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  • All-Gender Washrooms

    washroom sign1
    Nipissing University is committed to ensuring safe and accessible services for everyone; accordingly, all-gender washrooms are available.
    washroom_signs2
    Nipissing University is committed to ensuring safe and accessible services for everyone; accordingly, all-gender washrooms are available.
    washroom_signs3
    Nipissing University is committed to ensuring safe and accessible services for everyone; accordingly, all-gender washrooms are available.
    washroom_signs4
    Nipissing University is committed to ensuring safe and accessible services for everyone; accordingly, all-gender washrooms are available.
    washroom_signs5
    Nipissing University is committed to ensuring safe and accessible services for everyone; accordingly, all-gender washrooms are available.

    An all-gender washroom is a washroom that is not labelled male or female, but rather is available to anyone, no matter what their gender identity or biological sex.

    Why would someone use an All-Gender washroom?

    All-gender washrooms provide a safe washroom space for trans and non-binary people, as well as those whose gender expression may not appear to match their gender identity. For these people, using a binary gendered washroom can cause stress and be physically dangerous, which often results in them not using public restrooms at all.

    Additionally, all-gender washrooms can be helpful to a wide variety of other people, such as: (1) parents or caregivers with small children of a different gender identity, (2) people who have a caregiver or personal attendant with a different gender identity from them, and (3) people who need privacy for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to: those who experience anxiety, are breast-feeding, and people who need a place to administer medications.

    What does it mean to be trans? Is that different from being non-binary?

    Trans or transgender is an umbrella term referring to people with diverse gender identities and expressions that differ from stereotypical gender norms. It includes but is not limited to people who identify as transgender, trans woman, trans man, transsexual, cross-dresser, gender non-conforming, gender variant, genderqueer, and non-binary.

    Non-binary is a gender identity that can fit under the umbrella term of trans, though people who identify as non-binary may not also identify as trans. Non-binary specifically refers to people whose gender identity does not fit in the male-female binary. They may also use the term genderqueer.

    Wait, how is gender different from gender expression?

    Gender, or gender identity, is each person’s internal and individual experience of gender. It is their sense of being a woman, a man, both, neither, or anywhere along the gender spectrum. A person’s gender identity may be the same as or different from their birth-assigned sex.

    Gender expression is how a person publicly presents their gender. This can include behaviour and outward appearance such as dress, hair, makeup, body language, and voice. A person’s chosen name and pronoun are also common ways of expressing gender.

    While someone’s gender expression can match their gender identity, sometimes it does not. This can be a problem in gendered washrooms when people assume someone’s gender identity is the same as their gender expression. For example, someone who identifies as female may prefer to dress in a masculine or androgynous (not clearly male or female) style. This person may then be subject to verbal or physical abuse in a gendered washroom by people in the washroom who feel they do not ‘belong’ there. When in a gendered washroom it is important to trust that anyone who is using that washroom is supposed to be there, even though they may not look like they belong.

    Why do we need signs beside the male and female washrooms?

    All-gender washrooms are not always readily available, so including inclusive signage beside binary washrooms can help decrease the risk of physical or verbal harassment or assault occurring these spaces. These signs also help decrease fear and anxiety for trans and non-binary people, and allow them to feel comfortable in the washroom of their choice. Inclusive signage encourages respect for those with a different gender identity or expression, and communicates that discrimination towards trans and non-binary people is not acceptable.

    Where are the all-gender washrooms on campus?

    There are currently all-gender washrooms available in all academic spaces on campus:

    Main Building

    Harris Learning Library

    Robert J. Surtees Athletic Centre

    Centre for Physical and Health Education

    Monastery Hall

    Nipissing University is committed to increasing the number of all-gender washrooms on campus.

    Inclusive Washroom Signage

     

     

    Useful Documents

    Helpful Terms and Concepts

    Related Links

    Let's Talk About Bathrooms
    Video on All-Gender Washrooms
    OHRC Policy

  • Biidaaban Community Service-Learning (BCSL)

    Biidaaban Youth Group
    Biidaaban Academic Support Tutor Report

    Biidaaban Community Service-Learning (BCSL) symbolizes the beginning of new partnerships designed to enhance the lives of students and communities.

    Pronounced bee-daw-bun, Biidaaban is an Anishinaabe term, meaning: ‘the point at which the light touches the earth at the break of dawn.’

    Community Service-Learning (CSL) is a form of experiential learning that addresses community needs. Faculty incorporate CSL opportunities in their courses for students to support community organizations in many ways. This interactive, reciprocal and community-engaged approach to education is followed by meaningful reflection to help consolidate notions learned in class and in community.

    A reciprocal relationship between faculty, community partners and students is central to CSL. Keep reading to learn more about how our office can support the CSL process.

