Yours Mine Ours Second Edition 2011

A B O R I G I N A L E D U C AT I O N @ K E YA N O C O L L E G E

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YOURS MINE OURS

LET’S BUILD A BETTER ENERGY FUTURE. LET’S GO. Shell Albian Sands and its joint venture owners, Chevron and Marathon, proudly support aboriginal education.

That’s why we recently invested more than $2 million in Keyano College to support eight major initiatives and programs, including the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Certificate Program and a new campus in Fort Chipewyan.

You are our new energy future.

829804 Shell Canada Limited full page · fp IFC

Shell Canada Energy is 60% owner and operator of the Athabasca Oil Sands Project (AOSP) along with Chevron Canada Limited (20%) and Marathon Oil Canada Corporation (20%). AOSP includes Shell Albian Sands (Muskeg River Mine & Jackpine Mine) and the Scotford Upgrader.

Contacts

Table of Contents

Do you have questions?

Don’t hesitate to give us a call.

One of our knowledgeable staff members can help you with everything Keyano.

Clearwater Campus (main)

780-791-4800 (Toll-Free: 1-800-251-1408)

Fort Chipewyan Campus

780-697-3767

5 Message from Keyano College President 7 Community 8 Map and Campuses 8 Map 9 Fort McMurray

Regional Learning Centres Conklin Learning Centre

780-559-2434

Fort McKay (Dorothy McDonald Learning Centre)

780-828-4433

Gregoire Lake Learning Centre

780-334-2559

Janvier Learning Centre

780-559-2047

Academic Advice & Program Information

780-791-4801

Aboriginal Education Chairperson

780-791-8967

Awards & Scholarships Office

780-791-4894

Bookstore

780-791-4960

Lifelong Learning Division

780-791-4856

Office of the Registrar

780-791-4801 (registrar@keyano.ca)

KCSA

780-791-4950

Keyano Theatre Box Office

780-791-4990

Library

780-791-4917

Syncrude Sport & Wellness Centre

780-791-7792

Used Bookstore

780-791-8978

10 Fort Chipewyan 12 Learning Centres 12 Conklin 13 Fort McKay 14 Gregoire Lake 15 Janvier 17 Programming 25 Keyano Services 26 Aboriginal Scholarships and Awards 27 Community Investment

Yours, Mine, Ours—Aboriginal Education @ Keyano College was produced by Keyano’s Marketing & Communications team and JuneWarren-Nickle’s Energy Group in partnership with Keyano’s Aboriginal Education department.

KEYANO COLLEGE

JUNEWARREN-NICKLE’S ENERGY GROUP

Publisher Russell Thomas

President & CEO Bill Whitelaw bwhitelaw@junewarren-nickles.com

Editor & Project Manager Heather Rice Writer Kiran Malik-Khan Contributors Cathy Davis-Herbert, Janet Lowndes, Sharon Shultz, Natasha John-Hurford Graphic Design Coordinator Robyn Shilling Photographer Sean McLennan

Publisher Agnes Zalewski azalewski@junewarren-nickles.com Director of Sales Rob Pentney rpentney@junewarren-nickles.com Editor Chaz Osburn Editorial Assistance Laura Blackwood, Marisa Kurlovich, Kyle Thompson

Calgary: 2nd Flr. 816-55 Avenue NE Calgary, AB T2E 6Y4 Tel: (403) 209-3500 Fax: (403) 944-9500 Toll-free: 1-800-387-2446 Edmonton: 6111 - 91 Street NW Edmonton, AB T6E 6V6 Tel: (780) 944-9333 Fax: (780) 944-9500 Toll-free: 1-800-563-2946

Graphic Designers Lyuba Kirkova, Peter Markiw Sales Account Representative Philip Enarson Westbrier Communications

A B O R I G I N A L E D U C AT I O N

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You see the possibilities.

You’ve been inspired to learn and grow. Aboriginal communities in northeastern Alberta are fortunate to have access to stellar programming, services and training at Keyano College. Suncor Energy shares this commitment to student success and community development. Your potential is unlimited. It all begins with seeing what’s possible.

Find out more about Suncor’s track record and how we are planning to responsibly develop North America’s energy supply. www.suncor.com/sustainability

energy innovation commitment

TM

Trademark of Suncor Energy Inc.

Suncor: Keyano College – Yours, Mine, Ours SEI-11-0943: Full page (8” x 10-3/4” page trim), bleeds, 4c. KLVC final, March 15, 2011.

11.

yours mine ours yours mine ours yours mine ours Message from Keyano College President

W

elcome to the second edition of Yours, Mine, Ours, which contains a number of fascinating stories of inspiration, passion and determination from current students, graduates, recruits and community members. Our wish is that through these stories and the overview of Keyano College, we will make education both more interesting and achievable for you. Perhaps you will see yourself in one of the people profiled and/or one of our programs will pique your interest. We hope that we are able to inspire you to take an educational journey with us.

Students in Fort Chipewyan will soon have a new campus to help them on their journey. We are in the process of constructing a state-of-the-art Keyano College campus in our northernmost location where we have been providing quality educational opportunities for years. We began by offering programs from trailers and then through rented space in the community’s multiplex. As you will learn in this publication, we thought it was time to build a permanent home for Keyano in Fort Chipewyan.

While our northern community has grown and changed, so has Keyano College. Our programming is relevant and our commitment to our communities remains firm. We will not falter in our commitment and we will continue to investigate new opportunities that will allow us to provide better services and training to our communities.

We could not establish and maintain the level of services that we provide without the support of our community, government, industry and post-secondary partners. We thank you for your continued support of our College and its students, and we look forward to working with you on new initiatives in the future.

I hope that you enjoy this edition of Yours, Mine, Ours as much as we did putting it together for you.

Dr. Kevin Nagel President & CEO

A B O R I G I N A L E D U C AT I O N

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Canadian Natural Resources Limited

H ORIZON O IL S ANDS

702792 Canadian Natural Resources Limited full Helping page ·build fp p 6 futures brighter Canadian Natural believes in the power of a quality education and giving students access to opportunities that will allow them to forge a successful career path.

Our company supports students through a number of initiatives, one of which is our Building Futures Scholarship Program. It has provided financial assistance to hundreds of students living in a variety of communities near our operations. We’re proud to play a role in helping young people build brighter futures.

To learn more about Canadian Natural and our educational initiatives please visit www.cnrl.com

Community

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According to the 2008 census, some 103,334 people live in Wood Buffalo, and the population of Aboriginal people (12 per cent, according to the 2006 Municipal Census) represents one of the largest and fastest growing groups in the region. Here are some other things to know about the community.

INDUSTRY The main industry in Wood Buffalo is oil production from the worldfamous Athabasca oil sands. According to The Oil Sands Developers Group Survey Results (May 2010): • Wood Buffalo Aboriginal companies performed over $711 million in contract work with oil sands companies in 2009. Over the past 11 years, Aboriginal companies have earned over $3.7 billion.

• In 2009, over 1,600 Aboriginal people were employed by the oil sands industry in permanent operations jobs in the Wood Buffalo region (not including construction jobs).

As oil sands projects continue to expand within the region and workers are lost to attrition, the industry will require thousands of skilled individuals for new, permanent operations and construction sector employment opportunities.

KEYANO COLLEGE In order to have a meaningful impact in Aboriginal communities, we must first and foremost be members of those communities. That is why Keyano continues to operate campuses in Fort McMurray and Fort Chipewyan, as well as learning centres in Conklin, Fort McKay, Gregoire Lake and Janvier. Because of our permanent presence within these communities, Keyano is able to employ a network of educators and professionals who are connected to the communities they serve and are providing vital educational access to Aboriginal people in remote and isolated areas of our province.

PARTNERS IN EDUCATION By working with partners in government, industry, the community and other post-secondary institutions, we are offering unparalleled programming, services and training right here in Wood Buffalo.

