News Release
Kevin Chief To Receive Spirit Of The Earth Award
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2008
WINNIPEG, MB – On behalf of The University of Winnipeg's Innovative Learning Centre's
Eco-Kids and Enviro Tech programs, Kevin Chief will receive a 2008 Manitoba
Hydro Spirit of the Earth Award Saturday, June 21, National Aboriginal Day. Chief,
Coordinator of the Innovative Learning Centre, will receive the award in a
public ceremony at the Red River Exhibition Main Stage at 12:30 pm.
Now in its sixth year, the annual Manitoba
Hydro Spirit of the Earth Awards publicly recognizes positive environmental
achievements by Aboriginal people. The intent of the award is to promote
environmental awareness and to recognize the culture and history of Aboriginal
peoples.
“I am very, very honored to accept
this award on behalf of The University of Winnipeg's Innovative Learning Centre
and all of the young people who are part of and have supported our Eco-Kids and
Enviro-Tech programs,” said Chief. “It makes me proud to be to work on such
important issues as community outreach for Aboriginal people and on issues involving
the environment, sustainability and stewardship. We would also like to thank
Manitoba Hydro for celebrating such an important cause. This tells all young
people that education and the environment are important and valued by people in
Manitoba.”
Chief will receive an original
soapstone wolf sculpture by Cranberry Portage Metis artist Irvin Head. The wolf
represents the Spirit of the Earth.
“Our awards highlight excellence and
the programs offered by the Innovative Learning Centre epitomize The University
of Winnipeg’s commitment to Aboriginal education,” said Brendan Carruthers,
Environmental Education Specialist with Manitoba Hydro.
The Innovative Learning Centre reaches out to elementary, secondary
and postsecondary Aboriginal and inner-city students and encourages and supports
them so that they stay in school.
The centre offers after-school, weekend and summer camp
activities – such as the Eco-Kids and Enviro Techs programs – that keep
students interested in learning and motivated to stay in school. UWinnipeg recognizes
education is the key to the future and is actively working to keep Aboriginal
students in school at all levels, across the city and within the province.
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FOR MORE INFORMATION
Diane
Poulin, Communications Officer, The University
of Winnipeg
P:
204.988.7135 E: d.poulin@uwinnipeg.ca