This month’s newsletter celebrates a season of achievement, culture, and new beginnings at NVIT. From our June graduation ceremonies in Vancouver and Merritt to our inaugural Powwow, these stories highlight the strength, resilience, and spirit of our students and communities. Graduates crossed the stage surrounded by family, Elders, and leadership, marking not only academic success but personal growth and perseverance. At the same time, our first Powwow brought people together in a vibrant celebration of culture, connection, and shared experience. Together, these moments reflect a time of pride, reflection, and moving forward, grounded in community and tradition.
WHAT HAPPENED ON CAMPUS?
July1
CanadaDay-NVITCampusesClosed
August3
BCDay-NVITCampusesClosed
August7
LastdayofSummer2026Classes
August8-14
FinalExamination
CAMPUS EVENTS & WORKSHOPS
Check out the upcoming events and workshops happening at both NVIT’s Merritt and Vancouver campuses at nvit.ca/events
NVIT Celebrates Graduates at June Ceremonies
On June 5 and June 12, NVIT proudly honoured the achievements of its graduates through two heartfelt ceremonies held at the Vancouver and Merritt campuses. Each gathering reflected not only the accomplishments of students, but also the importance of celebrating within the cultural and traditional territories that continue to guide and support our communities.
The Vancouver Campus graduation took place at the Chief Joe Mathias Centre, located on Xwməlch’stn (Capilano Indian Reserve No. 5) withinthetraditionalterritoryofthe Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Nation. The Merritt Campus ceremony was held at Shulus Arbour, situated in the heart of the Nlaka’pamux Nation’s traditional territory. These meaningfullocationsgroundedboth ceremonies in respect, culture, and community.
NICOLA VALLEY INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
WHAT HAPPENED ON CAMPUS?
VANCOUVER CAMPUS CEREMONY HIGHLIGHTS
The Vancouver ceremony was led by Master of Ceremonies Chloe Price, who is Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw, Musgamagw Dzawada'enuxw, N’Quatqua, Syilx, and Nłeʔkepmx. Her presence and words set an uplifting and respectful tone for the day.
The event opened with a welcome from Chief Gibby Jacob, Kákeltn Siyám, Squamish Nation hereditary leader and NVIT Elder, who acknowledged the gathering on Squamish territory and shared his support for the graduates.
A number of distinguished guests joined the stage to witness and honour the graduating class, including: Dr Verna Billy-Minnabarriet, NVIT Board Member Dr Aruna Gore, NVIT Vice President Elders Christine Leo, Mia Hunt, Tom Oleman, and Chief Gibby Jacob
Inspiring words were shared throughout the ceremony by Dr. Verna Billy-Minnabarriet, Elder Christine Leo, Jonathon Nolie, Student Society President, and Archie Manuel, NVIT Alumni, each offering encouragement and reflections on the graduates’ journeys and futures.
One of the most memorable moments was the entrance of the graduates, who were welcomed by the Proud Little Warriors, a group of young drummers whose songs brought energy, pride, and a strong sense of cultural connection to the celebration.
The ceremony concluded in a good way with a closing prayer and song from Elder Tom, bringing the gathering together in reflection and gratitude.
MONTHLYNEWSLETTER
WHAT HAPPENED ON CAMPUS?
MERRITT CAMPUS CEREMONY HIGHLIGHTS
At the Shulus Arbour, graduates gathered on the traditional territory of the Lower Nicola Indian Band of the Nlaka’pamux Nation, celebrating this important milestone surrounded by culture, land, and community.
The ceremony was led by Master of Ceremonies Chelsea Vaughan, NVIT Associate Vice President of Students and a Lower Nicola Band member, who guided the celebration with warmth and pride.
Guests and graduates were warmly welcomed to the territory by Chief Nicholas of the Lower Nicola Band, who grounded the gathering in respect and recognition of the land and its people. The ceremony began well with a prayer offered by Elder Amelia Washington and Elder Lorna Shuter, inviting reflection, gratitude, and positive energy into the day.