Furthermore, Keyano cannot ignore the impact it has on community development. Our Corporate Training division continues to grow in response to the tremendous training needs of industry, and we will continue to collaborate with our partners to improve the quality of life for all residents of our wonderful region. ■

A B O R I G I N A L E D U C AT I O N

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Map

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Wood Buffalo: a closer look The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is home to Keyano College. Stretching from north-central Alberta to the borders of Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories, Wood Buffalo is one of the largest municipalities in North America. Major communities served by Keyano College include Fort McMurray, Fort McKay, Fort Chipewyan, Gregoire Lake, Anzac, Janvier and Conklin.

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Ca

urs

Campuses

yours mine ours yours mine ours yours mine ours FORT MCMURRAY

This diverse and growing community located approximately 450 kilometres north of Edmonton is Wood Buffalo’s largest community with a population of more than 90,000.

Clearwater Campus (main)—Located in the heart of downtown Fort McMurray, this campus houses the majority of Keyano’s classrooms, as well as administration and housing. It is also home to the Keyano College Theatre & Art Centre, the Syncrude Sport & Wellness Centre and the Suncor Learning Innovation Centre.

Suncor Energy Industrial Campus—Located in the MacKenzie Industrial Park, this campus is home to Keyano’s many heavy equipment and industrial programs.

Leonard Gauthier For The Love Of Music And Making A Difference

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eonard Gauthier’s eyes sparkle as he talks about helping young people and music. His salt and pepper hair dances in the light as he remembers long ago dreams of being a social worker and his history with Keyano College.

A proud Métis born and raised in Fort McMurray, Leonard, 58, first attended Keyano College in 1971 when it was known as the Alberta Vocational Training Centre. He eventually completed the Business Administration Program, spent several years trying out various things including a timekeeper role with Suncor Energy, and decided to return to Keyano to take the Heavy Equipment Program.

“I kept hearing stories of how much money people were making in the trades. I knew that going back to Keyano was my ticket.”

“At one point I thought I should get into social work,” he recalls. “People didn’t work with youth a lot when I was growing up. I did become a social worker, and I’ve ended up in a position where I feel I can make a positive difference with young people.”

Today, Leonard works in Edmonton for the Alberta Government’s Energy Department as a manager in the Aboriginal Relations branch working on maximizing economic participation. In that role, and for the past decade, his professional journey has given him the chance to assist young Aboriginals in the region achieve their dreams.

“My experiences and education have given me knowledge that I’m able to pass along to our youth. I love it.”

Another thing that Leonard loves is music and it has been a constant through the many changes in his life. When he was younger, he participated in and won several local talent shows and even appeared on television. In 1981, he was invited to sing for Native Nashville North, a talent show for upcoming singers. Long-time Wood Buffalo residents probably have strong memories of his band Air Borne.

“We played in Fort Chipewyan, Janvier and at the former Riviera Hotel,” he shares. “We were singing and jigging—both mainstream and Aboriginal cultures were reflected in our performances. Music is what I go to when I’m happy and when I’m sad.”

There was a time in the annals of our region’s history when Air Borne was so popular that it inspired long lineups that began hours before gigs. Leonard recalled one booking when he arrived at the venue and the doorman wouldn’t let him in. He had to wait until the manager discovered him in line.

For the last three years, Leonard has been involved with Keyano’s Environmental Monitoring Program steering committee. The Department of Energy provides two scholarships to qualifying Keyano students. He volunteers for the Apeetogosan, a money-lending Métis group’s Board, and also sits on the Board of Directors for Bosco Homes and the Alberta Congress Board. And, although he now resides in the province’s capital, his eyes sparkle when he speaks of Wood Buffalo.

“I still consider Fort McMurray home. My friends are here and I still appreciate the many things I learned because of Keyano College.” ■ A B O R I G I N A L E D U C AT I O N

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yours mine ours yours mine ours yours mine ours FORT ChipewYAn CAMpUs Keyano College’s service to the community of Fort Chipewyan started in January 1977, and over the years our institute has resided in a number of different locations. Today, Keyano is nearing completion of its own campus in order to provide an environment that is more conducive to adult learning. This new adult learning space will also allow us to expand programming and deliver more community-driven programs in a greater variety of learning areas such as health, education and trades, through partnerships with community-based institutions and organizations. The access and quality will be supported with new innovative technologies to give students a window on the world.

Construction of the new facility has been made possible by the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, The Imperial Oil Foundation, Shell Canada, Total E&P Canada Ltd, Keyano College Foundation, Mikisew Cree First Nation, Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation and the Métis Nation of Alberta.

Darrell Piche

Helping One Person at a Time

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ound two—that’s what Darrell Piche calls his new life after he almost died eight years ago because of alcohol. That spin cycle is now over, and last year he was named Fort Chipewyan’s Male Citizen of the Year and received a Regional Aboriginal Recognition Award (RARA).

Sitting in Keyano’s Fort Chipewyan Campus, Darrell, who is a member of the Mikisew Cree band, recalls his dark days with courage. Born to alcoholic parents 36 years ago, he raised himself and by 22 had completely succumbed to the lifestyle he had grown up watching.

“I took it too far. I thought I could handle the world, and then the world came crashing down on me,” he says quietly.

On an exceptionally cold night when temperatures dropped to -40° Celsius, Darrell collapsed drunk on the street and was certain he would die. If a friend hadn’t spotted him, he wouldn’t be sharing his story today. Not only did Darrell give up alcohol after that incident, but he swore to help others as well. He says he does it one person at a time, alone, without a strategy.

“I pray when I want to do something. That’s how I start. I don’t do group stuff. I’m a loner. It’s a challenge because alcohol is so accessible. To help someone with an alcohol problem is insulting them, so I try to get them on my side. I take them food and help with chores. It’s slow but steady.”

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As he was turning his life around, he had the support of his family and parents, who also quit drinking. Returning to school became a priority.

Darrell joined Keyano College for Upgrading and graduated in 2009.

“It was fun, hard and scary. This was my third crack at school. I just wanted to see if I could do it. I was the first one here and the last one out most days. I had 95 per cent attendance,” he shares proudly.

Darrell also keeps an eye out for students thinking about dropping out. He is always there to counsel them.

“People who quit school or think about it drive me that much harder,” he says with uncanny force.

Whether it’s helping fellow students or community members, Darrell always goes beyond the call of duty, and his recent RARA award is proof that this inspiring man’s commitment to bettering his community has not gone unnoticed. Before a crowd of 550 people including his parents, his wife Kelly and other family members, Darrell was honoured as a hero who believes in giving back.

“It was great to get the award. I didn’t think I was seen that way; I was shocked. My reward is knowing that the people I help are safe now. I have only two people to thank for everything I am today and they are my parents.” ■

Proud Supporter of

Yours, Mine, Ours: Aboriginal Education at Keyano College

Total is proud to contribute to the bright future of Keyano College

www.total-ep-canada.com

Our energy is your energy

Learning Centres

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CONKLIN Located 140 kilometres southeast of Fort McMurray, Conklin offers its 400 residents, mostly of Métis descent, a quiet lifestyle in a close-knit community.

The Conklin Learning Centre has the technology and capacity to host 15 full-time students. Since opening its doors just over a decade ago, the Learning Centre has grown to offer Trades Preparation and Continuing Education training opportunities, as well as being Conklin’s access hub for eCampusAlberta and its AlbertaNorth Community Access Point.

Lena McCallum

Doing it all at 66

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ena McCallum wanted to write better letters, so she enrolled at Keyano’s Conklin Learning Centre. She now advises every Conklin resident to join the College.

“The things I get myself into at 66,” she laughs.

You would never guess her age if she didn’t tell you. Strong and active, Lena was building a shed when she greeted me by her log cabin, a two-bedroom unit she built with her own hands in 1977. Her father and brother helped, but it’s mostly her handiwork. It’s where she raised her four children. The family later moved into a house next door that had modern amenities.