    CSL Reciprocal Relationships

    Contact

    Community Service-Learning Officer
    Enji giigdoyang, Office of Indigenous Initiatives
    Nipissing University
    F215-D
    (705) 474-3450 Ext. 4772
    indigenousprograms@nipissingu.ca 

    Biidaaban works in alignment with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action, North Bay’s Urban Aboriginal Strategy, and the Office of Indigenous Initiative’s Strategic Plan to support local Indigenous community in meaningful ways.

    Nipissing University offers Faculty a number of administrative and logistical supports for the creation and delivery of experiential learning opportunities for their students via the Community Service-Learning program.

    Creating a CSL experience

    CSL activities address specific community needs. For example: housing, food security, mental health, advocacy, education, violence prevention, etc. They align with community partner mandates, goals and objectives. 

    To help build your CSL activity, ask yourself the following questions:

    • What are the goals and learning outcomes of my course?
    • Where, or how, could my students gain a greater understanding of these notions outside of the classroom?
    • What kind of experiential learning will benefit students in my course?  
    • Which community partner(s) might be a good fit for my course?
    • How does this relate to the organization's mandate?
    • What process will I require from my students to integrate placements? (interviews, training, etc.)
    • How many hours should I assign to this activity, 10 hours, 20 hours, 40 hours?
    • How will I assess student learning?
    • How will I connect their experiences to theory in the course? 
    • How will students record or share their experiences?
    • How will this benefit students, community partner(s), myself?
    • What reflective assignment will follow the experience?

    Once your activity has been developed, include the following in your syllabus:

    • CSL activity (marketing products, research, communication plan, outreach strategy, translation, fund raising ideas, etc.)
    • Name of community partner 
    • Corresponding reflective assignment (journal, year end presentation, essay, in-class discussion, etc.)
    • Grade (20 hours for 20%, 10 hours minimum for 5%, etc.)
    • Biidaaban Learning Series: BCSL offers a series of free training workshops for students entering CSL placements at Nipissing University. The workshop series typically includes Intro to Allyship, Sexual Violence and Prevention Training, Healthy Boundaries, and more.
    • Timeline (due dates, deliverables, etc.)
    • Roles and responsibilities (Faculty, student or student team lead, community partner, CSL Officer, etc.)

    CSL can be an optional, or required assignment for students in your class.

    The CSL Officer is available to meet with you to plan and brainstorm. We are also available to provide in-class presentations to introduce CSL at the start of the term.

    Why incorporate CSL into my course?

    • Supports community
    • Creates connections between community partners, faculty and students
    • Students gain volunteer experience
    • Students are more engaged in class
    • Students integrate classroom theory and experience
    • Facilitates a dynamic learning environment 
    • Opportunity for meaningful reflection 

    Administrative supports for Faculty

    A number of administrative and logistical supports are available to faculty for the creation and delivery of CSL:

    • Finding placement/volunteer opportunities for students
    • Liaising with community partners
    • Registering your students' CSL volunteer activities in the Record of Student Development (RSD) database
    • Ensuring students get their Police Vulnerable Sector Checks (PVSC)
    • Providing students with agreement forms to bring to their placement
    • Providing students with health and safety forms
    • Providing students with time sheets
    • Checking in with community partners
    • Aiding with travel plans, itineraries, and bookings (ex.: booking bus to Dokis First Nation) 
    • Getting students to complete online Health and Safety training
    • Room bookings
    • Smudge requests
    • Printing
    • In-class presentations
    • Conducting student interviews
    • Conducting student surveys
    • Attending in-class discussions and final project presentations

    Training

    To register for the Biidaaban Learning Series, or for more information, please contact the Biidaaban Community Service-Learning Officer at indigenousprograms@nipissingu.ca

    Certification

    Students who complete CSL projects or placements are eligible to receive a certificate from the Office of Indigenous Initiatives acknowledging their work in support of local community.

    What types of volunteer activities can students do while on CSL placement?

    Students put theory into practice to gain a greater understanding of Indigenous community and non-profits by:  

    • Assisting with programming, projects or events
    • Creating meaningful programming to support clients and community
    • Generating content, planning and engaging with social media 
    • Attending community meetings/events, board meetings, volunteer meetings, etc. 
    • Researching grants and writing proposals
    • Planning events and supporting logistics
    • Augmenting accessibility to resources 
    • Assisting with fundraising 
    • Creating and updating print materials and communication tools
    • Creating new resources for community partners and the people they support
    • Updating websites 
    • Entering data 
    • Building awareness
    • Administrative support
    • Recording stories and experiences 
    • Augmenting reach and visibility 
    • Translating
    • Assisting with strategic planning
    • Drafting and conducting surveys
    • Research
    • Developing marketing tools
    • Providing creative services
    • Developing strategies in response to presented challenges 
    • Participating in outreach and public education 
    • Advocacy work

    Connecting course content to community experiences

    This can occur through class discussion, one-on-one debriefs, sharing circles, check-ins, weekly journaling, blogging, or other methods of sharing.

    Faculty are responsible for initiating regular and ongoing discussion about student experiences. 