NVIT leadership joined the stage to witness and honour the graduating class, including:
Dr. Verna Billy-Minnabarriet, NVIT Board Member
Dr John Chenoweth, NVIT President
Their presence underscored the importance of the occasion and the shared pride in students’ accomplishments
A series of heartfelt and inspiring speeches followed. Elder Rena Sam, speaking on behalf of the Elders Council, offered words grounded in wisdom, culture, and encouragement. Dr. John Chenoweth and Dr. Verna Billy-Minnabarriet reflected on the dedication and perseverance it took for students to reach this milestone, while also looking ahead to the leadership and impact graduates will bring to their communities.
MONTHLYNEWSLETTER
WHAT HAPPENED ON CAMPUS?
Cely Rae Street, NVIT Alumni, and Jonathon Nolie, Student Society President, also shared powerful messages, speaking from lived experience and student leadership Their words resonated deeply, highlighting the challenges overcome, the importance of support systems, and the pride in reaching this moment
As graduates crossed the stage, they were celebrated by family, friends, Elders, faculty, and community members, each step representing not only academic success but personal growth, resilience, and commitment.
The Merritt ceremony was filled with emotion, pride, and a strong sense of belonging. Honouring not just the completion of studies, but the journey each graduate took to get there and the paths they will continue to walk.
MONTHLYNEWSLETTER
WHAT HAPPENED ON CAMPUS?
A Powerful Beginning: NVIT’s Inaugural Pow Wow
On June 18, 2026, NVIT proudly hosted its first-ever Powwow, marking a historic and meaningful milestone for the institute. Held in the NVIT Gymnasium from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, the event was organized in celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day, June 21, bringing together community, culture, and connection in a good way
As the first of many to come, the Powwow created a vibrant space where traditions were honoured, shared, and celebrated by people of all ages.
At the heart of the gathering were the powerful songs of the Wild River Singers, whose drumming filled the gym and brought dancers and spectators together in the circle. The gym itself was alive with colour and movement, filled with dancers wearing beautiful regalia that reflected identity, tradition, and artistry. The event was guided by Master of Ceremonies Buck Sheena, who ensured the day flowed with respect, energy, and cultural integrity.
The Powwow featured outstanding performances from: Bear Dancers
Huckleberry Dance Group
Hoop Dancer Vileena Peterson
Each performance brought its own unique expression of culture, storytelling, and artistry, captivating the audience and highlighting the richness of Indigenous traditions
Beyond the performances, one of the most memorable aspects of the day was the community participation. Many attendees joined in the dancing, with families, couples, youth, and Elders all stepping into the circle together. Children danced alongside their parents, and people of all ages took part, including friendly dance competitions that added excitement and joy to the celebration.
The Powwow also welcomed local grade school students, giving young visitors the opportunity to experience and learn about Indigenous culture firsthand in a welcoming and engaging environment
Outside, a variety of local food vendors added to the festive atmosphere, offering a selection of delicious options for attendees, including Wood’s Smoking BBQ Pit, Shelley’s Bannock, Five Cubs Quick Stop, and Sweet Chaos Ice Cream
This milestone event was made possible through the leadership and dedication of Lesley Manuel, Manager of Indigenous Campus Initiatives, whose work helped bring this first Powwow to life and create a meaningful space for community celebration.
Together, the music, dancing, food, and community presence created a lively and inclusive environment that reflected NVIT’s commitment to culture, learning, and community engagement.
NVIT’s inaugural Powwow was more than an event. It was the beginning of a new tradition, a space where culture is celebrated, connections are strengthened, and community continues to grow.
Who Are We?
STEPS Forward is a family-driven organization founded to ensure that people with developmental disabilities are included as students in the academic and social life of colleges and universities of British Columbia.
Reach out to Lynne McCormack to inquire about eligibility or to schedule an appointment.
Lynne@steps-forward.org 250 899 6444
Discover What You Can Achieve
STEPS Forward Applications are now open!