“When I create something, it’s a part of me. It’s just great,” she continues.

Born and raised in Conklin, Lena is Métis. She worked in the construction labour field for the oil sands and was even a firefighter for the forestry department in Fort McMurray, where she moved in 1964.

“I came back home in 1977,” she says.

Life became busy. After she raised her children, she raised four grandchildren, who went on to be successful and educated individuals.

“I wanted their well-being, so I jumped in to raise them; I enabled them,” says Lena.

This year, one of her grandchildren enrolled in Keyano’s Power Engineering program, and another is working for Syncrude Canada Limited.

It was the sudden death of her granddaughter in 2006 that ignited one of Lena’s passions. Tessa, a 22-year-old Keyano student on her way to becoming an electrician, was returning home from an evening at the beach with friends when she and another 24-year-old young woman were killed in an all-terrain vehicle crash.

12 K E YA N O C O L L E G E 2 0 1 1

“I think people find it crazy that I went back to school. Keyano is full of opportunities; I wonder why I didn’t do it earlier.”

“My girl was killed by boys on a stolen quad,” Lena recalls, fighting back tears. It is healing to talk about the incident, she says.

Soon after, she began volunteering for Life Works, a Calgary-based addictions counselling group. She began setting up loss and grief workshops in Conklin. One of Lena’s lifelong dreams is to build an addictions healing centre by the lake in Conklin.

As she works towards that dream, Lena is keeping herself busy by working evenings as Keyano’s interim Alberta-North Community Access Point Coordinator at the Conklin Learning Centre, and she is indeed writing better letters.

“My letters are more formal now and without run-on sentences,” she says matter-of-factly. “I think people find it crazy that I went back to school.

Keyano is full of opportunities; I wonder why I didn’t do it earlier.” ■

yours mine ours yours mine ours yours mine ours yours mine ours Fort MCKAY Fort McKay is a bustling community of 900 residents overlooking the Athabasca River just 55 kilometres north of Fort McMurray. Recreation and employment opportunities abound in this scenic community. Proximity to the oil sands makes industry the primary employment source for the community, although some members pursue seasonal forestry, hunting and trapping.

The Dorothy McDonald Learning Centre has the capacity to accommodate 20 full-time students and provides upgrading opportunities for trades, technology and various other programming. It serves as the Alberta-North Community Access Point for the community.

Dayle Hyde

Community, Art and Children— A Rainbow of Passions

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t was an unseasonably cold and wet day when I arrived in Fort McKay to visit with Dayle Hyde, Training and Development Officer for Fort McKay First Nations —and the subject of our cover story for this edition of Yours, Mine, Ours. While the air outside was less than friendly, I was instantly warmed by Dayle’s contagious laughter and welcoming spirit.

As we began to get acquainted, I learned about her life growing up in this small rural community and her unbridled passion for art, children and the people of Fort McKay. Dayle is the middle child of the late Dorothy McDonald, Fort McKay’s wellknown former Chief and namesake of the Keyano College Fort McKay Learning Centre, and Rod Hyde, who was with the Fort McKay School for 31 years, first as a teacher, then later as a principal. She has an older sister and a younger brother.

As Dayle took us back into the early chapters of her life, she shared stories of her mother’s courage, determination and undying zeal to better her community.

“My mom used to say you need guts of steel to be a Chief—she was fearless,” says Dayle. “I’m not fearless, but I’m happy to work for my community and my family—these are the people I grew up with and they mean a lot to me.”

Her relationship with Keyano College goes back to 1993 when Dayle was only 13. She wanted to pursue her passion for art and took a class just to see where things would go. The inspiration to say something with pictures and colours came from watching Mr. Dressup, a popular children’s television show.

“I loved the part where he would tell a story and draw. I must have drawn a thousand princesses as a child, inspired by him,” she laughs.

She returned to Keyano College to study Visual Art & Design after graduating from high school in 1999. She would do so again in 2003 and most recently in 2008.

“Garry Berteig, Marie Leduc and Robin Smith-Peck helped me hone my skills,” Dayle recalls.

“Art is very personal; there’s always a risk that someone won’t like it.”

There is no question that Dayle is an accomplished artist as I glance up at a stunning, brightly hued wall-size mural she painted in the preschool classroom where we enjoyed our visit. This room once housed the school library, a room where Dayle developed a love of language, stories and imagery.

Her inspiration for the mural comes from local scenery.

“When you enter Fort McKay and cross the little bridge, this is the scene on your right. The tall trees and the river—Fort McKay is my home and passion.”

Recalling her days as a teacher in the same room (she was the Early Literacy Assistant in the Fort McKay School for two years) she says she enjoyed every day. It’s the one place, she says, where “every day was different and you could be creative daily.”

“Something about children is engaging,” she emphasizes.

Education has been a constant theme in Dayle’s life. She always wanted to pursue a degree in Native Studies even though she was told at a young age that it wasn’t an “employable” path to follow. She proved otherwise.

She graduated last year with a Bachelor’s degree in Native Studies with a minor in Art & Design from the University of Alberta. Her view looking back on a life of learning is profound and inspiring.

“You persevere through education. Anything new is scary, but if you have a plan, you can accomplish your goals.” ■ A B O R I G I N A L E D U C AT I O N

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Learning Centres

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GreGoire Lake In between Gregoire Lake Provincial Park and Anzac is the community of Gregoire Lake, home to the Fort McMurray First Nation #468 and the Gregoire Lake Learning Centre. Located on the very shores of Gregoire Lake, the 250 residents have access to numerous outdoor activities. Residents travel to the nearby community of Anzac for community events, recreational activities and services.

The Gregoire Lake Learning Centre has upgraded technology and the capacity to host 15 full-time students. It is also the Alberta-North Community Access Point serving the immediate area.

Tanya Donovan

Her Playground and Happy Place— The Environment

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anya Donovan’s early childhood memories go back to being at one with her environment. As a two-year-old in diapers, she skinned beaver hides with moose bone. At four, she made drums in her grandfather’s shed, and later, at the age of seven, she collected tree seed cones by the pail and sold them to forestry companies for $5 a pop. Tanya’s relationship with nature goes back more than three decades and the bond has only solidified with time.

The 2008 Valedictorian of Keyano’s Environmental Monitoring Program, Tanya is currently working as an Instructor Aide and Community Access Point Coordinator for Alberta-North at the College’s Gregoire Lake Learning Centre. The environment is still a big part of her life, and she says the training she received at Keyano has enhanced this passion exponentially.

“A tree is not a tree anymore. Dirt is more than earth beneath our feet. Keyano’s program has given me a newfound respect for everything around me and beyond. I’m more aware of legislation that surrounds environmental issues. It has made a big difference in my life,” enthuses Tanya, 33.

Pursuing post-secondary education was not an easy decision for her. You would never guess it in a million years, but the talkative, social Tanya used to be painfully shy. She was so shy that the day after Keyano Orientation Day in 1995, she withdrew from classes.

“I was intimidated. I just didn’t want to leave my comfort zone. I felt college was going to be too much responsibility,” she recalls.

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After a brief stint in the oil sands industry, a friend recommended Keyano’s Environmental Monitoring Program. Beverly Knibb, Keyano’s EMP Coordinator, sold her on the initiative.

“A major reason for joining the program was that it was tailored for Aboriginal people. It was comfortable. I was told that I instantly took on a leadership role, but I see it as mothering and nurturing. I know what shy people go through, and I just wanted to help.”

Originally from Anzac, Tanya is an only child, but comes from a very big Cree and Irish family.

“My family is my passion. My grandfather was Irish and my grandmother was Cree. We are a very close family. My mom is my rock. I am everything I am because of her, and always want to make her proud.”

Being an only child also meant spending a lot of time outdoors, which is where Tanya’s passion for the environment stems from.