    The CSL experience allows students to connect course curriculum to what they learn in community. Consider asking why they think certain things might be happening: social issues, lack of human resources, funding, need for volunteers, etc. using lived experience as the starting point for reflection.

    CSL activities must be in alignment with the community partner's mandate, goals and objectives. It must enhance their capacity. Think of your intentions for student learning, the goals of your course and how this relates to the organization's mandate.

    Community partners

    You may already have a community partner in mind, or you may want to connect with partners who are familiar with this program, having hosted students in the past.

    BCSL would like to thank the following: North Bay, Nipissing First Nation, Dokis First Nation, Temagami First Nation, and surrounding area partners for supporting and providing Community Service-Learning opportunities to Nipissing University students:

    Reflective assignments

    Reflection is key to Community Service-Learning. Types of reflective assignments include: 

    • In-class discussion, discussion groups or debriefing
    • Journals
    • Essays
    • Collaborative projects
    • Oral presentations  
    • Portfolio
    • Group journal
    • Letter to self
    • Reflective interview
    • Artistic reflection

    Student assessment

    Marks may be tied to placement attendance, participation in group discussion, reflective assignments, and more. Remember, you are marking the reflection and learning that comes from placement experience, not the placement itself.

    Student learning is a combination of notions explored in community and in class. Reflective assignments and responses allow students to integrate knowledge and illustrate learning. 

    Attendance: Students may be required to complete a certain amount of hours (10, 20, 40, etc.). A time sheet helps them keep track of hours. This time sheet can be provided by the CSL team and should be signed by a placement supervisor to confirm attendance.

    The Biidaaban Community Service-Learning program connects community organizations with university students and faculty, to work on community generated projects for course credit. Read on to learn more about the various experiential learning opportunities you can create for students to support your organization. 

    In what ways can a student support my organization? 

    Students can support in a number of ways.

    They bring knowledge and skills learned in university courses to organizations, increasing their capacity to meet community needs.

    Project-based CSL. Community organizations submit projects to be completed by university students for course credit. The work is done in class,  under the guidance of the professor, and outcomes are shared with the community partner once finished. Students can support by:  

    • Developing marketing tools 
    • Creating social media content and other communications
    • Developing community outreach strategies
    • Drafting and conducting surveys
    • Assisting with programming, projects or events
    • Creative services
    • Maintaining engagement on social media platforms
    • Augmenting organization reach 
    • Creating meaningful programming to support clients and community
    • Entering data
    • Attending community meetings/events, board meetings, volunteer meetings, etc.
    • Support event planning and logistics
    • Administrative support
    • Researching grants and writing proposals
    • Assisting with fundraising 
    • Creating and updating print materials
    • Creating resources for community partners and the people they support
    • Hosting a Facebook live event
    • Reviewing print materials and online platform content, making recommendations
    • Participating in outreach and public education 
    • Advocacy work
    • Conducting research
    • Etc.
    Collaborations can take place in person, virtually or both. 
    • Community organization to touch base with the class, or designated leads, a few times during the school term for feedback.
    • Students to present project outcomes to organization.
    Other optional project components (virtual):
    • Students to attend staff, volunteer, or board meetings
    • Virtual tour of organization physical spaces
    • Meet and greet with other staff, clients, or other folks as requested 
    • Sharing Circles
    • Etc.

    How do I submit a project opportunity?

    To submit an opportunity, fill in the "Project Proposal Template" below. We will be happy to discuss ideas and answer questions! 

    Click here to download the Project Proposal template

    Timeline

    Students can provide from 10 to 20 hours of service per term. 

    • Fall term: September to November (Exams in December)
    • Winter term: January to March (Exams in April)

    Students provide, on average, 1-4 hours of service per week, spending time in class working on a project for the organization. Some courses last one term only (4 months) and others last the entire school year (8 months). Some courses are only offered in the first term, some are only offered in the second term. 

    Community organizations can choose to work with a class for one term only, for an entire school year, or with 2 separate classes during each term. Multiple projects can be submitted for students to work on.   

    A timeline should be developed between the community organizations and the class teacher. 

    Need a student for a single event?

    Submit project details to the Community Service Learning Officer at 705-474-3450 ext. 4772 or email indigenousprograms@nipissingu.ca. We will attempt to find a student or course group to collaborate with you. 

    Community Partners

    BCSL would like to thank the following North Bay, Nipissing First Nation and surrounding area partners for supporting and providing Community Service-Learning opportunities to Nipissing University students:

    Training

    To register for the Biidaaban Learning Series, or for more information, please contact the Biidaaban Community Service-Learning Officer at indigenousprograms@nipissingu.ca.

    Certification

    Students who complete CSL projects or placements are eligible to receive a certificate from the Office of Indigenous Initiatives acknowledging their work in support of local community.

    Common concerns about remote or virtual CSL experiences

    “Will my virtual CSL experience be as valuable as an in-person one?”

