Indigenous initiative at Lakehead University gets $100K gift

Lakehead University will receive a $100,000 gift to help foster Indigenous learning at its campuses.

Canada Life is behind the six-figure donation, which will go to support Lakehead University’s Gichi Kendaasiwin initiative, and help to create Indigenous-led spaces and programs that support student success, preserve cultural traditions, and share Indigenous perspectives across Lakehead’s campuses.

Gichi Kendaasiwin—Anishinaabemowin for “higher knowledge”— was envisioned more than a decade ago as a large, stand-alone building on Lakehead’s Thunder Bay campus, but it has since become a campus-wide concept and ethos to foster Indigenous-led learning and spaces.

“Canada Life’s investment reflects a shared belief in the importance of creating spaces where Indigenous students can thrive—spaces that honour their identities, languages, and traditions,” said Dr. Gillian Siddall, president and vice-chancellor of Lakehead University in a statement.

“This gift supports an Indigenous vision for education that strengthens relationships, builds community, and prepares students to lead with confidence and cultural pride.”

Approximately 13 per cent of Lakehead’s student population identifies as Indigenous.

Gichi Kendaasiwin will enrich their university experience and advance Truth and Reconciliation by creating meaningful, culturally grounded learning opportunities.