Lakehead University is committed to expanding opportunities for non-traditional learners to pursue studies in STEM programs, including Geology. This presentation will introduce two new pathways into STEM studies: the Indigenous STEM Access Program, being piloted this year, and the Asin Certificate in Geology, which is currently in the Senate approval process for next year. The two programs create diverse pathways for students to enter Geology and other Science -related fields of study.

Denise Baxter, Vice-Provost, Indigenous Initiatives
As an established education leader, Denise has worked in multiple contexts including public school boards, the Ministry of Education, Lakehead University, and First Nations private schools for the past 28 years. Within each of these contexts, she has built capacity and partnerships with multiple community stakeholders.
A Marten Falls First Nation member, she maintains that preserving and practicing cultural traditions and ceremony keeps her connected to the community, Indigenous cultures, traditions, and protocols. She works to establish networks, strengthen relationships with Indigenous communities and governments, and build capacity between Indigenous, public, and private partners which have supported multiple initiatives that advance educational outcomes for Indigenous students.

Lisa Primavesi, Indigenous Access Programs Coordinator
Over the past decade, Lisa has worked in various teaching roles with First Nations communities across the region, with Aroland First Nation and Matawa Tribal Council, and more recently with Seven Generations Education Institute. For several years she worked as the Education Navigator with Nokiiwin Tribal Council, providing supports and services for Nokiiwin’s member communities. Lisa has built strong connections in these communities and is driven to support Indigenous youth in pursuit of their education goals. Lisa currently works as the Indigenous Access Programs Coordinator at Lakehead University.