Indigenous Student Wellness Navigator
3 months ago
Overview
In line with the University of Waterloo’s goal of promoting and supporting Indigenous initiatives and a culture of equity, diversity and inclusivity for all, Campus Wellness strives to create a diverse and inclusive staff team that reflects our society and our student body. In order to address the unique needs and concerns of Indigenous students, we are seeking an Indigenous candidate who has knowledge and experience in mental health and wellness matters related to the lived experiences of Indigenous individuals and communities. This role will receive support from and work closely with the Office of Indigenous Relations and the Indigenous Student Services.
The Indigenous Student Wellness Navigator (ISWN) is accountable to a Manager, Counselling Services for the provision of direct individual and a group wellness programs and services, as well as traditional healing and wellness practices for Indigenous Students. This position has dotted line reporting to the Office of Indigenous Relations to ensure ongoing collaboration on traditional healing and wellness practices for Indigenous students as well as proactive support for the ISNW. The ISWN will assist Indigenous students with navigating health & mental health services on and off campus, ensuring access to and provision of culturally appropriate health care services and link students with the health and community supports required to transition back to community upon graduation, where appropriate. This position also acts as a cultural resource for health care providers working with Indigenous students. Ultimately, this position underpins our mission which focuses on supporting and promoting academic success, student and campus mental health, as well psychological wellness and safety among members of a diverse and global Waterloo community. This position also underpins the mission of the Office of Indigenous Relations to decolonize and Indigenize the University of Waterloo.
The successful candidate will be First Nations, Metis, or Inuk (Inuit) Inuit with lived experience of Indigenous world views, cultures and values and strong ties to First Nations, Metis and/or Inuk (Inuit) communities.
In the University of Waterloo’s Strategic Plan 2020-2025, it states, “We particularly recognize Indigenous students, faculty, staff and alumni. We are committed to learning about the rich history and culture of Indigenous people of this land and an institutional response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls for action.” In line with the University’s Strategic Plan, and the Indigenization Strategy, the Project Manager, Indigenous Initiatives strives to address the underrepresentation of Indigenous people and to increase specialized support for Indigenous faculty members. To enhance the effectiveness of this activity, the ideal candidate will meet the articulated qualifications below and will be an Indigenous person (First Nations Status or Non- Status, Métis, or Inuk (Inuit). Lived experience in an Indigenous community or communities is required. The University is committed to implementing the Calls to Action framed by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. We acknowledge that we live and work on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. The University of Waterloo is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. The selection process for this position will follow the provisions for a special program as described by the Ontario Human Rights Code to address the underrepresentation of individuals from equity-deserving groups. Improving the representation, participation, and engagement of equity–deserving groups within our community is a key objective of Waterloo’s Strategic Plan 2020-2025. As such, this position is open only to qualified individuals who self-identify as First Nations, Metis, or Inuit with lived experience of Indigenous world views, cultures and values and strong ties to First Nations, Metis and/or Inuk (Inuit) communities. We are asking each interested applicant to include a statement indicating if they identify as First Nations, Métis or Inuit in their cover letter. Supporting documentation for membership/citizenship in an Indigenous community will be required and possibly additional information about community connection, family, and relationship to working with Indigenous communities/knowledges may be required, if an applicant is invited for an interview. Please note that our recruitment system has limitations. Hiring managers will only see the last updated version of the application (cover letter and resume) as older versions will be overridden. Therefore, if you are applying to more than one job simultaneously, your self-identification will be available to all hiring managers.
