Elder in the House
Elders are available for appointments from Monday to Friday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. during the fall
and winter semesters. » Request an Elder
What is an Elder?
An Elder is an older Indigenous person who adopts the role of a surrogate grandmother or grandfather. Elders
possess a wealth of knowledge and life experiences with specific expertise in Indigenous culture that they
are eager to share with the younger generations.
What is the Elder in the House program?
Elders are available at Cplul’kw’ten and provide personal consultation, conversation, guidance
and mentorship to Indigenous students. Elders engage with students using a variety of traditional Indigenous
life skills including: the ‘talking circle’ and Elder knowledge. If you would like to spend some
time with an Elder, drop into Cplul’kw’ten.
Elder Hours
Day |
Elder |
Hours |
Monday |
Leona (Doe) Thomas |
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. |
Tuesday |
Sid Peltier |
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. |
Wednesday |
Alternating Schedule |
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. |
Thursday |
Joanne Mary Brown |
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. |
Friday |
Mike Arnouse |
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. |
Mentors
During the fall and winter semesters, the Indigenous mentor program assists new students with a
successful transition to TRU.
Mentors are trained to work independently and collaboratively with students. Mentoring happens one-to-one, in groups,
at events and in workshops.
If you are interested in working with a mentor, you can apply by filling in the request form below.
Indigenous Student Mentor Application Form
For more information about the program please contact:
Lex Edwards
indigenous@tru.ca
Indigenous Mentor and
Communications Coordinator
250-828-5188
Cplul'kw'ten (House 4)
Indigenous Mentors
-
Robert Edward,
Similkameen/Syilx
Bio
Program: Bachelor of Natural Resource Science
About me: Hi, my name is Robert Edward and I am Similkameen/Syilx from Keremeos, British Columbia. As a
Syilx person, I care very much about the land I come from and hope to learn as much as I can from
my program, so that I can contribute to the stewardship of my territory.
I also enjoy singing. I’ve been singing at powwows for 14 years and, as a member of the TRU Drum
Club, I hope to share and learn songs with other students.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a mentor and hope to meet you all soon.
-
Jordan Setah,
Yunesit'in
Bio
Program: Bachelor of Business Administration
About me: Weytk-p.
My name is Jordan Setah. I am kúkwpi7 (chief) of Culture Club and I am a Bachelor of Business
Administration student here at Thompsons Rivers University. I am a deadly aunty laugher, Bepsi
lover, and a stickgames junkie but that is me in a nutshell. I will be around House 5, come say hi!
Plus they call me Captain Muscles.
-
Xeni Lulua,
Tsilhqot’in from Xeni Gwet’in First Nations
Bio
Program: Bachelor of Business Administration
About me: Hello my name is Xeni Lulua I am 19 years old and I am in my second year of my BBA, I enjoy
beading, powwows, riding my horses and stick games!! I also enjoy auntie laughing with my friends
at house 5, don’t be scared when you hear us, we are a little noisy but we are very friendly, just
come on in and get to know us, we are a lot of fun to be around or atleast we think we are!
-
Sierra William,
Xeni Gwet’in from the Tsilhqot’in Nation
Bio
Program: Bachelor of Social Work
About me: Sid Suzi Sierra William Hant’ih, Xeni Gwet’in nesglin. Hello my name is Sierra William I am from
Nemiah Valley. I am in my first year of Bachelor of Social Work, I was previously in the Human
Services Program here at TRU. I have a business Chi?elas Designs I make Indigenous clothing.
-
Virginia Fiestas,
Secwépemc from Xatśūll nation
Bio
Program: Bachelor of Business Administration
About me: Hello! My name is Virginia fiestas. I am 26 and in my second year of my BBA. I am also council of
culture club (vice president). I may be a bit of a socially awkward human but consider myself
hilarious when I’m comfortable around people! Let’s get to know each other at house 5, see how
funny I am. To find me just follow the sounds of an auntie laughing. Looking forward to meeting you!
