Elder in the House Program
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 |
Mike Arnouse |
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 |
Sandi Henry |
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. |
Mentor Program
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 event and in workshops.
If you are interested in becoming a mentor, Applications are OPEN (February 1 - March 31), you can apply by downloading the Indigenous Mentor Application Form.
Register for Mentoring Program
For more information about the program please contact:
Matty Chillihitzia indigenous@tru.ca
Indigenous Mentor and Communications Coordinator
250-371-5972
Cplul'kw'ten (House 4)
Indigenous Mentors
2020 - 2021 Mentors
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
2019 - 2020 Mentors
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.
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.
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!
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!
Sadie Lawrence
Bio
Program/Year:
Third year
About me:
Weyt-kp 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
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.
