Indigenous Education

We Are Here to Help You Succeed!

The Indigenous Education Team is here to assist and support you throughout your studies.

The Executive Director of Indigenous Strategy and Reconciliation leads the Indigenous Education team, and the College’s response to reconciliation and Indigenization.

The Indigenous Coordinator and Academic Advisor provides support with planning your educational journey-- whether you have just begun to explore or if you have already joined us!

The Indigenous Student Navigator can support you through any challenges you encounter and assist you in accessing culturally appropriate student supports.

Indigenous Student Mentors: Are passionate about sharing their experiences at the College and can help you settle into college life.

We are proud to provide excellent programs and services and are committed to making Indigenous education a priority. Our team is here to help make your College experience a success.

Territorial Acknowledgement College of the Rockies serves the communities of the East Kootenays. All of the College’s campuses are located in the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa people which is also home to the Kinbasket people. Five First Nations bands are located in the regional boundary of the College: Four of which are Ktunaxa and one is Shuswap. Additionally, the College partners with the Kootenay Regional Office of the Métis Nation, BC. We are thankful for all our Indigenous partners and are constantly seeking new ways to support the development of our community.

CONTACT Email us: indigenous@cotr.bc.ca Website: www.cotr.bc.ca/indigenous Social Media: www.facebook.com/IECOTR

Indigenous Education

Supports and Services for Indigenous Students We provide culturally appropriate services and supports for Indigenous students. We offer one-on-one student appointments either in-person, online, or over the phone for: • Academic advising and planning.

• Support for upgrading to meet prerequisites so you are program ready.

• Assistance with applications for financial supports, scholarships, and bursaries.

• Support coordinating with funding organizations (i.e. First Nations, Metis Nation, etc.).

• Referrals to College resources and services.

yaqakiǂ ʔit̓qawxaxamki (The Place Where People Gather) The building is located on the Cranbrook Campus at the edge of the Cranbrook Community Forest and is surrounded by medicinal plants native to the region. yaqakiǂ ʔit̓qawxaxamki is considered a safe haven where students, staff, faculty, and community members feel welcome, respected and engaged.

Respect is the underlying principle of the space and all scheduled activities prioritize diversity, inclusiveness and Indigenous knowledge. The upper-level hosts events, activities, and opportunities to connect with Elders and Knowledge Holders throughout the year. The lower-level is where you’ll find the lounge that features computer stations, a sitting area, and a full kitchen.

Self-Identification We encourage you to declare your Indigenous ancestry when you apply to the College of the Rockies. Students who have declared their ancestry are eligible for Indigenous scholarships, awards and bursaries and may be notified of opportunities such as cultural events taking place in the community, at the College, at the Place Where People Gather or at any of our regional campuses.

• Tours of yaqakiǂ ʔit̓qawxaxamki (The Place Where People Gather).

• Provides opportunities to connect with Elders and Knowledge Holders.

• Assistance navigating campus facilities.

• Connections to cultural events, workshops and programming on campus.

• Referrals to community connections, resources, and services.