The Southern Alberta Medical Program—delivered through a partnership between the University of Calgary and University of Lethbridge—and its home facility recently received Blackfoot names. ULethbridge Vice-Provost, Iniskim Indigenous Relations Iikaisskini (Low Horn) Dr Leroy Little Bear named the program “Sokinaki Okakssksin,” which he explained means “making people well,” while Blackfoot Elder Ninnaisipistoo (Owl Chief) Dr. Francis First Charger named the facility “Sokinakiitaissksinima’tstohkio’pi,” meaning the centre for healing. “Today isn’t about simply naming a building or a program, it’s about receiving a gift, and we recognize that a Blackfoot name carries deep meaning and connects us to our identity, ancestry, culture, and community,” said UCalgary Deputy Provost Dr Robin Yates.