Responsibilities
Clinical Services - supporting mental health and wellness, as well as academic and personal success of Indigenous Students
Individual appointments with students to identify their goals and create a care plan Conduct risk of harm assessments Support students with navigating and accessing health and mental health services on and off campus Provide support before, during and after appointments where appropriate Help connect students with cultural community on and off campus Facilitate and coordinate the delivery of traditional healing and wellness programs and services with individual students or with groups Responding to students in crisis Clinical case notes and report writing Discharge planning and referral completion Design, facilitate and evaluate seminars sessions on various topics related to Indigenous wellness Design, facilitate and evaluate training to student leaders and other key stakeholders across campus on various topics, including well-being or culturally specific wellness workshops such as medicine wheel teachings The partnership for the mental health, health and wellness, well-being and safety of the campus community includes active collaboration and teaming with a focus on client issues of shared concern Attend a minimum of monthly supervision meetings with Manager, Counselling Services Attend a minimum of one monthly meeting per month with consultant from Indigenous community on campus, as assigned by OIRWholistic Wellness Practice
When required, provide cultural teachings to students Holds space for Indigenous student group programming related to wellness (workshops, circles, and other wellness activities) Provides resources for and directs students to areas designated to meditate, smudge, and access medicines in Campus Wellness spaces Maintains the medicine bundle/smudging materials for Campus WellnessAdvocacy - the Navigator is an advocate for and supports Indigenous students’ academic success and personal learning.
Engage in internal and external partnerships with local Indigenous community supports and on campus Indigenous resources such as the Office of Indigenous Relations and the Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre to build a network of support for Indigenous students Identify Elders to call on for support with Indigenous students Facilitate training opportunities for various stakeholders around Indigenous wholistic wellness supports Collaborate with Indigenous and Non-Indigenous campus partners to make both the wellness and academic journey of students, a culturally safe experience Consult with key campus support services (., Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre, AccessAbility Services, Student Success Office) related to students’ personal and academic needs Collaborate and consult with faculty, including individual faculty members, the Associate Deans’ offices, and academic support areas in the interest of students’ academic success, retention and graduationRelationship Building – The Navigator builds a network of colleagues and establishes relationships with multiple community services.
Develop relationships and partnerships across campus and with local FNMI communities Develop relationship with the third party sponsored organization for students when needed In collaboration with other stakeholders, help create relationships from an Indigenous perspective/service need Establish multiple connections to local community services, organizations, knowledge keepers, Elders, campus partners, to better serve Indigenous studentsIntern Supervision and Training
Under the direction of their Manager, the ISWN may provide supervision of Indigenous students in a related field of student who are participating in internship or practicum placements at Campus WellnessMulti-Disciplinary Team Member
As part of a multi-disciplinary team, the ISWN attends interdisciplinary team meetings, Campus Wellness meetings, Clinical Case Consultations, meetings with OIR and WISC as needed, and other meetings as requested or directed by their Manager in Counselling Services
Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree in social work, social development studies, or related field Trained in life promotion or crisis intervention strategies Theoretical and/or practical training in case management and support coordination Theoretical and/or practical training in group facilitation and/or leading traditional healing circles The successful candidate will be First Nations, Metis, or Inuit with lived experience of Indigenous world views, cultures and values and strong ties to First Nations, Metis and/or Inuit communities Proven experience relationship-building within Indigenous communities Experience working with individuals experiencing mental health crises, connecting clients to resources, & providing mental health support to individuals Experience with case management/system navigation models & principles Experience with and supportive of traditional healing practices Experience in working university or college setting or with post-secondary student population is beneficial and strongly preferred Counselling or outreach experience with culturally marginalized, at-risk, Indigenous, and other underrepresented groups In-depth knowledge of colonization, Indigenous and Canadian histories, intergenerational trauma in the context of Indigenous people Knowledge of the Indian Act Knowledge of mainstream health services and community resources, specifically for First Nations, Inuit and Metis programs and services in the Waterloo Region Thorough understanding of Indigenous cultures, practices, and ceremonies Knowledge of current issues facing Indigenous people Skilled in public speaking and educating others on issues facing Indigenous people Ability to perform some culturally relevant ceremonies would be an asset Familiarity with current research and professional literature pertaining to racial trauma and how it may impact a student’s experience, both emotionally and academically Excellent interpersonal, communication (oral and written) and organizational skills Demonstrated initiative and strong skills in problem solving and decision-making Proven ability to work effectively with a multi-disciplinary team Superior collaboration, facilitation, and negotiation skills Willingness to participate in Indigenous Cultural Safety Training, teachings, and ceremonies Clean and current vulnerable sector police check as a condition of employment-
Indigenous Student Wellness Navigator
4 months ago
Waterloo, Canada University of Waterloo Full timeOverview: **Term: 1 year** The Indigenous Student Wellness Navigator (ISWN) is accountable to a Manager, Counselling Services for the provision of direct individual and a group wellness programs and services, as well as traditional healing and wellness practices for Indigenous Students. This position has dotted line reporting to the Office of Indigenous...
