Membership
Who can self-identify?
Any student who identifies as Indigenous (First Nations Status or Non-Status, Métis and Inuit, and/or has Indigenous ancestry is encouraged to register).
Becoming a member is a voluntary process that allows students to access relevant information exclusive to Indigenous students. It allows Niagara College to effectively direct supports and assistance to Indigenous students.
We know this process may not be for all students and respect your decision. The information collected on your membership self-identification form is protected under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
Why self-identify?
When becoming a member of the Indigenous Education Centre, we encourage all students to register by completing our one-page form. Self-identifying grants you access to the Indigenous Education support and services:
- There are several services available to students who self-identify as Indigenous (First Nations Status or Non-Status, Métis and Inuit).
- Self-identifying helps us to determine programming support, services and resources to increase student success.
- Use of the student centres and attending monthly gatherings will give you the opportunity to meet other Indigenous students and will also assist you with your transition entering the college environment.
- Indigenous students can utilize our services, luncheons, printing, and Elder/Knowledge Keeper mentoring.
- Students have access to our Indigenous Education annual bursary.
- Leadership opportunities to provide skills and student voice when making decisions on Indigenous Education at Niagara College.
How do I self-identify?
Membership is voluntary and confidential and does not require the student to produce any documentation.
There are 3 ways to become a member:
Downloadable Form
- Please download our form.
- Right click on the “download our form” link above and choose “Save link as” and then save the file to your computer. You must use Adobe Acrobat to open the file.
- Fill out and save the form, and then send it as an attachment to [email protected] with “Membership” as the title of the email.
On your College Application
Through Ontario Colleges application form, declare your First Nations, Métis or Inuit Status.
In Person
If you did not go through the Ontario Colleges application process, or if you did not declare your status on your Ontario Colleges application, please stop by the Indigenous Education Centre at either campus or email [email protected] to become a member. Check our home page for our office locations.
All collected information is confidential and will not be shared, as outlined in the “Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act” and the “Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act”. The information will only be used for relevant support, services and resources.