I am pleased to announce restructuring within the Division of Student and Community Engagement. Beginning April 4th, Shelley Charles, Elder and Advisor on Aboriginal Relations, will report to the Vice President, Student and Community Engagement. This restructuring is consistent with federal, provincial and institutional direction recognizing the priority of advancing Indigenous student success and access to culturally relevant education opportunities. I’d like to acknowledge the commitment of Jen McMillen, in her role as Dean of Students, to supporting the important work that has happened to date. The relationship between Student Success & Engagement and the Aboriginal Resource Centre will continue to be integral in supporting our Indigenous students.
Key components of Shelley’s portfolio include:
- External Aboriginal Community Relations and Outreach
- Advising on Internal Relations and Partnerships
- Management of the Aboriginal Resource Centre
- Cultural Programming/Education
Shelley is an Alumnus of the Landscape Technology, Horticulture Science Program of Humber College. Her father was an instructor at Humber and her son graduated from the Arboriculture Program in 2010. Shelley has worked extensively in First Nation communities with youth and aboriginal artists with a commitment to preserving cultural knowledge and language. Prior to being appointed Elder Advisor at Humber, Shelley worked with Corrections Canada in multi-level and maximum security institutions in Ontario.
Shelley has studied the culture and ceremonies of the Midewiwin faith keepers for over 30 years, and attained her 3rd Degree and Masters of Indigenous Knowledge from the Seventh Generation Institute in Fort Frances, Ontario.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Shelley for her ongoing work with the college and the significant advancement of the Indigenous portfolio, internally and externally, since 2009.
Sincerely,
Jason Hunter
Vice President, Student and Community Engagement