Her mother had a rule: if Tanya said, “I’m bored,” she would find her something to do like scrub the walls or floors.

“So I knew how to keep myself busy. I swam in the lake a lot. These woods were my hiding place. I would pick mint here,” she notes as she walks barefoot at Anzac Campgrounds, by Camp Yogi.

Yet another of Tanya’s interests is working with Aboriginal youth. She volunteers at the First Nations band office, and assists in organizing and implementing sports and cultural activities for youth, so she can “nurture the dreamer in them.”

“I want young Aboriginal people to know their environment—the importance of sweet grass, drums, powwow dancing and the Cree language. It’s all so beautiful and it’s all right here for us.” ■

yours mine ours yours mine ours yours mine ours yours mine ours JANvIeR Janvier, a hamlet located 100 kilometres south of Fort McMurray, is a community of almost 200 people, mostly Métis, and is home to the Chipewyan Prairie Dene First Nation. Over the past few years, employment opportunities have been on the rise as gas and oil sands activity has increased in the region.

The Janvier Learning Centre is located within the community’s beautiful log cabin–style multiplex, and has the capacity to host 25 full-time students. It is the Alberta-North Community Access Point and the portal to online learning opportunities through eCampusAlberta.

Aaron Cardinal

Kicking it up a Notch with Confidence and Honour

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aron Cardinal knows he is a role model in the Janvier community.

He is proud of this fact, and he strives to keep that reputation.

A local celebrity of sorts, Aaron, 21, is well known in the region for his one-foot high kick, an Aboriginal northern sport where participants must kick an object, suspended at a measured distance from the ground, with one foot.

Aaron’s highest kick so far is 8 feet 6 inches, and if you think that’s not too difficult, give it a try. Watching Aaron, however, will make you think it’s easy.

We are outdoors at Keyano’s Janvier log cabin, a beautiful facility. It is a perfectly sunny day to learn about northern games and a young man who knows what he wants from life.

Aaron sets up a kickstand, complete with what looks like a convex ball suspended from a hook. Deep concentration fills his oval face. He approaches the suspended object, his loose navy blue shirt swaying in the gentle breeze, and touches the suspended ball ever so slightly.

He steps back, his sockless feet keeping rhythm with his heart, and runs at the kickstand; he lands on the same foot he kicks with and maintains his balance, a requirement of the game. He has executed the kick majestically and satisfaction marks his face.

Named to Team Alberta North last year, Aaron, who has a Dene background, represented the province at the 2010 Arctic Winter Games in Grande Prairie.

“I started competing in the 2006 Arctic Winter Games, held in the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska. I won the bronze for the sledge jump, another Aboriginal [northern] sport. I jumped over 10 boxes [sledges]. The Russians broke the record that year,” says Aaron, his voice laden with disappointment.

“I know how the kids out there feel and what they are going through.”

He recovers quickly and volunteers to demonstrate another one-foot high kick, this time increasing the height. After yet another amazing performance, we head inside, where Aaron opens up about his experience at Keyano College and his community involvement.

Aaron enrolled in Keyano’s Academic Foundations program in 2008. In the fall of 2009, he returned to start the College Preparation program and during the spring semester was invited to demonstrate his one-foot high kick at Keyano’s annual Aboriginal Awareness Day. He loves working with his hands, and after graduation he plans to work for Syncrude Canada Limited as a welder or scaffolder. His ultimate goal is to one day operate his own trades business.

When he isn’t busy with sports or school, working with youth is a priority for Aaron. He volunteers for a number of youth initiatives in Janvier and was even hired as a youth leader last year.

“I know how the kids out there feel and what they are going through,” he shares. “I want to help them by organizing year-round activities. It keeps them busy and out of trouble. I am successful, and I hope my story touches and inspires other youth.” ■ A B O R I G I N A L E D U C AT I O N

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533962 Sawridge Inn & Conference Centre full page · fp

• 188 Guest Rooms including Executive & Honeymoon Suites • Business Class Rooms • Hearthstone Grille Restaurant

• State-of-the-art Conference Centre accommodating 10 to 800 • Hearthstone Lounge • Indoor Atrium with heated Pool and Jacuzzi Tub

• Business Centre • Fitness Centre • Spacious Parking • Perfectly Divine Day Spa

Programming AbORIGINAL ChILD & FAMILY SeRvICeS AbORIGINAL eNTRePReNeURShIP eNvIRONMeNTAL MONITORING SYNCRUDe AbORIGINAL TRADeS PRePARATION ACADeMIC UPGRADING GeNeRAL

Programming

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AbORIGINAL ChILD & FAMILY SeRvICeS This program, offered through a partnership with Yellowhead Tribal College in Edmonton, addresses the concerns of First Nations, Métis and urban Aboriginals as they respond to the redesign of family and social services for children and families as well as the move by First Nations people to provide local control for social programs. At Keyano College, all of the Aboriginal Child & Family Services courses emphasize the influence that family, health and culture have on child development. Students learn practical skills to provide help as qualified child and family services employees. Keyano College is proposing two new diplomas that integrate best practices and learnings from the Aboriginal Child & Family Services (ACFS) programming. The proposed Social Work and Community Development, Wellness and Addictions diplomas draw on the history of ACFS to create new models that will respond to the human service needs of our vibrant region.

Charlene Boucher

Aboriginal Child & Family Services Recruit

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he sat quietly right next to the entrance as we entered the Dorothy McDonald Learning Centre in Fort McKay, not even looking up as we asked for her at the front desk. Charlene Boucher is a person of few words, but when she speaks you can’t help but take notice.

“We may not have it all together, but together we have it all,” she said, sharing her mantra early into our conversation.

A graduate of Keyano’s College Preparation Program, Charlene has continued her educational journey this year with our Aboriginal Child & Family Services Program offered in Edmonton.

The road to post-secondary education has been paved with challenges for Charlene—challenges she is proud to have overcome.

Low self-esteem coupled with trouble at home saw her drop out of school at 15. It took another 15 years for her to realize the consequences of that decision.

“I want the youth to know a lot of people are out there to help....”

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Born and raised in Fort McKay, Charlene is a member of the Fort McKay First Nation. When she was growing up, other things overshadowed the benefits of staying in school.

“I just wanted to be out and partying,” recalls Charlene, 32. The memory brings more pain than pleasure as she fidgets with her scrapbook clutched in her hands, recalling the recent decision to make a change. She decided to go back to school and enrolled at Keyano College, determined to finish what she started all those years ago.

“I was shy and thought I wasn’t capable of doing this. I almost dropped out again because of Biology,” she shares, a frown punctuating her face.

“Never drop out of school. It’s harder to go back at 30. You have to push yourself so hard.”

Despite the inherent challenges of returning to school as a mature student, there was lots of support at the Fort McKay Learning Centre, an Alberta-North Community Access Point. According to Charlene, staff members like Linda Mason and Parminder Disange (Instructor and Instructor Aide, respectively) were critical in her success, as was Janet Lowndes, who heads the Aboriginal Education Department at the College.

“If it wasn’t for their constant encouragement, I probably wouldn’t have graduated.”

Charlene believes that the sky is the limit and has firm plans to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Aboriginal Child & Family Services and a career in youth counselling.

“When I was growing up, I felt nobody was there for me to turn to, to talk to. I want the youth to know a lot of people are out there to help, so be yourself and don’t be afraid to ask for assistance,” shares a determined Charlene. ■

ours mine ours yours mine ours yours mine ours yours mine ours AbORIGINAL eNTRePReNeURShIP Sponsored by

Shell Canada RBC Foundation

Doug Vidic

Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Graduate

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assion is Doug Vidic talking about his jewellery-design and gem business, passion is travelling around the world for the right cut of gems, and passion is his desire to excel in the business and be on top.

“There’s no doubt in my mind that I’m going to be successful in the gems and jewellery business,” says Doug with an ear-to-ear smile.