-
Ami Smith,
Spaxmin and Simpcw First Nation
Bio
Program: Bachelor of Social Work
About me: Hi! My name is Ami Smith, I am from the Spaxmin Nation (Upper Nicola) and Simpcw Nation, but I
have been living in Kamloops my whole life. I am a fourth-year student in the Social Work Program
with a specialization in child welfare. I only just started visiting Cplul’kw’ten in my third year when I
was placed there for my practicum and grew to enjoy the environment and the people who walked
through the doors. I enjoy procrastinating with a cup of tea while listening to the stories students,
faculty members and elders have to share. When I am not in school, I enjoy rock climbing and going
for runs when it is nice outside. Although if it is cold out, I would prefer staying in and playing games
with my friends or crocheting little hats for my cats.
I look forward to being a mentor this year and connecting with new and current students. If you have
time come by and say hi!
-
Olivia Lane,
Métis
Bio
Program: Bachelor of Social Work
About me: Taanishi Kiyo! I am a proud Métis woman who grew up on the unceded ancestral territory of the
Shíshálh Nation on the Sunshine Coast, BC. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor
in Sociology, and I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s of Social Work. In my spare time, I enjoy
baking, beading, hiking with my dog, and caring for my houseplants.
My strengths lie in Psychology, Sociology, English, and effective study strategies. I also serve as a
wellness resource hub, helping connect students to mental, sexual, and physical health resources
both on and off campus. Whether through one-on-one mentoring or group workshops, I am
committed to meeting you where you are and supporting your success!
-
Perry Erickson,
Nuxalkmc
Bio
Program: Bachelor of Social Work
About me: Yaw smatmcuks (Hello friends). My name is Perry Erickson. I am Nuxalkmc from
Bella Coola which is located within the traditional and unceded ancestral territories of the
Nuxalk Nation.
I am also Carrier from my father’s side, from the Fort St. James area.
I been here in Kamloops for about 6 years now. In my third year of University doing the
Bachelor of Social Work program. My academic journey has greatly challenged me, I am still a
work in progress. I love what education has done for me in terms of looking at the broader
social issues. It made me reflect and I am grateful for the transformation of perspective
this journey has given me.
I look forward to seeing everyone around campus. I will be around Cplul’kw’ten,
hopefully we will have a chance to chat and I hope you connect with the other mentors as
well. I am here to offer any help I can but I find myself learning more from your thoughts,
stories and perspectives.
-
Robert Edward,
Similkameen/Syilx
Bio
Program: Bachelor of Natural Resource Science
About me: Hi, My name is Robert Edward and I am Similkameen/Syilx from Keremeos,
British Columbia. As a Syilx person, I care very much about the land I come from and hope to
learn as much as I can from my program, so that I can contribute to the stewardship of my
territory. I also enjoy singing. I’ve been singing at powwows for 14 years and, as a
member of the TRU Drum Club, I hope to share and learn songs with other students.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a mentor and hope to meet you all soon.
-
Jordan Setah,
Yunesit'in
Bio
Program: Bachelor of Business Administration
About me: Jordan Setah is Tsilhqot’in (Chilcotin) from Yunesit'in (Stone)
reserve and is a proud mom to two beautiful children. She recently moved to Kamloops to
continue her education and is in her third year of the Bachelor of Business Administration
program with a major in accounting. Jordan is excited to be a mentor this school year and
looks forward to growing her connections with the other mentors, new and current students,
faculty members and Elders.
-
Melissa Kelm,
Métis
Bio
Program: Bachelor of Social Work
About me: Melissa Kelm is a fourth-year Bachelor of Social Work Student at TRU. She is
Métis with roots going back to the Red River Settlement of Manitoba but has had the
privilege to learn and grow up on the beautiful Secwepemc Territory.
She has many hobbies and is always eager to learn new skills. A lot of their interests lay in
learning more about their Metis culture as well as the Secwepemc culture and language.
Melissa enjoys beading and drumming and is currently learning to sew and make ribbon skirts
and shirts. Melissa loves to start new projects and see how different mediums can fit
together to create new and interesting things.
