Nipissing University creates new Indigenous student awards with $75,000 CIBC donation

North Bay, ON – Nipissing University has created new student awards for Indigenous students made possible by a $75,000 donation from CIBC over three years.  The President’s Indigenous Achievement Awards will provide up to eight students with bursaries of up to $5,000 in financial support each year.  

The President’s Indigenous Achievement Awards will be presented to Indigenous students demonstrating high academic achievement in disciplines related to Science, Technology, Environmental Science, Math and Indigenous Studies. These awards address an existing gap in student financial support for Indigenous undergraduate and graduate students who are excelling in these key program areas. 

“As guests on the traditional territory of Nipissing First Nation found in the Robinson-Huron Treaty area,  Nipissing is pleased to partner with CIBC to offer financial support specifically for Indigenous students,” said Cheryl Sutton, President and Vice-Chancellor (Interim), Nipissing University.  “The relationships between Nipissing University and the communities we serve are vital, and this financial support for Indigenous learners is essential for students interested in bridging Indigenous and traditional knowledge with their program of choice to make a positive impact in communities across Northern Ontario.  We are very grateful for CIBC’s support to continue to keep the success of our students at the centre of everything we do.” 

“CIBC is proud to help support the academic journeys of Indigenous students at Nipissing University,” says Jaimie Lickers, VP, Indigenous Banking at CIBC. “By empowering the next generation to continue their education and foster their passion for study, our communities will benefit from the positive impacts these future leaders will make. We are thrilled to be part of helping to make their ambitions a reality.”  

Nipissing University is a leader in academic Indigenization, a process to increase Indigenous content in curriculum across the university and recognize Indigenous ways of teaching and learning. With the support of faculty, administration and community members, the University continues to work towards including Indigenous histories, Indigenous knowledge and contributions of Indigenous peoples in its courses. This work is one action in support of reconciliation and helps better prepare students for their future professions working with Indigenous peoples and communities. 

Nipissing University, located in North Bay, ON, is a young, dynamic institution known for offering one of the best undergraduate experiences among universities in Canada. As a small university, Nipissing offers a warm, friendly atmosphere, access to supportive professors and a personalized learning environment. Nipissing University is consistently ranked among the top in the country for student satisfaction, student support services, residence life and mental health services. 

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Contact:
Meghan Venasse
Manager, Communications
Nipissing University
705-474-3450 ext. 4615
meghanv@nipissingu.ca