Category: News

YELLOWKNIFE, NT – In recognition of the essential role Personal Support Workers (PSWs) play in providing quality essential health care, the government of the Northwest Territories (NWT) has designated the last Tuesday of June as Person Support Worker Day – June 30 in 2026. PSWs provide assisted care, most often for Elders and seniors, to support individuals to age with dignity, independence and quality of life.

For more than 20 years, Aurora College has offered a one-year PSW certificate program to prepare northerners for this challenging and rewarding career. Key to the program’s ongoing success are the support and partnerships of NWT health care facilities and providers and the professionals who act as preceptors for students during their practicum placements.

To honour the preceptors’ sharing of expertise, knowledge and compassion with students, Aurora College’s PSW program recognizes one Preceptor of the Year each June, nominated by graduating PSW students. For 2026, Katie Handley, who works with the tŁıwegǫ̀atì Extended Care Unit, was chosen Preceptor of the Year. The award is presented to a preceptors who goes above and beyond expectations in promoting student learning and achievement, serves as an outstanding role model for Personal Support Workers, promotes the preceptor role among colleagues in practice, and demonstrates excellence in teaching and learning.

Currently, Aurora College offers the Personal Support Worker program full-time, in person at Yellowknife North Slave Campus, part-time in person in Inuvik and Behchoko, and through a blended delivery of distance theory and in-person practicum placements and lab courses across the NWT. Compared to other PSW programs offered in Canada, Aurora College requires a higher number of practicum hours than the norm, which provides a solid base of knowledge and experience for new graduates when they enter the workforce. Aurora College is grateful to the entire team at tŁıwegǫ̀atì Extended Care Unit and all of our health care partners for providing students with a supportive environment for learning.

Quote:

“Personal Support Workers are often the eyes and ears for residents and clients in care. Every year we really highlight and appreciate the role of PSWs as they provide observation and reporting duties to keep clients safe. PSWs help clients live to their highest potential with preserving health, dignity and independence so they contribute to wellness in so many ways that often go under appreciated.”

– Axelle Kearnan, Program Head, Health Programs

 “Personal Support Worker Day is an opportunity to recognize the caring professionals who make a difference in the lives of residents and families across the Northwest Territories every day. Whether helping someone maintain their independence, providing comfort during difficult times, or simply offering a compassionate presence, PSWs play an essential role in our communities. Aurora College is proud to help prepare the next generation of Personal Support Workers, and we thank all those who dedicate their time, skills and compassion to supporting others.”

– Dr. Nora Houlahan, Interim President, Aurora College

June 4, 2026

FORT SMITH, NT – Aurora College celebrated the achievements of 139 potential graduates at convocation ceremonies in each of College’s three campus communities over the past few weeks.

Aurora College’s graduating classes were joined by family members, friends and special guests at convocation ceremonies held in Fort Smith, Inuvik and Yellowknife. The Class of 2026 included graduates representing 19 Northwest Territories communities from every region of the NWT, as well as six Canadian provinces and five other countries.

Thebacha Campus held the first ceremony at the Salt River First Nation Business & Conference Centre on April 24. The campus recognized 21 potential graduates from: Environment and Natural Resources Technology Diploma (8), Business Administration (3), Office Administration (3), Early Learning and Child Care (3), and Personal Support Worker (4) programs.

In Inuvik, Aurora Campus held its convocation ceremony on May 15, recognizing 12 potential graduates from: Business Administration (9), Office Administration Diploma (1), Early Learning and Child Care Certificate (1), and Personal Support Worker Certificate (1) programs.

On May 29, Yellowknife North Slave Campus held two ceremonies at the Chateau Nova Hotel, recognizing 106 potential graduates representing: Business Administration (16), Office Administration (13), Early Learning and Child Care (33), Community Health Representative (1), Personal Support Worker Certificate (18), and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (25).

As Aurora College graduates can choose the campus convocation in which they participate, the numbers attending each ceremony do not necessarily reflect the total number of graduates at each campus.

