Contact Negahneewin Student Services

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Emily MacKenzie
Indigenous Student Advisor
(807) 475-6652
[email protected]

Hello! My family ties go to Tyendinaga First Nation, which is Mohawk Territory near Kingston, ON. I have been spending the last few years learning about my family history and culture and have enjoyed the journey it has taken me on so far. I moved to Thunder Bay from Southern Ontario and started work at Confederation College as an Indigenous Recruitment Intern, where I got to spend a year travelling throughout the North. Upon completion of my internship, I returned to school to complete my Bachelor of Education at Lakehead University. I spent time working for The Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre before returning to the college as an Indigenous Student Advisor. I can be found most times outdoors with my husky Willow or curled up with a good book. I look forward to helping students on their academic journey.

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Breanne Yesno (she/her)
Indigenous Student Advisor
807-473-3867
[email protected]

Hello! My name is Breanne Yesno, and I’m a proud member of Eabametoong First Nation, with roots in Thunder Bay. I recently graduated from Lakehead University with a Bachelor of Arts in History.
I’m passionate about traditional crafts and hands-on artistry. In my free time, you’ll often find me engaged in beading, moccasin making, knitting, and crocheting. I’m always eager to explore new craft projects and share the joy of creating with others.
I am so excited to help students on their educational journey!

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James Henderson
Indigenous Student Advisor
807 475 6602
[email protected]

Boozhoo,
I am James Henderson, my spirit name is Blue Eagle Flying Man, and I am a proud member of the Lynx Clan from the Mitaanjigamiing First Nation in Treaty #3 Territory. I have successfully completed the Pre-tech Program and General Arts Certificate program from Confederation College, as well as the Indigenous Wellness & Addictions Program from Canadore College.
During my tenure as an Indigenous Community Reintegration Caseworker at the Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre, I facilitated the successful reintegration of individuals into society. Additionally, my volunteer work in outreach programs has allowed me to make a tangible impact on marginalized communities. My primary objective is to champion the success of the Indigenous community in all facets of life, with a particular emphasis on education and holistic well-being.
I firmly believe that fostering self-care and self-love is the cornerstone to achieving overall prosperity. My enthusiasm for sharing Indigenous culture and customs fuels my dedication to helping individuals who are eager to learn and grow in this regard.

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Shadow Orwick
Indigenous Student Advisor
[email protected]

Boozhoo! Shadow Orwick Nitishinkaas. Noatkamegwanning Nitooncii. Hello! My name is Shadow Orwick, and I am the newest Indigenous Student Advisor with Apiwin. I am from Whitefish Bay First Nation but have lived in Thunder Bay for most of my life. I am a graduate of the Culinary program here at the college and later moved on to Lakehead University, where I completed my teaching degree in Indigenous Education. Currently, I am pursuing my Master of Education. It wasn't until post-secondary education that I began to truly love school, so I am a strong believer in giving it a try and seeing where education takes you. I am very eager to get into our local High schools to share my experiences and to share what Confederation College can offer our future students! Please feel free to reach out to me, and let’s show our students the opportunities they can achieve.
Miigwech
Shadow Orwick, OCT

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Joe Wark
Counsellor 
(807) 475-6328
[email protected]

Hello. My name is Joe Wark, and I am one of the Indigenous Counsellors at Confederation College. I am a lifelong resident of Thunder Bay and a proud father of two children. While my mom was a Lac Seul First Nation band member, I consider Thunder Bay to be my home community. I graduated from the Social Service Worker program at Confederation College and completed my Master of Social Work degree at Lakehead University. I am currently a PhD student in the School of Social Work at Memorial University. I have been working with youth and families since 2010 in a diverse range of settings including youth justice, mental health, substance misuse, and family counselling. As an author and researcher, I have published articles on Indigenous cultural values, complex trauma and parenting, and cross-cultural counselling. I am excited to help contributing to the success of Indigenous students at Confederation College.

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Tracey Aultman
Indigenous Recruitment Officer
[email protected]

Hello, my name is Tracey Aultman. I am a proud member of Marten Falls First Nation. I was raised in North Bay and moved to Thunder Bay in 2001. I fell in love with the lakes and landscape of the area and have considered Thunder Bay home for the last twenty years. I work as the Indigenous Recruitment Officer at Confederation College. My role is to reach out to students to provide information about our programs and services throughout our 8 regional campuses. The services I offer are advising appointments, assistance with applications via phone, in person or email, campus tours, presentations or school visits.
To book an appointment, ask a question or schedule a school visit please click below:

Connect With Your Recruitment Officer