It’s a claim he doesn’t make lightly. Doug is only 26, but already has about six years of research, design and travel under his belt. From Fiji to Thailand, San Francisco, Mexico, Venezuela and Peru, Doug has been around the world searching for just the right diamonds, rubies, emeralds and other precious gems.

He stumbled upon the jewellery design field by sheer accident a few years ago when he was surfing the Internet as a student at Camosun College in Victoria, British Columbia.

“I knew right away what I wanted to do with my life. It combined my two interests, jewellery and computers.”

His room is a veritable workshop, complete with a 42-inch computer monitor, which has a $10,000 jewellery design software program called Matrix, and a large virtual inventory including designs for a Montrealbased souvenir company.

Then there are his personal souvenirs from travelling the globe: a hand-knit baby alpaca rug with a soaring eagle from Peru, a traditional cannibal neck-breaker from Fiji (as eerie to look at as it sounds), and sundry scrolls and maps.

Doug has a multicultural background. His mother is of European descent and his father was half Yugoslavian and half Métis. He moved to Fort McMurray in 2007 from Edmonton in search of better employment and joined Keyano’s Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program.

Whether your business idea is opening a café, an accounting firm or a mobile welding service, the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program will allow you to seize the many opportunities available. This program is designed to provide people in Aboriginal business settings with the knowledge and skills to excel in business without having to disrupt their family lives by moving to another city or quitting their jobs. With the program now offered online, students can choose to complete courses at their own pace and at a time that is convenient for them.

“The whole program was geared towards my business.

From business law to marketing plans, everything helped me.”

The program, Doug believes, was the edge he needed to become a savvy businessman. He graduated last year with a 3.93 GPA, an average he maintained throughout the two-year online program.

“The whole program was geared towards my business. From business law to marketing plans, everything helped me. I would be so lost without Keyano College. By the time I was done, I had a 30-page plan ready for my business.”

And ready he is. With plans to start a jewellery business as early as this year in Calgary, Doug is determined to excel in the industry.

With his eyes sparkling as bright as the gems he works with, Doug is looking forward to leading the next generation of gem business owners, with 3-D designs replacing traditional goldsmithing. His boundless passion certainly spells success, and the silver Jaguar XJ8 Vanden Plas in his driveway proves this. ■

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Programming

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eNvIRONMeNTAL MONITORING PROGRAM Sponsored by Cenovus Sponsored by ConocoPhillips Canada Ltd. Living close to the land and being aware of the changes it goes through has been part of Aboriginal culture for decades. The Environmental Monitoring Program equips students with the skills needed to take part in the modern processes that examine how the land is affected by industry and individuals. Students in the Environmental Monitoring Program will receive hands-on training through flexible and responsive instruction, which is focused on students’ individual needs and those expressed by industry. Students gain safety and technical skills that are beneficial in many areas of employment in the region, as well as specific environmental study in areas such as planning, inspection, reclamation and waste management. Upon successful completion of the program, students are interviewed by industry stakeholders and participating employers, which may lead to employment as an environmental monitor. This program is currently under review as part of Keyano’s ongoing quality assurance practice.

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t’s the Aboriginal spiritual connection with the land that’s our driving force,” says Tosha Moore. “It makes every day different when you start out with that powerful connection. You breathe the trees, the earth and the sky.”

Tosha shares her Aboriginal way of life enthusiastically, but it wasn’t the first thing I noticed about her. It was her perfectly dyed and highlighted long hair glistening in the early morning sunlight, her eggshell jacket and tan capris, and the dreamcatcher earrings that caught my attention.

Then Tosha began to speak about education, the environment, her Métis Cree heritage and growing up in Fort Chipewyan, and it was then that I realized that this 32-year-old single mother has every aspect of her life together.

In fact, her passion for all these subjects not only reflects in her words, but in her eyes as well—especially when she talks about being outdoors in Fort Chipewyan with her father.

“Being indoors was just odd,” says Tosha, sitting comfortably at her kitchen table.

“My father and I were very close. I used to fish with him in the summer,” she shares, looking at her now-deceased father’s photo on the nearby wall.

This love for nature intrigued her to find out more about Keyano’s Environmental Monitoring Program. Everything fell into place magically.

She applied on a Wednesday, got accepted on Friday and classes started the following Monday. She graduated in 2009 and is currently working for Cenovus as an Environmental Technician.

“I didn’t know what to expect from the Environmental Monitoring Program. It was an instant re-connection with nature, which is my strength. There is a difference between being an environmentalist and an environmental steward. The latter is traditional knowledge–based. I loved the program and I love my work now.”

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Tosha Moore

Environmental Monitoring Program Graduate

Her work involves regulatory tasks, which include collecting water samples, seeding and erosion control as well as keeping tabs on wildlife. Another emerging interest of hers is to pursue Aboriginal stakeholder relations.

Before finding her niche, Tosha also flirted with theatre. She enrolled in Keyano’s Visual Performing & Arts Program in 1997 and performed in Narnia and Grapes of Wrath. Next was getting to know about special education via the Early Childhood Certificate in 2003. She wanted to be able to help her two children who had special needs. Tosha has two boys and a girl, ages 11, 7 and 4, respectively.

An eternal student, she also completed the massage therapist course via Alberta Massage Therapy and is a registered massage therapist, an occupation she pursued for a while. She is planning to return to Keyano College to combine her knowledge base with Environmental Sciences and contemporary Aboriginal issues.

Education is the edge, she says, which is complemented by a traditional land-use knowledge base. Her unique perspective she says comes from being Métis.

“In the last 10 years, Keyano has allowed me to do what I love,” Tosha emphasizes.

Tosha says the Aboriginal learning and communication style is very different.

“An elder once told me the ears are higher than the mouth. Listening is more important than talking. Mainstream teaching style encourages questions, while Aboriginal learning is based on watching. Asking questions means you are not listening.”

Highlighting these cultural differences is important for Tosha, and I have no doubt that she will continue to be a voice for her people. ■

ours mine ours yours mine ours yours mine ours yours mine ours Syncrude AboriginAl TrAdeS PrePArATion ProgrAm Sponsored by Syncrude Canada Ltd. Sponsored by Alberta Employment and Immigration Sponsored by Rupertsland Institute

Michael Grandejambe

The Syncrude Aboriginal Trades Preparation Program provides Aboriginal people with the skills to enter and succeed in apprenticeship training and employment opportunities at Syncrude Canada Ltd. The program builds the trainees towards apprenticeship employment through strengthening their essential skills, their adoption of oil sands workplace safety culture and their academics (math, science and reading).

Augmenting this base are discussions with Aboriginal mentors and safety professionals, safety certification courses, work site tours and trades exploration activities. The last month consists of a trade work placement at Syncrude Canada Ltd. For graduates, this experience is the precursor to their employment with Syncrude or other oil sands employers.

Syncrude Aboriginal Trades Preparation Program Graduate

A

ccording to Michael Grandjambe, thinking about problems makes you upset, and being upset is not the answer—so he made music the answer to his problems.

A local celebrity, Michael, 22, is part of the Aboriginal hip-hop group Rezz Dawgz, based in Fort McKay. They perform in different venues around town including headlining Keyano’s annual Aboriginal Awareness Day event in 2008 and opening for hip-hop artist Kardinal Offishall at a local bar last year.

His rap name is Madd Mic—and no he’s not always mad.

“Madd means great,” he shares with a shy smile.

Rezz Dawgz was founded in 2005 by Blair Faichney (Young B). Rezz refers to the hamlet of Fort McKay. Including Michael and Blair, there are a total of five members: Jeremy Richards (J Rich), Ryan Faichney (K-9) and Michael’s cousin Terry Grandjambe (G-Styles).

They are currently working on their second CD, a mixed album with rap and love songs.

