Paddling Together Sets New Direction for Indigenous Education at Niagara College

Niagara College has launched Paddling Together, a new Indigenous education strategy that sets out five priorities for Indigenous education, relationships and reconciliation across the college.

The launch also introduced a new mural by Indigenous woodland-style artist Tsista Kennedy. The artwork wraps around the Indigenous Education Centre at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake and serves as the strategy’s visual identity. More installations are planned in other areas of the college.

Developed over two years through consultations, surveys, conversations and teachings, Paddling Together was shaped by an Indigenous education strategy advisory group that included Indigenous staff, members of the Indigenous Education Management Circle and non-Indigenous colleagues.

The strategy draws on the Two Row Wampum and the waterways that have shaped the Niagara region. Its five priority areas are represented by canoes and focus on community relationships, governance, teaching and learning, Indigenous student empowerment, and organizational culture and systems.

The name Paddling Together reflects the work ahead and the shared responsibility of moving forward through listening, learning, and stronger relationships.

“Niagara College has been on an important journey to deepen our understanding of Indigenous perspectives and to centre those perspectives in our work,” said NC president Sean Kennedy. “By drawing more fully on the diverse knowledge and experiences within our community, we can create a place where Indigenous learners continue to thrive, feel a stronger sense of belonging, connection, support and representation, and have meaningful opportunities to share their voices and shape the future of NC.”

“Paddling Together is an important step in the college’s work to increase access, inclusion, and support for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across NC and to imagine what is possible for all learners when Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing are considered,” said Leah Hogan, director of Indigenous education. “It has been an honour to work alongside our Indigenous partners and NC colleagues to bring this vision to life and to build a foundation for meaningful, lasting change across our college community.”

Kennedy’s artwork was created to complement the strategy and reflects themes of Indigenous education, connection and community. His distinctive style combines semi-bold black lines, intricate patterns and vibrant colors.

At the launch, Kennedy shared the inspiration behind the piece and its connection to the college’s Indigenous education work.

“As we launch Paddling Together, I invite our entire college community to carry this work forward with respect, openness, reciprocity, and a commitment to Indigenous leadership as we all have a role to play in creating a more inclusive college community, strengthening relationships with Indigenous peoples and communities, and contributing to meaningful and lasting change,” Kennedy said.

To learn more about NC’s new Indigenous education strategy, please visit niagaracollege.ca/paddling-together.