The College of New Caledonia has brought in two people with ‘unique journeys in education and leadership’ to focus on how the college relates to Indigenous students, faculty and communities.
Jessie King (Hadiksm Gaax) has joined CNC as vice-president: Indigenization. “In the newly created role, she will guide the college’s path to truth, reconciliation, decolonization, and Indigenization while helping to build new partnerships for student success,” states a press release.
Canadian post-secondary institutions took on new responsibilities through the Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA) and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action.
“In Jessie and Marlene, we have two wonderful people who have had unique journeys in education and leadership— especially in removing barriers to empower Indigenous students to succeed. Jessie brings a relationships-first approach to her interactions with students and colleagues,” said CNC president Cindy Heitman in a press release. “Marlene has worked regionally and provincially to advocate for better educational, cultural, and health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples. Their respective talents will help to build understanding as the CNC community continues along its renewed journey of change.”
King was most recently at the University of Northern British Columbia, where she was assistant professor of First Nations studies in the university’s Faculty of Indigenous Studies, Social Sciences, and Humanities.
“I have lived a full circle from being a terrified student, benefiting from the support of community members and mentors, to helping to guide students through important but often uncomfortable conversations involving colonial history and intergenerational impacts,” King said. “I look forward to CNC’s journey by helping to advocate for students, making changes to remove barriers, and weaving together knowledges to create lasting relationships.”
Her role will be to collaborate with CNC faculty, staff, and students to support the development and implementation of culturally responsive programs, curriculum, and related initiatives.
Marlene Erickson will become senior advisor to CNC’s president on policy and Indigenous relations.
Erickson will build and strengthen CNC’s relationships with First Nations and Métis communities, consult on Indigenous employment and work with community organizations and governments.
“Working together with external partners and having a strong, unified voice will be very important in helping people understand and act upon the unique education and career needs of learners in our region,” Erickson said. “A lot has been accomplished, which gives me inspiration and courage to keep going. I am hopeful our progress so far will also inspire young people to continue this journey.”