    A virtual experience is just as legitimate as an in-person one. You need these to build up your resume and your future careers. The BCSL team makes every effort to pair up students with projects and partners that work in fields of interest to students. Committing yourself to such an experience will serve you professionally in the future. Most learned skills are transferable. From working with children, organizing a fund raiser, producing a communication plan, hosting a Facebook event, doing online outreach or creating programming, these skills will serve you across many fields and in many professional settings.

    Since many students have had limited access to work since the start of the pandemic, a virtual placement or CSL project is as close as students can get to hands on, real-life experience. This experience could land you a new reference, a community connection, new perspectives. CSL allows students to gain access and insights into organisations like no other. 

    Additionally, many organisations have satellite offices, partners in other cities, clients in other territories and countries. Learning to work and connect with people from a distance will prepare you for a future career.

    “I was hoping to network with partners but am now unsure of how to build those relationships.”

    A huge part of the CSL experience is building relationships and networking with supervisors, colleagues, volunteers and clients. There will be opportunities to connect with folks via virtual team meetings, email, phone, and through your work. Positive interactions, be they virtual or in-person, do not go unnoticed. If you participate and contribute ideas, knowledge and positive energy to the CSL project, your investment will pay off. Think about ways that you can use networks like Zoom to help build relationships. 

    “Without in person supervision, how will I know what is expected of me?”

    The CSL project will be planned and reviewed ahead of time, and be presented to you in class, prior to starting your virtual placement, or CSL project. A timeline, list of roles and responsibilities, agreement forms, training, and a student handbook will also be provided. Setting clear expectations is the responsibility of the community partner and faculty. If something is not clear, it is your responsibility to ask for clarification. If you do have questions, ask yourself if you know how to reach out to your community partner representative, team members, classmates, and teacher?   

    Managing change 

    Change can be stressful. Self-care, communication and flexibility will be your best assets. Every effort will be made by the BCSL team, your teacher and community organisations to inform you of any possible changes and next steps as far ahead of time as possible. A lot of students have lost jobs, and opportunities in the future seem increasingly uncertain. Your supportive role, working collaboratively and productively on projects that aid community as a whole, is valuable. Always remember that you are not alone. 

    Questions about your placement

    Students who complete CSL projects or placements are eligible to receive a certificate from the Office of Indigenous Initiatives acknowledging their work in support of local community.

    Biidaaban Youth Group (BYG) is an after school program for Indigenous youth in grades 3 to 5.

    Nipissing University student employees support youth with their homework and host 1 hour of cultural, social and artistic activities.

    Program location

    Biidaaban Youth Group will take place in person* at the Treaty Learning Centre​​​​​​​ with the location still to be determined. 

    *Snow days: Biidaaban Youth Group will be offered virtually on snow days. Participants will receive materials at their place of residence at the start of the program. Links to join the sessions will be emailed the morning of the snow day. 

    Program hours and dates

    Biidaaban Youth Group takes place on Wednesdays, after school to 4:30 pm. 

    The Office of Indigenous Initiatives will arrange cab transportation for students to and from the campus. Contact us for more info.

    Youth registration 

      

    Parents of youth in grades 3, 4, and 5, attending schools in the Near North District School Board are invited to register their children in grades 3, 4, and 5.

    Niminowaazmin (Year-end celebration)

    Niminowaazmin is the Office of Indigenous Initiatives' year-end celebration for Biidaaban Youth Group and Biidaaban Academic Support, honouring the successes of participating youth, their families, as well as our partners, tutors, student volunteers and employees. 

    Niminowaazmin is an Anishinaabe word that means "we are celebrating".

    For more information, contact the Community Service-Learning Officer at indigenousprograms@nipissingu.ca

    Biidaaban Academic Support

    Biidaaban Academic Support (BAS) is a tutoring program for local Indigenous youth in grades 1 to 12, with a focus on mathematics and literacy. Nipissing University student volunteers offer one-on-one support, in-person or virtually, either during the school day, or after school hours.

    Parents/Guardians: Register your child for tutoring

    Please complete the registration form below and email to the Biidaaban Community Service-Learning Officer, at indigenousprograms@nipissingu.ca.

    Biidaaban Academic Support Registration Form

    Program Dates

    October to March. Schedules are adapted to student needs and availability. 

    Program Locations (schools)

    North Bay, Sturgeon Falls and Nipissing First Nation.  

    Eligible schools: Schools fall within the Near North District School Board, Nipissing Parry Sound Catholic District School Board, and Nipissing First Nation.

    Become a Tutor (for Nipissing University Students)

    Open to all Nipissing University students. Register as a tutor by contacting the Biidaaban Community Service-Learning Officer in the Office of Indigenous Initiatives, at indigenousprograms@nipissingu.ca, or drop-in at F215-D, in the Office of Indigenous Initiatives. You will be asked to participate in a casual interview. 

    Please bring:

    1. A copy of a valid Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC)
    2. Your class schedule 

    Community impact

    In order for us to measure the impact of tutoring supports for Indigenous youth and tutors, it is important for tutors to record their work by submitting tutoring reports online. Submit Tutor Report

    On average, students tutor for 1-3 hours per week throughout the school year.

