Western University will celebrate the success of its Indigenous students Tuesday (April 1) at a special ceremony featuring a traditional opening and closing, musical performances and a number of special guest appearances.
The second annual Indigenous Graduation Ceremony, which is headlined by a multi-award nominated actor/singer/songwriter Cheri Maracle from the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, will be held at The Great Hall, Somerville House on Tuesday, April 1 from 4 to 6:30 p.m.
The community celebration will include a traditional opening and closing by Visiting Elders Myrna Kicknosway and Bruce Elijah and a keynote address by Dr. Sheila Cote-Meek, Associate Vice President, Indigenous Programs and Services at Laurentian University.
The event will also feature performances by a community drum group and Western’s Indigenous Women’s Drum Group.
Western’s Indigenous Services is proudly hosting the gathering for the second time.
“The Indigenous Graduation Ceremony celebrates the successes of Indigenous students on campus and publicly recognizes students for their achievements,” says Candace Brunette, Coordinator of Indigenous Services.
The Master of Ceremony for the evening is Sean Hoogterp, newly hired Learning Resource Centre Coordinator for Western’s Indigenous Services.
Western’s Indigenous Services is committed to supporting Indigenous students in reaching their highest potential through the delivery of culturally-responsive programs and services that honour Indigenous cultures and languages, foster Indigenous presence and inclusion, and increases Indigenous community engagement.
MEDIA CONTACT: Jeff Renaud, Senior Media Relations Officer, 519-661-2111, ext. 85165, jrenaud9@uwo.ca, @jeffrenaud99
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