IndigenousIniskimReSOURCEguide
Our University’s Blackfoot name is Iniskim, meaning Sacred Buffalo Stone. Our name was gifted to us by Elder Bruce Wolf Child in 2002.
The University of Lethbridge acknowledges and deeply appreciates the Siksikaitsitapi Peoples’ connection to their territory. We, as people living and benefiting from Blackfoot Confederacy territory, honour the traditions of people who have cared for this land since time immemorial. We recognize the diverse population of Indigenous Peoples who attend the University of Lethbridge and the contributions these Indigenous Peoples have made in shaping and strengthening the University community in the past, present and in the future.
2 Welcome to Iniskim 4 Indigenous Programming 8 Enrolment & Advising 10 Student Supports 12 Iikaisskini Indigenous Services 14 Iikaisskini (Low Horn) Gathering Centre 16 Student Heath & Wellness 18 Elders in Residence 20 Mentorship Programs 22 Indigenous Events 26 EleV Partnership 28 Admission Requirements & How to Apply 1
Table of Contents
Distinguished Niitsitapi Scholar Special Advisor to the President
Adjunct Professor, Dhillon School of Business
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toWelcomeiniskim!
Dr. Leroy Little Bear, Iikaisskini (BASc ‘74, DASc ‘04)
Like the tree, the roots of Indigenous Peoples go deep in the history, body and blood of this land.
Our ancestors form the base of this tree, the trunk, from which we, their descendants, can build and branch out because of the foundation they laid out for us. Your university path will be filled with many challenges and triumphs as your body and mind grow and develop, but know that the spirit of your ancestors will lift you up along your way. You are standing on their shoulders so that you can reach the sky. Do not stop. Be steady and move forward on your path, honouring your ancestors who gave you life. You can be solid and wise like the rock, but you first must be brave like the warrior. I believe you can do it. I look forward to joining the many spirits who will be singing an honour song for you on your graduation day.
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Photo courtesy of The Alberta Order of Excellence
• Aboriginal Health*
and minors
• Indigenous Studies*
in Indigenous-focused programming and offers several
programmingIndigenous
Learn more about our programs Didknow?you In 2021, there were 488 ULethbridge,Indigenousself-declaredstudentsatrepresenting6.2%ofthestudentpopulation. Major and minor available* 4
• Indigenous Governance and Business Management*
ULethbridge is leading programs related to Indigenous topics:
• Indigenous Student Success Cohort (ISSC)
• Indigenous Art (Art Studio; Art History/Museum Studies)
• Indigenous Education
Didknow?you 99 Indigenous students crossed the stage during the Spring 2021/22 convocation ceremonies, a record high ULethbridge!for 5
Dallas David (BA/BEd ’21)
Major: Aboriginal Health
In his program, which blends Indigenous Ways of Knowing with Western health concepts, he’s learned ways to support his community through a connection to his culture.
StudentShining
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Bachelor of Health Sciences Student
John Little Piitaa’aohkamiiBear, (Eagle Speaker)
“The knowledge I gained at ULethbridge is vital to overcome the challenges facing Indigenous health. One of the unique benefits I most appreciate about the Aboriginal Health program is the inclusion of our Traditional Knowledge Keepers and Elders. To listen to them in a classroom setting helped me as a person and as a future health advocate.”
John Little Bear, Piitaa’aohkamii (Eagle Speaker), chose ULethbridge because of the Aboriginal Health program and how close his home is to campus, located on traditional Blackfoot Confederacy territory.
John Little Piitaa’aohkamiiBear(Eagle Speaker)
Bachelor of Health Sciences Student Major: Aboriginal Health
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We meet with and invite people from Indigenous communities across Canada to visit and attend ULethbridge. We also lead campus tours for prospective students and their families!
• Be a student-for-a-day
Our team provides enrolment advising to prospective and current students, from program exploration and application to first year registration workshops. In addition to advising, we can connect you to many Indigenous student initiatives and supports on campus such as Iikaisskini Indigenous Services, Elders in Residence and our mentorship programs.
