Syllabics
MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: June 19, 2026
Regina, SK (Treaty 4 Territory) – The First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) proudly celebrates the achievements of 169 graduates who will cross the stage at the 2026 Spring Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the Queensbury Convention Centre in Regina. These graduates join a growing network of Indigenous leaders, professionals, scholars, and changemakers making a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
Although the official graduation ceremonies for both the University of Regina and FNUniv are scheduled from June 17 to 19, FNUniv will hold its own graduation event on June 20. The ceremony incorporates First Nations traditions and cultural practices that reflect the University’s commitment to Indigenous knowledge, culture, and community.
“This is a day of celebration for our graduates, their families, and their communities,” said Dr. Jacqueline Ottmann, President of FNUniv. “Each graduate represents resilience, determination, and the transformative power of Indigenous education. We are honoured to celebrate their accomplishments and look forward to the positive impact they will make in their communities, workplaces, and Nations.”
This year, 169 students will receive their credentials, including 162 undergraduate and seven graduate students. Degrees and certificates awarded include the Master of Indigenous Education and the Master’s Certificate in Indigenous Nation-Building.
During the ceremony, Dr. Ramona Neckoway, Vice President Academic, will present FNUniv’s signature embossed leather scrolls to graduates.
Special recognition will be given to Dr. A. Blair Stonechild, who is retiring after 45 years of service to SIFC/FNUniv; Tannen Acoose, who earned his Ph.D. from the University of Regina; Justin Easton, who earned a Master of Administration Leadership from the University of Regina; and Solomon and Elsie Sanderson, who were awarded honorary degrees by the University of Regina on June 17, 2026.
The graduation keynote speakers are Trinity Catherine Grove, Valedictorian and Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry graduate, and Mequonase A. Favel, Bachelor of Arts in Journalism graduate, who will deliver the Alumni Address.
The day will begin with a pipe ceremony at 11:00 a.m. in the tipi at the Queensbury Convention Centre. The Regina Campus Knowledge Keeper will lead the ceremony and provide blessings for the graduates. Doors open at 1:00 p.m., with the Grand Entrance for graduates, senior management, and dignitaries commencing at 2:00 p.m. A banquet will follow the ceremony.
FNUniv extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2026 and celebrates the knowledge, leadership, and dedication each graduate brings to their families, communities, and future careers. We are proud of our alumni and look forward to their ongoing contributions to Indigenous education, community development, and Nation-building.
– 30 –
About First Nations University of Canada
Established in 1976, the First Nations University of Canada is Canada’s only national First Nations-owned post-secondary institution. FNUniv is a unique educational institution of higher learning specializing in Indigenous Education for Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples of all cultural backgrounds. Our Vision is to aspire to have a transformative impact by bridging our ceremonies, knowledge keepers, languages, and traditions with the delivery of high-quality post-secondary education. For more information, please visit www.fnuniv.ca.
For media inquiries only, please contact:
Kristin Francis
Director of Communications
First Nations University of Canada
Cell: 306.541.2494
Email: kfrancis@fnuniv.ca
Download Graduation Program here.
Download media release here.
For campus locations, maps and hours of operation, please visit our contact us page.
(the good path through life)
(the good path through life)