MONTHLY
October:ReflectingonaStrongStart
September was a busy and inspiring month at NVIT as we welcomed new and returning students, reconnected as a community, and marked important events together. From orientation activities to cultural gatherings and hands-on student projects, the month highlighted the strength, resilience, and spirit of the NVIT family.
NICOLA VALLEY INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
IMPORTANT DATES
October1
PostingofDRAFTSchedule fortheFall2024FinalExams
October14
ThanksgivingDay-NVITCampusesClosed October15
LastdaytonotifytheRegistrar’sOfficeof conflictsintheFinalExamSchedule October16
PostingoftheOFFICIALScheduleforthe Fall2024FinalExams
CAMPUS EVENTS & WORKSHOPS
This edition of the newsletter looks back at these milestones and celebrations that made September a meaningful start to the school year
WHAT HAPPENED ON CAMPUS?
NVIT Orientation 2025: A Celebration of New
Beginnings
On September 2, NVIT held its annual Student Orientation across both campuses, a day filled with culture, fun, and community to welcome new students as they begin their educational journey.
At the Merritt campus, the celebration began at the amphitheatre, where students were welcomed with the heartbeat of hand drumming,
led by Molly Toodlican, Willard Wallace, and Lorna Shuter. Mary Angus offered an opening prayer and shared words of encouragement, reminding students of the strength and purpose they carry with them as they step into this new chapter. Dr. John Chenoweth, then greeted the students, introducing NVIT’s vision and reaffirming the institute’s commitment to Indigenous education.
Check out the upcoming events and workshops happening at both NVIT’s Merritt and Vancouver campuses in the Events & Workshops section
MONTHLYNEWSLETTER
WHAT HAPPENED ON CAMPUS?
Students were invited to explore their new learning environment through a campus tour, guided by maps they received upon arrival. This interactive activity encouraged them to team up, connect with their peers, and discover the heart of the campus. The tour concluded at the gymnasium, where service booths and staff were ready to introduce the many supports and resources available to help them succeed. The afternoon continued with a shared lunch, a lively Kahoot game to reinforce what they had learned, and program introductions with faculty.
Meanwhile, at the Burnaby campus, the day began with an Opening Prayer and Elders’ Address, followed by welcome remarks and an introduction to NVIT’s purpose and values Students gathered in circles, sharing their names and stories, before learning more about learner opportunities, events, and social media The orientation then shifted into an expo, where each student service hosted its own booth to connect learners with available supports. After lunch, students joined a Kahoot game before meeting with their programs and faculty to begin building relationships within their chosen fields of study.
Orientation at both campuses was not only an introduction to academics and services, but a day to celebrate culture, connection, and belonging a reminder that at NVIT, no student walks their journey alone.
WHAT HAPPENED ON CAMPUS?
Beaver Wisdom in Action: NVIT Students
Learn Watershed Restoration at Maka Creek
On September 23rd, NVIT Environmental Resources Technology (ENRT) students partnered with the BC Wildlife Federation for a hands-on field experience that combined science, land stewardship, and community connection. The focus was beaverbased ecosystem restoration, a technique that mimics the natural engineering of beavers to restore wetlands and improve watershed health.
Beavers, often called “ecosystem engineers,” build dams that slow water flow, recharge groundwater, and create rich habitats for countless species. When beaver populations were decimated during the fur trade era, and later as settlers redirected waterways, streams like Maka Creek lost much of their ability to hold water, leading to the drying of wetlands, reduced biodiversity, and greater vulnerability to drought and wildfire.
At Maka Creek, students built human-made beaver dams woven structures of logs, branches, and sediment designed to slow water and spread it across the floodplain The project helps the creek behave more like it once did, aiming to restore wetlands, improve fish habitat, and strengthen climate resilience in the Nicola Valley
For ENRT students, the day was not only about learning restoration techniques but also about connecting the past with the future. Recognizing how colonization disrupted ecosystems and how Indigenous-led education can help guide healing for both land and community.
Through projects like this, NVIT’s ENRT program continues to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and cultural awareness needed to lead in environmental stewardship across BC.
WHAT HAPPENED ON CAMPUS?
First Steps: Residential Construction Students Complete Their First Group Project
At NVIT, learning is not only about building skills, but also about building connections to each other, to community, and to the land. Guided by their instructor David Alexander, the Residential Construction Carpentry Foundation (RCST) students completed their first group project of the school year: constructing an exterior staircase that connects the Trades Building to the Welding Trailer area. More than a set of stairs, this project represents the students’ first steps together in their learning journey and provides a safe and practical pathway for the NVIT community while new housing development construction is underway.