    Benefits of becoming a Tutor

    Support Community

    • Connect with real people, share in their experiences, learn from them
    • Provide human resources where there is a need
    • Enhance social awareness and sense of responsibility
    • Get to know your community beyond the campus

    Professional Development

    • Meet people and network
    • Learn from experience  
    • Develop skills and broaden knowledge (critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership, communication)

    Personal Growth

    • Gain perspective
    • Assess your strengths, motivations and passions
    • Increase understanding of concepts learned in class
    • Get to know yourself in different contexts and in relation to others

    Recognition

    The Office of Indigenous Initiatives recognizes the volunteer work of students in community. Biidaaban Academic Support is RSD approved. 

    For tutors who complete 10 hours or more of tutoring: you could be eligible to receive free training (webinars, workshops, etc.)

    Emailing the Biidaaban Community Service-Learning Officer, at indigenousprograms@nipissingu.ca for further information.

    Tutor Training

    In order to qualify for the Biidaaban Academic Support program, we ask that you take the time to view these 3 mandatory workshops (videos):   

    Support links:

    To register, or for more information, email Biidaaban Community Service-Learning Officer, at indigenousprograms@nipissingu.ca.

    Niminowaazmin (Year-end celebration)

    Niminowaazmin is the Office of Indigenous Initiatives' year-end celebration for Biidaaban youth programs including Biidaaban Youth Group and Biidaaban Academic Support, honouring the successes of participating youth, their families, as well as our partners, tutors, student volunteers and employees. 

    Niminowaazmin is an Ojibwe (Anishinaabe) word that means "we are celebrating".

    Virtual and in person activities to include traditional teachings, cultural and artistic activities, games, and door prizes. 

    Partnerships

    Biidaaban Academic Support is presented in partnership with the Office of Indigenous Initiatives, the Near North District School Board, the Nipissing-Parry Sound Catholic District School Board, and Nbisiing Secondary School at Nipissing First Nation. 

  • Certificate Workshops and Event Requests

    Mental Health & Wellbeing Training Opportunities

    We are pleased to offer a variety of mental health training sessions for students, staff, and community members. These workshops are designed to enhance your knowledge and skills in effectively addressing mental health concerns.

    Upon completion, participants will receive a comprehensive resource book and an official certificate from the developer organization.

    Take advantage of this opportunity to gain valuable insights and tools for promoting mental health and wellbeing in your community.

    Group Training Sessions

    For groups of 15 or more, we can arrange a private training session. 
    Contact us at mhworkshops@nipissingu.ca to discuss your needs.

    Important Reminder:
    Registrations will close one week before the scheduled workshop date.

     Event Request Form

    Mental Health & Wellbeing is available to support on-campus events related to mental health and wellness.

    We also offer private certificate workshops for select groups (minimum requirements apply).

    Submit requests at least 8 weeks before your desired event date.

    Event Request Form

    Workshop Offered

    Workshop scheduling for the 2026–27 year is currently underway. Registration information will be posted here as it becomes available.

    safeTALK

    ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training)

    Small Talk

    • Duration: ~3.5 hours
    • Target Audience: Those working with children under 12
    • Overview: Learn to identify warning signs in children and explore intervention strategies through case studies.
    • Developed by: Centre for Suicide Prevention
    • Developer Website: https://www.suicideinfo.ca/workshop/small-talk/

    Mental Health First Aid: Adults Who Interact with Youth

    • Duration: 2 days
    • Target Audience: Adults working with youth aged 12–24
    • Overview: Learn to provide initial support to youth experiencing mental health problems or crises. Topics include:
      • Mental health problems & stigma
      • Substance-related disorders
      • Mood, anxiety, trauma-related, eating, and psychotic disorders
    • Developed by: Opening Minds Mental Health Commission of Canada
    • Developer Website: https://openingminds.org/training/mhfa/

    Looking Forward

    • Duration: ~3.5 hours
    • Target Audience: Individuals working with youth aged 12–24
    • Overview: Explore strategies that address the developmental, cognitive, and emotional needs of youth.
    • Developed by: Centre for Suicide Prevention
    • Developer Website: https://www.suicideinfo.ca/workshop/looking-forward/

    Workshop Policies

    Participation & Fees

    All certificate workshops offered through Nipissing University require a participation fee.

    Registration

    • Registration Deadline: Closes one week before the workshop date. If the workshop is full, you may email us to inquire about availability.
    • How to Register: All registration and payment must be completed online via the provided sign-up link. If you encounter issues, please contact us.
    • Workshop Availability: Courses are offered based on demand and may be cancelled if the minimum number of registrants is not met.

    Location

    Unless otherwise specified, all workshops are held at:
    Nipissing University
    100 College Drive, North Bay, ON

    Confirmation

    A confirmation email will be sent 5–7 days before the workshop, including room location and final details.

