Aboriginal Gathering Place
In January 2008, Kwantlen Polytechnic University received $600,000 from the Province of British Columbia's Ministry of Advanced Education to build an Aboriginal Gathering Place on its Surrey Campus.
On March 27, 2009, a sod-turning ceremony was held with the community, the institution's Aboriginal Advisory Committee and representatives of the local First Nation bands in attendance. Blessing of the project was given by Kevin Kelly and Chris Thomas, members of Kwantlen First Nation.
May 28, 2010 marked the official grand opening of the Aboriginal Gathering Place. A ceremony and celebration were held in Surrey Main with guests from the Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development, local First Nations, University, and community.
Located at the east end Surrey Main, the Gathering Place was created by renovating existing classroom space, a hallway and two offices. A private entrance now opens onto a forest, the central courtyard and pond. Renovations included lighting and window upgrades, new finishes and furnishings as well as ceremonial art installations.
The goal of the facility is to create an inviting gathering place for all students: a space that supports the social and educational activities associated with attending Kwantlen Polytechnic University in an environment that recognizes the important contribution of the Kwantlen, Semiahmoo, Tsawwassen, Katzie, and all other Aboriginal Nations.
Post-Secondary Student Funding – Quick Reference
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