BMO supports Indigenous learners
Since 2014, the BMO Aboriginal Peer Mentorship Program has supported MRU Indigenous students. The legacy of a $1.5M donation from 2013 allowed scholarships, bursaries, and the peer mentorship program, which has provided leadership development and training, culturally safe programming, and academic support.
The students, Iniskim Centre, and Mount Royal University are grateful for BMO's continued commitment to our community.
Mission
Through sharing cultural traditions and values, the BMO Indigenous Peer Mentorship Program provides peer-to-peer mentorship experiences for Indigenous students at Mount Royal University. Recognizing the importance of supporting students as they transition into university, this program empowers the mentor and mentee to establish relationships and hone their academic skills through education, culture, community and wellness. The BMO Indigenous Peer Mentorship Program is committed to supporting Indigenous students' success.
Objectives
Role of the BMO Indigenous Peer Mentorship Facilitator
The BMO Indigenous Peer Mentorship Program facilitator matches second, third, and fourth-year students with first-year students in the Indigenous University Bridging Program and first-year students in any diploma and degree program. The facilitator attempts to match students from the same program to navigate their academic and social experiences at Mount Royal University.
Students will enhance their experience through education, awareness, and understanding of all programs and services across the MRU campus.
The facilitator coordinates interviews, training and event outings during the semester. The facilitator works with the Medicine Trail Program coordinator to incorporate traditional teachings, cultural knowledge and Elder support.
This facilitator engages mentees and mentors to create a sense of belonging, community and wellness while developing self-awareness.
Check-ins with students will be ongoing throughout mentorship, and evaluations will be sent at the end of the winter semester.
Reporting lines
All BMO Indigenous Peer Mentorship Program's mentors will report to the Iniskim Centre's Student Success Coordinator.
Services and students served
This program is specifically for Mount Royal Indigenous students. The mentors in this program need to have a 2.80 GPA or higher and be in at least their second year at the University. Experienced Indigenous students will act as guides, mentors and role models to younger students, many of whom are living away from home for the first time and navigating cultural differences.
The mentees must meet with the Student Success Coordinator prior to being matched with a peer mentor. This is to assess their level of commitment to the program and understand their personal needs and goals for participating.
Contact us
If you have any questions, please contact:
Marija Small Legs
Student Success Coordinator
msmalllegs@mtroyal.ca
Iniskim Centre
T110