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Indigenous students transitioning and/or returning to college and university at four Ontario institutions have a vital new support network to help them build community connections and strengthen relationships.

The Indigenous Student Success Network is a collaborative endeavour involving Â鶹´«Ã½ University’s Indigenous Education and Cultural Services, Durham College’s First People Indigenous Centre, Sir Sandford Fleming College’s Indigenous Student Services, and Trent University’s First Peoples’ House. The innovative project connects four neighbouring post-secondary institutions to promote student success and answer the request among Indigenous students for more cultural- and land-based programs.*

The network’s inaugural event on July 7 featured the Sweetgrass Cultural Webinar Series with artist Nyle Johnston, Whistling Eagle Man, of the Marten Clan from the Chippewas of Nawash Anishinawbe First Nation. 

Community members and honoured guests will present virtually every Tuesday and Thursday during July. The webinars are open to students and community members. Indigenous students who have joined the Indigenous Student Success Network’s Facebook page can access recorded sessions.

* A , a national Indigenous registered charity, reports: “[Students] noted the value of having access to Indigenous student services and spaces on campus that provide them with a sense of community and support. They repeatedly said this gave them strength and a desire to become a role model and mentor to other Indigenous students.”