Panel

In this panel presentation, 3 Indigenous Educators from Bow Valley College will speak to the multifaceted work of supporting Indigenous learners in their studies and beyond.

Dr. Maurice Manyfingers will speak to his role as the College’s first Director of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. Specifically, he will speak to his work engaging Elders to support learner experiences as well as the college’s strategic priorities.

Keestin O’Dell, the Indigenous Student Engagement Strategist will speak to student programming and strategic engagement. Indigenous student engagement will be explored through the Indigenous Student Engagement Strategy, which includes four aspects: reducing barriers for Indigenous learners; building a sense of community; supporting engagement in cultural teachings and ceremony; and skill development outside of the classroom. Keestin will reflect on the ways each of these elements combine to increase student retention and support student success.

Dr. Jaime Fiddler will speak to her work in supporting the college’s Indigenous Curriculum Advisory Council. Curriculum Advisory work is not always well-defined, and integrating community consultations with internal processes can be, at times, difficult to navigate. Jaime will share a examples of how she has engaged in the curriculum advisory process, and reflect on how the inclusion of Indigenous advisors can support a more inclusive and impactful experience for learners.