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• Book an enrolment advising appointment
• Take a campus tour
Interested in becoming a member of the ULethbridge family? Check out these opportunities before you enrol!
Your StartsJourneyHere!
Book an enrolment advising appointment
Indigenous recruitment & enrolment advising
Our Indigenous Recruitment & Enrolment Advising team is here to help you learn more about ULethbridge and transition smoothly into the post-secondary environment.
Physics 20 Science 20 Social Studies
A language20-level
or one Fine Arts course: Art 30 or 31, Dance 35, Drama 30, Choral, Music 30, General Music 30, Instrumental Music 30
Admission Requirements:
The Indigenous Student Success Cohort is a first-year credit program that provides Indigenous students, who are not fully admissible to the University of Lethbridge, an opportunity to enter into and succeed at university. Our program provides a solid foundation of core skills in a supportive cohort environment that attends to Indigenous Ways of Knowing and Learning (IWKL).
English Language Arts 20-1 or English Language Arts 30-2
Indigenous Student Success Cohort (ISSC)
Any or Mathematics 20-2 20-1 or Social Studies 30-2
three of: Aboriginal Studies 20 Biology Chemistry20 Mathematics20 20-1
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Elders program
Students, staff and faculty have access to several Elders while they are on campus. Our Elders provide cultural support, wisdom and guidance and are on campus regularly during the academic year.
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Student resources & referrals
Have a question about a specific service or resource? Visit an Indigenous Student Advisor in Iikaisskini Indigenous Services for help with navigating ULethbridge student Mentorshipservices. program
Did you know? ULethbridge has two mentorship programs that are offered specifically for Indigenous students. Learn more on pg. 21 about options on how you can become both a protégé and/or mentor.
&StudentIndigenousSupportsPartnerships numberworkshops,FromCalendarculturallycounselloroptmentaltoYourCounsellingtotheircarryalsoprocess.guidancetoprioritizesOurconnectionsCommunityteamatULethbridgegoingintocommunitiesmeetstudentsandprovideonthepost-secondaryOurteammembersarecommunitymembers,andawealthofknowledgeaboutowncommunitiesandhowsucceedatuniversity.healthmatters.Inadditionourteamofcounsellorsandhealthworkers,youcantomeetwithanIndigenoustoreceivetraditional,inclusivesupport.ofeventsrounddancestobeadingULethbridgehostsaofeventstorecognize significant days and events, such as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and National Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
Alicia Anderson (BSc ’20, MSc ’22) Gates Scholar and PhD Student University of Cambridge
“You start by making connections with professors and I’ve been lucky to have really passionate professors teaching me undergraduate physics and inspiring me to join a research group and take it to the next level. I really owe it all to my department and all the professors who have taught me.”
Métis scholar Alicia Anderson (BSc ’20, MSc ’22) has always aimed high through her study of astrophysics at ULethbridge. Her academic aptitude earned her a Gates Cambridge Scholarship, one of the most prestigious awards in the world that will have her study at the University of Cambridge for her PhD.
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Learn more about Alicia
Alicia Anderson (BSc ’20, MSc ’22) Gates Scholar and PhD Student University of Cambridge inULethbridge&ProgramsinitiativesisleadingIndigenous-focused programming, offering several majors and minors across our faculties and schools. ULethbridge also offers the Indigenous Student Success Cohort program, a first-year program dedicated to ensuring your success in ForBursariesEmergencyStudentsIpost-secondary.ndigenousstudentsneeding extra financial support during the semester, ULethbridge offers several emergency forDocumentationbursaries.isrequiredbursaryapplications.
Beyond providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive learning environment, Iikaisskini Indigenous Services is focused on providing support, guidance and cultural connection for Indigenous students to achieve academic success during their educational journey at ULethbridge.
SUCCESSSTUDENTSUPPORTING
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While you are on campus, Iikaisskini Indigenous Services can facilitate cultural supports and connect you to resources that support your academic, mental, physical, physiological and spiritual needs.
