Supporting Indigenous Students at Brock University
At Brock University, students are finding stronger connections to their culture through programs that celebrate Indigenous voices and perspectives. One leader in this effort is Evelyn Dilworth (BA ’24, BEd ’24), an Event Coordinator at the Hadiya’dagénhahs First Nations, Métis and Inuit Student Centre.
Her work focuses on creating inclusive spaces, developing cultural programs, and ensuring that First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students feel supported on campus. Recently, Brock’s Office of Human Rights and Equity recognized her as an EDI Changemaker for her dedication to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).
Indigenous Plus Program and Awareness Initiatives
Dilworth has played a key role in creating impactful initiatives such as:
- Indigenous Plus Program – building awareness of Indigenous knowledge and traditions.
- Indigenous People’s Awareness Week – celebrating culture and history.
- National Day for Truth and Reconciliation events – honoring survivors and educating the community.
Her efforts ensure that Indigenous voices are heard in institutional spaces while also giving students opportunities to connect with their identity.
Building Safe and Cultural Spaces for Students
Now working at the Hadiya’dagénhahs Student Centre, Dilworth and her team are committed to offering programs that bring Indigenous students together.
“I’m honored to help create a safe, cultural space where students can feel pride in their identity while attending a large institution,” Dilworth says.
As more self-identified Indigenous students join Brock, she aims to strengthen connections through cultural activities, mentorship, and peer support.
Leadership and Recognition
Cindy Biancaniello, Director of the Hadiya’dagénhahs Centre, praised Dilworth’s impact:
“Her work on the Indigenous Plus Program has already made a meaningful difference, and we’re proud to have her as part of the team.”
Connecting Culture and Education
Dilworth, who is of Mohawk and Irish descent with roots in Tyendinaga and Six Nations, believes education is a powerful tool for cultural pride and healing.
She highlights that Indigenous students need culturally appropriate supports and holistic education that also focuses on mental health, physical well-being, and hands-on learning.
“Opportunities at Brock give students a chance to reclaim the pride in their culture that was historically taken away,” she explains.
Teaching Beyond History: A Living Culture
In her role as an Education master’s student and future teacher, Dilworth also works with schools to embed Indigenous knowledge into classrooms.
This includes:
- Trauma-informed teaching for educators.
- Sharing Indigenous ways of knowing and doing.
- Highlighting current contributions and successes of Indigenous people.
“When people hear the word ‘Indigenous,’ they often only think of residential schools or colonial history,” she says. “But we’re still here. Our culture is living, thriving, and filled with inspiring people who continue to make an impact.”
