FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 4, 2025
Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc extends heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Airini on her appointment as the fifth President and Vice-Chancellor of Thompson Rivers University (TRU). We are encouraged and inspired by this significant step forward, not only for the institution but for the broader landscape of Indigenous education and reconciliation across Canada.
Dr. Airini brings with her a wealth of experience in advancing equity in education and working in partnership with Indigenous communities. As an internationally respected scholar and former Dean of the Faculty of Education and Social Work at TRU, she has already demonstrated a strong commitment to Indigenous engagement and inclusive leadership. Her return to TRU as President signals a renewed opportunity to strengthen relationships between the university and the original peoples of this land.
As Secwépemc, we have carried values and laws that guide us in how we build relationships—with the land, with each other, and with institutions like TRU. At times, that relationship has not been easy. The appointment of Dr. Airini gives us hope and we see a real opportunity. Her leadership reflects a shift—one where Indigenous voices are not just acknowledged, but respected, included, and uplifted. We are hopeful that this new chapter will bring deeper collaboration, where our ways of knowing and being are recognized as foundational to the future of education.
We look forward to working with Dr. Airini and TRU in good faith, building a relationship that honours the principles of respect, responsibility, and reciprocity. Her leadership is an example of what reconciliation in action can look like—one where Indigenous voices are not only heard but are central to shaping the future of post-secondary education.
This is a powerful and inspiring moment. With Dr. Airini at the helm, we are confident that great things lie ahead—not only for TRU, but for Indigenous students, learners, and communities. Her presidency stands as a model for other Canadian institutions to follow: a university grounded in collaboration, accountability, and respect for Indigenous peoples.
We raise our hands to Dr. Airini and wish her all the best in this important role.
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Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Media Contact:
Rosanne Casimir, Kúkpi7
250-819-2255
kukpi7.rosanne@ttes.ca