Iikaisskini - ULethbridge Stories

Honouring Helen Piper's legacy through support for Indigenous ULethbridge students

Wâpanacâhkos (Morning Star) Helen Piper’s unshakable resolve to further her education despite significant setbacks has inspired a generous gift in her memory to help future Indigenous University of Lethbridge students.

Iinaatsii'swaawaakaasaakii (Pretty Spider Woman), Taylor Little Mustache, aspires to lead the next generation of learners

Iinaatsii'swaawaakaasaakii (Pretty Spider Woman), Taylor Little Mustache (BA/BEd '19, MEd '23)has found comfort and community as a lifelong learner and graduate at the University of Lethbridge.

Shining Graduate Sooyi'kitstaki (Water Offering), Christine Scout-Bastien

With a degree in psychology, Christine Scout-Bastien (BA ’23) has gained an appreciation for the benefits that come with truly listening to, and communicating with those around her, whether they are peers or professors.

ULethbridge Indigenous students discover cultural connections through Mexican Mayan exchange

Eighteen Indigenous University of Lethbridge students embarked on an international exchange of a lifetime to Quintana Roo, Mexico, in May. Though they travelled far, discovering cultural connections and forging new friendships brought them closer to home than ever.

ULethbridge hosts Indigenous youth through first-time partnership with national program

The University of Lethbridge partnered with the Outland Youth Employment Program to host 25 Indigenous youth this summer, providing opportunities for work experience and post-secondary exploration.

Piitaayinnimaa (Eagle who Captures) Remko Hess captures the spirit of art and identity at ULethbridge

ULethbridge has been a catalyst for Piitaayinnimaa (Eagle who Captures) Remko Hess’ (BA ’23) growth, encouraging him to challenge and expand his perspectives. And, in a world filled with colours, brushstrokes, and endless possibilities, Remko soars above and beyond as an artist.

Shining Graduate Eeetoomoo (The One Who Leads), Bernard White Man Left III's indomitable spirit breaks barriers

When Eeetoomoo (The One Who Leads), Bernard White Man Left III was young, he didn’t dream of accomplishing all that he has in his 26 years of life. Throughout his time at the University of Lethbridge, Bernard has proven unstoppable in achieving his goals.

Amiikstamik (Iron Bull) Darrell Daniels empowers Indigenous voices and inspires change

As a passionate advocate for Indigenous rights and a proud member of the Siksika Nation, Amiikstamik (Iron Bull) Darrell Daniels (BA ’23) has exemplified the transformative potential of education through his remarkable journey at ULethbridge.

Shining Graduate Niitsiitaakii (The Only Woman), Chataya Holy Singer's creative journey has only just begun

Indigenous Fine Arts graduate Chataya Holy Singer is deeply passionate about her Blackfoot roots, applying her artistic talent to honour and educate others about Blackfoot culture. Chataya plans to continue to lead by example and inspire others to pursue their passions.

Shining Student Apoyaakii (Fair-Skinned Woman), Keely Wadsworth

Apoyaakii (Fair-Skinned Woman), Keely Wadsworth wanted her post-secondary education to honour Indigenous history and culture. She knew by enrolling at the University of Lethbridge her dream would become reality. Now four years later, Keely is proud to learn from Indigenous Elders in her classes.

Darrell Daniels, Siksika Education Navigator (Iniskim Indigenous Relations)

Darrell Daniels is employing his skills and education gained at the University of Lethbridge into his new career as Siksika Education Navigator, helping Indigenous students find a pathway to post-secondary success. He will graduate in Spring 2023 with his Bachelor of Arts degree.

Shining Student Dillon Apsassin (BA '22)

Awards and bursaries have allowed Shining Student Dillon Apsassin to focus more on school and family while creating a more peaceful academic environment. This gift of time and resource has provided opportunities for independent studies where Dillon could further explore his Indigenous culture.

Shining Student Niihtaapookaa (Old Man River Child), Tatiana Weasel Moccasin

Those who came before Shining Student Tatiana Weasel Moccasin inspired her to attend ULethbridge, where she will continue intergenerational healing while learning about Indigenous culture and traditions to become a Blackfoot/English teacher when she graduates.

Thank you for a memorable and historic Indigenous Awareness Week 2023

As Indigenous Awareness Week 2023 has come to an end, we thank Iikaisskini Indigenous Services and everyone who organized or engaged in the many events and opportunities across campus! Read more for a recap of this historic week.

Shining Student It’samahka (Driving Along the Beach), Blair Many Fingers

It'samahka, Blair Many Fingers has always been drawn to the Iniskim (ULethbridge) campus. While Blair is from the Kainai/Blood reserve, he grew up in west Lethbridge. His earliest memories of campus include being escorted off campus by security for rollerblading in areas he wasn’t meant to explore.

Royal Adkin (BMgt ’18) — Indigenous Student Advisor (Iikaisskini Indigenous Services)

As an Indigenous Student Advisor, Royal Adkin (BMgt ’18) enjoys connecting Indigenous students with resources and helping to elevate their cultural experiences on campus.

Siipoimoststa, Santanita Oka (BHSc '16), Indigenous mental health outreach worker, Iikaisskini Indigenous Services

Meet Santanita Oka (BHSc '14), who works with Iikaisskini Indigenous Services as the Indigenous mental health outreach worker.

How the Indigenous Student Success Cohort Helped Shining Student Siksiikakoan, Shane McDougall Thrive

The Indigenous Student Success Cohort (ISSC) supported Siksiikakoan (Blackfootman), Shane McDougall on his return to school decades after he graduated high school.

Student-led Roots of Growth project reaches maturation with official launch

Born out of a response to a call to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, the Roots of Growth project is reaching maturation as it officially launches at the University of Lethbridge.

What does it mean to engage in truth and reconciliation in higher learning institutions? A conversation with Dr. Apooyak'ii, Tiffany Prete

As we recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, it is important to learn and understand how we can take meaningful steps to achieve the goals of the day and the overall mission of truth and reconciliation in Canada.

Iikaisskini (Low Horn) Gathering Centre opens in honour of Dr. Leroy Little Bear (BASc '72, DASc '04)

Dr. Leroy Little Bear (BASc '72, DASc '04) knows the importance of education and champions the pursuit of knowledge in everything he does, which is strikingly evident in his work on Indigenous Ways of Knowing and Being.

Meet Shining Student Pii-taa Kyaa-tsis, Walker English

Kinesiology student Walker English didn't have far to go when he chose ULethbridge. He grew up in nearby Fort Macleod, Alberta. The strong sense of community he's found on campus has helped him excel.

Q&A with Shining Graduate Alyssa No Runner (Ahkoiinnimakii)

Participating in research as an undergraduate student allowed Alyssa No Runner (Ahkoiinnimakii) (BSc '22) to learn about ways to educate the academic and non-indigenous community on Indigenous culture.

Q&A with Shining Graduate Sydney Shade, Míínaakii

Dhillon School of Business student Sydney Shade, Míínaakii (BMgt '22) is proud to be crossing the stage to receive her degree in Accounting.

Q&A with Shining Graduate and AstraZeneca Aboriginal Nursing Award recipient Amber Whitstone

Shining Graduate and AstraZeneca Aboriginal Nursing Award recipient Amber Whitstone answers a few questions about her time at ULethbridge