Valedictorians and Awards 2026:

Thebacha Campus, Fort Smith:

• Valedictorian
  • Ian Aylward, Environment and Natural Resources Technology
• Board of Governors’ Student Leadership Award
  • Samuel Ejii, Business Administration Diploma
• Duncan MacPherson Citizenship Award from the Town of Fort Smith
  • Austin Blanchard, General Studies, Year 1

Aurora Campus, Inuvik:

• Valedictorian
  • Ifeoluwa Awe, Business Administration Diploma
• Board of Govenors’ Student Leadership Award
  • Carlene Koe, Business Administration Certificate
• Town of Inuvik Office Administration Scholarship Award
  • Bruce Ruben, Office Administration Diploma
• Aurora Cup
  • Elizabeth Illasiak, Business Administration Diploma

Yellowknife North Slave Campus:

• Valedictorians
  • Brandon Bartlett, Business Administration Diploma
  • Mirian Sopuruchi Iwuji, Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Board of Governors’ Student Leadership Award
  • Elizabeth Nataway, Business Administration Certificate
• AVENS Sheila Broders’ Award
  • Irene Maglapit, Personal Support Worker Certificate
• College of Nurses of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut Academic and Clinical Excellence Award
  • Glorina Lubansa, Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree

Quotes:

“Aurora College honours our graduates as they complete an important milestone in their personal and academic journeys. Graduation represents far more than the completion of a program. It reflects the hard work, sacrifice, learning and friendships that have shaped each graduate’s path. Our students contribute to the strength of Aurora College and the important role it plays in the North. As they continue into their careers and communities, we take great pride in their accomplishments and in the knowledge, skills and passion they will bring to workplaces, organizations and communities across the Northwest Territories. Congratulations to the Class of 2026.”

– Dr. Nora Houlahan, Interim President, Aurora College

“The Aurora College Board of Governors is proud to congratulate the Class of 2026. Convocation is a celebration of achievement, perseverance, and resilience, and a recognition of the family members, friends, instructors, and classmates who helped make this milestone possible. We look forward to the contributions our graduates will make to their communities and to the North, and to the positive impact they will have through their careers, leadership, and service.”

– Kenny Ruptash, Chair, Aurora College Board of Governors

May 25, 2026

Aurora College and the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) are pleased to share that the Aurora College Board of Governors (the Board) nomination process for new members has been completed, and the following individuals have been appointed:

Reappointments:

• Richard Boudreault, Montreal, PQ
• David Hurley, Yellowknife
• Rebecca Plotner, Yellowknife
• Lorraine Tordiff, Fort Smith
• Kevin Antoniak, Fort Smith

New Appointments:

• Ashley Ens, Inuvik
• Kevin Gostlin, Yellowknife

Together with the current sitting members, this group will continue to ensure an effective and efficient governance approach that is reflective of the people of the Northwest Territories.

Aurora College operates at arm’s-length from the Government of the Northwest Territories. Its tricameral governance system – made up of the Board, Academic Council and Indigenous Knowledge Holders Council – supports effective decision-making and strategic direction, while ensuring oversight, accountability, and integration of Indigenous knowledge.

Board members are selected based on a list of competencies established under the Aurora College Act, which include: membership on a board of directors, leadership of large organizations, financial planning, facilities management, post-secondary education, reconciliation, understanding of small and remote communities, northern economic development, northern social development, and public policy. Each member does not need to possess all of the competencies but rather may bring one or more competencies to the Board. Aurora College is currently seeking to fill the remaining vacancies on the Board of Governors; the deadline to submit an application is Friday, June 5, 2026.

Quotes:

“Strong governance is essential as Aurora College continues its transformation into a polytechnic university. I want to thank all returning members for their continued service and welcome our new appointees to the Board of Governors. Together, they bring a wide range of experience and perspectives that will help guide Aurora College’s future and ensure it continues to meet the needs of students, communities, and employers across the Northwest Territories.”

