2,500+ square feet which includes a multi-purpose round room, study spaces, and private rooms for counselling
A place to connect and a peaceful refuge for Indigenous students
A place for ceremony, community gatherings, and relationship-building
Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre
The Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre (ISLC) houses the Indigenous Student Affairs office. The ISLC, which officially opened on June 21, 2017, enhances cultural, social and supports academics for Indigenous learners. The Centre serves as a resource for Indigenous student success by achieving objectives set out in Laurentian’s Strategic Plan. It also provides students with informal study and learning spaces, and creates work and teaching spaces for program staff and Elders. Additionally, the primary space for teaching, social and cultural events within the new ISLC will be the central gathering space. This room accommodates large groups in a number of different configurations, allowing for teaching, meeting, lectures and special celebrations. The room has views and access to the surrounding landscaped area, which is developed with outdoor teaching spaces as a direct extension of the educational and cultural programs that take place within the ISLC.
The distinct architectural character of the ISLC will provide a visible presence for the University’s Indigenous community within the University Commons. The Centre held it's official Grand Opening on June 21st, 2017 (click here to read more).
To learn more about Indigenous Student Affairs, click here.
The ISLC honours it's 5th year anniversary!
Over the years the services and supports for Indigenous students at the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre have continued to grow and flourish. On June 21st, 2022, the Indigenous Student Affairs as well as the Indigenous Programs team celebrated the 5th-year anniversary of the ISLC's grand opening with a special gathering at the Sacred Fire where Atikameksheng Elder Lorney Bob shared a teaching on the Tree of Life. Afterwards, an honour song was sung by Paskwa Lightning followed by the planting of a cedar tree by Émilie Bourgeault-Tassé.
National Indigenous Peoples Day was also recognized with a special event at the Apology Cairn in partnership with the Manitou Intentional Learning Community and the Canadian Shield Right Relations Team. Dr. Susan Manitowabi, Associate Vice-President, Academic and Indigenous Programs, opened the event along with the Welcome Song sung by the Waabshki-makwa Singers followed by the telling of Sylvia Carscadden's story. Émilie Bourgeault-Tassé provided some words and insights on the four Sacred Medicines planted around the Apology Cairn, connecting them to the teachings provided early by Lorney Bob. The event was concluded with the Migizi (Eagle) Honour Song and the Travelling Song to wish guests a good and safe journey home.
Looking to book a space within the ISLC?
The Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre is now booking its' multi-purpose Round Room as well as its' Seminar Room. Please contact us at 705-675-1151 ext. 4052 or email isa@laurentian.ca to get started!