Yukon University’s First Nations Arts certificate program has returned from hiatus following the hiring of Vernon Asp, who is a Tahltan carver. The program was paused in 2023 after its lead instructor retired. “It’s difficult sometimes to hire the correct or the right person for the role, and so we took some time to do that,” explained YukonU Chair of the School of Academic and Skill Development Stephen Biggin-Pound. “I think we’ve got that person.” As an assistant professor, Asp will teach the program’s small craft and carving module. “The program is incredibly important, because it is an expression of Indigenous identity,” Asp said. “It helps to found students in the areas of learning their culture and balancing their lifestyle.” The university hopes to expand the program over time, which Asp says would enable the program to accommodate more extensive crafts.