– Caitlin Cleveland, Minister, Education Culture and Employment

“The Board of Governors plays an essential role within Aurora College’s tricameral governance structure as we continue the transformation to a polytechnic university. The reappointment of experienced members provides important continuity and helps maintain the strong governance foundation already established, while the addition of new members brings valuable perspectives and experience that strengthen the Board as a whole.”

– Kenny Ruptash, Chair, Aurora College Board of Governors

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Nomination des membres du Conseil des gouverneurs du Collège Aurora

Le 25 mai 2026

Le Collège Aurora et le gouvernement des Territoires du Nord-Ouest (GTNO) sont heureux d’annoncer que le processus de nomination des nouveaux membres du Conseil des gouverneurs du Collège Aurora (ci-après désigné « le Conseil ») est terminé et que les personnes suivantes ont été nommées.

Nominations renouvelées

• Richard Boudreault, Montréal (Québec)
• David Hurley, Yellowknife
• Rebecca Plotner, Yellowknife
• Lorraine Tordiff, Fort Smith
• Kevin Antoniak, Fort Smith

Nouvelles nominations

• Ashley Ens, Inuvik
• Kevin Gostlin, Yellowknife

En collaboration avec les membres titulaires actuels, ce groupe permettra d’assurer une gouvernance efficace qui tient compte des besoins des Ténois.

Le Collège Aurora fonctionne indépendamment du GTNO. Le système de gouvernance tricaméral, composé du Conseil, de la Commission des études et du Conseil des détenteurs du savoir traditionnel, favorise une prise de décision et une orientation stratégique efficaces, tout en garantissant la responsabilisation, la supervision et l’intégration des connaissances autochtones.

Les membres du conseil ont été sélectionnés en fonction d’une liste de compétences établie en vertu de la Loi sur le Collège Aurora qui comprend : l’appartenance à un conseil d’administration, l’expérience du leadership de grandes organisations, la planification financière, la gestion des installations, l’éducation postsecondaire, la réconciliation, la compréhension des petites collectivités et des collectivités éloignées, le développement économique et social du Nord, et les politiques publiques. Chaque membre n’est pas tenu de posséder toutes les compétences, mais chacun peut apporter une ou deux compétences différentes. Le Collège Aurora cherche actuellement à pourvoir les postes toujours vacants au Conseil. La date limite de dépôt des candidatures est fixée au vendredi 5 juin 2026.

Citations

« Une gouvernance solide est essentielle pour que le Collège Aurora puisse poursuivre sa transformation en université polytechnique. Je tiens à remercier tous les membres dont le mandat a été renouvelé pour leur service continu et à souhaiter la bienvenue aux personnes nouvellement nommées au Conseil des gouverneurs. Combinées, leurs diverses expériences et perspectives aideront à orienter l’avenir du Collège Aurora et à garantir que celui-ci continue à répondre aux besoins des étudiants, des collectivités et des employeurs des Territoires du Nord-Ouest. »

– Caitlin Cleveland, ministre de l’Éducation, de la Culture et de la Formation

« Dans le cadre de la structure unique de gouvernance tricamérale, le Conseil des gouverneurs joue un rôle essentiel en guidant les orientations stratégiques du Collège Aurora alors que nous poursuivons notre transformation en université polytechnique. Le renouvellement du mandat de membres expérimentés assure une continuité essentielle et contribue à préserver les solides fondements de gouvernance déjà établis, tandis que l’arrivée de nouveaux membres apporte des perspectives et de l’expérience précieuses qui renforcent le conseil d’administration dans son ensemble. »

– Kenny Ruptash présidente du Conseil des gouverneurs du Collège Aurora

May 13, 2026

YELLOWKNIFE, NT – Aurora College joins the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) in celebrating National Nursing Week during May 11 to May 17, 2026. This year’s theme – The Power of Nurses to Transform Health – highlights the incredible impact nurses have in shaping health care, driving innovation, and advocating for patient-centred care, while underscoring the vital necessity for nurses to lead at policy tables, ensuring their expertise dictates the future of a sustainable and equitable health-care system.

