Canada Life invests $100,000 to advance Indigenous learning at Lakehead University

The gift supports Gichi Kendaasiwin, fostering Indigenous-led learning and spaces that strengthen student success, cultural identity, and community understanding.

Thunder Bay, Ont. – Canada Life is supporting Lakehead University’s Gichi Kendaasiwin initiative with a $100,000 gift, helping to create Indigenous-led spaces and programs that support student success, preserve cultural traditions, and share Indigenous perspectives across Lakehead’s campuses.

Originally envisioned more than a decade ago as a large, stand-alone building on Lakehead’s Thunder Bay campus, Gichi Kendaasiwin—Anishinaabemowin for “higher knowledge”—has been reimagined as a campus-wide concept and ethos to foster Indigenous-led learning and culturally grounded spaces. While the initiative includes the construction of a smaller, dedicated Indigenous learning space on the Thunder Bay campus, it also encompasses a constellation of programs and spaces across Lakehead’s campuses, reflecting the university’s long-term commitment to reconciliation and Indigenous student success.

Designed in collaboration with Elders, Councils, and community members, Gichi Kendaasiwin embodies Indigenous traditions, priorities, and ways of knowing. It provides opportunities for mentorship, healing, and growth, while also fostering cultural competencies across education, health care, and public service.

“Canada Life’s investment reflects a shared belief in the importance of creating spaces where Indigenous students can thrive—spaces that honour their identities, languages, and traditions,” said Dr. Gillian Siddall, President and Vice-Chancellor of Lakehead University. “This gift supports an Indigenous vision for education that strengthens relationships, builds community, and prepares students to lead with confidence and cultural pride.”

Approximately 13 per cent of Lakehead’s student population identifies as Indigenous. Gichi Kendaasiwin will enrich their university experience and advance Truth and Reconciliation by creating meaningful, culturally grounded learning opportunities.

“At Canada Life, we believe education drives understanding and lasting change,” said Fabrice Morin, President and COO, Canada Life. “Supporting Gichi Kendaasiwin reflects our shared commitment with Lakehead University to create inclusive, land-based learning spaces that honour Indigenous knowledge and culture.”

“This gift affirms the importance of creating spaces led by Indigenous voices where students feel a true sense of belonging,” said Precious Anderson, Ogimaawin Indigenous Education Council (OIEC) Chair. “Gichi Kendaasiwin is about more than buildings — it is about relationships, reconciliation, and ensuring that Indigenous students see themselves reflected and respected in every part of the university experience. Canada Life’s support helps us advance that vision and walk together toward a more inclusive future.”

Beyond supporting Indigenous students’ transition to university through mentorship, services, and opportunities for growth, Gichi Kendaasiwin benefits the broader community by fostering cultural competencies in education, health care, and public service.

Today’s announcement included a tour of Lakehead’s existing Indigenous spaces and programs for Canada Life representatives, followed by a special lunch celebrating the growing partnership. The event was attended by Canada Life leaders Mike Rigato, Vice-President of Advanced Advisor Practices, and Robert Lunny, Vice-President of Canada Operations — both proud Lakehead alumni. Their continued engagement exemplifies the Lakehead for Life spirit, where graduates carry their Lakehead experience forward, supporting the University and its priorities throughout their careers and beyond. Canada Life will also be recognized on Lakehead’s Virtual Wall of Gratitude.

About Gichi Kendaasiwin

Gichi Kendaasiwin (meaning “higher knowledge” in Anishinaabemowin) is an Indigenous-led initiative that embodies Lakehead University’s commitment to reconciliation and Indigenous education. More than a single building, it is a campus-wide concept and ethos that fosters Indigenous-led learning, culturally grounded spaces, and community engagement. Rooted in Indigenous values, language, and tradition, Gichi Kendaasiwin provides opportunities for mentorship, belonging, and land-based learning, benefiting both Indigenous students and the wider community.

About Canada Life

Canada Life is a leading insurance, wealth management and benefits provider focused on improving the financial, physical, and mental well-being of Canadians. For over 175 years, individuals, families and business owners across Canada have trusted us to provide sound guidance and deliver on the promises we’ve made. We proudly serve more than 14 million customer relationships from coast to coast to coast. Canada Life is a subsidiary of Great-West Lifeco Inc. and a member of the Power Corporation of Canada group of companies. Visit canadalife.com to learn more.

About Lakehead University

Lakehead University is where ambition meets opportunity and where a degree leads to real-world impact. Known for small class sizes, hands-on learning, and unparalleled undergraduate research opportunities, Lakehead has earned national and international recognition for our student-focused approach–including being named Ontario’s #1 primarily undergraduate university by Maclean’s magazine in 2024, and ranked by Times Higher Education Impact Rankings as the top university in North America (under 10,000 students) for our commitment to sustainability and social justice.

With campuses in Thunder Bay and Orillia–and a new STEM Hub opening in Barrie in 2026–Lakehead offers a vibrant, close-knit, nature-rich environment for learning where students enjoy a uniquely balanced and enriching university experience. With more than 65 career-focused programs, Lakehead is a training ground for future leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers—graduates who think critically and drive meaningful impact in their communities and around the world.

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