenous wisdom and kinship. The IAC will include indigenous community members, faculty, staff, students, and other stakeholders. The IAC will seek to ensure that the college engages with and honours First Nations, Métis, and Inuit families and communities meaningfully, responding to the needs of local communities. The terms of reference and membership for the IAC will be determined through consultation with indigenous community members, faculty, staff, students, and other stakeholders.
- Establishing an Elder or Auntie-in-Residence Program: Recognizing the multifaceted support required for Indigenous students, this program will offer cultural, emotional, and spiritual guidance. Elders and/or Aunties will serve as mentors, ensuring the application of Indigenous knowledge to support student wellness and community building. The IAC will guide the Elder or Auntie-in-Residence program.
"These initiatives aim to amplify Indigenous voices and strengthen the collective spirit of Indigenous students, faculty, and community members," says Chantal Beaver, Associate Vice President of Strategy and Business Transformation at Keyano College. "We are incredibly thankful to the Suncor Energy Foundation for supporting Keyano in its journey of reconciliation."
Work on the initiatives, beginning with consultation, will start this academic year.
