UBC’s Faculty of Education is deeply committed to advancing Indigenous education priorities within local, national and international communities.

With support from donors like you, the Verna J. Kirkness Award is creating opportunities for Indigenous graduate students to pursue their studies and contribute meaningfully to Canadian Indigenous education. Your gift to the endowed award, no matter the size, will have a direct impact on advancing Indigenous education.

This award was established in honor of Verna J. Kirkness, the founding director of UBC’s First Nations House of Learning—aimed at making the university’s vast resources more accessible to Indigenous people and improving its ability to meet their needs—and the Ts”kel Graduate Studies Program. Awards are given to Indigenous students in the Faculty of Education, with preference to those involved in academic projects or research aimed at progressing Indigenous education.

By giving to this award, you are investing in a future where Indigenous knowledge and perspectives are celebrated and integrated into broader education.

Give today and help Indigenous students advance their education and thrive for a lifetime.

“As a single mother who was also caring for adult family members, the financial pressure of attending graduate school was overwhelming and this award was a very welcome support.”
— 2020 Award Recipient