Brock chancellor aims to inspire aboriginal youths – St. Catharines Standard

August 27, 2015

Inspiration is what Shirley Cheechoo most hopes to pass on to graduates at Brock University.

The newly-appointed chancellor will be installed to her three-year term at the school’s fall convocation ceremony Oct. 17.

An award-winning Cree actress, playwright and filmmaker, Cheechoo is the first woman and aboriginal Canadian to hold the ceremonial leadership role at Brock.

“Growing up, I never dreamed or even thought that I’d be the chancellor of any university,” she said Thursday, while going on to express what an honour it is to be chosen.

Raised in the residential school system, Cheechoo, who has won international acclaim for stage work and films that are shaped by her First Nations background, said she was never provided resources to assist in her educational growth. As a result, she has made it her goal to help aboriginal youths access the necessary assistance to fulfill their life ambitions.

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