There are several orientation ceremonies happening this week on campus:
Thursday Sept. 2 at 1pm: Sweat Lodge Teachings An Indigenous Elder will be on campus to provide teachings around the Sweat Lodge. Any staff or students interested in taking part in a sweat this year should attend this session, taking place at the Sweat Lodge on campus behind Colville House. All individuals are required to be fully vaccinated and wear a mask throughout the session.
Friday Sept. 3 at 3:30pm: Plein-Air Welcome A welcome gathering for new students and their parents by President Boudreau, MASU President Charlie Burke, and VP Student Affairs Anne Comfort on the back steps of the Owens Art Gallery facing York Street. Physical distancing guidelines will be in place, and masks are highly encouraged.
Tuesday Sept. 7 at 6:30: Pilei nipi The university ceremont will begin with a smudging outside and continue at 7pm inside Convocation Hall with plans to livestream. The Mi’kmaq (pr: meeg-maw) word Pilei nipi signifies the beginning, a “new leaf in a tree.” In this sense, the Pilei nipi serves as an alternative welcome event for the traditional Commencement ceremony, and an appropriate way for the University to signal its commitment to truth and reconciliation. This year the ceremony will feature a guest speech by Acadian artist and activist Xavier Gould ’17. Space will be limited with priority for incoming students, but we encourage all those able to attend. Masks and social distancing will be required