Visit Iikaisskini Indigenous Services in E610 for support with: • Awards, scholarships and student finance • Ceremony and Smudge Rooms • Childcare resources • Community cultural connections and activities • Community services • Elder Support • First Nations, Metis and Inuit Student Association • Food banks • Housing resources • Iikaisskini (Low Horn) Gathering Centre • Iniskim Alumni Chapter • Personal, academic, career and employment counselling • Student Success Centre and Accommodated Learning Centre assistance • Tatsikiistamik Student Lounge 13
CentreGathering(LowIikaisskiniHorn)
Named after Dr. Leroy Little Bear, the Iikaisskini (Low Horn) Gathering Centre is where we share our stories, teachings and wisdom. It’s a safe place to explore new knowledge, engage in community dialogue and build relationships. Together, we ignite pride and inspire leadership.
The Gathering Centre is supported by generous donations from the Government of Alberta, the Government of Canada’s Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) and an investment from TD Bank Financial Group.
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In the Blackfoot language, Iikaisskini means “low horn”.
Low Horn represents the charging bison’s stance, its head down and horns low to the ground.
Our Gathering Centre is open for you to study, relax, visit with friends, family and colleagues or engage in prayer or ceremony to set your path forward in a good way.
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Visit the Gathering Centre at W650 in the University Hall Atrium.
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At ULethbridge, there are 30 rooms or areas on campus where you are able to smudge to help create a positive mindset and bless a space, including the Iikaisskini (Low Horn) Gathering Centre.
The Elders in Residence program allows you to regularly meet with Blackfoot Elders for wisdom, teachings and blessings.
Spiritual Wellness
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&studentSupportinghealthwellness
Counselling and Health Services
You can access an Indigenous counsellor in addition to all other counselling services. Self-identified Indigenous students may request to meet with an Indigenous counsellor when they visit Counselling Services.Students may also be referred to the ULethbridge Health Centre for medical, psychiatric and clinical mental health support and access an addictions counsellor.
Through traditional teachings and storytelling, our Elders offer guidance, cultural support and encouragement to the campus community. All students are welcome and invited to meet with them.
Shirlee Crowshoe Miisaminiskim (Long Time Buffalo Rock)
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inEldersResidence
Our Elders are on campus throughout the academic year. While on campus, you can visit them in the Carolla (Napiakii) Calf Robe Elders and Ceremony Room (A430) or the Iikaisskini (Low Horn) Gathering Centre (W650).
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(Owl Chief)
Andrea Crowshoe (BMgt ‘19)
growthstudentSupporting
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Indigenous students have the chance to connect with Indigenous and non-Indigenous professionals across a range of career paths in a protégé/mentor relationship.
The Scotiabank Indigenous Youth Mentors program provides support and role modelling to Indigenous students and youth. Students volunteer to mentor youth to help them achieve their educational goals and participate in cultural programming.
Influence Mentoring Society: Creating innovative mentoring relationships
Students have access to workshops, intensive learning sessions and experiential learning in a safe, inclusive and culturally aware environment.
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Students can also be matched with ULethbridge Alumni Mentors to provide support during your time at ULethbridge.
Scotiabank Indigenous Youth Mentorship Program: Mentoring the students of tomorrow
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Tatiana Weasel Moccasin Niihtaapookaa (Old Man River Child) ISSC Certificate, ‘22 Pre-Education student
“I am very thankful to all of my professors that provided support throughout the academic year. I cannot wait to see where my academic journey takes me.”
Activities include:
• National Indigenous Peoples Day
• Indigenous Convocation Events
• National Day of Truth and Reconciliation
Participate in a round dance, learn about Indigenous programming at ULethbridge and meet students, staff and faculty during these annual events!
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Celebrating the rich cultural heritage, beliefs and aspirations of Indigenous Peoples everywhere, ULethbridge hosts several events and activities throughout the year.
