Articles by author: Brock University

• Brock and Bethesda to formalize partnership at signing event

  Monday, January 20, 2025 | By Brock University

  MEDIA ADVISORY – January 20, 2025 – R0010

  Media are invited to join Brock University and Bethesda on Friday, Jan. 24 as they formalize their partnership and highlight plans for the future.

  The two organizations will celebrate the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during an event held from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Bethesda’s Niagara Family Centre in Thorold.

  This marks the first formalized partnership between Brock and Bethesda, who for years have collaborated on research initiatives, experiential education, and services for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities.

  During the event, leaders will discuss achievements stemming from this work and share plans for future collaborations that will benefit children, youth and adults in the community.

  Media and government/community representatives are encouraged to attend to hear more about this impactful partnership. Interview opportunities will be available following the event.

  What: Memorandum of Understanding signing

  Who: Brock University and Bethesda

  When: Friday, Jan. 24 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

  Where: Bethesda — Niagara Family Centre Gymnasium, 3310 Schmon Pkwy., Thorold

  For more information or for assistance arranging interviews:

  Sarah Ackles, Communications Specialist, Brock University [email protected] or 289-241-5483

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  Categories: Media releases

• Community unites in pride as Pow Wow returns to Brock

  Friday, January 17, 2025 | By Brock University

  MEDIA RELEASE – January 17, 2025 – R0009

  The Ian Beddis Gymnasium was awash with colour, community and connection as the second annual Pow Wow drew hundreds to Brock University on Friday, Jan. 17.

  Hosted by the Hadiya’dagénhahs First Nations, Métis and Inuit Student Centre and the Office of the Vice-Provost, Indigenous Engagement, the free public event featured a vibrant display of First Nations, Métis and Inuit music, dance, art and cuisine.  

  People from all nations gathered in shared celebration of culture, tradition and resilience as drum rolls roared through the air, music and song reverberated from the rafters and pure pride filled the hearts of all in attendance.

  The event began with a grand entry that welcomed Elders, veterans, Brock leaders, dignitaries and dancers in traditional regalia who presented various flags of significance. A full day of dancing and music followed, bringing those from all nations and ages together to share their unique traditions and talents with the crowd. Some of the day’s drummers and dancers included Head Dancers Notorious Cree (James Jones), from Tallcree First Nation, and Marley Fairfield, from Six Nations of the Grand River; Host Drum Bear Creek; Co-Host Drum Old Style; and Invited Drum Young Tribe.   

  The Pow Wow also featured a bustling vendor fair with a unique assortment of carefully handcrafted items as well as traditional foods like Indian tacos and strawberry juice.

  Third-year Public Health student and Hadiya’dagénhahs First Nations, Métis and Inuit Student Centre Peer Assistant Sophia Carnovale served as this year’s Pow Wow Assistant Co-ordinator.  

  A member of the Mohawk Wolf Clan from Six Nations of the Grand River, she has grown up going to Pow Wows and been a dancer from a very young age. She was joined on Friday by numerous members of her family and her friends, who were all thrilled to take part in the day.

  “A Pow Wow feels like home to me because everything belongs — I belong — and being able to co-ordinate a Pow Wow of my own was something I never envisioned being able to accomplish,” she said. “I am very proud of what the team and I have done and it’s been a wonderful opportunity to get everyone together under a Brock roof.

  “I’ve learned so much and have enjoyed being able to step up in this role to help shape the Pow Wow and give back to the community.”   

  Cindy Biancaniello (Elder Anauta), Director of Hadiya’dagénhahs First Nations, Métis and Inuit Student Centre, said she heard nothing but resounding positivity from everyone in attendance.

  “They come here to heal, and when they hear that heartbeat of the drum, it’s just completely overwhelming — they get goosebumps,” said Biancaniello, who is Inuk and whose community is Qamani’tuaq (Baker Lake), Nunavut. “Whether it’s their first Pow Wow or they’ve been doing it for 20 years, people become emotional, and I love watching their reactions as they experience this amazing gathering.”

  For more information or for assistance arranging interviews: 

  *Sarah Ackles, Communications Specialist, Brock University [email protected] or 289-241-5483 

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  Categories: Media releases