On Monday, April 24th, a group of graduating First Nation high school students from Constance Lake First Nation came to visit the Centre for Indigenous (CIS). This was a special visit for CIS as Constance Lake First Nation is the home community to our Assistant Professor, Michelle Daigle. As such, Professor Daigle, and Outreach & Communications Coordinator, Alexandra Pennell worked hard to create a welcoming itinerary for the group.
Upon arrival, the students were greeted by Professor Daigle at the front steps of the North Borden Building, where CIS is located. She led the group up the stairs and to the 2nd floor, where Alexandra Pennell, along with faculty members; Cheryl Suzack, Brenda Wastasecoot, and Verne Ross. Also present were University of Toronto, Indigenous graduate students; Tyanna Carpenter, Kaitlin Rizarri, and Kristen Daigle. The group was gifted merchandise from CIS and First Nations House (FNH). After settling in, the group was presented information about the University of Toronto, CIS and the Indigenous Studies program, the Transitional Year Program from CIS faculty members and staff. To close the presentations, Professor Daigle, along with Tyanna, Kaitlin and Kristen, shared their experiences as Indigenous academics and students at the University of Toronto.
To conclude their visit, the students were given tours of CIS, FNH and a personalized, decolonial tour of the St George Campus by Professor Daigle. A big miigwetch (thank you) from CIS to Stephanie Sutherland, principal of Constance Lake First Nation's school, Michelle Daigle, and Tyanna, Kaitlin & Kristen for their help and support in welcoming these students to Toronto.