Elders

At Shq’apthut  Elders are one of our most valuable resources. They provide support and guidance to faculty, staff and, most importantly, to students. You will often hear the students referring to the Elders as "Auntie" or “Uncle”, which is a sign of both affection and respect. Vancouver Island University Elders participate in all aspects of the academic community encompassing class-room instruction, teaching traditional protocols and cross-cultural sharing.

If you are interested in hosting an Elder in your classroom/program please contact the Office of Aboriginal Education (250) 753-3245, local 2096.

Elders Biographies

Delores Louie (Swus-tanulwut)

Delores was born in Duncan and married into the Chemainus First Nation over 46 years ago, she continues to live on the Reserve in Chemainus with her husband. She has three children, nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Delores is a very busy lady but when she has time, she enjoys knitting and spending time with her husband, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was one of the first, First Nations people to go to University in the 70's, and attended the University of Victoria with the goal of saving the Salish language. Her mother encouraged her, and her sister, to do anything they could to record and save their language so they worked, with many other people, on a dictionary and a writing system for the Salish language. Delores remembers this as a very exciting and interesting time, although the commute was very difficult.

On Wednesday mornings Delores works at Shq’apthut, Building 170
Phone: (250) 753-3245, local 2792
Email: Delores.Louie@viu.ca

Geraldine Manson  (Ts’tassia)

Geraldine is a member of the Snuneymuxw First Nation and has been married 44 years to Earl Manson, has three children, seven grandchildren and one great grandchild. Geraldine has worked for her community for well over 15 years. “I give credit for my cultural wisdom and education to my Elders’, present and those who have passed on. As the Elders’ Coordinator for Snuneymuxw First Nations, she carries many other responsibilities that relate to the culture and traditions of her community. She has been an elected council-member for nine years and her present-term ends in 2012.”  Today, she is being mentored by Dr. Ellen White, Kwulasulwut, in the traditional cultural practices of the Snuneymuxw people.

Geraldine works on Thursdays and Fridays. She is located in Building 170, Shq’apthut.
Phone: (250) 753-3245, local 2792
Email: Geraldine.Manson@viu.ca

Margaret Sloan

Margaret Sloan belongs to the Mid Island Métis Nation and is one of our new Elders here at Vancouver Island University. She welcomes all students to share some time with her. Practising Healing Touch, Margaret is willing to offer her services to those in need. She has two daughters, seven grand children, and five great grand children. Margaret enjoys her life with family, friends and community.

Margaret works on Mondays and Tuesdays.  She is located in Building 170, Shq’apthut.
Phone: (250) 753-3245, local 2792
Email: Margaret.Sloan@viu.ca