Durham College to open Suswaaning Endaajig (The Nest Away from Home)

New Aboriginal Student Centre designed to recognize and support Aboriginal students.

OSHAWA, Ont. – As part of its commitment to student success and in keeping with its mission statement that the student experience comes first, Durham College is inviting members of the media to participate in the opening of its new Aboriginal Student Centre, Suswaaning Endaajig (The Nest Away from Home) on Friday, November 25.

Located in the Simcoe building of the college’s Oshawa campus, Suswaaning Endaajig embraces teachings from all First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples. The centre strives to recognize and support students through various activities and teachings with the assistance of Elders from all backgrounds.

Media are invited to observe the opening celebration, which will include Aboriginal drumming and dancing along with a selection of traditional foods. The ceremony will take place in a heated tent with tours of Suswaaning Endaajig available following the event.

The new centre offers a culturally recognizable and inviting environment for Aboriginal learners; materials for Aboriginal crafts; staff members who advocate on behalf of students within and outside of the college with any issues; traditional Elders who will be available regularly for private one-on-one counselling; a series of traditional teachings held throughout the year; and much more.

Who:
Alayne Bigwin, director Aboriginal Education Office, Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities;
Durham College President Don Lovisa;
Amanda French and Sherry Ann Zwetsloot, Aboriginal students;
Gerard Sagassige,
Elder; and
Faculty, staff and students.

When:
Friday, November 25
11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where:
Durham College Oshawa campus
Student Services building, north parking lot
2000 Simcoe Street North
Oshawa, Ont.

For more information:
Cosette Kazarian
Communications, Marketing and External Relations
905.721.2000 ext. 3611
cosette.kazarian@durhamcollege.ca