Welcome message to Faculty of Health Science learners from the Indigenous Health Learning Lodge (IHLL) McMaster University

Welcome message to Faculty of Health Science learners from the Indigenous Health Learning Lodge (IHLL) McMaster University.

Aanii- She:kon-Boozhoo-Tansi Greetings!

Welcome to the new Academic year!

On behalf of our team here in the Indigenous Health Learning Lodge (IHLL), I would like to welcome everyone to the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) 2024-25 academic year!  We are thrilled to have you join our community, where we honour and integrate Indigenous knowledge and practices into health education. At the IHLL, you will find a culturally supportive environment for First Nations, Inuit and Métis (FNIM) learners. Our goal is to support you to gain the health education skills and knowledge needed to make a positive impact in your communities.

We encourage you to engage fully with the resources and opportunities available for FNIM learners in FHS, including cultural and peer support, career and academic advising, and to connect with your peers and mentors. Students, staff and faculty are encouraged to visit the IHLL space. We are in a new space in the Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Learning and Discovery (MDCL) 3510!

Additionally, in the Thomas Dignan Indigenous Learners Lounge, you will find a culturally safe space for First Nations, Inuit and Métis students on campus, to write or host a study group, access the IHILL library, have a nutrition/health break, spend time with our Elders, check in with members of the IHLL team or just visit and share a few laughs.

For access to the Thomas Dignan Indigenous Learners Lounge, Indigenous learners are invited to email IHLL@mcmaster.ca. The lounge is accessible 24/7 for your convenience!

Your journey here is not just about academic growth, but also about personal and cultural enrichment. We look forward to walking along with you every step of the way during your time at McMaster Faculty of Health Sciences. We look forward to the year ahead, which promises exciting transitions and new faces!

We are so grateful to all the learners, faculty, community, Knowledge Helpers, FHS leadership and allies who support the IHLL.

For more information for current students, please visit our website at Current Students – Indigenous Health Learning Lodge (mcmaster.ca).

Kichi Miigwetch (Thank-you!) and we hope this new academic year is a healthy and successful one for all.

Dr. Bernice Downey, Associate Dean, Indigenous Health on behalf of the Learning Lodge Team.