    Attendance

    • Full attendance is required to receive a certificate.
    • Participants who miss more than 20 minutes will not receive a certificate of completion.

    Accommodations

    If you require accommodations, please contact us in advance at:
    mhworkshops@nipissingu.ca

    Food & Meals

    Food and meals are not provided during workshops.

    Cancellations & Refunds

    We understand that plans can change. Please review our updated policy:

    • If we cancel a workshop (e.g., due to low registration), you will be notified at least 3 days in advance via email. You may choose to:

      • Receive a full refund, or
      • Transfer your registration to another available date.

    • If you are unable to attend on the day of the workshop, refunds are not provided. However, you may contact us to discuss a possible transfer, if space allows.

    • Refunds requested by participants:

      • Must be requested at least 5 days before the workshop date.
      • Will incur a $10 administration fee.
      • No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 5 days before the workshop.

    Contact Information

  • BIPOC Student Support

    To promote and be effective in addressing mental health for all, Mental Health & Wellbeing at Nipissing University uses a racial equity and intersectional lens to highlight, better understand, and effectively respond to the range of unique experiences held by students who identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Colour (BIPOC) in addition to backgrounds that vary by race, ethnicity, religion, and language. 

    Mental Health & Wellbeing acknowledges the racial disparities in mental health care. Research suggests that Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) compared to people who are white are: 

    • Less likely to have access to mental health services
    • Less likely to seek out services
    • Less likely to receive needed care
    • More likely to receive poor quality of care
    • More likely to end services prematurely

    Some of these barriers can be attributed to a variety of factors such as cultural stigma around mental illness, racism and discrimination, language barriers, a lack of health insurance, mistrust of mental health care providers, a lack of cultural competency on the part of mental health care providers, and a Eurocentric-Western worldview of psychology, mental health, and therapeutic modalities.

    BIPOC Student Support at Mental Health & Wellbeing provides the following services for BIPOC Students at Nipissing University:

    • Mental Health & Wellbeing staff provide culturally sensitive counselling and psychotherapy
    • BIPOC Individual Counselling: Choose to speak to a Racialized Counsellor
    • BIPOC Mental Health Practitioners within the Community (Ontario)
    • Ongoing collaboration with Racialized Student Groups and International Students to promote BIPOC mental wellbeing through mental health awareness initiatives, psychoeducation, advocacy and more
    • Mental Health and Anti-Racism Resources for BIPOC Students

    BIPOC Individual Counselling

    Sometimes seeking support from a mental health therapist and counsellor can be difficult for a myriad of reasons including (but not limited to): the barriers between one’s culture and the therapist, fear of being misunderstood and invalidated, the burden of having to explain one’s culture and worldview and feeling like your therapist won’t understand you because of your colour, race, religion, or culture and the unique experiences of these identities like racial trauma and experiences of discrimination.

    Mental Health & Wellbeing acknowledges these challenges faced by students who identify as black, Indigenous, and people of colour (BIPOC) with backgrounds that vary by race, religion, language, and ethnicity.

    Accordingly, students have the option of choosing a racialized counsellor for individual counselling during their Registration with Mental Health & Wellbeing by checking BIPOC Student Support.

    BIPOC Student support is committed to culturally sensitive forms of psychotherapy while acknowledging the different experiences of BIPOC students regarding their mental health challenges and wellbeing.

    Connect with Us
    BIPOC Resource Library

  • Dibaadan Support

    Important Program Update

    Due to unforeseen circumstances, Dibaadan programming will not be available as of February 26th, 2026.

    All future updates about programming will be shared here as soon as they become available.

    Thank you for your continued support.

    For more information, contact mhwellbeing@nipissingu.ca or 705-474-3450 ext. 4507

    Dibaadan provides specialized outreach, prevention, and intervention from a wholistic Indigenous wellness perspective. This includes events and activities to learn more about caring for your well-being. Any student may access these services (status, non-status, non-Indigenous).

    Dibaadan Meaning: "Speak the Truth, speak from your Heart"

    Aaniish naaMeaning: "How are you?"

    Mino bimaadziwin Meaning: “To Live the good life following a balanced approach”

    Origin: Anishinaabemowin

    Sharing Circles

    2023 Medicine Wheel

    Indigenous sharing circles build on wholistic mental health and wellbeing. This is a supportive time for reflecting, relationship building, and sharing with others. The sharing circles help introduce students to sharing, and learning together.

    Gaining a better understanding of self and others. Every sharing circle begins with a smudging ceremony. The Dibaadan Wellness Coordinator will facilitate a conversation for wholistic wellness related to one of the four directions of the medicine wheel. All students are welcome!

    sweet grass braid

    History of Dibaadan

    From September 2015 – March 2017, Nipissing University under the leadership of Mental Health & Wellbeing funded by the Mental Health Innovation Fund, led a two- year initiative to overall “Strengthen Mental Health Services for Indigenous Students” at Nipissing University. This project was called “Dibaadan”. (Speak from Your Heart- Your Truth – Ojibway Anishnaabemowin)

    Phase 1: The Project Facilitator worked within a consultative framework (medicine wheel) with an Indigenous Advisory Circle consisting of community leaders in the helping field as well a Traditional Elder and NU student representatives.

