Celebration at VIU in Powell River - Sept. 22, 2008

Some events touch your heart and you know you will remember them for a long time. The ceremony in Powell River to celebrate Malaspina University College's transformation to a full university was that kind of event. What I remember most vividly was Chief Shawn Atleo speaking about why he accepted the opportunity to serve as the new university's first Chancellor. While he acknowledged the troubled past of the residential school system, he focussed on the way that his appointment heralded a new partnership in education for aboriginal people. Chief Atleo talked of his culture and of the role his parents played in encouraging him to continue his education and of the role the elders play in encouraging all young people to continue their education. Then, he made eye contact with one young woman in the audience who was studying to become a welder, and time seemed to stop as he spoke directly to her as if they were the only two in the room, as he encouraged her to continue on with determination and pride. Chief Atleo's eloquent speech inspired me that day - I think it inspired all of us.