“We started out with gangster stuff, but got over it quickly. One of my favourite songs that we wrote is ‘Bury Me Alive in Cash.’ It’s about not having money and then coming to a point in your life when you have a lot of it,” says Michael.

The group also performs inspirational Aboriginal songs. They know they are role models for Aboriginal youth and try to live up to that reputation with songs like “I Got Tradition” and “Bannock Song.”

“You have to print that moose meat and bannock are the bomb,” he insists with a smile, adding they understand their role model status, especially in High Level, Alberta, his hometown.

“We always take CDs and t-shirts to the youth there. We want them to know that music is a great way to express yourself positively and relieve stress. I would be nothing like I am now without music,” he says.

A 2010 graduate of Keyano’s Syncrude Aboriginal Trades Preparation Program, Michael is on his way to becoming a heavy-duty mechanic and plans to return to Keyano College for apprenticeship training.

“ I used to get sick of hearing that working hard pays off. Then I tried ‘hard work’ for school and it really does pay off.”

“I used to get sick of hearing that working hard pays off. Then I tried ‘hard work’ for school and it really does pay off,” says Michael, who returned to school after dropping out at 18.

“Living in Fort McMurray is expensive. I had to leave school. I regret that now, but honestly, I didn’t want to go back to school. Now that I have, my passion for learning is back also.”

Music has been a constant for Michael as life dipped up and down, and so were his mother’s inspiring words. She is the reason Michael kept in touch with his Aboriginal heritage.

“She always used to say, ‘people can push you to the limit. It’s your choice to jump or not.’ My mom is a very strong woman. She was a single mother. I respect her a lot, in fact I respect all women because of her.” ■

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Programming

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ACADeMIC UPGRADING Academic Foundations Entry-level Academic Foundations develops skills in math, writing, reading and computers to a Grade 5.5 level. Small groups, one-on-one instruction and a variety of reading materials are used to meet your needs and interests. Students may join entry-level in September or January.

The intermediate and advanced levels each offer adult language arts and math courses between a Grade 5 .5 and Grade 9 level. These levels operate on a typical 16-week semester with classes starting in September and January.

Sherry Tremblay Upgrading Student

Pursuing her Dreams and Making Them a Reality

College Preparation This program is designed to meet the needs of those who wish to upgrade their academic education. With College Preparation and the appropriate prerequisites completed, you can enter apprenticeship, technical, career or university programs or the workforce. College Preparation offers Grade 10, 11 and 12 equivalency levels including customized course prep packages that prepare you to apply for your career program and be successful. Online options and flexible delivery (FLEX courses) are available for selected courses.

Transitional Program The Transitional Program aims to: • Ease the transition from high school to employment or future education • Provide an opportunity for young adults to experience one more year in a structured educational environment • Provide students with the necessary tools to be successful in school or the workplace • Assist students with organizational, educational and career goals

A

broken ankle couldn’t keep Sherry Tremblay from missing a day of school. With her sights set on a career in health care, Sherry isn’t letting anything slow her down.

“I slipped on ice and broke my right ankle last winter, and started walking on my cast earlier than advised,” says Sherry. She refused to use crutches, so she wouldn’t be dependent on them. “My recovery took longer in the end,” she quietly adds.

Returning to school was a very spur-of-the-moment decision Sherry made over two years ago. She dropped out at age 16 for personal reasons. Then one day she awoke and felt the need to do something more with her life. She decided to take a Keyano placement test at the Dorothy McDonald Learning Centre in Fort McKay even though she knew returning to school wouldn’t be easy.

“It was difficult at first, but it came back to me. I started out at level 7 in September and had done half of my level 9 by November.

By January 2009, I was up to level 13, ahead of the class. They were still on level 7,” recalls Sherry, 28, proudly.

Sherry admits that having her education funded by the Fort McKay Métis Local #63 has made it much easier to pursue her educational goals. She is very thankful for their support and encourages other would-be students to seek out the same kind of assistance.

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“Every Métis should apply. It is very easy. All you have to do is go and ask,” Sherry advises.

With her upgrading completed, Sherry is well on her way to making her dreams a reality, with plans to enroll in Keyano’s Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Program—a dream she has been pursuing for years. The inspiration came when she was working for Bouchier Contracting on the Canadian Natural oil sands site.

“I would watch the EMTs working on site. I loved the uniform and the ambulance. The work just inspired me. I always wanted to be an EMT. After I asked them a lot of questions about the field, I became passionate about pursuing it as a career.”

Sherry says she looks forward to the practical aspects of being an EMT and to working in the field. She hopes that she, too, will be working as an EMT on an oil sands site after completing Keyano’s program. Like many other mature students, staying close to home and her young family is important to Sherry. She and her husband Ryan have two boys, Markus, 8, and Hunter, 5.

“I’m very happy that Keyano offers training right here in Wood Buffalo. I can stay at home and get the job that I want.” ■

ours mine ours yours mine ours yours mine ours yours mine ours GeNeRAL PROGRAMMING

and Aboriginal communities, and they are developing a Contract

Continuing education

them in bidding and managing contracts within the oil sands.

From professional designations to musical theatre, Continuing Education offers a wide range of courses to meet the needs of Wood Buffalo residents. We have part-time studies (credit or non-credit) in trades, academic, lifestyle, post-graduate, professional certificate and other specialized areas. Online assessments and testing services are also available. A complete list of offerings is available at www.keyano.ca/calendar/coned.asp.

Corporate Training Keyano College delivers high-quality training and consulting services to businesses and industry. Contract Training works with Aboriginal Education to provide training and training facilities to companies and organizations in rural Wood Buffalo. With these two dynamic Keyano teams working together, the College has customized leadership training for the Fort McKay Group of Companies, brought Construction Safety Training System to Fort Chipewyan and provided computer training in Janvier. They are investigating delivery options to utilize a web-based electronic tool kit in support of economic development in regional

Management Program for Aboriginal and small businesses to assist Through this partnership, Keyano has also been able to provide work placements for students graduating from the Construction Craft Labourer Employability Program, professional development opportunities for Aboriginal human services providers such as group home workers and counsellors, and customized training for office workers employed at Aboriginal organizations.

Learner Assistance Program If you had to describe the Learner Assistance Program at Keyano College succinctly, you could call it a life-changing initiative. The program provides services to current and prospective students whose disabilities involve any number of conditions affecting mobility, vision, hearing, learning, and physical or mental health. The initiative has a high retention rate because it is a community effort. Students, parents, instructors and school boards—everyone is involved to ensure that learners excel. Expansion of the Learner Assistance Program into the regional campuses is in the works. â–

Connacher is committed to working with its various stakeholders and believes in developing strong and sustainable relationships.

774579 Connacher Oil & Gas Ltd 1/2h ¡ hp

Connacher is an active supporter, directly and through staff participation and involvement, in various charitable causes in the regions in which it conducts activities.

At the Great Divide oil sands project in northern Alberta, exploration, development and construction work provides local businesses an opportunity to grow and develop alongside Connacher, as it continues to expand its SAGD projects.

Suite 900, 332 - 6 Avenue SW Calgary, AB Canada T2P 0B2 E: inquiries@connacheroil.com

TSX: CLL www.connacheroil.com

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489760 Keyano College full page 路 fp

Keyano Services

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Counselling & Career Services Aboriginal Student Centre Students at Keyano College have a place to call their own, where they can kick back and relax or work on a class project. The Aboriginal Student Centre located in Room 155 of the Clearwater Campus is open to Aboriginal and nonAboriginal students and is equipped with tables, chairs, couches, computers and beautiful Aboriginal art.

Aboriginal Counselling Students at Keyano College have access to an Aboriginal Counsellor. The Counselling department provides services to Aboriginal students at the Clearwater and regional campuses. The Aboriginal Counsellor employs both mainstream and Aboriginal methods in the counselling practice for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students.

