Indigenous Student Services
The Indigenous Student Services Centre (ISSC) has been a part of Lakehead University since 1987. It provides a culturally supportive environment to all Indigenous students at both the Thunder Bay and Orillia campuses.
The ISSC works with Indigenous students to achieve success in their academic goals through a variety of support services, including academic, transitional, cultural and personal support.
Both campuses have an Indigenous student lounge, which acts as a hub for activities throughout the year where students can access academic tutoring, postsecondary counsellor visits, study sessions and much more. These spaces offer an open and comfortable environment where students can access a study area, kitchenette and computers.
In addition, the ISSC has a cultural room for individual or group sessions with our Elder-in-Residence Program. The lounge is a home away from home for Indigenous students. You can talk with a counsellor, meet other students and join in activities and cultural events. The following are just some of the services you will find at Lakehead and at the ISSC.
The Indigenous Initiatives Coordinator – Orillia works closely with other departments and local community organizations to provide services, programming and resources that support student success. Activities take place throughout our 4 Orillia campus buildings – including the Maawnjigamig “Where We Gather” Student Academic Support Zone and Wiigwasitig Gitigaan “Birch Tree Garden” – in the community. In addition, Indigenous students can connect with an Elder-in-Residence and/or virtually talk with an Indigenous Student Counsellor by connecting with the Indigenous Initiatives Coordinator. For information about services, events and community partnerships in Orillia, visit Orillia Campus – Student Life & Services
The ISSC also offers many academic services that you can access when you need help. You can attend workshops, book one-on-one tutoring and find support with essay writing, research and computers. Friendly staff can help you with your university application, course selection, registration and special examinations.
A wide range of cultural services and activities are offered. These include the Elder-in-Residence Program, cultural teachings, smudging, ceremonies, traditional workshops and social events such as the Annual Fall Harvest, the Lakehead University Native Student Association pow wow and Orillia Campus drum social.
The Harold Linklater Kinoomaagegaamig Lounge is a study space where you and your teachers can come together to share ideas, as well as relax. You will feel at home in the lounge, with its couches, microwave, mini fridge and coffee maker.
