The Saskatchewan Roughrider Foundation has partnered with the First Nations University of Canada to offer bursary support for first-year students, with funds raised from the sales of Indigenous merchandise designed by Chris Chipak.
“We are happy and proud to announce a one-time gift of $60,000 and this commitment will support the First Nations University of Canada,” said Jacqueline Ottmann, President of First Nations University.
The financial support comes from the success of the merchandise designed and commissioned by Chipak, an Indigenous artist, after he partnered with the Saskatchewan Roughrider Foundation.
“It was important to us that this logo was just visually striking, but it [also] affected value for our community,” said Saskatchewan Roughrider Foundation CEO/President Craig Reynolds.
The logo incorporates elements that speak to a deep Indigenous connection to the land, such as the sun, sky and buffalo.
“We sold out of these hoodies,” said FNU Executive Assistant Natalie Langan. “We only had a limited amount made for us here at the university and they sold out very, very rapidly. So that’s amazing.”
Seeing the success of the merchandise sales, Reynolds understood the importance of giving back to the Indigenous community.
“Today’s announcement reflects commitments for Indigenous Students, but we also recognize that this is only one small part of our much larger responsibility. Our work is guided by truth and participation, and by listening and learning from communities of leaders.”
The one-time gift to FNU will be delivered in two bursaries for the upcoming academic year and be awarded to entry-level students. These bursaries will “support students at a critical transition point by reducing financial barriers and by facilitating academic achievement” said Ottmann.
“First Nation communities do support to a degree…but it does not cover the cost of sometimes even tuition, not does it cover the cost of relocation, housing, food, transportation, and everyday living expenses.”
The first scholarship of $40,000 is named the Away from Home Scholarship. This will help incoming students transition to university for their upcoming studies, easing the financial burden of relocation while allowing students to focus on their academics and adjusting to campus life.
The second scholarship of $20,000 is named the Saskatchewan Wildfire Scholarship. This will be offered to incoming students who display high academic achievement, hard work and leadership.
The impact of this partnership between the Saskatchewan Roughriders and FNU is sure to have a long meaningful effect not just on the university but on the students as well.
Breanna Desnomie, an FNU student ambassador, described the partnership as “a genuine commitment to supporting Indigenous youth, strengthening Indigenous communities and taking action toward truth and reconciliation by reducing barriers and creating opportunities.”
This generous gift allows FNU to be focused on the needs of incoming students while supporting them through their academic endeavors, maintaining success and allowing growth.
“Our mission is to Indigenous learners. [They] are the center of our circle” said Ottmann.
“I want to sincerely thank the Saskatchewan Roughrider Football Club and the Saskatchewan Roughrider Foundation for their leadership and commitment. This is reconciliation in action.”
Photo by Larissa Belinsky
Pictured left to right: Jacqueline Ottmann, Craig Reynolds, Tyler Lloyd and Riders mascot Gainer the Gopher.
