Lakehead University is still raising money for its planned Indigenous learning centre, known as Gichi Kendaasiwin, and hopes to begin construction in spring 2027.
University president Gillian Siddall said the project is one of the school’s top fundraising priorities and that officials are getting close to reaching their goal. The university is also looking for government support to help pay for the project.
Originally announced in 2016, Gichi Kendaasiwin has been redesigned into a network of Indigenous-focused spaces and programs across Lakehead’s campuses. A new indoor-outdoor learning space is planned for the Thunder Bay campus.
Siddall said the centre will provide a welcoming place for Indigenous students, staff and faculty, while supporting cultural activities, ceremonies, learning and research opportunities. She called the project “transformational” for the university.