The week also features three special days:

• Monday, May 11 – Indigenous Nurses Day
• Tuesday, May 12 – International Nurses Day
• Wednesday, May 13 – Student Nurses Day

Aurora College has been educating northerners to become Registered Nurses for more than 30 years, with more than 450 graduates as of 2025. In addition to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Aurora College currently offers a Practical Nurse Diploma and has previously delivered a Masters in Nursing – Nurse Practitioner program in conjunction with the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services department. A short online bridging program is also offered to prepare Licensed Practical Nurses to enter the second year of Aurora College’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Nursing and health care programs at Aurora College offer students a unique northern and Indigenous perspective through the curriculum and practice placements that prepare graduates for the expanded demands of practicing in remote and rural health care settings. In addition, long-standing relationships with Northern health care facilities and preceptors help provide a large variety of practicum opportunities for the College’s nursing and health care students. Many graduates have gone on to leadership roles in nursing and health care across the north. Whether they work on the frontlines of health care settings, setting policy to improve health care or in leadership and mentor roles, nurses remain at the heart of health care delivery, patient well being, and in strengthening Canada’s health care system.

 Quote:

“The North depends on competent and compassionate nurses who can work with individuals, families and communities at various points in the health care system. The School of Health and Human Services at Aurora College is committed to preparing students for the challenging and rewarding profession of nursing.”

– Jodi Brennan, Chair, School of Health and Human Services, Aurora College.

“Nursing education remains an integral part of Aurora College’s commitment to strengthening northern communities and building partnerships that enhance health and well being. By combining hands-on learning with community-based experience, we are preparing graduates to lead and excel in northern health care. On behalf of Aurora College, I thank our staff, students, alumni, and partners for their contributions to advancing nursing across the Northwest Territories.”

– Dr. Nora Houlahan, Interim President, Aurora College

March 26 2026

Dr. Nora Houlahan appointed Aurora College interim president

FORT SMITH, NT – The Aurora College Board of Governors is appointing Dr. Nora Houlahan to the role of Interim President as of May 4, 2026. She will continue in the position until a new president is installed. Dr. Heather McCagg-Nystrom will continue as Acting President until Dr. Houlahan is in place.

Dr. Nora Houlahan brings more than 20 years of experience in higher education and leadership and has a passion for creating educational opportunities that are engaging and transformative for students. She is dedicated to supporting the growth of applied learning opportunities. Currently the Principal and Vice President Academic at British Columbia for Yorkville University, she previously held different roles at Aurora College, including Vice President, Education & Training; Assistant Vice President, Education & Training; and Director, Centre for Learning and Teaching Innovation.

Dr. Houlahan has an extensive background in post-secondary education, including at the Justice Institute of British Columbia (JIBC), where she led a comprehensive change initiative to redesign, implement, and evaluate a competency-based approach to municipal police training in the province. She has also held various positions at University of British Columbia (UBC), and has worked as a Sessional Instructor at UBC, the Institute of Indigenous Government, and University of the Fraser Valley.

She feels a deep personal connection to Aurora College as her mother worked at the Adult Education Centre, which was one of the precursors to Arctic College, in Iqaluit.

She holds a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) and a Master of Science (M.Sc.) from The University of British Columbia, and a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) from the University of Guelph.

Quotes:

“We are pleased that Dr. Nora Houlahan has accepted the role as Interim President of Aurora College. She brings with her a wealth of institutional knowledge, experience with post-secondary education, and an understanding of and commitment to Northern education.”

– Kenny Ruptash, Chair, Aurora College Board of Governors

“It is an honour to step in to this role as Interim President. As co-chair for the creation of the College’s current strategic plan, I heard first-hand of the importance of the College in the lives of people across the territory and am deeply committed to the vision of a university in the North and for the North. I am inspired by the dedication and passion of the College’s employees in bringing high-quality education and research opportunities grounded in Northern ways of knowing, being, and doing. This is an exciting time for the NWT and I look forward to providing stability during this transition period in the interim role.“

– Dr. Nora Houlahan, incoming Interim President, Aurora College

March 16, 2026

Aurora College leadership change

YELLOWKNIFE, NT – The Board of Governors of Aurora College has announced today that President Dr. Angela James will be retiring from the position, effective immediately.

