Category: Uncategorized

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

One of Aurora College’s long-running academic programs is the Business Administration (BA) Diploma, which offers flexible delivery methods and a range of course options. Graduates are employed in communities throughout the north and beyond in a variety of positions with governments, private industry and the non-profit sector.

A education in Business Administration equips graduates with the entrepreneurial skills and solid business knowledge needed to explore careers in finance, human resources, marketing, business management, and more.

Instructor Joanna Hartley says one of the key strengths of Business Administration is that students can attain a variety of business skills without being locked into a narrow career path. The program offers several streams and specializations designed to more precisely tap into different career interests and goals.

“I think the biggest selling point of the BA program is its versatility—what you learn is applicable to a wide range of career paths,” she explains. “Business administration can apply to so many different careers and positions. I think that that is really its greatest feature.”

The two-year program is offered through Aurora College’s three campuses and online, and can be taken full-time or part-time. Small class sizes allow more one-on-one time with instructors. Classes include students from across the campuses and online so that all students have access to the same learning opportunities and class discussions. Guest speakers with rich experiences and real-world examples add relevant, engaging content to the curriculum.

Students in Business Administration tend to be a diverse group – ranging from “straight out of high school” to older adults and individuals with a rich variety of educational, cultural, work and business experiences. That diversity enhances the learning environment and opportunities for learning for all students within the program.

A unique aspect of Aurora College’s program is the focus on preparing graduates to work in northern and Indigenous organizations and communities. In smaller organizations, employees need to be more flexible, adaptable, and well-rounded in their skills and knowledge, including knowledge of Indigenous culture and governance.

Another option within the Business Administration Diploma is the Accounting Stream. Students can focus on a number of accounting courses to earn the Business Administration Diploma – Accounting Stream, which can be used to gain employment in finance positions or prepare for further education to become an accountant.

Many graduates choose to pursue a Bachelor of Business Administration, transferring many of their credits earned at Aurora College to degrees at other institutions. Within the next few years, Aurora College will be introducing a new Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus on Indigenous Governance and Leadership. Completion of the diploma program will lead directly to the degree, with a minimum grade point average and prerequisites.

Applications are open now for fall 2026 classes. Check out our website (insert link) for more information.

Alumni Testimonials
“I always wanted an office job, and I knew the Business Diploma would allow me to gain a better occupation. This program enhanced my communication, management, and marketing skills. I learned much about the economy, how a business can be successful, and I gained a better understanding of accounting.”
— Angela Voudrach
Inuvik, NT
Senior Accounting Clerk
GNWT Department of Finance

“We had instructors who truly wanted us to succeed. They gave us room to fail and the encouragement to bounce back. That kind of learning environment is rare—and it’s powerful.”
— Tarilee Wedzin
Executive Administrative Coordinator (EAC)
Government of the Northwest Territories

Throughout the year, ARI partnered with community organizations including the Aklavik Community Corporation and Makerspace YK to hold workshops using laser cutters and direct-to-film (DTF) printers to explore the use of regionally available materials like antler, fur, and hide.
Through funding received from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, ARI was able to purchase and equip communities with laser cutters and direct-to-film printers. This enables experimentation with and customization of commercial goods as well as materials found in and around the Northwest Territories.
Between March and November 2025, workshops were held in Aklavik and Yellowknife, offering learning opportunities to community members in basic digital design skills, laser cutting and engraving, direct-to-film printing, 3D printing, and vinyl cutting and application.
We are excited to see how this experimentation leads creatives, artisans, and entrepreneurs to try new methods and integrate new materials into their practices.
Special thanks to our community partners and all the workshop participants who contributed their experience and ideas.

The ARI STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) Outreach Program is an award winning youth outreach program delivered by four full time staff working out of each of our regional research centres in Inuvik, Yellowknife, and Fort Smith. We provide year-round, free access to science and digital literacy resources across the NWT, helping ensure that every young person and educator, no matter their location, has access to inspiring, hands-on science STEM programming. Beginning in 2016 with one part-time position in one community, the program has grown to expand its offerings to all five regions of the NWT, fostering curiosity, confidence, and opportunity in STEM for northern youth.

Each year, ARI’s STEM Outreach Program engages roughly 8,000 JK-12 students in more than 20 communities. Through a mix of in-person workshops, community events, and remote programming, the team brings science, engineering, digital skills, and problem-solving directly to places where youth gather – classrooms, libraries, youth centres, and on the land programs. This flexible model ensures that all northern students can access the same high-quality learning experiences as those in regional hubs.

A cornerstone of the program is the award winning Train the Teacher, Loan the Gear initiative. When travel isn’t feasible, local educators receive hands-on STEM kits, tailored lesson plans, and ongoing support, all at no cost. This approach has become essential in a territory where travel is expensive and distances are far. Teachers consistently return for new kits each year, demonstrating the program’s value and long-term impact.

Our program is grounded in regional knowledge and issues. From place-based climate education to digital literacy and engineering challenges, youth explore science through meaningful experiences that strengthen identity and reinforce community knowledge and expertise. This includes visits from local professionals working in STEM fields who share their education journey and work experiences, giving youth the opportunity to visualize themselves in these roles in the future.

The program’s impact extends beyond youth. ARI delivers professional development for educators across the territory, offering hands-on training, digital resources, and strategies for inclusive STEM teaching. In February 2026, the team will be delivering five interactive workshops for northern educators at the Northwest Territories Teachers’ Association Teachers Conference on topics ranging from artificial intelligence to environmental monitoring and climate change.

Community engagement is central to our program. Events like Science Rendezvous, Community Science Nights, GeoWeek, and partnerships with local organizations bring families and residents into the excitement of STEM. The team brings on summer student staff whenever possible, offering mentorship and workplace training, also ensuring that youth programs are able to be offered year-round.

Backed by strong partnerships, ARI’s STEM Outreach Team connects northern youth with real-world science happening in their own regions. The results are clear: 93% of youth report wanting to learn more about STEM after participating, and 60% say they’re more interested in pursuing STEM in college or university.

In a territory where access to programming can be limited by geography and cost, ARI’s STEM Outreach Team is reshaping what is possible, empowering northern youth to see themselves as scientists, problem-solvers, and future leaders of the NWT.

Over two days, ten Yellowknife high school students attended a variety of classes, labs, and health care simulations during Aurora College’s first “Be a Nursing Student” event November 20-21. They spent time alongside current College nursing students, met with an Academic Advisor, and spoke with representatives of Practice North to learn more about careers in nursing in the North. More than 30 high school students applied for the ten available spots. The successful event was organized in part by fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing students Vanessa Fortin and Mariam Osman as part of their Nursing Practice Leadership course.

Aurora College offers a four year Bachelor of Science in Nursing, in partnership with University of Victoria, a two-year Practical Nurse Diploma, and a Personal Support Worker Certificate through the School of Health and Human Services. Graduates of all programs are sought after by Northern health care facilities.

Check our website for more information about Aurora College’s programs in the Health and Social Services field. Applications are now open online for 2026-2027.