Elder Ninnaisipistoo (Owl Chief), Francis First Charger, will be awarded an honourary degree by the University of Lethbridge. (Photo: U of L)

By David Opinko

Blackfoot Elder to receive honourary degree from U of L

Aug 20, 2024 | 10:39 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The University of Lethbridge (U of L) will recognize a man who has played a key role in the organization for many years.

Elder Ninnaisipistoo (Owl Chief), Francis First Charger, will be awarded an honourary Doctor of Laws at the Fall 2024 Convocation ceremonies.

He has been an Elder in Residence at the U of L’s Dhillon School of Business since 2008, providing guidance and support and occasionally delivering class lectures. This work has since been expanded to all students, staff and faculty members at the university.

First Charger has also served on the General Faculties Council as part of the Iniskim Education Committee and is currently a member of the Indigenous Advisory Circle for the Iniskim Governance Process.

Dr. Leroy Little Bear described First Charger as a “spark” that manifested many years ago on the Blood Tribe and has continued to shine ever since.

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“Francis continues to be a spark of knowledge and service to his community and Iniskim University of Lethbridge in many different capacities. The awarding of an honorary degree ensures that the ‘spark’ will never die out and will always be remembered,” says Little Bear.

U of L Chancellor Terry Whitehead says the contributions that First Charger has made to the university are innumerable and that he is extremely pleased to award him the honourary degree.

“He played a key role in helping the University acquire its ceremonial pipe, commissioning Jerry Potts from the Piikani Nation to handcraft the pipe,” says Whitehead. “Furthermore, his knowledge of Blackfoot culture and Indigenous ways of knowing, coupled with his broad experience in business, have benefited many people and organizations in southern Alberta.”

The Fall 2024 Convocation ceremonies take place October 19 at the U of L.

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