Celebrating Achievement at Nipissing Campus

The Nipissing Campus ceremony recognized three graduates from the Binoojiingyag Kinoomaadwin: Early Childhood Education program and two graduates from the Practical Nursing program.

The Early Childhood Education graduates completed their studies through a community-based delivery in Wikwemikong First Nation, reflecting AEI’s commitment to providing accessible post-secondary education in Indigenous communities. AEI welcomed Brenda Gallen, Coordinator for St. Clair College’s Chatham Campus and instructor for the program, who joined the celebration alongside her former students.

Graduates also received encouragement from several distinguished guests. Mike Sawyer of Nipissing First Nation welcomed graduates and attendees to the territory and reminded graduates to honour the teachings of the past as they use their gifts to serve the present. Lake Huron Regional Chief Scott McLeod, representing the Anishinabek Nation, led graduates into the ceremony and spoke about nation-building through Indigenous education, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming Indigenous knowledge and recognizing the gifts each person brings to the world.

AEI Director of Education Mindy Taylor congratulated graduates on fulfilling the commitment they made to themselves and their education. She reflected on the trust that communities place in professionals such as Early Childhood Educators and Nurses, encouraging graduates to bring their knowledge, compassion, cultural understanding, and respect into the important work ahead.

Representatives from Canadore College were also in attendance, including President and CEO Dr. Sandra Efu. In her remarks, Dr. Efu highlighted the growing demand for professionals in health, human, and social services and praised AEI’s holistic approach to education, which supports learners mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually.

Honouring Student Success at Munsee-Delaware Campus

One week later, the Munsee-Delaware Campus celebrated seven graduates from the Practical Nursing program and six graduates from the Social Service Worker: Indigenous Knowledge program.

The ceremony brought together representatives from AEI’s educational partners, including Loyalist College and St. Clair College, as well as representatives from the Indigenous Advanced Education and Skills Council (IAESC) and the Indigenous Institutes Consortium (IIC).

Throughout the ceremony, speakers acknowledged AEI’s recent accreditation achievement. AEI Director of Education Mindy Taylor reflected on the decades of advocacy and leadership that contributed to this milestone, including the work of her father, Murray Maracle, who envisioned accreditation as an important step in strengthening Indigenous-controlled post-secondary education. She also recognized the many staff members whose efforts helped make the achievement possible.

Chief Joe Miskokomon encouraged graduates and future learners to continue pursuing Indigenous post-secondary education and highlighted the growing demand for skilled professionals in the region, noting the opportunities available for future social service workers and other community-serving professions.

The ceremony also featured AEI alumnus David “DJ” White, who returned as Head Male Dancer. Sharing both his talents and words of encouragement, White reflected on his own educational journey and expressed pride in being able to give back to AEI and support the next generation of graduates.

Celebrating Student Success

Both ceremonies recognized student achievement through awards honouring academic excellence, leadership, resilience, kindness, and commitment to Indigenous education. Valedictorians reflected on the shared experiences, challenges, and accomplishments that shaped their time at AEI, while family members, classmates, faculty, and community partners celebrated alongside them.

From welcoming prayers and drumming to speeches, award presentations, and the conferring of credentials, each ceremony highlighted the importance of community, culture, and education in supporting student success.

AEI extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2026. As these graduates move forward into careers in education, health care, and social services, they carry with them the knowledge, skills, and teachings needed to make a positive difference in their communities and beyond.