Board of Governors Chair Kenny Ruptash noted that the Board is grateful to Dr. James for her service to Aurora College and for her contributions during a period of significant transition for the institution and wishes her the best in her future endeavours.

To ensure continuity of leadership, the Board of Governors will be appointing an Interim President in the coming days while it considers the next steps for a longer-term recruitment process.

The Board’s priority at this time is to ensure stability and to support the continued delivery of Aurora College’s important work across our campuses, programs, and services throughout the Northwest Territories.

Board of Governors Chair Kenny Ruptash noted that the Board is grateful to Dr. James for her service to Aurora College and for her contributions during a period of significant transition for the institution and wishes her the best in her future endeavours.

To ensure continuity of leadership, the Board of Governors will be appointing an Interim President in the coming days while it considers the next steps for a longer-term recruitment process.

The Board’s priority at this time is to ensure stability and to support the continued delivery of Aurora College’s important work across our campuses, programs, and services throughout the Northwest Territories.

Yellowknife Garden Metals Study shows veggies safe to eat  

YELLOWKNIFE, NT – Is it safe to eat vegetables from gardens in Yellowknife? YES!

Since 2020, Aurora Research Institute – the research division of Aurora College – has been working with Queen’s University and Royal Military College of Canada (RMC) to test soils and garden produce for levels of arsenic and other mining associated metals. Aurora Research Institute (ARI) is hosting a public discussion on Tuesday, February 10 to learn about the results of a recent study examining risks associated with eating garden-grown vegetables in Yellowknife.

Growing vegetables locally remains an important hobby and food source for many Northerners looking for ways to reduce costs and seek healthier food options. The study conducted by ARI, Queen’s and RMC is the most thorough and detailed examination of garden soils and vegetables in the region to date. Based on the findings, risks associated with eating locally grown produce are very low.

Experts will be available to discuss the study results and offer tips on how to improve the safety of home vegetable gardens.

Garden Metals Study Discussion

Date:                    February 10, 2026
Time:                    7:00 to 8:30 PM
Location:             Northern United Place Auditorium, Yellowknife

Everyone is welcome to attend; food and door prizes will be available.

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Une étude sur les métaux dan les jardins de Yellowknife confirme la sécurité des légumes cultivés

YELLOWKNIFE, TNO – Peut-on consommer sans risque les légumes des jardins de Yellowknife ? QUI !

Dupuis 2020, l’Institute de recherche Aurora (IRA), la division de recherche du Collège Aurora, collabore avec l’Université Queen’s et le Collège militaire royal du Canada (CMR) afin d’analyser les sols et les récoltes pour y détecter les niveaux d’arsenic et d’autres métaux liés a l’exploitation minière. L’IRA organise une discussion publique le mardi 10 février pour présenter les résultats d’une étude récente portant sur les risques associés à la consommation de légumes cultivés dans the jardins de Yellowknife.

Cultiver ses propres légumes demeure un loisir important et une source alimentaire essentielle pour de nombreux résidents du Nord qui cherchent à réduire leurs dépenses et à privilégier une alimentation plus saine. L’étude menée par l’IRA, l’Université Queen’s et le CMR est l’analyse la plus complète et détaillée des sols et des légumes de la région à ce jour. Selon les conclusions, les risques associés à la consommation de produits locaux sont très faibles.

Des experts seront présents pour discuter des résultats de l’étude et donner des conseils pour améliorer la sécurité des potagers familiaux.

Discussion sur l’étude des métaux dans les jardins

Date :                   10 février 2026
Heure :                19 h à 20 h 30
Lieu :                    Auditorium Northern United Place, Yellowknife

Tout le monde est le bienvenu ; nourriture et prix de présence offerts.

