NORTH BATTLEFORD — Education is the New Buffalo for Saskatchewan’s indigenous students and North West College is supporting that philosophy with the adoption of Brownie the Buffalo as the institution’s mascot.
Historically, buffalo provided much of what was needed to sustain traditional ways of life for indigenous people throughout the region, NWC states in a press release.
“Our buffalo is more than just a mascot. It's a powerful symbol of strength and resilience for our communities and an iconic representation of the region for international students relocating here for their education,” the release states.
"The conceptualization of Blair Stonechild that ‘Education is the New Buffalo’ is a key element for the implementation of the college's indigenization charter and our intention to offer more connection points throughout college life to our indigenous students and communities," said North West College President and CEO Dr. Eli Ahlquist.
"We hope that our ongoing efforts toward reconciliation will help current and future students see themselves as a key part of the college community, reduce barriers to entry, and in turn increase their access to education. This effort is ongoing and will likely yield more visible changes within the college in both the near and long term."
The college says the mascot will increase the college's visibility at community events throughout the year.
The mascot will also serve to boost campus community spirit, providing opportunities to enhance student engagement events at the college.
"Offering our students another point of shared connection with the college is an important piece of community building," said North West College Vice-President, Marketing and Student Experience Dr. Priscilla Lothian.
"Brownie the Buffalo will also make public appearances on behalf of the college, demonstrating our involvement and commitment to the Battlefords and Meadow Lake and area communities."
Curious community members can catch the first public appearance of NWC's mascot at the Battlefords North Stars game against the Estevan Bruins on March 1 at Access Communications Centre in North Battleford.
