GDI is a Saskatchewan-based educational, employment and cultural institute serving Métis across the province
May 9, 2014
Posted in: Uncategorized
On Friday, May 9, 2014 approximately 200 guests gathered for the 31st annual Saskatchewan Urban Native Teacher Education Program (SUNTEP) graduation at the Delta Regina Hotel.
Emcee for the evening was chosen by the graduates; 2013 SUNTEP Regina graduate, Nicole Thomson join us for the event. A sense of pride filled the air as we celebrated the post secondary academic completion of five young professionals earning their Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Regina. During the evening there were many celebratory visits with Elders, dignitaries, special guests, families, friends, fellow colleagues, students, alumni, staff, and musicians who all celebrated the achievements of the SUNTEP Regina Class of 2014.
Graduates, Melissa Bergbusch graduating with Great Distinction, Shyloa Jarrett graduating with Distinction, Leah Novak graduating with Distinction, Patrick Unrau graduating with Distinction, and Dallas Montpetit graduating with an 86.75% academic average were glowing as each one of them provided us with fond memories of their personal and professional growth and accomplishments over the past four years. Listening to their experiences, plans, goals, and aspirations for the future, reminded us of how proud we are of their achievements.
The graduating students also received special awards that recognized their work during the 2013-2014 academic year. The David Amyotte Scholarship is awarded annually to a senior SUNTEP student who promotes Aboriginal culture in the classroom, demonstrates teaching potential and leadership in the SUNTEP program, and promotes the goals of cross-cultural education. This year’s recipient, Shyloa Jarrett, worked consistently throughout her Internship to integrate Aboriginal content into daily classroom routines, and fully understands that Aboriginal perspectives transform curriculum, making it the center of learning that takes place in the classroom. Shyloa also achieved a PERFECT Internship final report, which is rare in the teacher training program. It was a pleasure to have Ray Amyotte, representing the family to congratulate and handout the award to Shyloa.
In addition, the Spirit of SUNTEP is an annual award that recognizes community leadership and involvement by a SUNTEP student. The recipient of the Spirit of SUNTEP award is a student who consistently demonstrated the spirit of belonging, mastery, independence and generosity in applying the Circle of Courage practices. This year’s recipient Melissa Bergbusch demonstrated leadership experiences consistently throughout her time in the program constantly and tirelessly volunteering at numerous events, Melissa takes pride in sharing her Métis identity with all she works with.
Musical entertainment with fiddler Nathaniel Baker and SUNTEP Regina alumni Alison Kimbley’s George Lee Métis Dancers heightened a sense of pride at the 31st annual graduation which was full of enthusiasm and excitement. Once again, congratulations to the 2104 graduates, you deserve it!
GDI is a Saskatchewan-based educational, employment and cultural institute serving Métis across the province
