Abbotsford School District Celebrates Successful UFV Visit for Indigenous Students

December 13, 2023

The success of a recent initiative that brought together 100 Indigenous secondary students from across the Abbotsford School District with the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is being celebrated. On November 15th, students from grades 10-12 had the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a full-day experience at UFV, exploring various academic programs and learning about the specific supports available for Indigenous students at the university.

This enriching event was expertly organized and facilitated by Cyndi Orth, Indigenous Support Worker at Yale Secondary, in collaboration with Ian Affleck, Associate Dean, Faculty of Science at UFV. Their joint efforts provided a platform for the students to engage directly with university life, discover the wide range of educational opportunities, and understand the resources tailored to support Indigenous students' success.

"When students have the opportunity to experience a visit to a post-secondary institution, they can see themselves in this potential future,” said Darlene MacDonald, District Principal for Indigenous Education. “Such experiences are crucial in exposing our young learners to university life, giving them the confidence to aspire for higher education.”

This initiative aligns perfectly with the Abbotsford School District's enhancement agreement goals. It supports Goal #1, Student Success, and Goal #3, Equity and Access. By providing these learning opportunities, the district continues to support students in developing their full potential and paving the way for a more inclusive environment where every student is encouraged to explore and achieve their full potential.

The Abbotsford School District extends its gratitude to UFV and all those involved in making this collaborative event a success. Indigenous students looking to learn more about post-secondary options available to them, such as College & Universities, Trades Programs and Employment Opportunities, can visit the Indigenous Education Department’s Post-Secondary Portal.

Photos courtesy of UFV Communications.

A small group of Indigenous Community members, students, elders drumming for the opening of the day

Large group of students gathered in large room in seats listening a speaker

A small group of students sitting in chairs looking and listening to a female speaker

Students standing in large classroom as a university professor speaks

A small group of students around a table watching a demonstration

Two male students sitting at a table working on a task

Small group of students around a table looking at cedar

Two male students sitting at a table, one is looking at camera and giving a thumbs up

Large group of students, elders, community members and staff gathered in a room sitting at tables

Students sitting at a table for lunch, having a conversation and smiling

Two students inspecting a variety of furs on display

Female student looking into a microscope

Two students completing a science experiment

Small group of students working on a task in the classroom

Female student pouring a candle as a male student watches