Simon named patron of foundation that supports Indigenous students

Gov. Gen. Mary Simon has been named a patron of an organization dedicated to increasing the representation of Indigenous university students in pure and applied science, engineering, and mathematics programs.

The Verna J. Kirkness Education Foundation announced Tuesday that Simon, the first Indigenous person to serve as the King’s representative in Canada, had been named a patron due to her history of serving and supporting Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

The foundation provides scholarships to Indigenous high school students to spend a week at a Canadian university learning from professors and their teams. The goal is to develop motivated role models who foster the importance of graduating high school and completing post-secondary education, the foundation’s news release said.

“Being Indigenous, she will provide considerable motivation to our students who view her as a role model of distinction,” Indigenous education advocate Verna Kirkness said in a statement.

The foundation’s work with Indigenous youth and education in the sciences aligns with Simon’s priorities in reconciliation, youth and education, climate change and protection of the natural world, she said.

“We look forward to supporting Her Excellency with her ongoing priorities and work with Indigenous Peoples through our work” at the foundation.