Coordinator, Indigenous Student Access

Position: Coordinator, Indigenous Student Access (2 of 2)
Reporting to the Manager, Indigenous Initiatives, the Coordinator, Indigenous Student Access plays a key role in supporting Indigenous students throughout their educational journey by facilitating access to academic, cultural, financial, and personal supports. Working within the Office of Indigenous Education and Engagement, this position co‑creates a culturally safe, inclusive, and responsive environment that honours Indigenous identities, Knowledges, and traditions. The Coordinators build strong relationships with students, Indigenous communities, and campus partners, provide holistic and trauma‑informed support (including during times of crisis), and contribute to programming and initiatives that promote student success, belonging, and well‑being.

Key Responsibilities

Support Indigenous students in transitioning to university life by connecting them with academic and student services as well as relevant cultural, peer, and external supports.

Assess student financial need, support with budget planning, scholarship and bursary profile completion, and coordinate Indigenous Emergency Assistance Fund bursaries.

Provide crisis response support including safety planning and referrals.

Build and maintain relationships with Indigenous Nations, community partners, and facilitators to support seamless delivery of cultural and other programming.

Coordinate and oversee facilitators and activities to ensure cultural integrity, adherence to VIU policies and procedures, and student safety; work with VIU Elders‑in‑Residence to ensure alignment with Indigenous values, Knowledges, and trauma‑informed practices.

Work with internal departments to coordinate payments for presenters and Knowledge Holders in alignment with cultural protocols.

Collaborate across campus departments and areas to ensure culturally responsive and seamless service delivery.

Plan and deliver events, workshops, and programming that support students throughout the year (ex., scholarship and bursary profile workshops, bannock‑making with students, etc.).

Develop and mentorship and peer support opportunities for Indigenous students through the ’su’luqw’a’ Community Cousins program.

Provide outreach and communication through multiple channels (newsletter, social media, posters, etc.).

Maintain welcoming, culturally safe spaces for students and provide trauma‑informed and culturally grounded support to Indigenous students.

Address and manage disruptive behaviours within Shq’apthut using professional judgment, balancing safety, confidentiality, and relationship‑building. Escalate concerns appropriately while maintaining trust and cultural integrity.

Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (social work, education, child and youth care, Indigenous studies) and minimum three years supporting post‑secondary learners. Minimum three years’ experience working with Indigenous communities or stakeholders. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Understanding of Indigenous student experiences and impacts of colonization.

Strong cultural competencies including an understanding of the diversity of Indigenous cultures with a personal commitment to incorporating Indigenous practices, local Indigenous protocols, traditions, and Knowledges.

Proven superior intercultural communication skills, interpersonal skills, facilitation skills, and ability to resolve conflict.

Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Strong organizational and problem‑solving skills.

Training in trauma‑informed practice.

Class 5 driver's license and satisfactory driving record.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite, Canva, and Constant Contact (preferred).

ASIST and Food Safe certifications or willingness to obtain these certificates.

For this position, we also want to highlight that First Nations, Inuit, or Metis ancestry is regarded as directly relevant to the skills and knowledge for excellence in the position. Pursuant to Section 41 of the British Columbia Human Rights Code, priority will be given to applicants of Indigenous ancestry.

Preferred Qualifications

Knowledge of Vancouver Island University programs, services, supports, and…