Indigenous Graduate Honouring Ceremony

9th Annual Indigenous Graduate Honouring Ceremony

Are you a First Nations, Inuit or Métis student who will be graduating from college or university this year? Our community would like to celebrate your achievement with you!

Saturday, April 29, 2017 at 6:30-9:00 pm. Museum of Candian History (100 Laurier St. Gatineau, QC)

This is a free event!

Open to all Aboriginal students who are graduating from a post secondary institution.

Students must register online for the ceremony and reception by April 27th, 2017

For more information, see FAQ below or contact:

Elena Abel, Event Coordinator - Algonquin College

Email: abele@algonquincollege.com

Telephone: (613) 727-4723 ext. 5127 www.algonquincollege.com/mamidosewin

Sponsored by: Algonquin College, University of Ottawa, Carleton University, Cree School Board, La Cité and Héritage College. (Graduates are not limited to these institutions)

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

What happens at this event?

This event begins a procession of graduates who are led into the theatre with a drum song. This is followed with an opening prayer from First Nations, Inuit and Métis Elders. The program continues with special guests and is emceed by bilingual emcee, Daniel Richer. Your name will be announced, in alphabetical order, along with the name of your degree/diploma/certificate. On stage you will receive a special handmade gift given by the Elders on behalf of the community. A professional photographer will take your photo on stage. Once all students have been announced, an honour song is sung. Following this, the nominated student valedicatorian provides a speech followed by a guest who provides the congratulatory address. The ceremony concludes with a local Aboriginal performance. Refreshments are available following the ceremony. The photographer will have a professionally lit photo booth area for you & your guests. The event is free of charge.

What time should I be there?

Graduates should report to the registration desk at the top of the esculator of the grand hall by 6:00 pm to sign in, receive your sash and procession instructions, and reserved seating plan. Please allow yourself adequate time to arrive, find parking and enter the venue.

Do I need a ticket? Do my guests need a ticket?

No, you and your guests will not need to bring your ticket. Graduates must pre-register to attend, and register the number of guests they will be bringing.

What should I wear?

It’s up to you! We will provide a red sash that has been embroidered with the four First Nations colours, Métis infinity symbol, and an Inukshuk. We do not provide a gown. Graduates in past years have worn dresses, skirts, suits, regalia or ribbon shirts.

Will there be food served?

Coffee, tea, juices and water will be available at 6:00 pm. You should consider eating dinner before you arrive, as only light refreshments and canapes will be served following the ceremony at 8:30 pm.

Is there assigned seating?

Seating for your guests is general admission, first come first served. There is reserved seating for graduates (in alphabetical order – more details at sign in desk).

Where is the Museum of Canadian History and where do I park?

The museum is located at 100 Laurier St. in Hull Quebec. Please note the Alexandra Bridge will have lane closures for Gatineau bound traffic. You will need to use Macdonald Cartier or Portage Bridge to cross.

Underground parking is available at a rate of $2.50 every 30 minutes with a maximum rate of $12.50.

How many guests can I invite?

You are not limited by the number of guests you would like to bring, but you will need to register the number of guests using our online eventbrite site. This will ensure that we can prepare for catering, mobility concerns and capacity.

Can I take pictures?

Guests can take pictures from their seats. We have also hired a professional photographer to take photos as well. These pictures will be available to you for download at a private website, approximately 2 weeks after the event. You will find a link to these photos on our website here http://www.algonquincollege.com/mamidosewin/mamidosewin-centre/photo-gallery/

Is it too late for others to register?

Registration will remain open until April 27th at 5 pm.

What if I have just one more credit to do, or what if I'm not sure if I've passed my final exams?

Only you will be able to determine when it is the best time for you to attend this annual ceremony. Participants will NOT be receiving their actual degree/diploma on stage, instead they will receive a special certificate/congratulatory message. Your actual degree/diploma will be issued by your institution at the completion of your studies, according to their policies.

Do I have to choose between this event and my regular convocation?

You can attend both! We offer this event as an option for Aboriginal students to celebrate in a smaller ceremony that is culturally relevant.

How is the event different than regular convocation?

a) We offer the event at the end of April in order to allow students to take part who might not be able to travel back once they move back to their home communities. b) We include Aboriginal Elders, alumni, guest speakers and entertainment to take part in the ceremony. c) It is a much smaller, shorter and more intimate ceremony - with approximately 60 graduates.

What if I have questions or need to change my registration information?

Please contact event organizer Elena Abel at abele@algonquincollege.com or call 613-727-4723 ext 5127

You can also contact the Aboriginal Student Support Services at your institution.