Understanding and Voicing the Needs of Indigenous Post-Secondary Students on Ontario Campuses

Lisa Doxtator is Oneida from the Thames, and Mohawk from Six Nations. She sits with the Bears. Lisa is the Cultural Counsellor at Four Directions, a position that is fully integrated with Student Wellness Services at Queen’s University. Lisa has a social work background, with experience in trauma and recovery, and is a registered mental health professional. Lisa positions her therapeutic technique within an Indigenous worldview that acknowledges and validates Indigenous students’ experiences and histories.

Megan VanEvery resides on the Six Nation’s of the Grand River Territory and belongs to the Seneca Nation and Turtle Clan. She obtained her Undergraduate and Master’s degree in Criminology from Wilfrid Laurier University focusing on social justice issues faced amongst Indigenous communities. Through her previous work experiences as a community liaison and Cultural Mentor for Indigenous students she continues to advocate and improve the wellbeing of her community members. Currently as the Indigenous post-secondary knowledge and research lead, she is working on resources and increased engagement amongst Ontario post-secondary institutions in supporting Indigenous staff and students’ mental health and well-being