-
Brian Burciaga,
West Moberly First Nations
Bio
Program: Bachelor of Engineering in Software Engineering
About me: As a Software Engineering student, Brian Burciaga is experienced in math,
physics, and computer programming. Being a fourth-year student, he understands the struggles
of adjusting to university life. He is passionate about technology and is always open to
helping students as best as possible with classes, tech support, or discovering services at
TRU.
Raised in Prince George and Tumbler Ridge, Brian was from West Moberly First Nations. He
never grew up around his culture, but in recent years learned to appreciate his culture. He
hopes to learn more about Indigenous heritage with others at Cplul’kw’ten.
When he isn't studying on campus, you can find him going for runs, training for boxing,
playing video games, or enjoying a night out with friends.
-
Wynona Edwards,
Ts'kw'aylaxw First Nation
Bio
Program: Master of Arts in Human Rights and Social Justice
About me: K̓alhwá7alap, Wynona Edwards is St’át’imc from
Ts'kw'aylaxw First Nation, and she is in her last year of the Master of Arts in Human Rights
and Social Justice program. So far, she has received her Fine Arts Degree and Human Service
Diploma.
“I like to think I’m shy, but my friends say I have crazy energy and a great
sense of humour. I try to make school as fun as I can because it can be stressful. This
school year will be exciting as myself and my fellow mentors have lots of fun events
planned. If you see me around, don’t be shy, say hi!”
-
Perry Erickson,
Nuxalkmc
Bio
Program: Third year Bachelor of Social Work
About me: Yaw smatmcuks (Hello friends). My name is Perry Erickson. I am Nuxalkmc from
Bella Coola which is located within the traditional and unceded ancestral territories of the
Nuxalk Nation.
I am also Carrier from my father’s side, from the Fort St. James area.
I been here in Kamloops for about 6 years now. In my third year of University doing the
Bachelor of Social Work program. My academic journey has greatly challenged me, I am still a
work in progress. I love what education has done for me in terms of looking at the broader
social issues. It made me reflect and I am grateful for the transformation of perspective
this journey has given me.
I look forward to seeing everyone around campus. I will be around Cplul’kw’ten,
hopefully we will have a chance to chat and I hope you connect with the other mentors as
well. I am here to offer any help I can but I find myself learning more from your thoughts,
stories and perspectives.
-
Robert Edward,
Similkameen/Syilx
Bio
Program: Natural Resource Science
About me: Hi, My name is Robert Edward and I am Similkameen/Syilx from Keremeos,
British Columbia. As a Syilx person, I care very much about the land I come from and hope to
learn as much as I can from my program, so that I can contribute to the stewardship of my
territory. I also enjoy singing. I’ve been singing at powwows for 14 years and, as a
member of the TRU Drum Club, I hope to share and learn songs with other students.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a mentor and hope to meet you all soon.
-
Olivia Lane,
Métis
Bio
Program: Fourth year Bachelor of Psychology, Sociology minor.
About me: Tannishi, my name is Olivia Lane. I am a proud Métis woman who grew
up on the unceded ancestral territories of the Shíshálh Nation on the Sunshine
Coast, BC. I am a fourth year psychology student that is very passionate about ending the
stigma surrounding mental health. I strive to make an inclusive environment through the use
of inclusive language and the pursuit of decolonization in my academic and professional
settings. After I graduate from TRU I hope to pursue a Masters degree in either forensic or
clinical psychology. In my spare time I love baking, hiking and tending to my house plants.
I am happy to help with English, Psychology, and Sociology or any type of paper related
assignments in regard to brainstorming and proofreading. I also excel at organizing and
creating schedules to maintain time management and meet deadlines. In addition, I am a
resource hub! I am happy to provide and help search out any needed resources in regard to
mental, sexual and physical health on and off campus.
-
Hailey Lepine, Cree,
Ojibwe and Lakota
Bio
Program: Bachelor Degree in Business with a Major in Accounting
About me: Hi everyone,
I am a Metis woman, specifically a mix of Cree, Ojibwe, and Lakota heritage. I’m
currently in my third year of the BBA program with an accounting major. Upon graduation from
TRU I plan to then work towards becoming a CPA (chartered professional accountant).
