The Nipissing University Student Union (NUSU) has named its boardroom in honour of Nipissing First Nation Deputy Chief, Dr. Muriel Sawyer who passed away earlier this year.
Dr. Sawyer had worked with other elders to translate signage in the Student Centre to Nishnaabemwin, an Indigenous dialect.
“It was important to the Student Union to have the signage in the building reflect the traditional dialect of this region as our building is situated in traditional Anishinabek territory,” said Joe McIntosh, NUSU President. “We are grateful for Dr. Sawyer’s work as an ambassador, mentor, and language keeper.”
Sawyer had an extensive history with Nipissing University.
In 2014, she was the recipient of an Honorary Degree, Doctor of Education, from Nipissing University. She began teaching after earning her BA from Nipissing University in 1974 and continued to teach Junior Kindergarten through to post-secondary in her over 40-year career. She wrote, implemented, and taught the first Anishnaabemwin program for the Nipissing Parry Sound Catholic School board for 25 years.
Dr. Sawyer was instrumental in the launch of Nbisiing Secondary School, where she served as a teacher, Vice-Principal, and Principal until her retirement.
"I regret that I did not have the opportunity to meet, and work with, Muriel Sawyer," said Dr. Kevin Wamsley, President of Nipissing University. "However, it is clearly apparent that her tireless advocacy for Indigenous education and the preservation of Indigenous language and culture will have a lasting impact on the university and broader community."
At Nipissing University, she co-created the Teacher of a Second Language program (now known as Teacher of Indigenous Languages as a Second Language) as well as taught several courses in the program. She was an advocate, teacher, and mentor for her students and colleagues.
In 2003, the Union of Ontario Indians awarded her a Lifetime Achievement Award.
At the 2008 Nipissing First Nation Pow Wow, the community’s cultural committee presented her with an eagle feather and recognized her as a language keeper. Dr. Sawyer was the recipient of the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence in 2009.
The Dr. Muriel Sawyer Boardroom is located at the NUSU Student Centre on College Drive.