Experience a supported pathway to college, confidence, and future opportunities.
What You Can Expect
Choose an NVIT program based on your interests and goals
Take audit courses and earn a Certificate of Completion
Access college even if your learning journey has been different
Receive personalized support from a STEPS Forward facilitator
Build skills, confidence, and independence
Complete coursework adapted to your learning style
Learn in an inclusive environment with other NVIT students
For more information and deadlines, visit nvit.ca/continuingstudies
RedCrossEmergencyFirstAid withCPR‘C’
8:30AM-4:30PM|MerrittCampus
Wednesday,July8,2026
StandardFirstAidwithCPR‘C’
8:30AM-4:30PM|MerrittCampus
August26-27,2026
(2-daycourse,Wednesday-Thursday)
RegistrationDeadline: August14,2026
FOODSAFELevel1
9:00AM-5:00PM|MerrittCampus
Tuesday,September1,2026
FOR
nvit.ca/continuingstudies
Download the registration form now!
EXPLORENVIT’S NEWEVENTSPAGE
Your one-stop hub for everything happening at NVIT. Check out upcoming events, plan ahead, and add them to your calendar so you never miss out!
Add events to your calendar now!
COMMUNITYEDUCATION
BRINGING EDUCATION TO YOUR COMMUNITY
Sault St. Marie, ON Keremeos
Kamloops
Lil’wat
Hazelton
Vernon
Williams Lake Lillooet
Vancouver
Bella Coola
Lax Kw’alaams
Prince Rupert
Current Community Deliveries
Smithers
Prince George
Sheshatshiu, NL
Iskut
Whitehorse, YT
Penticton
Sapotowayak (Swan River, Manitoba)
Chase Calgary
Stein Valley Bonaparte First Nation
Dease Lake Tla’zt’ten
Lake Babine
Community Education is an alternative education method for students who wish to continue residing and learning within their own community.
NVIT delivers programming to First Nations communities throughout British Columbia and across Canada.
NVIT’s Community Education model supports and provides students with an opportunity to learn in their own community so that they do not have to relocate in order to further their education NVIT’s Community Education Programming options range from Adult Basic Education to Trades Programs and even the completion of two-year diplomas. For more information visit our Community Education Center today! Or contact coyotetravels@nvit.ca
Some of the programs offered through Community Education
Indigenous Early Childhood Education (IECE)
IECE Micro-Credential
Indigenous Human Service Certificate/Diploma
Indigenous Language Certificate/Diploma
Applied Practical Nursing (APN)
Health Care Assistant (HTCA)
Indigenous Holistic Wellness and Addictions (IHWA)
Certificate/Diploma
Bridging to Trades Program
Construction Trades Sampler
Culinary Arts
College Readiness
Environmental Natural Resource Technology (ENRT)
Medical Office Assistant
Office Administration Certificate (OFAD)
University Transfer
General Arts And MORE!
STUDENT AMBASSADOR
Unlock your leadership potential as an NVIT Student Ambassador!
Develop your interpersonal, creative, and professional skills while making a significant contribution to the NVIT community.
School District #58 Nicola-Similkameen (Merritt Secondary, Princeton Secondary, SCIDES);
School District #74 Gold Trail (David Stoddart Secondary, Desert Sands Community School, Kumsheen Shch-Ema-meet, Lillooet Secondary);
School District #78 Fraser-Cascade (Agassiz Elementary-Secondary, Boston Bar Elementary-Secondary, Hope Secondary); Logan Lake Secondary; Similkameen Elementary Secondary; A BC First Nations School registered with the BC First Nations Schools Association; or Any secondary school in British Columbia, if the applicant self-identifies as Indigenous
NVIT hosts a variety of internal awards open only to NVIT students. Some awards require you to demonstrate financial need, while others recognize academic achievement, community involvement, or other accomplishments.
Students interested in viewing our list of bursaries and scholarships in more detail, can make an appointment with an Academic and Financial Planner. Application forms for all awards can be downloaded by clicking on their respective links in yellow below.