The project began in the classroom, where students spent two days learning about the components of a staircase and planning how to bring it to life From there, they moved into the construction phase: two days of cutting stringers and treads, and one final day assembling the structure in place With every step, students applied their knowledge with care, strengthening both their technical skills and their teamwork
Like many first projects, this one brought challenges. The staircase needed to be built on a steep, uneven slope, requiring the students to problem-solve and adjust their approach. Working together, they found solutions and gained valuable experience adapting to the realities of construction on the land.
Through this project, RCST students have not only built a staircase but also laid the foundation for the year ahead. Their work reflects growth, collaboration, and resilience , qualities that will guide them as they continue learning, contributing, and creating in the spirit of service to their communities.
MONTHLYNEWSLETTER
WHAT HAPPENED ON CAMPUS?
NVIT to Receive a Significant Investment to Amplify Impact on Indigenous Youth
We are proud to announce that NVIT is set to receive funding from the Mastercard Foundation as part of a landmark $235 million funding commitment to 30 post-secondary institutions and Indigenous-led organizations across Canada. This investment recognizes NVIT’s leadership in advancing education for Indigenous youth and its deep commitment to reconciliation, cultural revitalization and self-determination.
This principle has guided NVIT since its creation and reflects the vision of the Late Grand Chief F. Gordon Antoine, who stated that the purpose of NVIT is to “improve the quality of life for Indigenous people.” This latest investment ensures that NVIT can continue to uphold that vision by removing barriers to education and creating culturally grounded pathways to success for generations to come.
The Mastercard Foundation’s announcement coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and its Calls to Action, which identified education as a critical path toward reconciliation These investments will enable Indigenous-led and partner institutions to scale successful programs, share innovative approaches, and create sustainable solutions that open pathways to meaningful livelihoods for Indigenous youth.
NVIT plans to allocate a portion of the investment towards immediate support for Indigenous youth, including new and expanded programming, upgraded facilities, and financial awards. The remaining funds will be strategically reinvested in the short term to ensure long-lasting impact on Indigenous communities and learners for generations to come.
“Nicola Valley Institute of Technology is creating pathways to success by centring Indigenous knowledge, integrating connection to culture and community, and a profound commitment to excellence We made a commitment to young Indigenous people that we would walk alongside them to transform post-secondary education in ways that support them to live a good life. This exemplary organization is contributing to that change and to a stronger country for us all,” said Jennifer Brennan, Senior Director, Canada Programs at the Mastercard Foundation.
Dr. John Chenoweth, President and CEO of NVIT, emphasized the transformative nature of the funding: “This $10 million investment is a powerful affirmation of NVIT’s work to empower Indigenous learners. By directing immediate resources to programs, facilities, and financial awards, while also reinvesting for long-term sustainability, we are creating a future where Indigenous youth have every opportunity to succeed, thrive, and lead. This is about building pathways that reflect our values, strengthen our communities, and honour our responsibility as B.C.’s Indigenous public postsecondary institution.”
The Mastercard Foundation EleV Program, launched in 2017, has already supported more than 65,000 Indigenous youth in Canada through education, entrepreneurship, and leadership development With this new funding commitment, the Foundation will accelerate its goal of supporting 100,000 Indigenous youth to complete their education and transition to meaningful work aligned with their traditions, values, and aspirations.
Reeta Roy, President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation, underscored the importance of this investment nationally: “We are proud to support the outstanding work of Indigenous institutions and major universities that are transforming the lives of young Indigenous people. This game-changing work is rooted in reconciliation from improved healthcare services in communities to innovative businesses that are providing clean energy, cultural programs that are revitalizing Indigenous languages, and young people who are graduating as health, technology, and land stewardship leaders.”
This historic funding ensures that NVIT and its peers can expand access to education, integrate Indigenous knowledges, and strengthen self-determination, ultimately contributing to a stronger and more inclusive Canada
MONTHLYNEWSLETTER
WHAT HAPPENED ON CAMPUS?
