Thompson Rivers University has announced the appointment of Paul Michel as Executive Director of Aboriginal Education, effective Dec. 1, 2014.
Michel comes to TRU from the University of Northern British Columbia where he was the First Nations Director and Adjunct Professor in First Nations Studies.
From Hust’alen (Adams Lake) First Nation, Michel has an MEd from Simon Fraser University, broad-based Aboriginal expertise including knowledge of the Secwepemc and Carrier languages, and 18 years of administrative experience.
Experienced in providing leadership to the senior executive, Aboriginal student support services, transitional academic programs, student recruitment and retention, Elder engagement, community collaborations and research protocols, he has successfully developed programs and obtained funding from government and non-government sources. During his years at UNBC he taught 34 courses that ranged from first year to graduate level in the area of First Nations studies, education and social work.
“We have attracted an outstanding leader in Aboriginal education and services to TRU and to Kamloops who will support Aboriginal student success as well as the continued indigenization of our university through the inclusion of traditional and contemporary Aboriginal teaching, learning, knowledge, research and creative practice,” said Alan Shaver, TRU President and Vice-Chancellor.
“I look forward to working alongside the many people at TRU to provide a principled, community-based, student-centred and empowering approach that will foster leadership development, intellectual growth and holistic well-being,” said Michel. “I am extremely honoured and excited to join Thompson Rivers University and contribute to its excellent reputation in cultural enhancement, community partnerships and student success.”
Michel takes on the role from Nathan Matthew, whose achievements at TRU included advising on Aboriginal issues, fostering the success of Aboriginal students and ensuring that TRU maintains strong relationships with First Nations communities. Nathan Matthew will continue his volunteer work in the Simpcw community, assisting in the development of a comprehensive framework for education programming and sitting on the Community Heritage Fund committee.
Media inquiries
Alan Shaver
TRU President and Vice-Chancellor
Phone: 250-828-5001
Paul Michel
Incoming TRU Executive Director of Aboriginal Education
250-961-6772
