SFU Elders Program

Elders Program: An Introduction

The Elders Program for Simon Fraser University is located within the Office for Aboriginal Peoples at SFU. Program elders will be in a unique position at Simon Fraser University, one which recognizes the value and importance of the role of elders in the Aboriginal and university communities. The elders provide counseling, support, and guidance to all students. On the other hand, the elders encourage cross cultural sharing and teach traditional protocols.

Elder Definition

“Elders” will be those recognized as such by member of ongoing SFU Elders Programs and the Elders Program Ad Hoc Committee. The elders will have links to the local Aboriginal community, a positive and respectful attitude regarding students and the academic environment they are in, and have knowledge of traditional values.

Elder Duties

The elders work with student, staff, faculty, and concomitant community at SFU:

· Provide grounding and support for students

·  Provide mentoring

·  Special events support

·  Supervise culturally orientated courses and workshops

·  Lunch/meet with students

·  Be available for interviews and guest lectures

·  Provide guidance in traditional cleansing and ceremonial activities

·  Assist on advisory groups

Compensation

The elders at SFU are able to attend events within the school outside of their regular working hours. The set compensation for engagements of three hours or less will be $100 per engagement per elder. For potential initiatives that are longer than three hours and that may stretch to a full day in length, an honorarium of $35 per hour is suggested for the elder(s) support and participation.

Scheduling

The elders attend the Tea and Bannock Thursday every Thursday. The event is located at the Indigenous Student centre (MBC 1500) from 11-1 pm. There will be office hours from 1-2 pm at the Office for Aboriginal Peoples (AQ 3140) on Thursday.

About the elders

Elder Jim

Elders Program, Simon Fraser University

Burnaby Campus

Jim White was born in Bella Bella and attended school on the reserve. He can speak both English and Heiltsuk. Jim is a joyful guy and loves to interact with others. Jim actively participates in his community and he is a member of the Heiltsuk Tribal Council. He is knowledgeable in local traditions and enjoys sharing his experiences with others. As one of the elders of the program, Jim is passionate about his role. He hopes to become an inspiring mentor to students and encourages them to achieve success.

Elder Margaret

Elders Program, Simon Fraser University

Burnaby Campus

Margaret George was born in Skawahlook First Nation and raised in Ruby Creek by her grandparents. She attended school on her reserve and graduated from UBC. She has been involved with all sorts of events and activities within her own community and schools in Vancouver. Margaret loves to share her wisdom and introduces her culture with others. She enjoys her life with family, friends, and community. As one of the elders of the program, Margret welcomes all students to share some time with her and hopes to provide guidance for students.

Elder Evelyn

Elders Program, Simon Fraser University

Surrey Campus

Evelyn Locker was raised on the Blood Reserve in Southern Alberta and attended school on her reserve. She continued on to Business College in Calgary and she was the recipient of the highest awards in the history of the college. Aside from working for the Elders Program, Evelyn is also the member of the Blackfoot Nation and volunteers with the Provincial Ministry of Child/Family Development. As one of the elders of the program, Evelyn wants to continually share her ancestors’ teachings on culture and traditions to the students.

Contact Information

Elders can be directly contacted through office hours. Feel free to contact the Office for Aboriginal Peoples if you have any further questions or you need further assistance.

William Lindsay, Director, Office for Aboriginal Peoples

Phone: 778-782-8924              Email: wlindsay@sfu.ca

Klahanie Rorick, Administrative Assistant, Office for Aboriginal Peoples

Phone: 778-782-8925              Email: Klahanie_rorick@sfu.ca