Vancouver Island University entered a new era when its third chancellor officially took over the role on Thursday.
Judith Sayers was sworn in in a virtual ceremony and one of her goals is to make the university innovative and where everyone can excel regardless of background or financial situation.
“Historically, many indigenous students have fought at the university. They struggled to belong, struggled to feel safe, and they have many problems at university including racism, bias and not being able to do their research the way they wanted, ”Sayers said in the press release. “Education is about thinking, communicating, writing and how we participate in the world we are building. We have to attract more students to the university. We have to make it a place they want to come. “
Sayers, also president of the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council, saw her ceremony in the open air, in the presence of members and councilors of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. Sayers has long been committed to indigenous rights and sustainable development, the press release said. In deciding whether to accept the role, Sayers said VIU’s relationships with the First Nations were an important factor.
“In this day and age of reconciliation, VIU has a vital role to play and bring about positive change,” she said. “Reconciliation is what indigenous people want, and we need to take their lead in what they see as reconciliation. I believe that VIU is committed to reconciliation and can show the way – as they already are. “
Deborah Saucier, president of VIU, said she was delighted to have Sayers as part of the university.
“Your commitment to indigenous rights and capacity building in First Nations communities is in direct line with VIU’s goal of deepening mutual understanding and creating new, innovative partnerships and programs with local nations,” Saucier said in the press release.
The ceremonial attire worn by Sayers and Saucier was designed by Coast Salish Ay Lelum The Good House of Design and unveiled at the event.
“The president’s robe features sea serpents – symbols of power and wisdom – on the front and a supernatural eagle on the back, symbolizing strength and wisdom,” the press release said. “The Chancellor’s robe also features sea serpents on the front and on the back is a supernatural killer whale – designed to honor Sayer’s Nuu-chah-nulth legacy – and a supernatural eagle, figures that bring strength, power and vision.”
The BC Assembly of First Nations was satisfied with the selection of the Sayers by the VIU and congratulated both the Chancellor and the university in a press release.
“I know they will do a good job together to ensure that First Nations students thrive and achieve their goals and dreams,” said regional chief Terry Teegee. “I encourage VIU, Dr. To use Sayer’s innovative and comprehensive thinking and knowledge and to fully integrate the educational ideologies and research methods of the First Nations into their institution. “
RELATED: President of Tribal Council Appointed Next Chancellor of VIUU
More from the News Bulletin on Facebook and Twitter
IT LOOKED
source https://collegeeducationnewsllc.com/vius-new-chancellor-seeks-innovation-and-equality-in-post-secondary-education-port-alberni-valley-news/
No comments:
Post a Comment