Indigenous Student Supports and Community Relations

Welcome to RRC Polytech!

The Indigenous Student Supports Team provides the tools and resources to help Indigenous students succeed — from community to classroom to career. The team helps students achieve success by guiding the mind, body, heart, and spirit with experience and commitment. Through the Indigenous Support Centre, students have access to academic and cultural wraparound services that blend diverse approaches to teaching and learning.

Indigenous Student Support Centres

The Indigenous Support Centres provide a home away from home where you can smudge, participate in events, cultural Teachings and Ceremonies, or spend time with friends. The welcoming atmospheres of our centres include a computer lab, kitchen, telephone, study area and lounge. We make it a priority to promote respectful cultural awareness for all students and staff.

Elders-in-Residence

Indigenous Education is stronger at RRC Polytech with Elders, Grandparents, and Knowledge Keepers who carry the wisdom, history, and knowledge of their Nations. The Elders-in-Residence support education through Indigenous ways of teaching, learning and leading, and they contribute to the health and spiritual wellbeing of students and staff.

Our Services

Academic Liaison and Resource Coaches

The Academic Liaison and Resource Coaches support your learning needs to achieve academic success through tutoring and coaching – both one-one-one and in groups. They can also help you define your own personal study skills, goal setting, and time management so that you can move forward in your courses with confidence.

Circle of Friends Indigenous Student Mentorship Program

The Circle of Friends Indigenous Student Mentorship Program, in partnership with Canada Life, connects Indigenous learners at RRC Polytech with industry professionals who provide guidance, support and cultural empowerment. Through these meaningful mentor relationships, students build career readiness, strengthen academic and personal growth, and prepare for success while mentors help bridge Indigenous talent to the workplace.

Navigation Coaches

Navigation Coaches are a first point of contact for current Indigenous students and help with everything from finding your way around campus, sharing important resources and information, understanding College processes and accessing community services. They also help connect you with other important College supports depending on what you need.

The Resource Crew

The Resource Crew, or R-Crew, is made up of student volunteers that take on various roles aimed at easing new students into college life. They are a great resource who want to make new Indigenous students feel welcome while creating a support system to ensure success.