THUNDER BAY, ON – Aboriginal students attending Confederation College, Lakehead University and Oshki-Pimache-O-Win this fall, will be welcomed and celebrated at the 2nd Annual Maadaadizi Orientation event, this Friday, September 11 from 12:00 – 5:00 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club of Thunder Bay.
“Maadaadizi” – meaning “she/he starts a journey” in Ojibwe – is designed to connect Aboriginal students and their families to the supports and services of the post-secondary educational institutions and orient them to the City of Thunder Bay.
“Maadaadizi is a great opportunity to welcome our students to Thunder Bay. The feeling of being welcome in a community adds to the success of a student, which is why we are proud to be a part of this event,” stated Leona Scanlon, Funder Representative on behalf of Eabametoong First Nation, Fort William First Nation, Matawa First Nations Education, Northern Nishnawbe Education Council and Seven Generations Education Institute.
Everyone is welcome to attend this free city-wide event, which will include a variety of information booths from local organizations, an Artisan’s Market and children’s activities. Students will also enjoy free food and a chance to win prizes.
Special Guests include Ontario Regional Chief Day
All in attendance will be treated to entertainment by Nick Sherman and Shibastik, and a keynote address by special guest, Ontario Regional Chief, Isadore Day. The event will happen rain or shine.
The Maadaadizi Orientation event is hosted by Confederation College, Lakehead University, Oshki-Pimache-O-Win, Nishnawbe-Aski Nation, Eabametoong First Nation, Fort William First Nation, Matawa First Nations Education, Northern Nishnawbe Education Council and Seven Generations Education Institute. Event support has also been received from Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek, the Boys and Girls Club of Thunder Bay, Science North and Union Gas.
“Maadaadizi connects students to the supports and services at their respective post-secondary institutions, their funding agencies and those of the city, plus it’s a lot of fun! Everyone on the committee has worked very hard to create a welcoming and memorable experience for our Aboriginal students. We’re honoured to be hosting Ontario Regional Chief Isadore Day and we’re all looking forward to the event,” said Darby Starratt, Chair of the Maadaadizi Planning Committee.
“The Maadaadizi event is one of the many ways we help our students feel at home at Confederation. We are proud to work with the event partners to celebrate our Aboriginal students and our community. In only its second year, this event has become a staple of our Orientation activities,” added Jim Madder, President, Confederation College.
“Post-secondary education is one of the best investments anyone can make during their life’s journey. The number of achievements each of these students has yet to realize are endless. Lakehead believes in each of you, and your University stands ready to help you along your exceptional journey,” shared Dr. Brian Stevenson, President, Lakehead University.
