Indigenous Affairs
Our Commitment
Assiniboine College recognizes the unique history of Indigenous peoples and commits to an active role in Reconciliation. We foster a respectful and engaging learning environment for all students to grow through the sharing of knowledge, ideas, and experiences.
Assiniboine believes that Indigenization is a commitment to instil Indigenous worldviews, knowledge, and perspectives from the diverse Indigenous cultures we are united with at every level of our organization. We support cultural competency and decolonization of our institution through renewed respect and appreciation of traditional ways of being and doing.
Read our Indigenization Strategy
Get To Know Us
Connecting with someone at Assiniboine is a great way to start your educational journey. Meet the team that will help you explore programs and assist with your education plan.
Our Indigenous Affairs team offers a wide range of support and services to assist students along their post-secondary journey. We liaise with academic advisors, connect students with important community resources and provide guidance to First Nations, Métis and Inuit students from a holistic perspective to support their academic goals. We act as a resource for all students and faculty in their efforts to acquire a true understanding of Indigenous cultures and ways of knowing.
Kris Desjarlais
As Director of Indigenous Education, Kris manages the delivery of services for Indigenous students, coordinates the college’s Indigenization strategy, and provides leadership in training college staff on Indigenous cultural competency and safety. A member of the Métis and Cree Nations, Kris works to ensure First Nation, Metis and Inuit students experience a respectful and engaging learning environment.
Director, Indigenous Education
[email protected]
Crystal Bunn
Crystal Bunn is a member of the Dakota nation and organizes special events and cultural activities throughout the school year. She also provides support in areas of sponsorship, housing, budgeting, childcare, relocation and helps coordinate Elder visits.
Indigenous Services Officer
204.573.3690
[email protected]
Cecil Roulette
As part of the student services team, Cecil Roulette provides culturally-based academic advising support to Indigenous students. A member of the Ojibway nation, he also serves as a link to community resources available to support students’ physical, emotional, spiritual and intellectual well-being.
Indigenous Student Success Advisor
204.725.8700 ext. 7181 | [email protected]