After taking advantage of the resources provided by The Gathering Place throughout my time as
a student, I am excited to now support others as a mentor for house 5. Having grown up in
Kamloops, I am knowledgeable on the area if any questions arise. Also, having mentored on
campus before to assist potential future students in their transition to post-secondary, I
know a lot about on campus resources. Feel free to direct any questions my way when you see
me around, and I’ll be sure to answer to the best of my ability or to get you in
contact with someone who can!
-
Charlene Quinney,
Cree
Bio
Program: Human Service Diploma Program
About me: Well I am a proud Plains Cree First Nations lady, from Frog Lake, Alberta. I
am the proud mother of 4 beautiful children, who have blessed my life by choosing me for
this very important role. I have made the decision to go back to school to help give back to
people who need the help that I needed at one point in time. In doing so, I hope to
encourage my kids to always be kind, courteous, and brave in all their future choices. I am
looking forward to my second year and what adventures await me. It will be a pleasure
working with the other mentors that I hope to all meet one day.
-
Jesse Young,
Métis
Bio
Program: Juris Doctor Law - 3L
About me: My name is Jesse Young, and I'm currently in my final year of law school
after completing a business education. I'm Métis with a mixed Indigenous /Settler
background and have lived all over Canada. I'm Co-President of the Indigenous Law Students
Association and you can also find me involved in a few other committees and clubs on campus.
Off-campus I'm currently a firefighter in the Shuswap and a minor hockey coach in Chase, BC.
I'm a firm believer in education and have seen it open incredible opportunities for those
like me. I'm thrilled about this opportunity and look forward to meeting any who require
some assistance or would like to chat.
-
Rebecca Fabian,
Dene/Cree
Bio
Tansi, edlanate and welcome,
Hi, my name is Rebecca Fabian, I am Dene/Cree from Fort McKay First Nations in northern
Alberta. I’m a mature student enrolled in the Human Service Diploma Program, working
towards my Bachelor of Social Work Degree.
Welcome to all our new and current students. This fall I am entering my 3rd year of
University; I am humbled and honored to be an Indigenous Mentor for a second year in a row.
There is so much to do here at TRU Thompson Rivers University, like recreation, many places
to study, eat, drink coffee and do not forget about all the kind, helpful, supportive and
dedicated staff, teachers and many students just like you. TRU has many services of all
kinds, if you need something please do not be afraid to ask, that’s what we are here
for.
So please stop in at the Gathering place, say hi, and enjoy the atmosphere, have a snack or
work on the computers. We can’t wait to meet you.
-
Jamie-Lee Keith
Bio
Program: TRU Law second year
About me: I am the current elected Thompson/Okanagan Métis Youth rep, the
director of communications at Two Rivers Métis, and I am a law student at TRU. I have
a degree in history, Bachelor of Education, and a master’s in educational leadership.
I have a passion for helping younger people and I seek to promote cultural understanding in
everything I do. My favourite colour is purple, and I love the band Fleetwood Mac. If you
see me on campus, please feel free to tell me what you’re watching on Netflix or tell
me all about a pet if you have one! I look forward to getting to know you and helping you be
as successful as possible!
-
Melissa Kelm,
Métis
Bio
Taanishi, I’m Melissa. I am in the second year of my Human Service Diploma program and
have plans to go in for my Bachelors of Social work. I am a proud Métis woman who
enjoys learning how to do different traditional arts such as beading and drumming. I have
been out of school for 17 years so I bring a lot of street school to my experiences here on
campus. Being away from school for so long I learned quickly how important and helpful it is
to have a great support system with you. I want everyone to experience the best university
life that they can. If you see me around campus stop and say hi. I want to spend as much
time on campus getting to know everyone and really soaking in my Indigenous culture as well
as Kamloops culture.
