Supporting Aboriginal Graduate Enhancement program deepens its roots and branches out

The Supporting Aboriginal Graduate Enhancement (SAGE) program at the University of Calgary is embarking on an exciting new chapter. Designed to empower Indigenous graduate students through mentorship, connection and cultural engagement, SAGE UCalgary has become a vital community for Indigenous scholars. The program’s recent revitalization would not have been possible without the dedication of past coordinators Dr. Vicki Bouvier PhD, Ashley Cornect-Benoit and Kaitlyn Purcell, whose efforts established roots for its current growth.

Building on this legacy, three new coordinators—Angelina Adams, Deedra Ladouceur and Kayla Gale—have taken the reins to strengthen SAGE UCalgary as a space for collaboration, academic success and cultural affirmation. Together, they are working to expand the initiative’s reach and ensure it continues to meet the evolving needs of Indigenous graduate students.

New leadership drives growth and empowerment

The new coordinators bring diverse perspectives and experiences that reflect the richness of the Indigenous graduate student community at UCalgary. 

Angelina Adams, a member of the Taku River Tlingit First Nation and second-year Master of Science student, is deeply committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment where Indigenous graduate students feel supported in both their academic and personal journeys. Drawing from her focus on Indigenous healthcare and mental health, Adams seeks to ensure that SAGE UCalgary provides a space for healing, connection and shared growth. She envisions it as a sanctuary where students can embrace their cultural identities while thriving in their studies.

Deedra Ladouceur, a Cree/Métis multidisciplinary artist and third-year Master of Fine Arts student, brings a creative and transformative vision to their role. Grounded in storytelling and decolonization, Ladouceur acknowledges the challenges they faced in navigating grad school. Through SAGE, they saw an opportunity to bridge connections and foster an understanding of the lived experiences of Indigenous graduate students, establishing a foundation that not only supports Indigenous students but also educates non-Indigenous students and faculty on their behalf. Ladouceur further states, “While we share a community, it’s crucial to recognize that we are not a monolith; our experiences are as nuanced and diverse as our distinctive cultures.” This acknowledgement of challenges, balanced with opportunity, is central to Ladouceur’s mission as they aim to build a community where students' identities and voices are honored in every aspect of their academic journey.

Kayla Gale, a Cree-Métis artist and first-year Master of Education student, brings a strong background in grassroots Indigenous initiatives and community-building. Gale’s path to graduate studies was influenced by a deep connection to cultural learning, particularly the Blackfoot Ways of Knowing course, which inspired her to pursue her master’s degree at UCalgary. As the first person in her family to graduate from university and to pursue a master’s, she understands the challenges of navigating unfamiliar academic systems. Gale draws on her past experience in peer mentorship to foster a supportive environment within SAGE, where Indigenous graduate students can share their struggles, celebrate their successes and build meaningful connections. Her dedication reflects a commitment to strengthening community bonds and amplifying the voices of her peers.

As of January 2025, Ladouceur and Gale have transitioned to co-leads of SAGE UCalgary and are seeking fellow Indigenous graduate students who may wish to join the SAGE team. Adams was presented with a new opportunity within the University but will remain a supportive friend of SAGE. 

Events foster community bonds and cultural connection

Since stepping into their roles, the coordinators have hosted impactful events to strengthen the SAGE community. In November, a housewarming event marked the program’s relaunch, providing students with a welcoming space to connect in an informal setting in SAGE’s office space in Math Sciences (Room 202). This event allowed students to meet each other, share experiences and rekindle their sense of community.

In December, the coordinators hosted a formal lunch that brought together Indigenous graduate students, Elders, and community members for a day of meaningful conversation and connection. The event was catered by Tricia March, a local Indigenous caterer, whose traditional and contemporary Indigenous dishes were a hit with attendees. “At the lunch, many people remarked on how great it was to gather and eat together, which highlights how effective simplicity can be,” Gale recalls. This gathering reinforced the importance of cultural engagement and knowledge sharing between generations. 

These gatherings have reinforced the importance of community-building and cultural affirmation within SAGE UCalgary. Through both informal and formal events, the coordinators have created spaces where Indigenous graduate students can feel heard, supported and celebrated as they navigate their academic journeys.

Nurturing budding potential for future growth

With a strong foundation in place, SAGE UCalgary is poised for continued growth. In 2025, the coordinators plan to launch bi-weekly newsletters, virtual sharing circles and collaborations with SAGE chapters across Canada. They also aim to integrate the initiative into a UCalgary Indigenous Graduate Student Orientation, offering land-based gatherings and enhanced mentorship opportunities.

To support these initiatives, a refreshed website will serve as a hub for resources, event information and updates. The coordinators are dedicated to ensuring that every Indigenous graduate student feels seen, supported and connected through the initiative.

As Adams puts it, “Graduate school can feel isolating, but through SAGE, we want students to find community, opportunities and cultural connection. This is just the beginning.”

For those interested in learning more about the initiative, becoming a friend of SAGE UCalgary or connecting with the coordinators, please reach out to sageucalgary@ucalgary.ca.