Welcome to the Fall 2025 Edition of Indigenous Connections
As we move through the fall season, a season of change and reflection unfolds across our campus. It is a time to pause and honor the stories, guidance, and dedication that shape our community; threads of experience and care that continue to inspire each of us. In this season, we are reminded that the work of connection and growth is ongoing, rooted in the contributions of those who came before and carried forward by those walking alongside us today.
This season, we celebrate the extraordinary contributions of Jean Becker. As Associate Vice-President, Indigenous Relations, she has championed Indigenization on campus, fostered spaces for learning and connection, and supported generations of students in meaningful ways. As she steps into retirement, her influence remains deeply woven into campus life, inspiring us to carry forward her commitment, care, and leadership.
As the leaves turn and the campus hums with the rhythm of learning, gathering, and renewal, we step forward into the season ahead, open to the stories yet to be written, the connections yet to be made, and the legacy yet to unfold.
In this Issue:
News
Jean Becker set to retire at end of 2025
Jean Becker, Associate Vice-President, Indigenous Relations, will retire at the end of 2025 after more than two decades of transformative leadership in Indigenous education and advocacy. Since joining the University of Waterloo in 2020, she has championed initiatives such as the Indigenous Strategic Plan, tuition waivers for local First Nations students, and the creation of the Indigenous Outdoor Gathering Space. In 2025, she also oversaw the integration of the Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre with OIR, leaving a lasting legacy of strengthened support, community, and connection for Indigenous students.The Office of Indigenous Relations will be forever influenced by the steady wisdom, guidance and leadership of Jean Becker, without whom we would not be here. While her warm presence and passion will be deeply missed on campus, we wish Jean all the best for a happy, healthy and enjoyable retirement. Congratulations, Jean!
We are also thrilled to announce that John Lewis will be the Interim Associate Vice-President, Indigenous Relations, effective January 1, 2026, for an 18-month term. John currently serves as Director, Indigenous Faculty Relations in OIR and brings over two decades of experience in environmental and community planning. John is a registered member of Timiskaming First Nation. John’s role is to work broadly with the University community to achieve its goal of Indigenizing and decolonizing the institution. We are thrilled to welcome John as our new AVP and know that we are in very capable and caring hands. Congratulations, John!
Read more in the Daily Bulletin
Upcoming Events
Indigenous Speakers Series Presents- Mary Spencer
Decemeber 2
Join us on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, from 3:00–4:15 p.m. at the Theatre of the Arts for the Indigenous Speakers Series featuring Mary Spencer, member of the Chippewas of Nawash First Nation and former WBA super welterweight world champion. Mary began boxing at 17, spent 10 years on the Canadian Boxing Team, won three world titles and the Pan Am Games, and in 2012 became the first woman to represent Canada in Olympic boxing.
Register here — Everyone is welcome!
Fall 2025 End of Term Feast
December 9
Join us on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 5:00–8:00 p.m. at Federation Hall – Main Room for the Office of Indigenous Relations’ End of Term Feast! This free gala-style dinner is open to all current Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit, and Métis) students, staff, and faculty. Enjoy an evening of good food, community, smudging, an Elder’s opening, and a performance by the Student Drum Circle.
Vegan and gluten-free options available. Please share any dietary restrictions by November 25. A registration form is required for each guest (+1s and children welcome).
Open House: Celebrating Jean Becker’s Retirement
December 11
Join us on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. at the Office of Indigenous Relations (EC5 4201) to celebrate Jean Becker, Associate Vice-President, Indigenous Relations, and her transformative leadership at Waterloo. Stop by to share your thanks and warm wishes. Tea and sweet treats provided.
Register here (Encouraged but not required)
Indigenous Student Service Monthly Programming
Indigenous Student Services (ISS) is now part of the Office of Indigenous Relations! While we look forward to the new Indigenous Student Centre in Needles Hall next year, Indigenous students can access staff support, study space, and community at OIR (EC5 4201).
Check out our webpage to see more programming, including weekly recurring events and special activities throughout the term.
Learn more on our website
Bi-Weekly Hand-Drumming Circle
Hand-drumming circles are back from October to December, on bi-weekly Mondays from 12:00 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. in the Office of Indigenous Relations (EC5 4201). This event is only open to Indigenous University of Waterloo employees (staff and faculty).
Visit our events page regularly for updates.
Opportunities
Turtle Island Indigenous Science Conference 2026
Mark your calendars for May 24–26, 2026 at the University of Waterloo for the Turtle Island Indigenous Science Conference, a three-day gathering of academics, Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, students, and community organizations to share research, stories, and practices grounded in Indigenous science.
Indigenous Student Development
The Indigenous Student Development Fund offers support for Indigenous students at the University of Waterloo with unexpected educational or living expenses. Eligible costs include tuition gaps, school supplies, emergency housing or childcare, and wellness supports not covered by insurance. Open to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students in any program. Citizenship/membership documents must be uploaded to Quest.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Visit our website for more information
Territorial Acknowledgement
The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations.
For information on personalizing an acknowledgement visit our Territorial Acknowledgement webpage.
