At Northern Lights College, reconciliation is about continuous, meaningful action. It is woven directly into our strategic mission as we work to build strong relationships with local Indigenous communities and celebrate Indigenous culture on our campuses every day of the year.
Throughout the year, NLC hosts and participates in initiatives that create space for learning, connection, and honouring Indigenous traditions.
Connecting Youth to Opportunities
Each spring, NLC hosts the Pathways to Indigenous Futures event for Indigenous high school students across the region. Created in partnership with Scott Lloyd from BTG Consulting, the event combines a career fair with local industry partners alongside inspirational performances from award-winning Indigenous artists—including past appearances by the Notorious Cree and musician/actor Drezus. It’s an ongoing effort to bridge education, community, and future career pathways for youth.
Creating Sacred Spaces on Campus
Our Fort St. John and Dawson Creek campuses feature raised teepees that serve as permanent hubs for culture and community. Guided by Knowledge Keeper Nathan Scott—who shares teachings and offers blessings during their raising—these spaces overcome everything from Fort St. John winds to Dawson Creek rain to stand as active centers for learning. Every year from spring through to the fall, the teepees are open for ceremony, classes, and gatherings, coordinated through the Indigenous Education department.
Honouring Student Journeys
Celebrating academic achievement within Indigenous traditions is a vital part of our culture. NLC hosts an annual Indigenous Graduation Celebration to honour students surrounded by community, family, and tradition.
“Many of our Indigenous students are first-generation learners,” explains Coline Casey, Director of Indigenous Education. “We recognize the harms that have been committed in the name of education and work to actively support Indigenous students on their learning journey. That is worth celebrating!”
Recent celebrations have featured valedictorian addresses, a Métis Sash Ceremony, a special graduation song performed by Nathan Scott, live fiddle music from Penny Goulet, and traditional drumming from the Doig River Drummers.
Sharing Traditions and Stories
Cultural exchange and storytelling remain at the heart of our campus life. Through initiatives like our Elder in Residence program, Elders and Knowledge Keepers gather regularly with students, staff, and community members. Whether sharing bannock and history, or participating in teepee raisings, medicine teachings, or beading and other traditional arts, these gatherings ensure oral traditions continue to thrive in our educational spaces.
Our Ongoing Commitment
Building an inclusive educational environment requires persistent effort, intentional spaces, and strong community partnerships.
“Culture and community are at the root of our efforts to contribute to meaningful reconciliation as a college,” shares Scott Clerk, Associate Vice President of Educational Services. “These activities help make NLC a welcoming and culturally inclusive place of learning for Indigenous students, and that helps us increase access to education for Indigenous communities.”