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Laurentian University - Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre

 The ISLC brings together students, faculty, staff, and the community to enhance Indigenous education, advance understanding, and support the needs and aspirations of Indigenous communities. Equipped with a unique round-room gathering space, seminar room, counselling areas, ceremonial spaces, student lounge and a kitchen, the Centre will become a “home away from home” for many Indigenous students.

The ISLC features 7500 sq. ft. of space that signifies an important and visible presence of Indigenous peoples at Laurentian University. The Centre was designed with input from the Indigenous community including the Laurentian University Native Education Council, who were instrumental in advocating and supporting its development. The spectacular round-room, inspired by the wigwam (the traditional building of the Indigenous peoples of this area) has four entry points that face each of the cardinal directions (North, South, East, and West), and is equipped with a state-of-the-art multi-media system. Its flexible configuration can accommodate large groups for a range of activities, including teaching, meeting, lectures and special celebrations.  The room features an environmentally and sustainable green roof, and has views and access to outdoor teaching spaces and the surrounding landscaped area.

The Centre also features several specialized spaces for a range of activities including classrooms, counselling services and an area where students from remote Indigenous communities will be able to contact friends and family back home free of charge. The ISLC has two areas specially designated for smudging as well as an area for the preparation of traditional Indigenous cuisine.