-
Christine Mack,
Nuxalk
Bio
My name is Christine Mack (Am7amatuutsana). I am from the Nuxalk Nation. I have resided in
Kamloops since 1999 and Kamloops is my home away from home. I am a mother to 5 beautiful
children. I currently work as a Licensed Practical Nurse. I am furthering my education and
would like to bridge into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I spent one year upgrading and
completing prerequisites at Thompson Rivers University. I wanted to become a mentor because
I know first hand how scary university can be. I would like to support the new students and
any student as they embark on their educational journey. The Gathering Place has provided me
support and connection and I encourage all new students to stop by. Our elders tell us Smaw
ti slq'ilh (One heart, One Mind). We can all get through this together. I look forward to
meeting you and assisting you through your educational journey.
-
Jesse Young,
Métis
Bio
My name is Jesse Young, and I'm currently in law school after completing a business
education. I'm Métis with a mixed Indigenous /Settler background and have lived all
over Canada. I'm Co-President of the Indigenous Law Students Association. You can also find
me involved in a few other committees and clubs on campus. Off-campus I'm currently a
firefighter in the Shuswap and a minor hockey coach in Chase, BC. I'm a firm believer in
education and have seen it open incredible opportunities for those like me. I'm thrilled
about this opportunity and look forward to meeting any who require some assistance or would
like to chat.
-
Cicyetkwu Dunstan,
Nlak’apamux
Bio
Program year: Management Diploma second year
About me: I am Nlak’upamux and registered with Lytton First Nations from my
grandfather Lyle Dunstan’s side. My mother is Denise Dunstan, and my grandmother is
Turdine Dunstan my great grandparents were Cicyetkwu(Mary) and Jacob Anderson. I am a
returning student. My first time at TRU I was enrolled in the sciences. I decided I
wasn’t ready for university at that time and left for a few years. I am now returning
with purpose and more focus. I am involved with a local history group and have more than a
few nerdy hobbies. I am excited to be an Indigenous mentor this year. I have learnt a lot
since my first attempt at University and I am always willing to chat or help make
introductions. Don’t be afraid to ask me any questions or say hello.
-
Rebecca Fabian,
Fort McKay First Nations
Bio
Program year: First year HUMS (Human Services Diploma Program. Working towards
Bachelor of Social Work.
About me: I am a Dene/Cree from Fort McKay First Nations, northern Alberta. After 27
years I decided to return to school, in 2018 I registered at TRU in Bachelor of Arts for
some upgrading. With the support of the Gathering Place, Accessibility and Writing Centre I
had a successful first year. This semester I am starting my first year in the HUMS diploma
program. Being new to university I found that I needed a lot of support, so I know
first-hand how to seek out the supports at TRU. So please feel free to contact me.
-
Larry Franzen
Bio
Currently, I am in my fourth year of a bachelor of science to become an emergency physician
in the future. Aside from school, I am a competitive jiu-jitsu fighter, scaffolder, and ICU
volunteer among other things. I have recently finished writing the Medical College
Application Test this summer (2020) and am looking forward to sharing what has brought me
success to others who may struggle. I hope that I can help students become effective
learners so they can achieve a balanced life and have time for other activities along-side
meeting their educational goals!
-
Tahnye Robbins,
Esk’étemc
Bio
My name is Tahnyea Robbins, I am from Esk’étemc (Alkali Lake, BC) and I am in my
third year of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. I would like to be able to support
Indigenous students in their studies by providing study tips, homework tips, and providing
information on the supports and resources on campus. I encourage Indigenous students to go
to the Gathering Place - Cplul’kw’ten, the staff and volunteers are amazing and
provide a lot of support and information and allow for a better transition into university.
-
Greg,
Métis
Bio
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Social Work, Fourth year
About me:
Hello, my name is Greg, and I am a Metis student currently in my
fourth year of the Bachelor of Social Work program. I am also a red seal journeyperson
electrician who completed my electrical trade at Thompson Rivers University. I have lived in
Kamloops for most of my life and like snowboarding and board sports in general. I also love
animals, especially cats. If you see me on campus and have any questions, don’t be
afraid to approach me. I know how stressful school can get!
