Aboriginal Office

Photo credit: Tom Arban

Emily Carr University of Art and Design is situated on the unceded, traditional, and ancestral territory of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.

Emily Carr University is committed to providing the necessary support to Aboriginal students to ensure their academic success. The University provides admission and
transfer advising services and educational support service resulting in excellent retention and graduation rates for Aboriginal students. We have had a steady increase in our diverse Aboriginal Student population as well as an increase in our Aboriginal programs. The Aboriginal Program Office provides culturally appropriate support that encompasses both traditional and contemporary artistic and cultural expressions of Aboriginal peoples, and is a valuable resource for students to access traditional materials/supplies. The Aboriginal Program team also assists with the promotion and coordination of events and workshops related to Aboriginal art and culture, and is responsible for providing information regarding Aboriginal funding, scholarships and awards.

Executive Director, Indigenous Initiatives
Daina Warren, BFA, MA
dwarren@ecuad.ca
Associate Director, Aboriginal Programs
TBD
Manager, Aboriginal Programs
Kajola Morewood, BFA, MLIS
604.844.3800 ext 2885
kmorewood@ecuad.ca
Coordinator, Aboriginal Programs
Sydney Pascal, BFA, MFA
604.630.4578‬
spascal@ecuad.ca

Aboriginal Gathering Place

Xwalacktun, a Squamish Nation artist, drums in front of a totem pole.

Emily Carr University’s Aboriginal Gathering Place is a centre that reflects the cultural characteristics of our Aboriginal students, community and traditions. This space is dedicated to student projects, workshops, ceremonies and celebrations of the University’s Aboriginal community. The Gathering Place allows our Aboriginal students to develop and strengthen their identities in a supportive, safe environment. The design of the space is relevant to and congruent with Aboriginal philosophies and values.

Campus Tours

The Admissions office offers student-led tours of the ECU campus for the Undergraduate Programs every Friday at 11:30am (with the exception of holidays). The tour is followed by a Q&A session with Admissions staff.

In-person tours are in high demand and we recommend you register well in advance of your preferred date(s).

Graduate Studies tours are available by request.

A set of 4 photos shows people weaving cedar baskets.

Who is an Aboriginal Student?

Aboriginal students include students with First Nations (status and non-status), Métis or Inuit backgrounds – from North America. Students with Aboriginal ancestry are encouraged to self-identify on their application forms and contact the Aboriginal Office. The Coordinator communicates with Aboriginal students regarding grants, meetings, special events, Aboriginal community resources, and other relevant activities.