• Indigenous Awareness Week
• Welcome Back BBQ
IndigenousSupporting Culture
Learn more about the Mootookakio’ssin project
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Melissa Shouting (BHSc ‘19) utilizes her traditional knowledge as a Blackfoot artist and researcher with the Mootookakio’ssin (Distant Awareness) project. The project creates a bridge that connects Blackfoot Peoples to historical Blackfoot artifacts housed in British museums.
“We use stories to connect with one another and utilizing the story technique allows us to control the narrative about the item and how it is being delivered. Storytelling also allows us to showcase who we are as a People, and how we think collectively when it comes to our knowledge systems.”
technologytraditionConnectingthrough
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Melissa Shouting (BHSc ‘19) Program Coordinator and Instructor Faculty of Health Sciences
Learn more about EleV
Building Educational and Employment Pathways for Indigenous Youth
The EleV Education Navigators assist prospective Indigenous students with the transition to postsecondary, while the EleV Employment Navigators provide current Indigenous students with resources and referrals to assist with the prospective-employee-transition.student-to-
of nature – that leadership is service; others, we fulfil a greater purpose. Indigenous students embracing learning and encouraging students to fly higher through creates the opportunity for young people
EleV is an innovative partnership between the Blackfoot Confederacy, ULethbridge and theMastercard Foundation. We create educational opportunities for Indigenous youth and bolster supports to ensure their success.
EleV uplifts Indigenous students embracing learning and leadership. By encouraging students to fly higher through education, EleV creates the opportunity for young people to prosper and contribute to their communities.
EleV reflects a lesson of nature – that leadership is service; that by helping others, we fulfil a greater purpose.
The EleV Navigators provide in-community support services and communication to guide Blackfoot learners along their education and career pathways.
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throughservice;andpeople
• Leverage current academic and research programming, and infrastructure to build connections between education and economic opportunity employment;linkedand
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Dr. Leroy Little Bear tells the story of the gifts of the Three Sisters, represented by corn, beans and squash. The corn provides the climbing pole for the beans, which provides nutrition for the corn and squash, while the squash provides protective covering for the plants. They are a community, their success depends on each other.
Dr. Leroy Little Bear, Iikaisskini (BASc ‘74, DASc ‘04)
The Three Sisters illustrate the important partnership between the University of Lethbridge, the Blackfoot Confederacy and the Mastercard IndigenousrelationshipcompletesMastercardandworkinghaveBlackfootULethbridgeFoundation.andtheConfederacyhadalong,historicalrelationship,theinclusionoftheFoundationtheThreeSisterswithregardtoeducation.
• Support the development of employment and economic development opportunities through the sharing of connections and resources to balance the principles and visions of the Blackfoot confederacy, and aspirations of the individual nations and aspirations of the individuals.
The EleV Program has four objectives:overarching
• Build pathways and enhance access to Indigenouseducationpost-secondaryforprospectivestudents;
• Enhance supports to increase Indigenous student success at ULethbridge;
28 Admission Requirements One academic English Language course: English Language Arts 30-1 Three approved courses chosen from: Aboriginal Studies 30 Mathematics 30-1, Mathematics 30-2 Art 30 or Art 31 Mathematics 31 Biology 30 Physics 30 Chemistry 30 Science 30 Choral Music 30, General Music 30 or Instrumental Music 30 Social Studies 30-1 Dance 35 Five Credits in Advanced level CTS Computer Science Drama 30 One or more distinct languages at level 30 One additional course that has not already been used: May be from the list above Must be worth at least 5 credits (multiple courses worth 5 or more credits can be used) Must be at 30 level Cannot be a Special Project You are the focus of everything we do at ULethbridge! Minimum Average Requirement: 65%
This is your moment. Discover the world and explore an array of learning opportunities while receiving the support you need to succeed in your educational journey and prepare for the careers of tomorrow. Your future is bright at ULethbridge.
Start JourneyYourat Iniskim
Get in touch with
ulethbridge.ca/future-studentServicesIndigenousIikaisskini
4401 University Drive W. Lethbridge, Alberta
T1K iikaisskini@uleth.ca403-394-39023M4