NC honours Indigenous student success at annual awards banquet with Dr. Phyllis Webstad

Niagara College celebrated the strength, resilience and achievements of its Indigenous learners at the annual Indigenous Student Awards Banquet, held on March 26.

Now in its third year, the event brought together students, families, staff and community partners at Club Roma for an evening dedicated to honouring Indigenous student success. The banquet was planned and hosted by Niagara College’s Indigenous Education (IE) team, whose work supports Indigenous learners through culturally appropriate teachings, academic guidance, leadership opportunities, community connections and assistance navigating college life.

Dr. Webstad congratulates a recipient of the Dr. Phyllis Webstad Indigenous Scholarship.

IE staff members Jessica Winger, Indigenous Student Success Leader, and Sadie May, Indigenous Academic and Learning Success Consultant, served as emcees for the evening. They highlighted the important work of the department, which supports more than 300 Indigenous students from across Ontario each year by offering individualized services, cultural programming and safe, inclusive spaces that nurture students academically, socially, spiritually and personally.

Leah Hogan, Director of Indigenous Education, welcomed guests and spoke to the importance of recognizing both the accomplishments of Indigenous students and their individual journeys.

“This evening is not only about celebrating our Indigenous students, it is also a gathering of community and story,” said Hogan. “As we honour their accomplishments, we also recognize their commitment to reclaiming identity, strengthening community, and walking their journeys here at Niagara College with intention and purpose.”

Dr. Phyllis Webstad addresses the guests at NC’s Indigenous Student Awards Banquet.

NC President Sean Kennedy attended the event alongside members of the College’s Executive Team, including Vice President, Students, Dr. Chris McGrath, Vice President, Academic, Dr. Fay Lim-Lambie, Vice President, Enrolment, Dorita Pentesco and Vice President, Advancement, Gord Arbeau, as well as Board of Governors Chair, Lora Tisi, all of whom were present to celebrate the students and acknowledge their supporters.

“Niagara College recognizes the dedication and determination of our Indigenous learners, and tonight is all about celebrating their achievements,” said Kennedy. “We are proud of each of our students and grateful to the families, communities and partners who support them along their journey.”

The evening’s guest of honour was Dr. Phyllis Webstad, founder of the Orange Shirt Society and a third-generation residential school survivor. Travelling from Williams Lake, B.C., she met with award recipients and shared her story, speaking about the lasting impacts of residential schools and the importance of Orange Shirt Day, Every Child Matters and ongoing Truth and Reconciliation efforts.

In total, 18 students in attendance received awards, including four recipients of the Dr. Phyllis Webstad Indigenous Scholarship. Each recipient of this award received $1,000 during the 2025-2026 academic year to help ease the financial burden of postsecondary education.

The College’s Advancement team continues to welcome donations for this scholarship fund, with a long-term goal of expanding support to every Indigenous student who attends the College.

The celebration also welcomed members of NC’s Indigenous Education Management Circle (IEMC), along with community partners and supporters. A special musical performance by Siibii – a queer, trans non-binary Indigenous artist and 2026 Juno Award nominee for Contemporary Indigenous Artist of the Year – added to the evening’s atmosphere of celebration and reflection.

Through events like the Indigenous Student Awards Banquet, NC continues to recognize student success while reinforcing its commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and culturally respectful learning environment.