-
Indigenous Student Wellness Advocate
4 weeks ago
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada University of Waterloo Full timeJob SummaryThe University of Waterloo is seeking a dedicated Indigenous Student Wellness Navigator to join our team. As a key member of Campus Wellness, this role will provide direct support and guidance to Indigenous students, ensuring they have access to culturally relevant health and wellness services.About the RoleThis position involves providing...
-
Indigenous Student Wellness Liaison
4 weeks ago
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada University of Waterloo Full time**Job Title:** Indigenous Student Wellness LiaisonWe are seeking an Indigenous Student Wellness Liaison to join our team at the University of Waterloo. This role will play a vital part in supporting the mental health and wellness of Indigenous students on campus.**About Us:The University of Waterloo is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive...
-
Mathematics Educator in Indigenous Education
2 weeks ago
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada Academica Group Full timeThe Academia Group seeks a Mathematics Educator to join its faculty, focusing on Indigenous education. This role is an excellent opportunity for professionals who are passionate about mathematics and want to make a positive impact on the lives of students from diverse backgrounds.As a Mathematics Educator, you will be responsible for teaching mathematics...
-
International Student Network Engagement Manager
4 weeks ago
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA) Full timeJob DescriptionWe are seeking a highly motivated and organized individual to fill the role of International Student Network Engagement Manager with the Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA) Student-Run Service.About UsThe International & Canadian Student Network is a student-run service on campus, aiming to make all local, international, and...
-
Academic Advisor
6 months ago
Waterloo, Canada University of Waterloo Full timeOverview: The Academic Advisor & Student Experience Specialist role within Statistics and Actuarial Science is responsible for student advising, undergraduate student outreach and event management, and improving the department's overall collaboration, integration, and communication. The primary purpose of the role is to provide undergraduate student...
-
Student Advisor, International
8 months ago
Waterloo, Canada University of Waterloo Full timeOverview: The International Student Advisor’s role is to be the primary support person for students during their co-op experience at Waterloo. International Student Advisors support students and their employer supervisors during their international work terms to ensure a successful work experience. Student Advisors also support students when they are on an...
-
Community Navigator
6 months ago
Waterloo, Canada Sanguen Health Centre Full time**About Sanguen Health Centre** Sanguen Health Centre exists to improve individual and community well-being by providing health and social care for people who face barriers to accessing traditional supports. This includes people living with HCV, people who use drugs, those experiencing homelessness and equity deserving communities. Our vision is to create...
-
Community Navigator
6 months ago
Waterloo, Canada Sanguen Health Centre Full time**About Sanguen Health Centre** Sanguen Health Centre exists to improve individual and community well-being by providing health and social care for people who face barriers to accessing traditional supports. This includes people living with HCV, people who use drugs, those experiencing homelessness and equity deserving communities. Our vision is to create...
-
New Student Transition Specialist
2 months ago
Waterloo, Canada University of Waterloo Full timeOverview Term: 20 months The Specialist, New Student Transition (Graduate), is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining integrated programs intended to support a successful transition for new and incoming graduate students into the university. This requires the Specialist to be knowledgeable and up to date on the unique needs of...
