Ceremony, familiar traditions welcome new UCalgary Indigenous scholars

The University of Calgary welcomed six new Indigenous scholars into its community during a ceremony on Aug. 27. 

Leading the ceremony were Elders Reg Crowshoe, Hon. LLD’01, and Rose Crowshoe, Hon. LLD’24. 

The new scholars, who were being admitted into several faculties from across the university, were presented to the ceremonial circle by their deans or mentors. 

The Crowshoes then led the scholars in a smudge ceremony, symbolizing cleansing for a new journey. The Elders then shared a pipe with the new scholars, further welcoming them into the university, after which the group were gifted with blankets. 

Indigenous scholars are Indigenous folks conducting research or creating impact for Indigenous peoples at the university. 

The ceremony began with a welcome from Dr. Michael Hart, PhD, UCalgary’s vice-provost (Indigenous Engagement), and the UCalgary Honour Song performed by Eya-Hey Nakoda. 

Elder Reg Crowshoe says this process is important when walking in parallel paths that combine western and Indigenous traditions. 

“Ceremony is a deeply meaningful and important part of Indigenous oral practice," says Crowshoe.

"By bringing these oral practices into a university setting, we are able to better welcome Indigenous scholars and walk in parallel paths with the community.”

UCalgary aims to recognize and celebrate Indigenous traditions and commits to this through ii’ taa’poh’to’p, its Indigenous strategy. Mixing traditional Indigenous oral teachings with standard university practice creates belonging for all and allows the entire university community to become closer "in a good way." 

“To have my spirit welcomed and presented to the university community, in ceremony, in a way that honours and respects us as Indigenous scholars, was a wonderful experience that allows us to begin our journey together in a good way," says Lisa L'Hirondelle, one of the Indigenous scholars welcomed during the ceremony.

"Maarsii to all who made this possible for us,”  

A list of all the scholars welcomed to UCalgary is as follows: 

• Melissa Eastveld – Faculty of Nursing 
• Allyson Menzies – Faculty of Science 
• Cameron Semper – Cumming School of Medicine  
• Lisa L'Hirondelle – Indigenous Student Wellness Services
• Kristin Black – Cumming School of Medicine 
• Melanie Griffith Brice – Dean's Office, Werklund School of Education