SKILL Centre The Student Knowledge Independent Lifelong Learning (SKILL) Centre offers a number of services: • Tutoring and assistance with math, science and writing • Tips for time management, study skills and exams survival • A quiet environment to work on projects or homework

Office of the Registrar The Office of the Registrar provides academic support services to students, faculty, administrators and staff through supporting the mission of Keyano College. It is committed to maintaining the confidentiality, integrity and security of students’ academic records.

The Office of the Registrar also offers:

Academic Advising Student Advisors are available to provide guidance to students seeking information on credit programs, admission requirements and how to apply for admission. The advising team also offers assistance in choosing courses and transferability of courses and programs.

Student Awards, Scholarships, Bursaries & Student Loans The Financial Aid and Awards Coordinator is available to provide guidance and information to students about different funding options as well as student awards.

Transcripts The Office of the Registrar maintains academic transcripts. Transcripts can be issued upon receipt of a signed written request. Official transcripts will only be released when students have met all their financial obligations to Keyano College.

Confirmation of Enrollment Letters Students may obtain a letter from the Office of the Registrar verifying their enrollment as documentation for student discounts, insurance, loan deferments or other purposes. The request must be made in writing and must indicate the student’s name, address, phone number and student identification number, as well as the information to be released, the reason for the release and the location to which the letter should be sent.

The Office of the Registrar also: • Processes credit and Continuing Education registrations • Processes address and name changes • Prints fee assessments and student schedules • Provides replacement T2202As for attendance before 2009 • Provides parchments and parchment replacements • Processes applications to graduate • Monitors end-of-term grade processing • Coordinates yearly convocation For more information on the services available from the Office of the Registrar, contact us at (780) 791–4801, toll-free at 1–800–251–1408 or by e-mail at registrar@keyano.ca We are open Monday to Friday, 8:30 am–4:30 pm, and are closed on statutory holidays.

Prep Packs Custom preparation packages are Keyano’s newest tools to help students with academic and career preparation. These packages help students navigate the upgrading and college preparation process and ensure they have the prerequisites for advanced post-secondary programs and technical or trades training.

Prep packs are available for career clusters in: • Business • Community & Human Services • Engineering and Engineering Technology • Biological, Environmental and Earth Sciences • Health Sciences • Power Engineering and Process Operations • Trades and Technologies (in development) ■

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Aboriginal Scholarships and Awards Keyano College’s Student Awards program provides recognition and support to eligible students for academic achievement, community involvement and financial need. The program is made possible through generous gifts from individual and business donors, community organizations, provincial government and the continuing efforts of the Keyano College Foundation.

ATCO electric and ATCO Power electrical Technology bursary $1,000

Jean Family Scholarship $1,000

ATCO Gas energy and environmental Technologies Award $1,000

Krupp Canada Aboriginal entrepreneurship Scholarship $1,000

ATCO Power and ATCO electric Co-Op Power engineering bursary $1,000

Lawrence and Adele Thomson Adult education Award $1,000

bank of Montreal Continuing education bursary $1,000

M-I SwACO, A Schlumberger Company bursary $500

bank of Montreal emergency Medical Technician bursary $1,000

NIPI Services Inc. Award $500

bert Lang Native bursary $750

North American Construction Group bursary $1,000

bucyrus Aboriginal woman of the North Award $1,500 Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers Scholarship $4,000

Shell Canada Fort Chipewyan Student Award $1,000

Charles Martin Memorial Scholarship Award $ 500 Chief Jim boucher Distinguished Alumnus Award $1,000 Chief Jim boucher Ministerial Award of excellence $1,000 ConocoPhillips Canada Award $2,000 Donna Cyprien Award $150 enbridge Inc. entrance bursary $1,000 eric and Kathleen Newell Aboriginal entrepreneurship Certificate Program Award $1,000

Strad energy Services Ltd. bursary $500 Ted walter bursary $350 The wallace Family Award $1,000 Tim walsh Aboriginal entrepreneurship Certificate Program Award $1,000 TransCanada Transmission bursary $1,200 TransAlta Corporation Co-Op Power engineering Award $2,000 wood buffalo Aboriginal Achievement Awards $500

harvard broadcasting Aboriginal Award $5,000

Many other awards are available to students attending Keyano College.

For a complete listing, please go to our website at keyano.ca under Awards and Scholarships.

JACOS heritage bursary up to $3,500

For a complete list of all provincial awards, please visit www.alis.gov.ab.ca/scholarships. â–

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Community Investment Keyano strongly believes that partnerships nurture our learning environment, thus we continue to cultivate effective working relationships with Aboriginal organizations, industry partners, funders and other post-secondary institutions.

Such collaborations are key to the continued success of Keyano College. by working with partners, we are able to offer unparalleled programming, services and training right here in the Regional Municipality of wood buffalo.

Community Investment

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Community and Industry

Shell Canada

Syncrude Canada Limited

Shell Canada is a generous sponsor of the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program at Keyano College. The program is designed to provide people in Aboriginal business settings with the knowledge and skills to excel in business without having to disrupt their family lives. Previously offered via the classroom, the program is now also offered online, making it more accessible and flexible than ever to complete this highly popular training. Shell Canada also supports the construction of our new campus in Fort Chipewyan, the mobile driver trainer simulation lab that takes training out to communities, and a number of student awards which are available to persons of Aboriginal decent.

In September 2008, Syncrude Canada announced its single largest financial commitment in its 43-year history with a $5-million donation to Keyano College. Approximately $1.8 million was dedicated towards funding the Syncrude Aboriginal Trades Preparation Program. The program allows for a maximum of 40 students to enroll each year for three years. Students from Fort McMurray as well as the region’s outlying communities of Fort Chipewyan, Fort McKay, Janvier and Conklin attend face-to-face and videoconference courses as a cohort. Graduates are able to pursue trades apprenticeships through Syncrude employment or other programs geared towards working in the oil sands, including heavy equipment technician, welding, electrician, steamfitter/pipefitter, or power and process operations.

RbC Foundation As a founding and continuing sponsor of the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program, the RBC Foundation continues to provide advice and support to ensure the growth and development of the program.

Cenovus, ConocoPhillips, Government and Community The Environmental Monitoring Program was first offered in 2006 through a collaborative effort between Keyano, industry, Fort McMurray First Nation #468, Chipewyan Prairie First Nation, Métis Nation of Alberta and Alberta Employment and Immigration.

The focus of the program is to provide First Nations and Métis students or non-status Aboriginals with occupational skills and academic employability to become environmental monitors with our industry partners. This program is currently under review.

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Northern Alberta Aboriginal business Association (NAAbA) The original founding members of NAABA were the driving force behind the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program at Keyano College.

NAABA is a non-profit organization with approximately 200 members.

It is a growing interest group of Aboriginal businesses committed to enhancing and creating an environment that promotes businesses, jobs and training for the betterment of all Aboriginal people in the region. Full NAABA members own companies that are at least 51 per cent Aboriginal. In partnership with Keyano, NAABA and Community Futures assisted in developing the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program, and participate in the updating of curricula, when necessary, to reflect current business practices and the needs of the economy and community.

NAABA member companies have been instrumental in providing equipment to our Heavy Equipment Operator Program, ensuring that students are trained on current technologies being used in our region.

This partnership helps to develop a well-educated and safely trained workforce for Aboriginal companies.

mine ours yours mine ours yours mine ours yours mine ours A Wood Buffalo Icon Reflects on a Full Life of Service “I’ve never lost my temper enough to hurt someone by my words or deeds.”

As Elsie Yanik confidently makes this claim at 94 years of age, it leaves you wondering what a beautiful life she has led.

“I love people. I look at the heart and not the colour of the skin. Everybody is so beautiful. My aim in life is to bring out the best in people,” she shares sitting comfortably in her beautifully decorated apartment adorned with family photos and a large collection of CDs, books and stuffed animals.

