News
NSITEP Opens Doors for 2024 Graduates
by Bethani Groat, GDI Communications Coordinator
Jul 22, 2024
Posted in: Uncategorized
The following article was originally published in the GDI Communicator Vol. 18 Issue 6, June 2024. The Communicator is a monthly internal newsletter intended to celebrate the achievements of the management and staff of the Gabriel Dumont Institute. You can find the archive of previous issues in the Virtual Museum of Métis History and Culture.
On May 24th, the Northern Saskatchewan Indigenous Teacher Education Program (NSITEP) celebrated its second graduation class of 16 students in Air Ronge. The students paraded into the hall to thunderous applause as they took their place on the stage. Family and friends of all ages were there to celebrate all that these students have accomplished—from beginning their studies during the pandemic to persevering through four years of rigorous academic studies to completing their teacher practicum placements in the community.
The ceremony started with a blessing and words of encouragement from Elders Abel Charles, Vince Ahenakew, and Glen Lafleur. Vince told the graduates that education is the key which opens many doors and reminded them to remember their roots as they pursue these new opportunities. Following the blessing, the Honour Song was performed by drummers and singers from the community.
The graduates then received congratulations from representatives of all three partner organizations, including Brett Vandale, the Acting Executive Director of the Gabriel Dumont Institute (GDI), Chief Tammy Cook-Searson and Councilor Ann Ratt of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band (LLRIB), and Dr. James Nahachewsky, Dean of Education at the University of Regina (U of R). While Dr. Nahachewsky spoke about how important this program is for affirming relationships with all of our relations, a young child of one of the graduates darted on stage to hug their parent, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the community, program, teachers, and the next generation.
Students from the graduating class also shared their gratitude. Jane Roberts honoured the NSITEP instructors and mentors, and Georgette Sanderson shared gratitude for her classmates. Each student then walked across the stage to receive their degree from the U of R and Métis sash from GDI, and they were invited to return to the stage for a special gift from the LLRIB as well.
Finally, three student awards were presented. Nancy LaFleur presented the Strength & Perseverance Award to Eva Ross, including a bespoke ribbon skirt and bursary. Dr. Morris Cook presented the 2nd Annual NSITEP iskotēw Community Fires Award to Malachi McKenzie, recognizing his traditional knowledge and land-based education practices. Lastly, Gabe Andrews presented the Order of Gabriel Dumont Bronze Medal to third-year student Betty Ann Durocher for her leadership as chief of the student council.
The ceremony concluded with a banquet with friends and family to celebrate the achievements of this dedicated class. NSITEP graduates are ready to become role models, teachers, and leaders in the North and inspire future generations to reach new heights.