    Phase 1 consisted of evaluating and information gathering of peer reviewed scholarly literature on “Wise Indigenous Mental Health Practices”. In particular identifying barriers that exist for Indigenous learners that wish to access mental health services. This phase of data collection included: Interviewing students, Office of Aboriginal Initiatives, MHW counseling staff and counselors at the university. Also, hosting Discussion Circles, a Drum Social and a Traditional Anishinabek Medicine Bag Workshop for students.

    As a way of “giving back” to the community, Dibaadan hosted a series of Teach In’s facilitated by leaders in the Anishinabek community open for all of Nipissing University.

    Phase 2: The Project Facilitator worked with the Advisory Circle, Nipissing University students, Office of Aboriginal Initiatives and Mental Health & Wellbeing (MHW) to select recommendations for immediate implementation. The Project Facilitator assisted MHW in the appropriate implementation of select recommendations and evaluated the impact of these changes to service. A focus was on sustainability as the project and funding would end in March 2017. The project would report Dibaadan wise practices, Indigenous Evaluative approaches, Values, Accessibility of Services influenced and student narratives/voices and outline what we did best, possible future outcomes with the Nipissing University community, community partners, and the Post Secondary Student Counseling programs across the province.

    Phase 3: The Project Facilitator worked with the advisory circle members, and Nipissing University to hire a Dibaadan counsellor. Changes to the Student Development Services (SDS) environment made the office space more inviting to indigenous students. The Dibaadan counsellor and the ‘Enji Giigdoyang’ Office of Indigenous Initiatives (OII) department continue to work on strengthening their partnerships and collaborating on projects that support indigenous students on campus.

    Additionally, the Dibaadan project created a monthly professional development day for the staff from both SDS and OII to learn more about Anishinabek values, ceremony, cultural awareness and insight about post-secondary indigenous student stories. Other practices such as brief individual counselling, sharing circles, and drop-in time supporting the seven grandfather teachings were implemented by the project.

    Currently, the Dibaadan project continues to grow and develop collaboratively with the students that participate. The advisory circle members meet bi-annually to discuss the future of the Dibaadan Project. Indigenous holistic programing will continue to be available on campus to aid all students in their post-secondary journey.

    Cultural Knowledge Building, Relationships and Community!​​

    Dibaadan Report

    Click here for the video on our official Dibaadan Report Launch ❯

    Click here for a pdf of the Dibaadan Report ❯ ​

    Indigenous Helplines and Resources

    Talk 4 Healing

    Talk 4 Healing - 1-855-554-4325
    Talk4Healing offers 24/7 help, support and resources for Indigenous women, by Indigenous women, all across Ontario.

    Hope for Wellness Help Line - 1-855-242-3310
    Offers immediate help to all Indigenous peoples across Canada.
    Counselling and crisis intervention is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
     

    North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre

    Mental Health & Wellness Program - 705-472-2811 ext. 217
    daw@nbifc.org
     

    Giiwedno Mshkikiiwgamig North Bay Indigenous Hub - 1-705-995-0060
    Traditional Healing services and Mental Wellness and Social Services are offered.

  • Student Intervention Services

    Blue cloudy sky reflecting on the pond at Nipissing University
    Student Intervention Services
    Supportive, Non-Judgmental, Goal-Oriented

    The Student Intervention Specialist (SIS) does not provide direct crisis support to students. If you are a student in urgent need of support please click 24-Hour Supports.

    24-Hour Supports

    Need Help Now

    What is a Student Intervention Specialist (SIS) 

    A Student Intervention Specialist (SIS) takes a leadership role in building the University’s capacity to identify and support students who may be experiencing complex mental health concerns. The specialist serves as a resource and a role model in strengthening the capacity of all University employees to respond quickly and effectively to students who may be displaying disruptive behaviour or are experiencing mental health concerns.

    The specialist develops, implements and oversees a series of initiatives designed to enhance resources for faculty, staff and students regarding mental health. This includes knowledge sharing of current research, relevant strategies and best practices. The specialist develops and presents educational events including workshops and presentations on topics related to mental health.

    What Services Does SIS Provide to Students?

    Student Intervention Services provides a supportive, non-judgmental, goal-oriented relationship with the student to collaboratively develop a service navigationplan while focusing on the student’s goals and individualized needs.  

    SIS collaboratively works to offer and maintain programs tailored for students including REAL TALK and NUlistens.

    Student Intervention Services also provides training opportunities for students.

    Case Management Support

    Overview

    The Student Intervention Specialists (SIS) provide Case Management Support through Student Development and Services. The focus is on establishing supportive, non-judgmental relationships to help students create personalized plans that address individual goals and needs.

