Cumberland College recently wrapped up its Elder-in-Residence (EIR) program for the year. With the theme, Supporting Student Success, the College set out to build a strong foundation towards understanding how traditional ways and cultural practices support on-going student retention and success.
From September 1, 2017 to June 1, 2018, the Elder-in-Residence program recorded over 1500 contacts with students, staff and community members across the three campuses in Melfort, Nipawin and Tisdale. Seven Elders, representing four First Nations and the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan were part of Cumberland College's Elder-in-Residence program. Elders came on campus two times per week and as needed for special events and meetings. Elders were available for individual student support, as guest presenters during class time, to lead cultural events and ceremonies and to share knowledge on various topics during lunch and learn sessions. 41 Lunch and Learn Sessions were offered to both students and staff. Some sessions were delivered in a presentation-style format while others involved hands-on activities like making bannock and dream catchers and learning the Métis Jig. In addition, the Nipawin campus conducted a weekly traditional craft group where students learned to bead and make traditional bonnets. In Tisdale, the First Nation Elder held a weekly smudge for staff and students.
Students enjoy dancing with the elders
Three College-wide events, focusing on important events in the Indigenous calendar were planned during the program year. Students, staff, community members and partners such as the local school division and the Marguerite Riel Centre, were invited to participate in several of the events. Orange Shirt Day was celebrated September 29th on the Melfort Campus. 309 people participated in a round dance honoring residential school victims and survivors. On November 16th, students and staff on the Tisdale Campus participated in the reenactment of the trial of Louis Riel. As part of International Women's Day, the College arranged for a guest speaker to present on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. Elders joined the staff in meetings providing input to future plans and the development of the College Mission and Value statements.
Cumberland College would like to thank the RBC Foundation for their generous support of the EIR program. All staff and students were surveyed and asked to provide feedback regarding the strengths and challenges of the EIR program. The results were overwhelmingly positive, with many students thanking the Elders for making a significant difference in their lives.
A final report was submitted the RBC Foundation outlining the events and successful outcomes of the program. Cumberland College hopes to secure funding to build upon the success of the EIR program next year.