Seeking Board of Governors Members for Aurora College

Applications for residents of the Northwest Territories to join the Aurora College Board of Governors are now being accepted by Aurora College.

The Board is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Aurora College Mandate Agreement, which sets the shared strategic priorities and the scope of activities undertaken by Aurora College. If you have experience in any of the following areas, you are encouraged to apply.

• Membership on Board of Directors
• Leadership experience in large organizations
• Financial planning
• Facilities management
• Post-secondary education
• Reconciliation
• Understanding of small or remote communities
• Northern economic development
• Northern social development
• Public Policy

Aurora College’s governance system includes the Board of Governors, the Research Advisory Council, the Academic Council and the Indigenous Knowledge Holders Council. Together these bodies make decisions and recommendations on strategic direction, the business of the College, academics, and research. The Board includes ten “at-large” members, a minimum of five of whom must be Indigenous (First Nation, Inuit or Métis) residents of the NWT.

Board members receive an honorarium of $400 per day that they attend business for the board, including travel days. The majority of meetings and Board business is carried out virtually, so proficiency using virtual meeting platforms and email communications is required. For further information, applicants are encouraged to review the Aurora College Board of Governors Regulations.

Please submit your application by February 20, 2026.

Interested parties should complete the application form and submit it and current resume to hmeacock@auroracollege.ca. Letters of support or recommendation will also be accepted as part of the application package. Proof of residency and of Indigenous status (if applicable) will be required prior to appointment.

For more information and to download the application (opens in a new tab), email hmeacock@auroracollege.ca or call 867-872-7009.

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Nous sommes à la Recherche de membre pour siéger au Conseil des Gouverneurs du Collège Aurora

Le Collège Aurora accepte dorénavant les candidatures des résidents des Territoires du Nord-Ouest qui souhaitent rejoindre le Conseil des gouverneurs du Collège Aurora.

Le conseil est chargé de superviser la mise en œuvre de l’Accord relatif au mandat du Collège Aurora, qui établit les priorités stratégiques communes et la portée des activités entreprises par le Collège. Si vous possédez de l’expérience dans l’un ou plusieurs des domaines suivants, n’hésitez pas à poser votre candidature :

• Membre d’un conseil des gouverneurs
• Expérience de leadership dans une plus grande organisation
• Planification financière
• Gestion des installations
• Éducation postsecondaire
• Réconciliation
• Compréhension des collectivités petites ou éloignées
• Développement économique du Nord
• Développement social du Nord
• Politique publique

Le système de gouvernance du Collège Aurora est notamment composé du Conseil des gouverneurs, du Conseil consultatif de recherche, du Conseil pédagogique et du Conseil des détenteurs du savoir traditionnel. Ensemble, ces organismes prennent des décisions et formulent des recommandations en matière d’orientation stratégique, d’activités du Collège, d’études universitaires et de recherche. Le conseil comprend dix membres < indépendants >, dont au moins cinq doivent etre des résidents autochtones (Premières Nations, Inuits ou Métis) des TNO.

Les membres du Conseil des gouverneurs reçoivent une rétribution de 400 $ par jour de travail effectué pour le Conseil, ce qui comprend les jours de déplacement. Puisque la plupart des réunions du Conseil et du travail lié à celui-ci ont lieu en ligne, vous devez maîtriser l’utilisation de plateformes de réunions virtuelles et l’envoi de communications par courriel. . Pour en savoir plus, les candidats peuvent consulter le Règlement sur le Conseil des gouverneurs du Collège Aurora.

Veuillez présenter votre candidature au plus tard le 20 fevrier 2026.

Toute personne qui le souhaite peut remplir un formulaire de candidature et le soumettre accompagné de son CV et éventuellement d’une lettre d’appui ou de recommandation à l’adresse hmeacock@auroracollege.ca.Une preuve de résidence et une preuve de statut d’Autochtone du nouveau membre seront requises avant sa nomination.

Pour en savoir plus à ce sujet ou télécharger le formulaire de candidature, écrivez à l’adresse hmeacock@auroracollege.ca ou composez le 867-872-7009.