    Who Can Benefit?

    This referral-based service is designed for students facing mental health challenges or minor conduct issues, as well as those dealing with short-term situational challenges (e.g., returning to classes after hospitalization).

    Services Offered by the SIS:

    • Individual Meetings: Assess needs and set achievable goals.
    • Ongoing Follow-Up: Conduct regular check-ins to track progress.
    • Referral Services: Connect students to Academic Advising and local mental health resources.
    • Collaborative Planning: Work with other professionals to develop a cohesive support plan.
    • Advocacy: Represent student needs within the university.
    • Transition Assistance: Provide support during transitions to and from university.
    • Care Planning Meetings: Participate in on- or off-campus meetings.
    • Faculty and Staff Support: Offer guidance to faculty on supporting students with mental health concerns.

    Note: Case Management Support is voluntary and does not include crisis support, counselling, or academic advising.

    Getting Connected

    Referrals can be made by any Nipissing University staff, faculty members or students concerned about a student’s wellbeing, preferably with the student's knowledge. The SIS will reach out to discuss next steps and schedule an initial appointment.

    Initial Appointment

    During the first meeting, the SIS will:

    • Review Consent and Confidentiality Agreements.
    • Discuss any current services being received.
    • Explore the type of support needed.

    Open communication about needs is essential for effective support.

    Supportive Relationship

    The SIS aims for a goal-oriented, collaborative approach centred on individual needs. The duration of support is flexible and will depend on specific circumstances. The SIS will discuss any changes in support needs to ensure appropriate assistance is provided.

    NUlistens

    NUlistens Logo Your Wellness Matters

    NUlistens is an outreach and prevention program, delivered in partnership between Mental Health & Wellbeing and the Student Intervention Services. NUlistens is the umbrella brand for the mental health outreach and prevention on Nipissing Campus. 

    Campus Community: NUlistens works towards fostering a supportive campus culture by implementing passive awareness campaigns and provide access to vetted resources including the supporting students folder.  

    Students: NUlistens engages students in awareness of services and skill building events that are designed around campus needs. This includes initiatives such as REAL TALK.  

    Learn more about NUlistens

    REAL TALK

    REAL TALK is an initiative developed by Nipissing University’s Mental Health & Wellbeing and Lakers athletics.  

    The Goal: To better integrate mental health awareness in our athletes' lives while developing relationships between athletes and mental health professionals.

    All Lakers athletes will receive the safeTALK suicide prevention and awareness training. 

    Point Person: Each Nipissing Lakers Varsity team will have a designated athlete as the REAL TALK point person for their team. This point person will be identified to their teammates who are encouraged to connect with them if they are struggling and need to discuss and connect available supports.  

    Coaches: All coaches will complete a comprehensive 2-day Mental Health First Aid - Adults who Interact with Youth Training. This prepares individuals to provide initial support to someone who may be experiencing a mental health crisis or developing mental health concerns.   

    By developing relationships we hope to encourage a REAL and safe space that allows for deeper life conversations amongst athletes, coaches and trainers, and Mental Health & Wellbeing.  

    Learn more about REAL TALK

    Workshops and Training

    Mental Health & Wellbeing is pleased to offer trainings to students, staff, and community members regarding mental health. These trainings are informative and will build your competencies around mental health concerns. Participants from all programs below will receive a resource book of course content and an official certificate from the developer organization.

    • safeTALK
    • ASIST
    • Small Talk
    • Mental Health First Aid
    • Looking Forward

    Learn more about the workshops and training offered

    *If you have a group of ten or more we can arrange a separate training date. Please e-mail us at mhwellbeing@nipissingu.ca.

    What Services Does SIS Provide to Faculty and Staff?

    Faculty and staff are able to receive training, information on professional development opportunities as well as access to resources through Student Intervention Services.  

    Student Support Requests are managed by Student Intervention Services, Student Success Coordinator and the Sexual Violence Prevention and Education Coordinator. Allowing faculty and staff to voice concerns about students.

    NUlisteners

    What is NUlistens: 

    NUlistens is a campus wide prevention and awareness program focused on student’s mental and emotional well-being. Our primary goals are to increase understanding of mental and emotional challenges that students may face during their time at University and to increase their knowledge about support services available.  

    Who is a NUlistener: 

    An NUlistener is a faculty or staff member who provides supportive non-judgmental listening to a student and will refer them to appropriate services if needed. All NUlisteners will be identified to students by an office sign and by a list on our website.  

    Listeners must attend a 1.5 hour in-person orientation session hosted by the NUlistens team. The session will review best practices for supporting a student in distress, where to refer for specific student needs, and what additional support/training is available for NUlisteners.

    Learn how to get involved, and become a NUlistener

    Training and PD

    The NUlistens team is pleased to offer training to students, staff, and community members regarding mental health.

    Learn more about the training and PD offered

    Supporting Students Folder

    Click here for the updated pdf of the Supporting Students Folder