The 21st Annual Welcome Pow Wow brought together students, staff, faculty, alumni, and First Nations community members at the campus pond to celebrate Indigenous cultures, community, and connection. Hosted by Enji giigdoyang, Office of Indigenous Initiatives, Nipissing University, and the First Peoples’ Centre, Canadore College, the annual celebration serves as a vibrant start to the academic year, focusing on bridging connections between new and returning students, alumni, and First Nations communities.
“The Welcome Pow Wow is a time for students to celebrate who they are and where they come from – and to find a little piece of home for those studying away from their home communities," said Patty Chabbert, Director, Enjigiidoyang, Office of Indigenous Initiatives. “It is a time to connect to the beautiful lands our campus is situated on, to First Nations communities and to our many partners in education. Every year, we welcome hundreds of new and returning learners, as well as alumni and local schools, to celebrate with us.”
This year’s event welcomed students from local schools, offering them a chance to learn about and take part in the celebration. Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed drumming, dancing, food, and Indigenous artisan and community vendors.
Organizers extended thanks to Emcee Christina Beaucage-River of Nipissing First Nation, a Nipissing University alumna, for bringing so much heart and humour, and for celebrating each dancer, drummer, and student. Gratitude was also expressed to White Tail Cree, the Host Drum; Nipissing University student and Head Dancers Sassa Linklater and Niibin Nakogee; Arena Director Darren McGregor; Invited Drum Juniper Singers; Head Elder Lorraine Liberty-Whiteduck; and Head Veteran Michael Smith for their contributions to the event.
“We are also deeply grateful for the leadership and vision of Ricki-Lee Scheck, Indigenous Student Success Coordinator, who once again took the lead on planning this year's Pow Wow,” added Chabbert.
For more information about Enji giigdoyang,Office of Indigenous Initiatives, visit www.nipissingu.ca/departments/indigenous-initiatives.
For more information about the First Peoples’ Centre, Canadore College, visit www.canadorecollege.ca/first-peoples-centre.
