Dr. Verna St. Denis Receives Award for Excellence in Aboriginal Education

Dr. Verna St. Denis, professor in the department of Education Foundations in the College of Education, has been awarded the 2014 Provosts Award for Excellence in Aboriginal Education.

St. Denis is the 5^th recipient of this prestigious Provost’s Award, and the 4^th faculty member from the College of Education.

Widely considered a leading expert in the fields of anti-colonial, critical race theory; anti-oppressive teacher education; and indigenous education, St. Denis was chosen for based on her exceptional contribution to Aboriginal Learning at the University of Saskatchewan. The award letter reads, “Your passion for teaching and learning is made evident in your innovative and unique approach to Aboriginal education, and, in particular, to supporting Aboriginal students in the College of Education.” 

St. Denis was excited to receive the award and thankful for the support she has received along the way, “Thanks to my parents, I arrived here at the U of S May 1978 to begin my first course ‘how to teach elementary math’ in room 1039. Upon walking into that room I was greeted by a relative and soon to be many friends who encouraged and mentored me. I feel very fortunate to have received the support I did those many years ago, it has provided the foundation for the teaching and work I have done since then.” 

The Provost’s Award annually recognize an outstanding teacher who has demonstrated success in three avenues: teaching aboriginal students, teaching about Aboriginal perspectives, and providing leadership in Aboriginal Education. Issued by the Gwenna Moss Centre for Teaching Effectiveness, St. Denis will be recognized at the Celebration of Teaching event to be held later this year.