Representatives from local First Nations, Metis and Inuit organizations gathered with St. Clair, Lambton and Fanshawe Colleges for the first ever Indigenous Education Council (IEC).
The IEC hosted the regional gathering on Walpole Island First Nation on May 28, 2025, to discuss how to move forward together for the benefit of Indigenous students who attend College while on their lifelong learning path.
Members of the Indigenous Education Council at Walpole Island First Nation in May 2025. (Art Barron/St. Clair College)
"It was a meaningful experience to bring together IECs from across the region to explore ways we can collaborate in support of Indigenous students and better understand the priorities of our First Nations communities," said Art Barron, the Institutional Lead, Campus Operations & Student Services at St. Clair College's Chatham Campus. "A special highlight of the retreat was the opportunity to honour Bernita Brigham-Jacobs, who recently retired as Chair not only of St. Clair College's IEC, but for all three colleges, a role she held with dedication for many years."
The three Colleges continue to collaborate and strengthen their partnership to provide Indigenous students post-secondary education and supports, as well as Indigenous education strategic planning, awareness, and advocacy throughout the college system in Southwestern Ontario.
Members of the Indigenous Education Council holding up a Star Blanket' given to Bernita Brigham-Jacobs, who retired as chair of the IEC in May 2025. (Art Barron/St. Clair College)
