First Peoples House opens its doors

First Peoples House, one of the university’s most distinctive capital projects, welcomed its first occupants in early August, including the staff of the Office of Indigenous Affairs and Aboriginal counsellor’s office.

The house creates an academic and cultural centre for Indigenous students as well as a welcoming space on campus for the broader community.

“The house provides an important central gathering space and a place to connect on a regular basis with the elders,” says Fran Hunt Jinnouchi, director of the Office of Indigenous Affairs. “Although our Indigenous students, staff and faculty are from different nations across the country, we all now have a sense of home, of place and of a stronger connection to the local communities.”

Designed by Alfred Waugh Architect of Vancouver in the Coast Salish style, First Peoples House includes academic, administrative and ceremonial spaces. Boasting a green roof, storm retention pond and natural light and ventilation, the building is expected to achieve gold-level certification with the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating Standards program.

Landscaping with native trees and vegetation has already transformed the former construction site into attractive green space with pathways. Completed on time and on budget, the $7-million project was managed by Knappett Projects Inc.

The First Peoples House Advisory Council, co-chaired by Hunt Jinnouchi and Robina Thomas (social work) will provide guidance and advice on the mission, purposes and priorities of the house, and develop principles for its use and programming.

“Indigenous faculty are excited that the house offers us a cultural and spiritual place where we can profile the outstanding work that Indigenous students are engaged with,” says Thomas.

“There is a sense of optimism as students have started coming through the doors into this bright and inviting space,” adds Hunt Jinnouchi.

A date for the formal opening of First Peoples House will be announced later. For more information, contact the Office of Indigenous Affairs at 250-853-3601.