NVIT Commemorates National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
On September 29, 2025, NVIT came together at both campuses, Merritt and Vancouver, to honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation The date was chosen to allow staff and students to take part in community-led events on September 30 This important day serves as a time to remember the survivors of residential schools, their families, and the children who never made it home
This year’s commemoration was made even more meaningful through the orange shirts worn across both campuses. The shirts featured original artwork by 2-Spirit artist Madelaine McMillan, from Simpcw First Nation, who works and creates in Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc territory. In their artist’s statement, McMillan reflects on the idea of returning as a dedication to resilience – of the People and the Land, of perseverance and rootedness. Through imagery such as the butterfly, sagebrush, and wild rose, their work honours strength, memory, and renewal. McMillan reminds us: “Returning is not retreating. It is growing and nourishing, weathering storms and standing tall despite them knowing what roots hold you firm.” NVIT was honoured to showcase this artwork, which symbolizes community, advocacy, and the enduring message that every child matters.
At the Merritt campus, the day began with a walk from the front entrance, symbolizing the journey toward healing and reconciliation The community then gathered in the amphitheatre for an opening prayer and territory welcome by Casey, followed by remarks from President and CEO Dr John Chenoweth The program featured powerful drumming led by Willard and Lesley, and a keynote from Elder Casey, who shared heartfelt reflections on Orange Shirt Day.
At the Vancouver campus, the gathering opened with words of wisdom from James and prayers led by Mia. A cedar brushing ceremony provided grounding and renewal before the community shared lunch and cultural activities. The day closed in reflection and togetherness.
Across both campuses, NVIT honoured survivors and reaffirmed the ongoing responsibility to reconciliation, walking together, sharing stories, and proudly wearing orange shirts that carried the spirit of strength, memory, and return.
TRC SINCE ‘83
Open your eyes to the genocide
Imagine nowhere to run, nowhere to hide
Taken by the cops while Mama cried
And now you’re so surprised because you were all fed lies Another native-born, another native dies.
Our land claimed by the queen Stolen children never to be seen Steal their souls and cut their hair, Another race you wouldn’t dare Your goal was to shame and to bring pain, We were alive before you came You brought your sickness to our tribes, You put a price on our lives
You called a savage while you live lavish, To survive like us, you couldn’t manage You made a foundation to take down our nation Stolen children, stolen land, Souls snatched by the white man
Kill the Indian is what was taught, Stolen from the land that we fought Introduced to alcohol, with the hopes we would fall
As my people try to heal, open your eyes to what is real The truth has come out, but the damage was done The pain we carry weighs a ton
How do we begin to recover from the trauma we suffer From being violated by a preacher and beat by a teacher Slaughter your daughter at the hands of thy father
Sodomized before the Lord’s eyes, So much pain, so much strife
Mother bear loyal wife,
A survivor, a protector, a giver of life
Soul sister water carrier, Lost souls feel inferior
Potlatch banned on sacred land, Stolen children at demand Broken down, we lost the fight
Pick up the pieces, we see the light
Big house dances all through the night
Never again will we lose the fight
True survivor I admire, Watch me as I walk through the fire.
Written by Deana Hunt aka April Rain
Merritt Campus - Library, Virtual: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
We invite community leadership members to join us for the First Nations Leadership Orientation program, a space to strengthen governance grounded in Indigenous knowledge, values, and stories. Register here: nvit.ca/experiencenvit
Vancouver Campus: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Your story starts here, and you have the power to change it today. Join us for the NVIT Vancouver Campus Register here: www nvit ca/apply/know-more-about-nvit/open-house
nɬeʔkepmxcin keʔ k ʔesʔuqʷeʔmemn
Tea Time
Lunch will be provided Every second Thursday
October 9 & 23
November 6 & 20
December 4 & 18
Kənminstiye nqʷincut nłeʔkepmxcin
Come with us Room U029 12:00PM - 3:00PM speaking our language
CONTINUING STUDIES COURSES
August - December 2025
BasicFirstAid
8:30AM-4:30PM|MerrittCampus
Wednesday,October15,2025
Friday,November14,2025
Friday,December12,2025
AdvancedFirstAid 8:30AM-4:30PM|MerrittCampus
October27-November7,2025 (2weeks,Monday-Friday)
RegistrationDeadline: October14,2025
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 admissions@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.
*Compensation provided
Coversupto$3,013intuitionforthefirstyearoffull-timestudies!
StudentsmustbeinGrade12,graduatingin2026from:
School District #58 (Merritt Secondary, Princeton Secondary, SCIDES);
School District #74 (Desert Sands Community School, Kumsheen Shch-Ema-meet, Lillooet -Secondary, David Stoddart Secondary);
School District #78 Fraser-Cascade (Hope Secondary, Agassiz Elementary-Secondary & Boston Bar Elementary-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
DEADLINE:JUNE30,2026Visitwww.nvit.ca/ieb.formoreinformation.
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.
Connect to an Academic & Financial Planner now!
