USask appoints new special advisor on anti-racism and anti-oppression
University of Saskatchewan (USask) education expert Dr. Verna St. Denis (PhD) has been seconded to the position of special advisor to the president on anti-racism and anti-oppression.
By University CommunicationsIn this role, St. Denis will lead the development and implementation of the university’s anti-racism/anti-oppression policy and strategy. Working closely with both the vice-provost, Indigenous engagement and associate vice-president people and resources, St. Denis will consult across the organization to assist with the articulation of a broad strategic vision for anti-racism/anti-oppression for the university; and report on our strategy and progress.
She will also chair the USask anti-racism/anti-oppression committee and provide leadership to support the shaping of its work and the ongoing evolution of its mandate.
A highly accomplished scholar, St. Denis’s extensive expertise is sought after across the province, country and internationally.
A professor in educational foundations, St. Denis graduated with her teaching certificate from the Indian Teacher Education Program (ITEP) in 1980, earned her PhD from Stanford in 2002 and has been a faculty member of USask’s College of Education since 1992. She is a member of Beardy’s and Okemasis First Nation, and grew up as a non-status Indian and Métis in Parkland, Saskatchewan.
“Last summer, I released a statement on anti-racism that involved clear commitments to ensuring that anti-racism/anti-oppression is addressed and acted upon at USask. I am now very pleased to be welcoming Dr. St. Denis in this position, to lead this very important work at USask,” said Peter Stoicheff, USask president and vice-chancellor.