News

Congratulations, Robin Stadelbauer! It is our heart-felt pleasure to announce that Robin has accepted the position of Associate Director in the Office of Indigenous Relations. In this new role, Robin will support the AVP Indigenous Relations in their strategic vision and leadership, represent the AVP, take leadership on key projects, and is responsible for the daily operations of the Indigenous Relations Office.

For those of you who have not had the good fortune to meet Robin, she is Anishinaabe, Potawatomi and Lunaapeew and a citizen of Neyaashiinigmiing (Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation) located on the Saugeen Peninsula (Bruce Peninsula). Robin has a long history at University of Waterloo. As an astute student, she has achieved an Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Social Development Studies, with a minor in Anthropology. Previously at St. Paul’s University College, Robin joined the University of Waterloo’s Advancement team in 2008 in Records, then became the Assistant to the Associate Vice-President, Development in 2012, then was temporarily reassigned in August 2015 to Executive Officer Administration, appointed to this role permanently in 2017. In 2020, Robin became the first Indigenous Relations Coordinator, where She has brought tremendous knowledge, skill, and commitment to a rapidly changing and challenging environment. Robin has stood solidly at the foundation of the Office of Indigenous Relations, and her appointment to this new position is beyond well-deserved.

Beyond these amazing accomplishments, Robin’s character is what sets her apart. She exudes positivity, enhances collaboration, and has a welcoming nature. Her dedication to family, community, culture, and continuous improvement are reflected in her work and her relationships. We are grateful and privileged to be with you on this path, Robin. Chi Miigwech.

-Office of Indigenous Relations

Savanah Seaton is a Plains Ojibway anishinaabekwe, makwa dodem, rooted from Waywayseecappo and Keeseekooweenin First Nations. Please join us in welcoming and congratulating Savanah on her new role as the Director of the Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre (WISC). She is familiar with the WISC, and with those who use it from her time as a student in Waterloo’s Masters of Industrial Psychology program.  Savanah brings with her, vast experience, keen insight and an immense passion for working with Indigenous folks. Drop by the WISC to welcome her and say Aniin (hello)!

Welcome to the Truth and Reconciliation Edition!

On September 30, we honour the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. Widespread public commemoration and acknowledgement of the tragic and painful history, continued impact, and intergenerational trauma of Canada's residential school legacy is a vital component of the reconciliation process. The University of Waterloo and the Office of Indigenous Relations continue to amplify that truth as we build towards reconciliation. We will also highlight the beauty and resilience of indigeneity, and the strengthening of bonds with allies as we navigate this complex and meaningful day.

The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is celebrated globally on August 9. It marks the date of the inaugural session of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1982. In keeping with this year’s theme, University of Waterloo historian and anthropologist Talena Atfield, answers questions about the roles of Indigenous women in preserving and transmitting traditional knowledges. Professor Atfield is a member of the Kanien’kehá:ka Nation of the Six Nations of the Grand River.

On Monday, July 25 people gathered at St. Jerome's University to watch a much-anticipated livestream of Pope Francis' apology for the church's role in residential schools.

It was a beautiful ceremony as UWaterloo Faculty of Health Dean Lili Liu, and Knowledge Keeper Myeengun Henry connected in a commitment to Indigenization. Together, they planted a Cedar tree, smudged and held pipe ceremony, and exchanged gifts in honour of the historic commitment. 

Savannah joins the Faculty of Science as the Manager, Indigenous Science Initiatives where she will "will identify systemic and systematic changes that move beyond Truth and the Reconciliation Calls to Action and develop a Faculty of Science-specific response and long-term vision for Science."

During National Indigenous History Month and as we celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, University of Waterloo historian and anthropologist Talena Atfield answered questions about the recovery and regeneration of Indigenous artifacts, practices and knowledges. Professor Atfield is a member of the Kanien'kehá:ka Nation of the Six Nations of the Grand River.

Passionate about sharing his Indigenous heritage, an adjunct architecture professor named a new course after the ceremony his ancestors have used for thousands of years to welcome visitors to their homeland — At the Woods Edge.

Alexandre DeGagne, is the Indigenous recruitment and partnership specialist for the University of Waterloo. His home community is Animakee Wa Zhing #37, formally known as Northwest Angle 37, near Fort Frances, Ontario.  From his love for lacrosse to his outstanding work and vibrant character, Alexandre is a valuable member of the UWaterloo team.