NIUSLA Summit 2025: A Powerful Gathering of Indigenous University Leaders

On May 12 and 13, 2025, Indigenous university leaders from across Canada gathered in Regina for the NIUSLA Summit 2025: Honouring Indigenous Knowledges at Canadian Universities. Over the course of two impactful days, 30 NIUSLA members came together from PEI to Victoria Island, and all parts in between, on Day 1 at the First Nations University of Canada campus. On Day 2, the event was held at the Hotel Saskatchewan, Autograph Collection, attracting a total of 75 attendees, all dedicated to transforming post-secondary education through Indigenous knowledges, governance, and leadership.

🔸 **Keynote Kickoff** 

Métis educator, writer, and activist Chelsea Vowel opened the summit with a thought-provoking talk titled “Indigenization: EDI on the Keemooch?” She challenged attendees to critically consider how Indigenization differs from Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), especially in today’s political climate.

🔸 **Inspiring Sessions & Panels** 

We were privileged to hear from remarkable Indigenous leaders, including Dr. Jacqueline Ottmann, Dr. Shauneen Pete, Florence Glanfield, Dr. David Newhouse, and Gabe Miller, President of Universities Canada. They shared valuable insights on various topics, ranging from developing Indigenous strategies to measuring reconciliation efforts. The speakers filled each session with wisdom, practical tools, and candid reflections.

A huge thank you to the Mastercard Foundation for supporting this vital work. Their partnership is instrumental in helping the National Indigenous University Senior Leaders’ Association (NIUSLA) build capacity, connect leaders, and create lasting change in higher education.