-
Student Experience Strategist
2 weeks ago
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada University of Waterloo Full timeOverviewThe University of Waterloo is seeking a Student Experience Strategist to enhance engagement among undergraduate Science students. This role will focus on developing, implementing, and evaluating a student experience framework in collaboration with key stakeholders.Job SummaryWe are committed to creating a seamless experience for undergraduate...
-
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada Academica Group Full timeThe University of Waterloo invites applications for a probationary appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor, Teaching Stream in Indigenous education for mathematics and computing faculty. This role requires a Master's degree in mathematics, computer science or a related discipline, but candidates with different educational backgrounds and sufficient...
-
New Student Transition Specialist
2 months ago
Waterloo, Canada University of Waterloo Full timeOverview: **Term: 20 months** The Specialist, New Student Transition (Graduate), is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining integrated programs intended to support a successful transition for new and incoming graduate students into the university. This requires the Specialist to be knowledgeable and up to date on the unique needs of...
-
Student Ombudsperson
6 months ago
Waterloo, Canada University of Waterloo Full timeOverview: The Student Ombuds office is an independent unit but will be supported by the University Secretary to whom the Student Ombudsperson will report. The Student Ombuds Office shall provide an accessible, independent, impartial, and confidential office through which students receive guidance and advice about their university-related concerns and...
-
Student Life
1 week ago
Waterloo, Canada Wilfrid Laurier University Full time $41 - $43Date: Dec 4, 2024 Location: Waterloo, CA Company: Wilfrid Laurier University Department: Dean of Students Office - Waterloo Job Type: Continuing Full-time/Part-time: Full Time (>=1249 hrs/year) Campus: Waterloo Reports to: Associate Director, Student Life & Experience Employee Group: WLUSA Application Deadline: January 1, 2025 Requisition...
-
Student Success Advisor
7 days ago
Waterloo, Canada Conestoga College Full time**Requisition #**:24-0803** **Location**: Waterloo **Department**: Student Advising & Retention **Payband**: I **Starting Rate**: $39.34 **Payband Range**: $39.34 - $45.59 **Hours/Week**: 35 **Posting Date**: Tuesday, December 10, 2024 **Closing Date**: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 11:59 PM EST **Vacancy Type**: Support Staff - Full-time Temporary...
-
Student Engagement Officer
2 weeks ago
Waterloo, Canada University of Waterloo Full timeOverview: The Student Engagement Officer will increase engagement among undergraduate Science students via the development, implementation, and evaluation of a student experience framework, in collaboration with the Associate Dean for Teaching and Learning as well as the Associate Dean for Faculty and Student Engagement. The incumbent liaises with...
-
Events Administrative Coordinator, New Student
6 months ago
Waterloo, Canada University of Waterloo Full timeOverview: **Term: 1 year** The Events Administrative Coordinator, New Student Transition is accountable to the Project Manager, New Student Transition for the coordination and administration of comprehensive and intentional programs for a diverse group of new students to the University of Waterloo as well as prepare student and staff volunteers to be...
-
Student Life
2 weeks ago
Waterloo, Canada Wilfrid Laurier University Full time**Date**:Dec 4, 2024 **Location**: Waterloo, CA **Company**:Wilfrid Laurier University **Department**: Dean of Students Office - Waterloo **Job Type**: Continuing **Full-time/Part-time**: Full Time (>=1249 hrs/year) **Campus**: Waterloo **Reports to**:Associate Director, Student Life & Experience **Employee Group**: WLUSA **Application...
-
Programming and Student Engagement Coordinator
2 months ago
Waterloo, Canada Wilfrid Laurier University Full time**Date**:Oct 8, 2024 **Location**: Waterloo, CA **Company**:Wilfrid Laurier University **Department**: Lazaridis School of Bus. & Econ. **Job Type**: Limited Term **Full-time/Part-time**: Full Time (>=1249 hrs/year) **Campus**: Waterloo **Reports to**: Associate Director, Executive Programs and StartUp Lab **Employee Group**: WLUSA **Application...