-
Wynona,
Ts'kw'aylaxw First Nation
Bio
Program/Year:
Human Resources Diploma, Second year
About me:
K̓alhwá7alap, Hello, ya’all my name is Wynona, and I am
from Ts'kw'aylaxw First Nation, also known as Pavilion Indian Band within the
St’át’imc Nation.
I am in my 2nd year of the Human Services Diploma Program, and will most likely move into the
BSW program. I love traveling, hunting, fishing, singing, learning, sewing, beading and
dancing powwow.
I like to think I’m shy & awkward but my friends and family think I’m crazy
and outgoing most of the time. After graduation, I hope to work alongside Indigenous youth
and children as they are our future. I am excited to be an Indigenous Mentor this year. If
you see me around, don’t be shy, say hi!
Tákem nsnek̓wnúk̓w7a
All my relations.
-
Loretta Hill,
Nisga’a Nation
Bio
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Business Administration, Second year
About me:
Loretta Hill is a 2nd-year student in the Bachelor of Business
Administration Program at TRU. Loretta has extensive work experience in accounting and
finance.
She comes from an extensive family where culture and values are very significant in her life.
Loretta comes from the Nisga’a Nation in the northern part of BC and is a Ksim
Laxgibuu (wolf tribe) from the house of Duuk’. Loretta’s Nisga’a name is
Gwilks’eelaxkw, which means the eye of the needle. She received this moniker from her
patriarchal family because of her loves of sewing, needlework and regalia making. With the
education she receives from Thompson Rivers University she would like to peruse work
experience in International Business and Finance and Aboriginal Banking.
-
Sadie Lawrence
Bio
Program/Year:
Third year
About me:
Weytk my name is Sadie Lawrence I am in my 3rd year of university. I
am originally from the Okanagan, but I moved to Secwepemc territory (Simpcw) when I was very
young. My parents instilled many different beliefs and traditional teachings in my
upbringing.
Since then, I have wanted to gain a better understanding of modern sciences and intertwine
with the teachings that have been passed on to me. Eventually I hope to work in
environmental field to help save and preserve our land.
I love to snowboard in the winter and to take the occasional hike in the summer. If you see
me around campus, say hi! :) kukwstsétsemc
-
James McMechan,
Métis
Bio
Program/Year:
Interdisciplinary Studies, Third year
About me:
Tan’si James nishihkason! Hello, I’m James McMechan, and
I’m a Metis student in my third year of the Interdisciplinary Studies program with a
focus on psychology.
My family’s Michif roots are part Sioux and part French, from fur traders in the Upper
Mississippi River Valley. I, however, grew up in Kamloops and have lived, worked, and
attended school throughout BC, Alberta, and Saskatchewan. I’m continuing my education
after an injury that influenced a change in my career path. I've loved being back in my
hometown and am excited to be a part of this year's Indigenous mentorship program.
I enjoy writing, music, a little bit of running, and catching the occasional sunrise. TRU is
the fourth university I’ve attended, so I’ve learned some of the ropes and, if
needed, I can offer advice on some of the in's and out's. If you’re a little confused
with campus life, have questions, need tutoring, or just want to chat - let me know how I
can help you! Transitioning into university can be challenging, so don’t be afraid to
ask for support! If you spot me at the Gathering Place or around campus, please say hello.
I’m always up for a coffee!
-
Elizabeth Spike,
St’át’imc and
Nlaka’pamux First Nation
Bio
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Fourth year
About me:
K̓alhwá7al̓ap (Hello to all). sElizabeth Spike
nskwátsitsa. (My name is Elizabeth Spike.)
I am from the St’át’imc and Nlaka’pamux First Nation. I am currently
in my 4th year in the Bachelor of Fine Arts program. I enjoy photography, painting and
sculpture. I want to encourage my fellow students that it's ok to ask for help, and not to
worry; we've all been there! We are a family, and that will support each and everyone in our
community here at Cplul’kw’ten.