Keyano College Establishes Indigenous Advisory Circle as an Act of Reconciliation to Encourage Dialogue, Improve Accessibility, and Support a Culturally Responsive Learning Environment.

Keyano College is proud to announce the establishment of the Indigenous Advisory Circle (IAC), a significant initiative designed to foster a rich environment of dialogue and understanding between the institution and Indigenous communities. This Circle aims to integrate Indigenous wisdom and kinship into college policy, programming, and cultural practices. 

The establishment of the IAC acknowledges Wood Buffalo's vibrant history, heritage, and culture and recognizes the importance of integrating these elements into Keyano College programs and services to enhance accessibility and promote a culturally responsive learning environment. 

The Indigenous Advisory Circle comprises diverse individuals, including local First Nations and Métis community members, as well as faculty, staff, and students. Central to the IAC’s mission is fostering meaningful connections between the college and First Nations, Métis, and Inuit families and communities through open dialogue. Current membership includes:  

• Elder Mikisew Cree First Nation - Lorraine Albert 
• Elder Fort McKay First Nation - Cecile Calliou 
• Elder Fort McMurray 468 First Nation - Robert Cree 
• Elder/Community Fort McMurray Métis - Pat Flett  
• Fort Chipewyan Métis – Dana Wiley 
• Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation – Mitch Mercredi 
• Mikisew First Nation – Allison Flett 
• Fort McKay First Nation – Miranda Beaton 
• Fort McKay Métis – Loretta Waquan 
• Fort McMurray First Nation – Jes Croucher 
• Fort McMurray Métis – Bryan Fayant 
• Willow Lake Métis – Justin Bourque 
• Chipewyan Prairie First Nation – Charles Nokohoo 
• Chard Métis – Justin Herman 
• Conklin Métis Local – Vacant and Recruiting
• Smith’s Landing First Nation - Vacant and Recruiting
• Keyano Student -Jaylynn Twin 
• Keyano Administration – Samantha Shibley-Hornby 
• Keyano Support Staff - Paula Cruz  
• Keyano Faculty - Kory Cheshire  
• Keyano Executive – Chantal Beaver 

Each participant contributes a unique perspective and experience to the Circle, ensuring that diverse First Nations, Métis, and Inuit voices are recognized and championed in the region's only post-secondary institution. 

The Circle's inaugural meeting was held at the College on April 9, 2025. The IAC receives partial funding from the Suncor Energy Foundation.   

For more information about the Indigenous Advisory Circle, please contact samantha.shibley@keyano.ca.