SAIT renames Indigenous resource centre, introduces Indigenous Knowledge Keeper

The Southern Alberta Institute of Technology has unveiled a new name for its Indigenous resource centre. The lodge now bears the name Natoysopoyiis (nah-toy so-poh-yees), meaning holy wind lodge in the language of the Blackfoot people. The lodge provides a safe space for Indigenous students to tend to their mental, emotional, and spiritual health. “With the new name, our students will see themselves reflected to an even greater degree within the institution, and have a space with a name that strengthens the Indigenous world view of the education experience,” said SAIT Indigenous Student Supports Manager Steve Kootenay-Jobin. At the renaming ceremony, SAIT also introduced its new Indigenous Knowledge Keeper, Thomas Snow, who will share teachings and foster connection between SAIT’s campus community and Indigenous culture.