Community is key to learning that matters. At VCC, Indigenous students can find or build the community that works best for them.
Elders in residence
On-campus Elders provide strong advice and natural guidance for Indigenous students and the broader VCC community. Elders visit the gathering spaces and meet with students on a one‐on‐one basis or in a group setting. Elders provide cultural teachings and support, Indigenous wisdom, and traditional counselling (in-person or online).
Elder Dee of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation
Elder Deanna D. George’s traditional name is Synlha’liya. The name was handed down to her from her grandmother on her father’s side — Elizabeth Roseena Joseph of the Squamish Nation. Her parents are Sam and Caroline (nee Trimble) Joseph of the Squamish Nation, and Deanna is one of 11 children.
Elder Deanna is excited to learn more about you and the territory or Nation you represent.
“I ask the creator to guide you in all the work that you do here and at home, and that you stay here will be a learning success. I wish you love and success in all that you do.” – Elder Dee
Elder Jean
Elder Jean is an Odawa First Nation member from the Wikwemikoong Reserve in northern Ontario. Her traditional name is “Good Medicine Woman,” which was given to her at a sun dance ceremony in Montana. She participates in ceremonies and cultural traditions and continues her counselling work in the community. She is a mother and grandmother.
“I believe in balance, harmony, and healing for our people, and this is what I focus on in my work. We are all part of a circle, the circle of life, where there is no beginning and no end, where we all are equal in the eyes of the creator. From my Odawa grandmother and the Elders generosity, I received priceless traditional teaching.” – Elder Jean
Elder Jean’s schedule:
- Downtown campus
- Gathering Space, room 100 J-M
- Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Indigenous advisors
Indigenous services staff
A team of dedicated VCC staff members is on hand to support Indigenous students’ success. To arrange an appointment by Zoom, email, or in person:
Email: indigenous@vcc.ca
Call: 604.871.7000 (option 5)
In-person: Drop by one of our Indigenous Gathering Spaces
Clay Little
Associate Director
Tiana Lewis
Coordinator
Student ambassadors
Other Indigenous students at VCC understand what being on this journey is like. See what advice they have on how to make the most of your time at VCC. To connect with a VCC cousin, reach out to indigenous@vcc.ca.
Eddy Gooch
Student ambassadors