This July, the Anishinabek Educational Institute hosted AEI Day celebrations at both the Nipissing Campus (July 4th) and the Munsee-Delaware Campus (July 11th), bringing together students, families, staff, and community members to mark 31 years of Indigenous-led education.

At Nipissing Campus, the Kiwanis Bandshell at North Bay’s Waterfront came alive with community energy. Guests browsed a variety of local vendors offering crafts, beadwork, wellness products, and community services. Joining AEI Staff were community vendors such as Yes Employment, North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre, CAMP (Community Accessible Mobile Paramedic), Erica Louttit from Emergent, M. Treanor Greer-Delarosabel who brought his drums for the community to engage with, and community crafters: Katherine Sarazin, Natasha Boshaw, Gabi Labreche, and Mindy Callahan.

Live music created a welcoming atmosphere that brought in folks passing by, and AEI staff were available at information tables to share program details and answer questions about enrollment and supports. AEI swag was available throughout the day, and many left with new gear and new connections. AEI Staff also shared a variety of hand drum songs with attendees.

The following week, Munsee-Delaware Campus hosted its own celebration on campus grounds. Guests were welcomed with a BBQ meal prepared by Program Coordinator Andrea Noah, and enjoyed family-friendly activities including face painting by Miranda’s Be-You-Tiful Facepainting, and shopping from local artist Running Deer Creations. AEI staff offered on-site program information and had giveaways and promotional materials ready for those interested in applying. Southern First Nations Secretariat joined with an info booth to support learners in the region. The event offered a warm and personal way to connect with future students and celebrate with our local community.

Both events were a reminder of the strong relationships AEI has built over the past three decades and the excitement for what’s still to come.

Miigwech to everyone who came out and supported AEI Day this year! Whether you joined us to learn more about our programs, pick up some swag, enjoy good food, or just spend time with us, we were glad to see you.