Meet student leader Kiethen Sutherland

Nipissing students consistently impress as leaders, in the classroom, on campus and in the community. Recently the university celebrated 25 student leaders at the annual Dave Marshall Leadership Awards.  Over the coming months, NU News will introduce each student leader to the wider community with a short article discussing their accomplishments and activities. Today, we are pleased profile Kiethen Sutherland, a student in the bachelor of arts, History program.

Sutherland is an active volunteer with Office of Indigenous Initiatives. He volunteers for the Peer2Peer mentorship programs as well as for annual events and activities such as the Annual Welcome Powwow, Round Dance, Debwendizon, and Annual Leadership Conference. He was also a Science Camp counselor for youth with the Aboriginal Summer Education Programs.

Sutherland builds campus community by being an active part of that community.  His participation in events has helped to encourage other less outgoing students to get involved.   His inclusive sense of humour and extremely positive attitude brings a positive atmosphere to the student space in the Office of Indigenous Initiatives. He has come to be known as a pillar in the student lounge, sought out by his peers for his advice.

He is a very positive ambassador and strong role model for other students. He is always willing to volunteer at a moment’s notice and works to encourage student participation in various programming on campus. Beyond this, Sutherland also encourages cultural awareness in his peers. He works to keep Cree language strong through volunteering his time to speak to other Cree speaking students looking for language support.

Originally from Kasechewan, Ontario. Sutherland began his degree at Nipissing in the Aboriginal Advantage Program, earning himself a Student Achievement Award at the end of the program. After completing his degree program, Sutherland plans to pursue post-graduate education.

The university community is proud to recognize Keithen Sutherland with a Dave Marshall Leadership Award in the Campus Category.