A Wood Buffalo icon, Elsie is a Métis Elder. She was born in 1917 in Fort Fitzgerald, near Fort Smith, Northwest Territories. Elsie was eight when her mother, Mary Flett, passed away. Her father was unable to take care of the children because of work, so she was raised in a convent by the Grey Nuns of Montreal.

“When I turned 18, I wanted to be a nun. But my father said, ‘I’ll never give you permission to be one. You can still do what you want to do after you meet a good man and have a family.’ I decided to wait till I was 21 and be my own boss,” she chuckles.

Unfortunately, her father passed on in an accident soon after. Elsie couldn’t bring herself to be a nun in honour of his memory.

She never forgot her mother’s advice either, who warned her against drinking “fire water” (alcohol) and smoking cigarettes. Elsie has never touched these, though she came close to trying gin once.

“I was out with my friends and I smelled the drink. As I was about to take a sip, I heard my mother’s voice. That’s no word of a lie. I told my friend Louise, ‘I can’t drink; I made a promise to my mother.’ I am sure my mother is proud of me.”

In 1938, Elsie married Lawrence Yanik, a young man from Czechoslovakia.

They met at midnight mass when Elsie was singing in the choir. They went on to have five daughters, one son and a “chosen son” she adopted.

“I married the first man I met. We were married for 49 years. We always managed to get past our difficulties,” Elsie recalls.

Lawrence worked for Alberta Forestry and the couple moved to Fort Chipewyan, where they spent the next four decades. Here, Elsie volunteered in the community, babysat as mothers attended Keyano College, and as a lay preacher married many couples and presided over many baptisms and funerals.

“My father was right: I did end up helping people, and I didn’t have to be a nun to do so,” she says.

This zeal to help has earned Elsie accolades across the province. She was Keyano’s 2001 Distinguished Citizen Award recipient; she received the Wild Rose Foundation Volunteer of the Year Award; she was awarded the Governor General’s Commemorative Medal for Lifetime Achievement; she has been honoured with four Regional Aboriginal Recognition Awards; and the Catholic Women’s League of Canada Alberta Mackenzie Provincial Council even initiated the Elsie Yanik Award in her honour.

Additionally, Elsie carried the Olympic Torch as it made its way through Wood Buffalo on November 6, 2009, and the Vancouver Olympics

“There are no words to express my gratitude for what Keyano College does.”

— Elsie Yanik, Métis Elder Committee selected her to light the cauldron. When she received the call, she thought her nephew was pulling her leg.

“I said, ‘Tell me another good one,’ and the man hung up. A few minutes later someone called again,” she laughs. “Carrying the torch was an honour I will never forget.”

Elsie’s deteriorating health and an open-heart surgery six years ago meant moving to Fort McMurray to be closer to the hospital. She misses her beautiful house in Fort Chipewyan, built by her husband.

Nevertheless, she continues her work for the people in Fort McMurray.

A familiar face around Keyano College, she often attends and opens many Aboriginal events with her beautiful prayers filled with messages of encouragement and hope, especially for youth.

Elsie deems Keyano College very special because of everything it does for the community and says the instructors and staff do more than they realize for the community, and in particular, the Aboriginal community.

She says, “There are no words to express my gratitude for what Keyano College does. I love teachers and nurses; they give so much of their lives to others.”

Community Education Advisory Committees Our Aboriginal Education department collaborates with various College career cluster Advisory Committees to identify new course and program needs, improve completion rates by introducing initiatives such as the Learner Assistance Program, and increase the variety of courses and programs available to Aboriginal learners within their communities using alternative education methods such as eCampusAlberta and AlbertaNorth. Community sub-committees are important consultants on program and curricula matters.

A B O R I G I N A L E D U C AT I O N

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Community Investment

Educational Partnerships

Post-Secondary Institutions

Alberta-North

Colleges

Alberta-North is a partnership of seven postsecondary institutions, including Keyano College, that makes courses and programs accessible to students in northern Alberta and the Northwest Territories. The partners provide facilities, learning technologies and support services to over 80 online learning sites called Community Access Points (CAP). Wood Buffalo is home to six of these CAP sites: Conklin, Fort Chipewyan, Fort MacKay, Fort McMurray, Gregoire Lake and Janvier. Keyano, a founding member of AlbertaNorth, offers six programs ranging from Aboriginal Entrepreneurship to College Preparation as well as many individual courses. For additional information, please call (780) 791-8967.

When colleges collaborate the result is always a win-win partnership for students.

Keyano College and Yellowhead Tribal College (YTC) are a model example. YTC, the largest Aboriginal college in Edmonton, assists Keyano in delivering the first year of the Aboriginal Child & Family Services Diploma. This collaboration ensures Keyano is able to continually improve its services and delivery within an Aboriginal cultural setting. Thanks to YTC, Keyano is also working closely with Aboriginal elders who not only attend Keyano graduations but also counsel students.

eCampusAlberta If you always dreamed of going to school in your pajamas, sitting in the comfort of your home— wake up! Keyano can make that dream a reality.

For five years now, eCampusAlberta has been providing flexible learning schedules. It offers an opportunity for people who may not otherwise be able to access post-secondary education to complete a course or earn a certificate or diploma. It is the vision of 15 Alberta post-secondary institutions that are working together to provide online learning opportunities to Albertans. As one of the colleges participating in this initiative, Keyano College currently offers courses ranging from Aboriginal Entrepreneurship to Business Communications. A complete list of Keyano College courses offered through eCampusAlberta is available at www.keyano.ca. ■

ADveRTISeRS’ INDex Canadian Natural Resources Limited ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................6 Connacher Oil & Gas Ltd .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................23 Keyano College Foundation...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................24 Nexen Inc ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................31 Sawridge Inn & Conference Centre ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................16 Shell Canada Limited ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................2 Suncor Energy Inc .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................4 Syncrude Canada Ltd........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................32 Total E&P Canada Ltd.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................11

30 K E YA N O C O L L E G E 2 0 1 1

RELATIONSHIPS MATTER Nexen Inc. recognizes our Aboriginal neighbours have unique interests in the land on which we operate. That’s why building mutually-beneficial relationships with Aboriginal communities is important to us.

We build relationships by being respectful of traditional knowledge and culture and collaborating on projects that strengthen communities and the environment.

689310 And we’re making progress.

Nexen Inc 2003, our Long Lake oil sands facility full page Since · fp has awarded contracts worth more than million to Aboriginal businesses. Each IBC $122 year we offer scholarships to Aboriginal

students and provide summer employment.

Approximately 600 Nexen employees have taken Aboriginal awareness training. Since 2008 we’ve invested more than $600,000 in initiatives that support Aboriginal leadership development, health care and education.

That’s Nexen’s way.

For more information about Nexen in your community, please contact us at 780-334-2850. www.nexeninc.com

Vanessa Cockerill, a process operator at our Long Lake oil sands facility and resident of Anzac, Alberta.

545734 Syncrude Canada Ltd full page · fp OBC

Opportunity rises from common ground.

For over three decades, Syncrude has worked closely with our Aboriginal neighbours to help them succeed—in life, in their careers and in business. To us, the foundation for success lies in education. That’s why we’re a leading supporter of programs that enable Aboriginal people to learn and grow. Syncrude has sponsored many Keyano College programs tailored to Aboriginal students. And today, Keyano is an important provider of Aboriginal post-secondary education and training. Together, Syncrude and Keyano will continue to open the doors of opportunity—giving people the skills they need to take part in the oil sands industry, or wherever life takes them.

For more information about careers at Syncrude visit syncrude.ca

The Syncrude Project is a joint venture undertaking among Canadian Oil Sands Limited, Imperial Oil Resources, Mocal Energy Limited, Murphy Oil Company Ltd., Nexen Oil Sands Partnership, Sinopec Oil Sands Partnership, and Suncor Energy Oil and Gas Partnership.